São Tomé and Príncipe

The São Tomé and Príncipe programme starts from $90,000 via Government Contribution.

Indicative processing time is 6-8 weeks.

immediate (citizenship programme)

The contribution to the National Transformation Fund starts at approximately USD 90,000 for a single applicant and USD 95,000 for a family of up to four. A non-refundable submission fee of USD 5,000 applies, along with per-person government fees of around USD 750 for the passport, national ID and registration. Because the programme is new, a Mirabello Consultancy specialist will confirm the current figures for your circumstances.

Reported processing is approximately six to eight weeks from a complete application, which is fast by international standards. Timelines on an early-stage programme can vary as procedures mature, so treat this as indicative. The process is fully remote, with no requirement to travel to Sao Tome and Principe, and a specialist will manage document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Yes. It was established by 2025 legislation and launched on 1 August 2025, administered by a Citizenship Investment Unit under a public-private partnership with the government. As a young programme it has a limited track record, and we present it honestly on that basis. Mirabello Consultancy conducts its own due diligence and will give you a candid assessment before you commit.

The passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a modest range of destinations, including Singapore and Hong Kong SAR, along with strong access across lusophone Africa such as Angola, Mozambique and Cape Verde. It also offers eVisa access to several markets. Importantly, it does not provide visa-free entry to the Schengen Area, the UK, the US or China. Always verify current access before travel.

Yes. The programme is family-friendly. You may include a spouse, dependent unmarried children up to age 30 and qualifying parents over 55 who are financially supported by you. Grandparent eligibility is reported but should be confirmed. The price difference between a single applicant and a family of up to four is small, which makes it attractive for families applying together.

Yes. The country permits dual citizenship with no restrictions and no requirement to renounce your existing nationality. This makes it accessible to investors who wish to retain their current passport. You should still confirm that your home country also permits dual citizenship, as that depends on your own nationality's laws rather than Sao Tome and Principe's.

Citizenship alone does not create tax residency. Tax residency generally arises only if you are physically present for more than 183 days in a year. Non-resident citizens have no obligation on worldwide income. This makes the programme efficient for those who do not intend to relocate, though you should always take personal advice on your overall tax position across all relevant jurisdictions.

It suits budget-conscious investors who want a fast, cost-effective second citizenship and prioritise flexibility over Western mobility. It is well matched to those with African, lusophone or Asian interests. If your priority is Schengen, UK or US access, a Caribbean or European route may serve you better. A Mirabello Consultancy specialist will compare the options honestly against your goals.

No. There is no residence, physical presence, language or interview requirement, either during the application or after you obtain citizenship. The entire process can be completed remotely. Citizenship is permanent, while the passport is valid for seven years and must be renewed. Renewal procedures for citizenship-by-investment passports are still being established given the programme's recent launch.

Sao Tome and Principe is considerably lower in cost than Caribbean options, which typically start around USD 200,000 to USD 250,000. However, Caribbean passports offer far broader mobility, often including Schengen and the UK. The right choice depends on whether you prioritise value or global travel freedom. Our team will weigh both honestly so you choose the programme that genuinely fits your objectives.