Get Your Sao Tome and Principe Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for pristine beaches, cocoa plantations, and tropical rainforest adventures
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Sao Tome and Principe Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 3-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details and travel plans. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Sao Tome and Principe's immigration requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of accommodation. Our visa specialists review every document against Sao Tome and Principe Immigration standards before submission, reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is transmitted directly to Sao Tome and Principe immigration authorities. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved visa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at Sao Tome International Airport along with your passport. Bem-vindo — welcome to one of Africa's most beautiful island destinations!
Sao Tome and Principe Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 30 days
For beach holidays and island exploration
Business Visa
Up to 30 days
For commercial meetings and investments
Visa on Arrival
Up to 15 days
Available for select nationalities at airport
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers connecting through Sao Tome
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or accommodation confirmation
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Tourist & Short-Stay Visas
Sao Tome and Principe, a stunning twin-island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, welcomes visitors from around the world to experience its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich Portuguese colonial heritage. The country has simplified its visa process in recent years to encourage tourism to this unspoiled African paradise.
Tourist Visa — Single Entry
The standard tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days, perfect for exploring the islands' beautiful beaches, hiking through cocoa plantations, visiting colonial-era architecture in Sao Tome City, and experiencing the unique biodiversity of the rainforests. This visa is suitable for leisure travelers, honeymooners, eco-tourists, and those visiting friends and family. Extensions may be possible through the local immigration office in Sao Tome City.
Visa on Arrival
Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Sao Tome International Airport for stays up to 15 days. This convenient option requires a valid passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds. The visa on arrival fee is payable in cash (USD or Euros preferred). This option is ideal for spontaneous travelers and those on short visits to the islands.
Business & Extended Stay Visas
Business Visa
The Sao Tome and Principe business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities within the islands. This includes attending business meetings, exploring investment opportunities in the growing tourism sector, cocoa industry, or offshore petroleum development; establishing trade contacts; and conducting market research. Business visas allow stays up to 30 days and require an invitation letter from a local company or business partner.
Investment & Special Visas
Sao Tome and Principe actively encourages foreign investment, particularly in tourism, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy. Investors exploring significant projects may qualify for special visa arrangements and extended stays. The government offers incentives for eco-tourism developments that align with the country's conservation goals. For longer business engagements or employment, work permits and residency visas are available through the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) in Sao Tome City.
Processing Times
Business visa applications typically require 5-10 business days for processing. Early application is recommended, especially during peak periods or when additional documentation verification is needed.
Entry Requirements & Health
Essential Requirements
All visitors to Sao Tome and Principe must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps
• Yellow fever vaccination: Required for all travelers arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. Many health authorities recommend it for all visitors.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background for visa applications
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation, eco-lodge reservation, or invitation letter if staying with friends or family
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Sao Tome and Principe
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay
Health Considerations
Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for all visitors as malaria is present throughout both islands. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date and consider hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations. Travel health insurance is essential as medical facilities on the islands are limited.
Entry Points & Practical Information
Entry Points
All international visitors arrive through:
• Sao Tome International Airport (TMS): The main gateway to the islands, located approximately 5km from Sao Tome City. Airlines serving the route include TAP Air Portugal (via Lisbon), TAAG Angola Airlines (via Luanda), and regional carriers.
• Principe Airport (PCP): Small airport serving Principe Island with connections from Sao Tome. Not typically used for international arrivals.
Processing Times & Application Tips
Visa processing typically takes 3-5 business days for tourist visas and 5-10 business days for business visas. During peak travel seasons (June-September dry season and December holidays), processing may take slightly longer. We recommend applying at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date.
Currency & Practical Tips
The local currency is the Sao Tome and Principe Dobra (STN), though Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted at hotels and tourist establishments. ATMs are limited, so bring sufficient cash. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels only. The islands operate on GMT (UTC+0), and Portuguese is the official language, though a local creole is widely spoken.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
500+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"Got my Sao Tome visa in just 4 days! The process was straightforward and the support team was very helpful with document requirements. Amazing hidden gem destination!"
"First time visiting this beautiful island nation. DoVisa made the visa process completely stress-free. The beaches and chocolate tours were incredible!"
"Applied on Tuesday, approved by Friday. The document checklist was super helpful. Immigration at Sao Tome airport was smooth with my printed visa."
"Honeymoon trip to Principe Island was perfect! DoVisa handled our visas quickly and the eco-lodges there are absolutely stunning. Highly recommend!"
"Great service overall. Processing took 5 days which was within the expected timeframe. Customer support responded quickly to all my questions about yellow fever requirements."
"What an undiscovered paradise! The visa was the easiest part of planning. DoVisa processed everything perfectly and I had my approval within the week."
"Visited for a cocoa plantation tour and birdwatching. The islands are amazing for eco-tourism. DoVisa made getting there hassle-free!"
"Business visa for investment meetings in Sao Tome sorted quickly. The invitation letter guidance was particularly helpful. Professional service throughout."
"Traveled from Portugal to explore my heritage. The Portuguese colonial architecture and local culture are fascinating. DoVisa service was excellent!"
