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São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe, an island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, is a land of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a unique blend of African and Portuguese influences. Its cultural tapestry is woven from the traditions of various ethnic groups, including the Forro people, descendants of freed slaves, and the Angolar people, descendants of Portuguese settlers and African slaves. This heritage is evident in the islands‘ vibrant arts scene, with traditional music like the rhythmic sounds of Tchiloli and contemporary expressions finding their place.

The country’s political system is a semi-presidential republic, with a President as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government. São Tomé and Príncipe has a history of peaceful transitions of power and a commitment to democratic principles, although challenges remain in areas such as corruption and poverty.

São Tomé and Príncipe’s geography is characterized by volcanic islands, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. The climate is tropical, with warm temperatures and high humidity. The population is predominantly of African descent, with diverse ethnic groups and languages. Portuguese is the official language, while Forro and Angolar Creole languages are also spoken.

São Tomé and Príncipe’s economy is largely based on agriculture, particularly cocoa and coffee, with growing sectors in tourism and fisheries. The country faces challenges such as poverty, inequality, and dependence on commodity exports. The largest cities include São Tomé (the capital), and Trindade, each offering a unique glimpse into the islands‘ cultural heritage and natural beauty.

São Tomé und Príncipe ist ein Inselstaat im Golf von Guinea, bekannt für seine atemberaubende Natur und entspannte Lebensweise. Die Auswanderung dorthin erfordert jedoch einige Vorbereitung und Wissen über die örtlichen Vorschriften.

Document Category Examples / Purpose (for São Tomé and Príncipe)
1. General Requirements (Often for most visa applications)
Valid Passport: Original and copy. Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in São Tomé and Príncipe and have at least two blank pages.
Passport-sized Photos: Two recent, color, passport-sized photographs with a white background.
Visa Application Form: Completed and signed. Usually available from the São Tomé and Príncipe diplomatic mission or online if they have an e-visa portal.
Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from a host in São Tomé and Príncipe. If invited, the host’s identification/residence permit might be needed.
Proof of Financial Solvency: Bank statements from the last three to six months demonstrating sufficient funds to cover the stay. The specific amount can vary and should be checked with the consulate.
Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of a confirmed return flight ticket or ticket for onward travel.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. It’s highly recommended for all travelers.
Travel Itinerary: A general plan of activities or purpose of visit.
Visa Fee Payment: Proof of payment of the applicable visa application fee. Fees vary by visa type and nationality.
Police Clearance Certificate: May be required, especially for longer stays or specific visa types. This certificate should be from your country of residence, potentially apostilled or legalized.
Health Insurance: Proof of travel or health insurance with coverage in São Tomé and Príncipe for medical emergencies and repatriation.
2. Specific Requirements for Common Visa Types (examples) (These are in addition to general requirements. Visa policies can be less formally categorized than in larger countries.)
Tourist Visa:

  • Usually covered by the general requirements (passport, photos, application form, proof of funds, accommodation, return ticket, yellow fever certificate if applicable).
  • Purpose is tourism and short visits.
Business Visa:

  • All general requirements.
  • Letter of invitation from the sponsoring company or partner in São Tomé and Príncipe, detailing the purpose of the visit, duration, and who will bear the costs.
  • Letter from the employer in the country of origin confirming the business trip.
  • Proof of commercial registration of the inviting company in São Tomé and Príncipe.
Work Visa / Residence Permit for Employment:

  • All general requirements.
  • Employment Contract: An official employment contract with a company registered in São Tomé and Príncipe, approved by the relevant labor authorities.
  • Employer’s Documents: Documents from the employing company, such as company registration, tax compliance certificates.
  • Professional Qualifications: Diplomas, certificates, or proof of professional experience relevant to the job, possibly translated and legalized/apostilled.
  • Police Clearance Certificate: From country of origin and possibly countries of residence for the past few years.
  • Medical certificate of good health.
  • Application for a Residence Permit („Autorização de Residência“) is typically made once in São Tomé and Príncipe or through the employer.
Student Visa / Residence Permit for Study:

