068 544 38 66
info@bs-rsa.com
www.bs-rsa.com
info@bs-rsa.com
www.bs-rsa.com
VANUATU
citizenship by investment
Three Good Reasons
- Obtaining period2 months
- Remote processFrom application to passport — no visit required
- EU residence permitAvailable via the CPLP residence route
As of August 2025, São Tomé and Príncipe offers a citizenship-by-investment route.
By making a non-refundable donation to a state fund, foreign investors can obtain a passport without the need for residency, language exams, or cultural assessments.
This program is family-inclusive, permitting the inclusion of spouses, children, and parents in a single application.
Because the country recognizes multiple nationalities, investors are not required to renounce their original citizenship.
By making a non-refundable donation to a state fund, foreign investors can obtain a passport without the need for residency, language exams, or cultural assessments.
This program is family-inclusive, permitting the inclusion of spouses, children, and parents in a single application.
Because the country recognizes multiple nationalities, investors are not required to renounce their original citizenship.
7 benefits of São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment
- Fast process
An investor’s application is reviewed within approximately 8—10 weeks. The process is carried out entirely remotely and takes from 2 months. - Low costs
The minimum investment is $90,000, making it one of the most affordable citizenship programs in the world. For comparison, Vanuatu requires $130,000, and Nauru requires $105,000. - Citizenship for the whole familyA spouse, children, and parents of the main applicant can obtain citizenship together with them. Relatives may also be added after the passport has been issued.
- Fast‑track to Portuguese citizenshipAs a member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), São Tomé and Príncipe offers investors a shortcut to Portuguese citizenship, reducing the naturalization period from 10 years to just 7.
- Banking accessibilityIndividuals living in São Tomé and Príncipe are permitted to establish bank accounts, maintain savings, and execute cross-border financial transactions.
- Business opportunitiesBusiness opportunities
The country combines a strategic location with low labour costs. Entrepreneurs establish companies in green energy, logistics, and agribusiness. - No residence requirementsThere is no obligation to reside in or visit São Tomé and Príncipe at any stage of the citizenship process. Furthermore, applicants are not tested on their proficiency in the local language, nor are they required to demonstrate knowledge of the country's history or culture.
Requirements to apply for São Tomé and Príncipe
Over 18 years old
Holds no more than two passports
No criminal record
No serious illnesses
Not listed on sanctions lists
Has not been banned from entering countries with which São Tomé and Príncipe has a visa‑free regime
In an official marriage or cohabitation
Up to 30 years old
Unmarried
Financially dependent on the main applicant
Unmarried
Financially dependent on the main applicant
Over 55 years old
Investment options for obtaining São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship
Non-refundable contribution — $90,000+
The investment is transferred to the National Transformation Fund, which supports projects in renewable energy, education, and infrastructure.
If the application is submitted by a family of up to 4 people, the contribution amounts to $95,000. For the 5th and each additional family member, an extra $5,000 is charged.
Investment can be provided by a sponsor.
If the application is submitted by a family of up to 4 people, the contribution amounts to $95,000. For the 5th and each additional family member, an extra $5,000 is charged.
Investment can be provided by a sponsor.
$5,000
Application fee
$5,000
Sponsor fee, if applicable
$750+
Additional expenses and government fees
Application fee
$5,000
Sponsor fee, if applicable
$750+
Additional expenses and government fees
Key documents to apply for São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship
- Photograph
- Citizenship application form
- Copies of international passports of all applicants
- Birth certificate
- Police clearance certificate from the country of citizenship or residence
- Proof of residential address, such as utility bills or a tenancy agreement
- Proof of source of income
- Bank reference letter
- Medical certificate confirming health status
- Documents confirming marital status, such as a marriage certificate
How to obtain São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship: step‑by‑step process
A compliance specialist reviews the investor’s background to identify any potential obstacles to obtaining second citizenship in advance.
The check is confidential and only takes one day.
The check is confidential and only takes one day.
The investor gathers documents according to an individual list and submits the originals to the lawyers. They prepare the documents for submission, including translation, notarisation, and apostille.
The lawyers submit the application to the CIU, Citizenship by Investment and Donations Unit. The investor pays a $5,000 fee, regardless of the composition of the application. If the investment is made by a sponsor, an additional $5,000 fee is payable for the sponsor.
The CIU conducts a background check, verifying the investor’s biography, sources of income, and criminal record.
Once the investor receives approval from the CIU, they transfer the funds to the National Transformation Fund. After payment is confirmed, the investor receives a naturalisation certificate.
The investor receives the issued passport remotely after a short video verification with the Civil Registry Bureau. Citizenship status is permanent, but the passport must be renewed every seven years.
Citizenship of São Tomé and Príncipe
in Just 2 Months:
Fast Track to a Second Passport
in Just 2 Months:
Fast Track to a Second Passport