"Best beaches I've ever seen and no crowds! Getting the visa through DoVisa was simple and their Portuguese language support was a nice bonus."
Sao Tome and Principe Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days for leisure travel, beach holidays, eco-tourism, and visiting friends and family. Visa on arrival is available for citizens of many countries at Sao Tome International Airport for stays up to 15 days. Business visa caters to commercial activities including meetings, investment exploration, and trade contacts for up to 30 days. Transit visa permits stays up to 72 hours for travelers passing through to another destination. The right visa depends on your nationality, travel purpose, and intended duration of stay.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Sao Tome and Principe?
Yes, visa on arrival is available for citizens of many countries at Sao Tome International Airport. This option allows stays up to 15 days for tourism purposes. Requirements: Valid passport with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages; return or onward flight ticket; proof of accommodation; sufficient funds (approximately $100/day); yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from an endemic country. Fees: Payable in cash at the airport (Euros or US Dollars preferred). Important: While visa on arrival is convenient, we recommend applying in advance to avoid potential issues with documentation or long queues at the airport, especially during peak season or if arriving on less frequent flights.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Sao Tome and Principe?
Yellow fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from or have transited through a yellow fever endemic country within the past 6 months. This includes most of sub-Saharan Africa, South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, etc.), and parts of Central America. You must present your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) at immigration. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. Recommendation: Even when not strictly required, many health authorities strongly recommend yellow fever vaccination for all visitors to Sao Tome and Principe as the virus could potentially be present. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice on all recommended vaccinations.
How long does Sao Tome and Principe visa processing take?
Visa processing times vary by type. Tourist visas typically take 3-5 business days, with most applications processed within the week. Business visas may take 5-10 business days due to additional verification of invitation letters and business documentation. Factors affecting processing: Application completeness significantly impacts speed; applications with clear documents and accurate information process faster. Peak travel seasons (June-September dry season, December holidays) may experience slightly longer processing times. Recommendations: Apply at least 2-3 weeks before travel to allow buffer time; ensure all documents meet requirements; respond promptly to any additional information requests. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps ensure applications are complete and reduces delays.
What documents do I need for a Sao Tome and Principe visa?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival with minimum two blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background); completed application form with accurate travel details. Tourist visa additional requirements: Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, eco-lodge reservation); round-trip flight itinerary; travel insurance recommended; yellow fever certificate if applicable. Business visa requirements: Invitation letter from a company or organization in Sao Tome and Principe; company registration documents; employer support letter; detailed business itinerary. All applicants may be asked for proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing approximately $100/day of intended stay). Documents should be clear, legible scans in PDF or JPEG format.
How long can I stay in Sao Tome and Principe with a tourist visa?
The standard tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days. Visa on arrival permits stays up to 15 days. Extensions: It may be possible to extend your stay by visiting the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) in Sao Tome City before your visa expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and typically require proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, and a valid reason for the extended stay. Important: Always ensure you depart before your visa expires as overstaying is a serious offense that can result in fines, detention, and future visa difficulties. If you know you need more than 30 days, consider applying for an appropriate long-stay visa before arrival.
Can I extend my visa while in Sao Tome and Principe?
Yes, visa extensions are possible but not guaranteed. Where to apply: Immigration and Borders Service (Servico de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras - SEF) in Sao Tome City. Requirements: Valid passport with remaining blank pages; completed extension application form; passport photographs; proof of sufficient funds for extended stay; accommodation confirmation; processing fee; valid reason for extension. Process: Visit the immigration office at least one week before your current visa expires. Processing typically takes several days. Important considerations: Extensions are discretionary and may be refused; apply early as processing times can vary; overstaying without an approved extension can result in fines and complications with future visits; for longer stays, consider arranging appropriate visa category before arrival.
Can I work in Sao Tome and Principe with a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas do not permit any form of employment or paid work. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities, sightseeing, beach holidays, eco-tourism, visiting friends and family, and attending non-commercial events. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings, market research, and exploring investment opportunities but not paid employment or receiving salary from a local entity. Working legally requires a work permit, which involves employer sponsorship by a registered local company, extensive documentation, and approval from immigration authorities. Volunteer work: Genuine volunteer activities with registered NGOs may be arranged with appropriate authorization. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa bans. If you intend to work or establish a business, consult with immigration authorities or a legal advisor about the appropriate visa and permit requirements.
What is the best time to visit Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe has a tropical climate with distinct seasons. Dry Season (June-September): The best time for beach holidays and outdoor activities. Lower humidity, less rainfall, and sunny days make this ideal for exploring beaches, hiking, and wildlife watching. This is peak tourist season with higher prices. Gravana season (July-August): Coolest months with overcast skies but minimal rain. Great for hiking and avoiding intense heat. Rainy Season (October-May): Higher rainfall, especially October-December and March-May. Brief but intense afternoon showers, lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices. Shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October): Good compromise with less rainfall than peak wet season and fewer crowds than dry season. Year-round attractions: Cocoa plantation tours, colonial architecture, birdwatching, snorkeling, and cultural experiences are enjoyable any time.