  • All general requirements.
  • Letter of Admission: Official letter of acceptance from a recognized educational institution in São Tomé and Príncipe.
  • Proof of Financial Means: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses during the period of study (e.g., scholarship letter, sponsor’s bank statements).
  • Police Clearance Certificate.
  • Medical certificate of good health.
  • Proof of accommodation for the study period.
Family Reunification Visa (often part of Residence Permit application):

  • All general requirements.
  • Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate (for spouse), birth certificates (for children), apostilled/legalized and officially translated if not in Portuguese.
  • Principal Applicant’s Status: Proof of the legal residency status (valid visa or residence permit) of the family member already in São Tomé and Príncipe.
  • Proof of Financial Support: Evidence that the principal applicant can financially support the dependents.
  • Proof of Adequate Accommodation.
Investor Visa / Residence Permit for Investment:

  • All general requirements.
  • Investment Plan: Detailed business plan outlining the proposed investment.
  • Proof of Investment Funds: Documentation proving the availability and origin of the funds to be invested, meeting the minimum amount stipulated by São Toméan law (this amount should be verified with official sources).
  • Company Registration Documents: If establishing a company in São Tomé and Príncipe.
  • Certificate from the relevant investment promotion agency or government body in São Tomé and Príncipe, if applicable.
3. Requirements for Permanent Residency (if applicable) (Information on a direct path to „Permanent Residency“ distinct from renewable long-term residence permits can be limited. Typically, long-term residence is achieved through renewal of temporary permits or specific investment/contribution criteria.)
Generally, obtaining a more permanent status involves:

