São Tomé and Príncipe Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

São Tomé and Príncipe, a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea off the western coast of Central Africa, welcomes international visitors with relatively accessible entry requirements. Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) before departure, making the country increasingly accessible for tourism and business purposes. The main point of entry is São Tomé International Airport, where immigration procedures are generally straightforward, though visitors should be prepared for a more relaxed pace typical of island nations. All visitors must possess a valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry and at least one blank page for stamps. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers over one year of age, regardless of country of origin. Travelers should also be prepared to show proof of accommodation, return or onward tickets, and sufficient funds for their stay. While the immigration process is typically efficient, it's advisable to have all documents organized and readily accessible. The official language is Portuguese, though some immigration officials may speak French or English. The local currency is the São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN), though euros and US dollars are widely accepted. Visitors should note that São Tomé and Príncipe is a developing nation with limited infrastructure in some areas, so advance planning and patience are essential for a smooth entry experience.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

São Tomé and Príncipe offers visa on arrival for most nationalities, as well as an electronic visa (e-Visa) system that allows travelers to obtain authorization before departure. A small number of countries have visa-free access for short stays.

Visa-Free Entry

15 days

Citizens of these countries can enter without a visa for short stays

Includes

Portugal Cape Verde Guinea-Bissau Angola Mozambique Brazil (for stays up to 15 days)

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months. Yellow fever vaccination certificate is still required. Visa-free stays cannot typically be extended beyond the allowed period.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

30 days (single or multiple entry options available)

Most nationalities can apply for an electronic visa online before travel

Includes

United States Canada United Kingdom European Union member states Australia New Zealand South Africa Most other countries not on visa-free list

How to Apply: Apply online through the official e-Visa portal at www.smf.st or www.visa.st. Applications typically processed within 3-5 business days. Applicants must upload passport copy, passport photo, yellow fever certificate, and proof of accommodation. Print the e-Visa approval and present upon arrival.
Cost: Approximately USD $60-$125 depending on visa type (tourist, business) and duration. Payment typically by credit card online.

E-Visa is highly recommended over visa on arrival as it speeds up the entry process. Ensure you print the approval letter as internet access at the airport may be limited. E-Visa can be extended locally if needed.

Visa on Arrival

30 days

Available for most nationalities if e-Visa not obtained in advance

How to Apply: Available at São Tomé International Airport upon arrival. Complete application form on arrival, present required documents (passport, yellow fever certificate, return ticket, accommodation proof), and pay fee. Processing can take 30-90 minutes depending on number of arrivals.

Cost approximately USD $60-$100 payable in cash (USD or EUR preferred). While available, obtaining an e-Visa in advance is strongly recommended to avoid delays and ensure entry, as visa on arrival is subject to immigration officer discretion. Some nationalities may not be eligible for visa on arrival and must obtain visa in advance from an embassy.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at São Tomé International Airport, travelers will proceed through immigration control, collect baggage, and pass through customs. The process is generally straightforward but can be slow during peak arrival times. Having all documents prepared in advance will facilitate a smoother entry.

Disembarkation and Health Screening

Exit the aircraft and proceed to the terminal. Health officials may conduct temperature checks or request yellow fever vaccination certificates before entering the immigration area.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, e-Visa approval (if applicable), yellow fever certificate, and completed arrival card. If obtaining visa on arrival, proceed to the visa desk first to complete application and payment before joining the immigration queue. Immigration officer will stamp your passport with entry date and permitted duration of stay.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the baggage carousel. The airport is small, so this is typically straightforward. Report any missing luggage immediately to airline representatives.

Customs Declaration

Pass through customs control. You may be asked to open bags for inspection. Declare any items exceeding duty-free allowances or restricted items. Complete customs declaration form if required.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

Exit to the public arrivals area where you can arrange transportation, exchange currency, or meet your hotel representative.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay with at least one blank page for stamps. Original passport required; copies not accepted.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Mandatory for all travelers over 1 year of age, regardless of country of origin. Must be the official International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). Vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. Failure to present this certificate may result in denied entry or quarantine.

Visa or e-Visa Approval

E-Visa approval letter (printed copy) or visa on arrival payment receipt. Keep this with your passport throughout your stay.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from São Tomé and Príncipe, either return ticket to your home country or onward ticket to another destination. Immigration may request to see this.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation confirmation, invitation letter from host, or address where you will be staying. Required for visa application and may be requested at immigration.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence that you can financially support yourself during your stay (cash, credit cards, bank statements). Not always requested but advisable to have available.