Do children need their own visa for Sao Tome and Principe?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own visa. There are no family visas or provisions for children traveling on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 6+ months validity; passport-sized photograph meeting same specifications as adults; completed application with child's details; parental consent documentation if traveling with only one parent or without parents. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own. Each child's visa is processed separately. Fees: Children typically pay the same visa fees as adults. Additional documentation: If a child travels with only one parent, a notarized letter from the absent parent authorizing travel may be required. For children traveling with guardians, additional documentation proving the guardianship arrangement is necessary.
What happens if my Sao Tome and Principe visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections for Sao Tome and Principe are relatively uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete or unclear documentation; passport validity issues; photographs not meeting specifications; missing proof of accommodation or return travel; insufficient financial evidence; missing or invalid yellow fever certificate. If rejected: You will receive notification that the application was unsuccessful. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues. There is no formal appeals process, but fresh applications are considered independently. Prevention: Ensure all documents are complete and clear before submission; verify passport validity requirements; provide comprehensive travel plans; include proof of funds; ensure yellow fever vaccination certificate is valid if required. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees and complimentary reapplication assistance.
Is Sao Tome and Principe safe for tourists?
Sao Tome and Principe is generally considered one of Africa's safest destinations for tourists. The islands have a low crime rate and a welcoming local population. Safety considerations: Petty theft can occur in tourist areas and markets, so keep valuables secure; avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas; use registered taxis or hotel transport. Health precautions: Take malaria prophylaxis as malaria is present; drink bottled or purified water; protect against mosquito bites. Medical facilities: Healthcare infrastructure is limited, so comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential. Natural hazards: Be cautious of strong ocean currents when swimming; check conditions for water activities. Practical tips: Register with your embassy; carry copies of important documents; respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting villages. The local population is friendly and tourism is an important part of the economy.
What currency is used in Sao Tome and Principe?
The official currency is the Sao Tome and Principe Dobra (STN), introduced in 2018 as the "second dobra" at a rate pegged to the Euro. Foreign currency: Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and tourist establishments. Bring clean, undamaged bills as torn or marked notes may be refused. Exchange: Currency can be exchanged at banks in Sao Tome City and at some hotels, though rates may be less favorable. ATMs: Limited ATM availability; mainly in Sao Tome City. International cards (Visa, Mastercard) may work but are not always reliable, so bring sufficient cash. Credit cards: Accepted only at larger hotels and some restaurants; always have cash backup. Recommendations: Bring a mix of Euros and US Dollars in various denominations; small bills are useful for local purchases; confirm payment methods with your accommodation in advance.
How do I get to Sao Tome and Principe?
The islands are accessible primarily by air through Sao Tome International Airport (TMS). Main flight routes: TAP Air Portugal operates flights from Lisbon (Portugal), the most common route for European travelers. TAAG Angola Airlines flies from Luanda, connecting West African travelers. STP Airways and regional carriers provide additional connections. Flight frequency: Flights are less frequent than major African destinations, typically a few times per week depending on the route, so book well in advance. Getting to Principe: Principe Island is reached via short domestic flights from Sao Tome (approximately 30 minutes) or by boat. STP Airways operates inter-island flights several times weekly. Tip: Given limited flight options, flexible travel dates can help secure better availability and prices. Connecting through Lisbon is often the most convenient option for international travelers.
Do I need to print my Sao Tome and Principe visa?
Yes, you should print your approved visa document. Requirements: Print the visa approval letter or eVisa on A4 paper in color if possible, ensuring all text and any QR codes are clearly legible. At the airport: Present your printed visa along with your passport to the airline during check-in and to immigration officials upon arrival in Sao Tome. Digital backup: While a printed copy is required, also save a digital copy on your phone or email as backup in case the printed version is damaged. Additional documents to carry: Return flight tickets, accommodation confirmation, travel insurance details, and proof of sufficient funds may be requested at immigration. Immigration process: Keep all documents easily accessible as you will need to present them upon arrival at Sao Tome International Airport.
What are the main attractions in Sao Tome and Principe?
This twin-island nation offers unique attractions rarely found elsewhere in Africa. Beaches: Praia Jale, Praia Piscina, Banana Beach on Principe — pristine, uncrowded tropical paradise. Nature: Obo National Park covering both islands with endemic species, rare birds, and spectacular hiking; Pico Cao Grande, the dramatic volcanic needle rising from the jungle; sea turtle nesting sites. Culture & History: Portuguese colonial architecture in Sao Tome City; Roca plantations (historic cocoa estates now being restored); Santo Antonio on Principe, a charming colonial town. Chocolate: Visit working cocoa plantations like Roca Agostinho Neto; taste world-renowned Sao Tomean chocolate; learn about bean-to-bar production. Wildlife: Endemic bird species (ideal for birdwatchers); sea turtles (nesting season October-March); dolphins and whales; unique flora. Principe Biosphere Reserve: UNESCO-designated reserve covering most of Principe Island with exceptional biodiversity.
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