  • Holding a temporary residence permit for a specified number of consecutive years (e.g., 5 years, but this needs verification with STP authorities).
  • Demonstrating continuous legal residence and integration (e.g., stable income, knowledge of Portuguese, no criminal record in São Tomé and Príncipe).
  • Specific conditions may apply based on the initial visa category (e.g., continued employment, ongoing investment).
  • Application would be made to the immigration authorities in São Tomé and Príncipe (Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras).
Important Notes:
  • Visa Exemption: Citizens of certain countries may be exempt from requiring a visa for short stays. This list should be checked with the São Tomé and Príncipe diplomatic missions. (e.g., EU, USA, Canada, Brazil, CPLP countries often have exemptions for tourism up to 15 days, but this can change).
  • Apostille/Legalization: Documents issued outside São Tomé and Príncipe (like birth/marriage certificates, police records, diplomas) generally require an Apostille (if your country is a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention) or legalization by the São Tomé and Príncipe consulate in the country of origin or a relevant diplomatic mission.
  • Translation: Documents not in Portuguese (the official language) will likely need to be officially translated into Portuguese by a certified translator.
  • Visa Application Process: Visas might be obtainable upon arrival for some nationalities/purposes, but it’s strongly recommended to obtain a visa beforehand if required. Some countries might have an e-visa system. Check with the nearest São Toméan diplomatic mission.
  • Residence Permit (Autorização de Residência): For stays longer than the period granted by an entry visa (typically 90 days or less), one must apply for a Residence Permit from the Immigration Services (Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras) in São Tomé.
  • Consult Official Sources: Visa requirements can change. Always consult the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of São Tomé and Príncipe or the nearest embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date information before making travel plans.
Category ECCAS Citizens CPLP Citizens Citizens Visa-Exempt for Short Stays (e.g., EU, USA, UK, Canada, Brazil…) Other Foreign Nationals
1. Short Stay (Tourism/Visit – typically up to 15 or 90 days) Generally Visa-Free up to 90 days.
– Based on ECCAS free movement protocols (verify current implementation).
– Requires valid national passport.		 Generally Visa-Free up to 15 days.
– Based on São Tomé and Príncipe policy / CPLP mobility context.
– Requires valid national passport.		 Visa-Free up to 15 days.
– Applies to specific list of countries (incl. EU/Schengen, USA, UK, Canada, etc.).
– Requires valid passport (often 6 months validity recommended).
– May require proof of return/onward ticket, accommodation, sufficient funds.		 Visa Required.
– Must be obtained *before travel*.
– Apply via the official e-Visa system: http://www.smf.st/evisa or at an STP Embassy/Consulate.
– Requires valid passport, application form, fee, supporting documents (ticket, funds, accommodation proof etc.).
2. Long Stay Visa (e.g., for Work, Study, Residence) Specific Long-Stay Visa Required.
– Must be obtained *before travel* from an STP Embassy/Consulate.
– ECCAS status may not significantly alter standard long-stay visa requirements (verify specifics).
– Standard documents needed (passport, proof of purpose, funds, etc.).		 Specific Long-Stay Visa Required.
– Must be obtained *before travel* from an STP Embassy/Consulate.
– CPLP Mobility Agreement might offer simplified procedures (verify specifics).
– Standard documents needed (passport, proof of purpose, funds, etc.).		 Specific Long-Stay Visa Required.
– Short-stay visa exemption does *not* apply for long-term purposes.
– Must be obtained *before travel* from an STP Embassy/Consulate.
– Requires proof of purpose (job offer, admission letter, etc.), financial means, etc.		 Specific Long-Stay Visa Required.
– Must be obtained *before travel* from an STP Embassy/Consulate.
– Requires proof of purpose (job offer, admission letter, family reunification docs, etc.), financial means, accommodation proof, etc.
3. Residence Permit (Autorização de Residência) Required for establishing residence.
– Applied for *after arrival* in São Tomé and Príncipe.
– Submit application to the Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras (SMF).
– Requires appropriate long-stay visa, proof of stable income/means, accommodation, purpose of stay, etc.		 Required for establishing residence.
– Applied for *after arrival* at the SMF.
– Requires appropriate long-stay visa. CPLP agreement might influence documentation or process (verify specifics).
– Standard requirements: proof of income/means, accommodation, purpose.		 Required for establishing residence.
– Applied for *after arrival* at the SMF.
– Requires the appropriate long-stay visa obtained *before entry*.
– Standard requirements apply (proof of means, accommodation, purpose etc.).		 Required for establishing residence.
– Applied for *after arrival* at the SMF.
– Requires the appropriate long-stay visa obtained *before entry*.
– Requires passport, visa, photos, proof of income/means, accommodation, purpose (employment contract, etc.).
4. Work Permit (Autorização de Trabalho) Required for employment.
– Usually applied for by the employer or jointly with the employee.
– Involves the Ministry responsible for Labour and the SMF.
– Often processed alongside or requires an approved Residence Permit application. ECCAS status unlikely to grant automatic work rights (verify specifics).		 Required for employment.
