Overview — São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship
São Tomé and Príncipe, a two-island nation off the west coast of Africa, launched its citizenship by investment programme in 2025. It is among the newest — and cheapest — options on the market, built around a single contribution to the country’s National Transformation Fund.
The entry point is genuinely low: $90,000 for a single applicant, or $95,000 to include a family of up to four, plus a $5,000 submission fee and a small document fee. The process is fully remote, takes around two to three months, and asks for no visit to the islands. The family rules are generous, extending to children up to 30 and parents over 55.
As with any brand-new and low-cost programme, the honest framing matters: the São Tomé passport is a modest travel document, and the programme’s rules and recognition are still settling in. We see it as a sensible, low-cost Plan B — a genuine second citizenship at an accessible price — rather than a strong-mobility passport, and we keep a close eye on how the programme develops.
Who qualifies
- Applicants aged 18 or over with a clean criminal record
- Able to make the contribution to the National Transformation Fund
- Able to document a lawful source of funds
- Comfortable with a newer programme whose rules are still maturing
- Family-friendly — children up to 30 and parents over 55 can be included
Investment routes
National Transformation Fund Donation
USD 90,000 (single) / 95,000 (family of up to 4)A single non-refundable contribution to the National Transformation Fund, plus a $5,000 submission fee and a small document fee. No property to buy and nothing to manage.
Among the lowest-cost citizenships available
Key benefits
- One of the most affordable citizenships available anywhere
- A brand-new programme (launched 2025) with a fast, remote process
- No travel to São Tomé required at any stage
- Family-friendly — children up to 30 and parents over 55 can be included
- Best seen as a low-cost Plan B rather than a strong travel document
How we process your application
Eligibility & Pre-Check
We run a confidential pre-assessment before filing, so you understand your position with this newer programme.
Document Preparation
We compile the application and supporting documents for you and any family members.
Submission & Due Diligence
The application is submitted and background checks are carried out — entirely remotely, with no travel required.
Approval & Contribution
On approval, the contribution to the National Transformation Fund is made and formalities completed.
Citizenship & Passport
Citizenship is granted and your passport issued — typically within two to three months.
Why apply with Avyanco
Frequently asked questions
Is this a strong passport?
Do I need to travel there?
How new is the programme?
Who can I include?
Reviewed by
Jashvantkumar Prajapati
Founder & CEO, Avyanco — 21+ years in global mobility advisory