Country Profile

São Tomé and Príncipe is a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Central Africa, comprising two main volcanic islands. With a population of around 230,000, it is a Portuguese-speaking democratic republic known for its political stability and rich biodiversity. The economy relies heavily on cocoa exports, with emerging sectors like tourism and fisheries. Despite economic challenges such as high inflation and dependence on imports and aid, the country has made notable progress in education, health, and infrastructure. Often called “Africa’s Galapagos,” it is celebrated for its endemic wildlife, pristine landscapes, and growing eco-tourism appeal.
  • Official name: Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • National anthem: “Total Independence” (Portuguese: Independência Total)
  • Location: Island nation in the Gulf of Guinea
  • Capital city: São Tomé
  • Official language: Portuguese
  • Independence: Gained from Portugal on 12 July 1975
  • Government type: Unitary semi‑presidential republic with multi‑party democracy
  • Head of State: President
  • Head of Government: Prime Minister
  • Basis of legal system: Civil law
  • Currency: Dobra (STN)
  • Climate: Tropical

Programme Profile

Investment Options for a single applicant

A contribution to the National Transformation Fund:

  • US$90,000 for a single applicant; US$95,000 for a family of two to four; US$5,000 for each additional dependant. A US$5,000 submission fee applies under currently published guidance.

The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship By Investment Programme

Launched in August 2025 São Tomé and Príncipe’s Citizenship by Investment Programme offers global citizens a dual nationality through a donation based model, designed to accelerate development and economic transformation.

  • Administered by the Citizenship Investment Unit (CIU) based in Dubai, operating under a public-private partnership with the São Toméan government.
  • Contributions go toward a National Transformation Fund, financing initiatives like renewable energy infrastructure, housing, education, road development, and green economy projects.
  • The programme is designed for processing in under two months, subject to due diligence, document completeness and case complexity.
  • No residency, interview, or language tests.
  • Eligible family members may be included under the current programme rules. Confirm current adult-dependant rules and the treatment of applicants who already hold multiple nationalities before publication.
  • Dual citizenship allowed