– Applied for involving the employer, Ministry of Labour, and SMF.
– CPLP agreement might potentially streamline parts of the process (verify specifics), but a permit is generally necessary.
– Requires approved job offer/contract.		 Required for any employment.
– Cannot work based on short-stay visa exemption.
– Applied for involving the employer, Ministry of Labour, and SMF.
– Requires an appropriate visa/residence permit allowing work.		 Required for any employment.
– Applied for involving the employer, Ministry of Labour, and SMF.
– Requires approved job offer/contract and an appropriate visa/residence permit allowing work.
5. Key Authorities / Links – Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras (SMF): Immigration, Residence Permits.
– Ministry of Labour (or equivalent): Work Permits.
– STP Embassies/Consulates Abroad.
– Relevant ECCAS bodies (for protocol info).		 – Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras (SMF).
– Ministry of Labour.
– STP Embassies/Consulates Abroad.
– Relevant CPLP bodies (for mobility agreement info).		 – Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras (SMF).
– Ministry of Labour.
– STP Embassies/Consulates Abroad.
– Official e-Visa Portal: http://www.smf.st/evisa		 – Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras (SMF).
– Ministry of Labour.
– STP Embassies/Consulates Abroad.
– Official e-Visa Portal: http://www.smf.st/evisa
Category Requirements Insurance Providers Cost Examples
Tourists & Long-term Immigrants Proof of valid health insurance coverage
  • International insurance providers (e.g., Allianz, AXA, etc.)
  • Local insurance providers (limited availability)
  • Single: 30€-50€ per month
  • Couple: 50€-80€ per month
  • Family: 80€-120€ per month
Locals
  • Public health insurance system (limited coverage)
  • Private health insurance (optional)
  • Public health insurance system
  • Local insurance providers
  • Public health insurance: Minimal fees or contributions
  • Private health insurance: Varies depending on coverage and provider
Purpose Financial Requirement Additional Notes
Entry – While there’s no official minimum amount stated, it’s generally recommended to have at least 50€-100€ per day to cover accommodation, food, and other expenses, – You may be asked to show proof of these funds upon arrival. – The amount needed can vary depending on your travel style and planned activities.
Initial Stay (First few months) – It’s advisable to have at least 1,000€-2,000€ available to cover initial expenses such as accommodation deposits, setting up utilities, and other settling-in costs, – If you have a job or other source of income in São Tomé and Príncipe, this can reduce the amount needed. – The cost of living in São Tomé and Príncipe can be relatively high, especially for imported goods.
City Average Monthly Rent (1-bedroom apartment) Additional Notes
São Tomé 400€-800€
  • The capital and largest city, so rental costs tend to be higher.
  • More variety of housing options available.
Neves 300€-600€ – Second-largest city, generally more affordable than São Tomé.
Santana 250€-500€ – Smaller city, rental options may be more limited.
Trindade 200€-400€ – Even smaller city, rental market may be less developed.
Guadalupe 150€-300€ – Smallest of the five cities, limited rental options.
Expense Category São Tomé and Príncipe (USD) Germany (€) France (€) UK (£) Italy (€) Spain (€)
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant 5$ 12€ 15€ 10£ 12€ 10€
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course 30$ 50€ 60€ 40£ 45€ 35€
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) 1.50$ 4€ 5€ 3.50£ 4€ 3€
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) 2.50$ 4.50€ 5.50€ 4£ 4.50€ 3.50€
Cappuccino (regular) 2$ 3€ 3.50€ 2.50£ 2.80€ 2€
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle) 1$ 2€ 2.20€ 1.50£ 1.80€ 1.50€
Water (0.33 liter bottle) 0.50$ 1.50€ 1.80€ 1£ 1.20€ 1€
One-way Ticket (Local Transport) 0.30$ 2.50€ 1.90€ 2£ 1.50€ 1.30€
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) 15$ 70€ 75€ 60£ 35€ 50€
Gasoline (1 liter) 1.20$ 1.80€ 1.90€ 1.40£ 1.70€ 1.60€
Level Cost (USD) Notes
Primary & Secondary (to 10th grade) Public: Free Private schools exist but are less common and costlier.
University per Semester 50$ – 200$ Varies by program and institution. Public university is more affordable.
Aspect Details
Existence No formal unemployment benefit system
Alternatives Social safety nets and family support are common
Comparison In Europe, benefits typically range from 50-70% of previous salary for a set period, with eligibility criteria.
Cost Category Description Example Costs
Visa and Residence Permits Fees associated with applying for and obtaining the necessary visas and residence permits. – Tourist Visa: 50€ (single entry)
Relocation Costs Expenses related to moving your belongings and yourself to São Tomé and Príncipe. – Airfare (from Europe): 600€-1000€ (round trip) – Shipping a 20ft container: 3000€-5000€
Accommodation Costs for securing a place to live, whether renting or buying. – Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: 300€-500€ – Security deposit: 1-2 months‘ rent
Living Expenses Day-to-day costs of living in São Tomé and Príncipe. – Monthly groceries for a single person: 200€-300€ – Eating out at a local restaurant: 10€-20€ per meal
Insurance Potentially required health, liability, or other insurance coverage. – Private health insurance: 50€-100€ per month
Language Courses If you don’t speak Portuguese, the official language. – Group Portuguese classes: 10€-20€ per hour
Professional Qualification Recognition Costs associated with getting your qualifications recognized in São Tomé and Príncipe. – Varies depending on profession and required documentation.

Type of Visa / Entry Permit Brief Description Link to Further Information (Official Source)
Visa-Free Entry (Short Stay) Citizens of many countries (incl. Schengen area, USA, Canada, UK, CPLP) are typically exempt for tourism/business stays up to 15 days. **Verification is essential!** Official eVisa Portal (Check eligibility)
Electronic Visa (eVisa) Required for non-exempt nationals or for stays longer than 15 days (up to 30 days, for tourism/business). Apply online before travel. Official eVisa Portal
Other Visas / Residence Permits (Long Stay) For purposes like work, study, residency. Detailed official information online is very limited. Usually requires direct contact with São Toméan authorities (e.g., Migration and Borders Service – SMF) or the nearest Embassy/Consulate. Check eVisa site first; otherwise, contact Embassy/Consulate (No direct comprehensive link readily available online)

Area / Process Description Responsible Authority / Link (if available)
Registration / Residence Application for Visa / Residence Permit (Visto / Autorização de Residência). Required for legal entry and long-term stay. Usually applied for at an embassy/consulate abroad before entry. Different visa types exist depending on the purpose of stay. Renewals or conversions are handled in-country. Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras (SMF) (Migration and Borders Service), often under the Ministry of Internal Administration or Defence. / Embassies/Consulates of São Tomé and Príncipe abroad.
Central Government Portal: http://www.gov.st/ (Search for „Migração“ or relevant ministries)
Health Insurance Proof of travel/health insurance. Often required for visa issuance, covering medical emergencies and potentially repatriation. This is usually a requirement for the visa/residence application, not a separate form. Checked by the visa-issuing authority (Embassy/Consulate) or the SMF upon entry/application.
Information on the health system: Ministério da Saúde (Ministry of Health) via http://www.gov.st/
Work Permit Application for Work Permit (Autorização de Trabalho). Necessary to legally work in São Tomé and Príncipe. The application is typically initiated by the employer and requires an appropriate visa or residence permit. Ministério do Trabalho, Solidariedade, Família e Formação Profissional (Ministry of Labour, Solidarity, Family and Vocational Training) or similar body.
Information via http://www.gov.st/ (Search for „Trabalho“)
Recognition of Qualifications Application for Recognition of Foreign Qualifications (Reconhecimento de Habilitações Estrangeiras / Equivalência). Process for evaluating and equating foreign educational degrees with the Santomean system, relevant for work or further education. Ministério da Educação e Ensino Superior (Ministry of Education and Higher Education).
Information via http://www.gov.st/ (Search for „Educação“)

Typical Working Conditions & Salaries in Selected Professions – São Tomé and Príncipe
Industry Sector Qualification Typical Monthly Hours Usual Annual Leave (Working Days) Typical Gross Annual Salary (STN, incl. 13th month) Estimated Net Annual Salary (STN, approx.) Estimated Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)
Agriculture (Cocoa/Coffee) Field Worker (Basic) ca. 173 ca. 21 32,500 – 45,500 29,000 – 41,000 1,420 – 1,990
Fishing Fisherman (Artisanal) Variable ca. 21 (if formal) 32,500 – 52,000 29,000 – 46,000 1,420 – 2,270
Tourism & Hospitality Hotel/Restaurant Staff (Basic/Vocational) ca. 173 ca. 21 39,000 – 65,000 34,000 – 56,000 1,700 – 2,840
Education (Public Sector) Teacher (Qualified) ca. 173 ca. 21+ (school holidays) 39,000 – 78,000 34,000 – 67,000 1,700 – 3,410
Healthcare (Public Sector) Nurse (Qualified) ca. 173 ca. 21 45,500 – 78,000 39,500 – 67,000 1,990 – 3,410
Public Administration Clerk / Administrator ca. 173 ca. 21 52,000 – 91,000 45,000 – 77,000 2,270 – 3,970
Management (Private Sector) Hotel/Company Manager (Degree/Experience) ca. 173+ ca. 21 130,000 – 325,000+ 104,000 – 260,000+ 5,680 – 14,190+