Arrival/Departure Card

Typically distributed on the flight or available at immigration. Complete with your personal details, passport number, accommodation address, and purpose of visit.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Apply for e-Visa at least one week before departure to avoid stress and ensure approval before travel

Print multiple copies of your e-Visa approval, yellow fever certificate, and accommodation confirmations

Carry small denomination USD or EUR cash for visa on arrival fees if needed, as card facilities may not always be available

Keep your yellow fever vaccination certificate easily accessible as it will be checked multiple times

Be patient during the immigration process, especially if arriving on the same flight as many other international passengers

Have your accommodation address written clearly in Portuguese if possible to avoid confusion

Take a photo of your passport and visa documents on your phone as backup

Remain polite and courteous with immigration officials; the process is generally friendly but professional

If traveling for business, bring an invitation letter from your São Toméan business contact

Exchange some currency at the airport if arriving outside banking hours, though rates may be less favorable than in town

Customs & Duty-Free

São Tomé and Príncipe customs regulations are designed to prevent the import of prohibited items and ensure appropriate duties are paid on goods. Most personal items and reasonable quantities of goods for personal use are allowed duty-free. Travelers should be aware of restrictions on certain items and be prepared to declare items exceeding allowances.

Alcohol

2 liters of wine and 1 liter of spirits

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol is for personal consumption only, not for commercial purposes.

Tobacco

400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency, but amounts exceeding USD $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Declaration required for amounts over the threshold. Local currency (STN) export is restricted. Keep currency declaration form if provided as you may need to show it upon departure.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to a reasonable value for personal use

New items in commercial quantities may be subject to duty. Used personal electronics and clothing are generally allowed without issue. Professional equipment may require temporary import documentation.

Perfume

Reasonable quantities for personal use (typically up to 250ml)

Excessive quantities may be considered commercial and subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Strictly prohibited with severe penalties including imprisonment
Firearms and ammunition - Prohibited without special authorization from authorities
Explosives and fireworks - Prohibited for security reasons
Counterfeit goods - Including fake currency, pirated media, and counterfeit branded items
Pornographic materials - Prohibited by law
Endangered species products - Items made from protected animals or plants (ivory, certain shells, exotic skins)
Certain plants and seeds - May carry diseases harmful to local agriculture
Fresh fruits and vegetables - Risk of introducing pests and diseases
Meat and dairy products - Unless properly documented and from approved sources

Restricted Items

Medications - Prescription medications allowed in reasonable quantities with doctor's prescription. Keep in original packaging with labels. Controlled substances require special authorization.
Drones and radio equipment - May require special permits from telecommunications authority. Declare at customs.
Professional camera/video equipment - May require temporary import permit if for commercial purposes. Tourist photography equipment generally allowed.
Live animals and pets - Require import permits, health certificates, and rabies vaccination documentation (see special situations section)
Archaeological artifacts and cultural items - Export of cultural heritage items prohibited without authorization
Satellite phones - May require registration with authorities

Health Requirements

Health requirements for entering São Tomé and Príncipe are primarily focused on preventing the introduction of yellow fever and other communicable diseases. All travelers should ensure they meet vaccination requirements and take recommended health precautions for travel to tropical Africa.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Mandatory for all travelers over 1 year of age, regardless of country of origin. Must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) must be presented at entry and may be checked multiple times. This is strictly enforced and non-negotiable.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food and water
Hepatitis B - Recommended especially for those who may have medical procedures or intimate contact with locals
Typhoid - Recommended due to potential exposure through contaminated food and water
Tetanus-Diphtheria - Ensure routine vaccination is up to date
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) - Ensure routine vaccination is up to date
Malaria prophylaxis - Malaria is endemic in São Tomé and Príncipe. Consult your doctor about appropriate antimalarial medication
Rabies - Consider for travelers who may have contact with animals or will be in remote areas
Polio - Ensure routine vaccination is up to date
COVID-19 - Check current requirements as policies may change

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in São Tomé and Príncipe are limited, and serious medical conditions may require evacuation to Europe or South Africa. Ensure your policy covers medical treatment, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation. Some e-Visa applications may request proof of travel insurance, though it is not always strictly enforced. Bring copies of your insurance policy and emergency contact numbers.

Current Health Requirements: Health requirements can change, particularly regarding COVID-19 and emerging infectious diseases. Check the official São Tomé and Príncipe government website and consult your country's travel health advisory service 4-6 weeks before departure. Requirements may include COVID-19 vaccination certificates, negative PCR tests, or health declaration forms. Visit a travel medicine clinic for personalized health advice based on your itinerary and medical history. Bring sufficient supplies of any prescription medications in original packaging with prescriptions.

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in São Tomé and Príncipe, or the nearest one covering the country (often located in Gabon, Angola, or Portugal)

Register with your embassy before travel. Check your government's travel advisory website for current safety information and emergency contact details for citizens abroad.

Immigration Authority - Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras

Official immigration service for visa information and inquiries. E-Visa portal: www.smf.st or www.visa.st

For visa applications, extensions, and official immigration matters. Limited English language support may be available.

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 112 (general emergencies) or local police: 222-2222

For police, ambulance, and fire services. Response times may vary, especially outside the capital. Hospital emergency: Contact Ayres de Menezes Hospital in São Tomé city (+239 222-2122)

Airport Information

São Tomé International Airport (TMS) - Main point of entry

Limited facilities available. Plan for cash payments for services. Airport contact: +239 222-1501

Tourism Authority

São Tomé and Príncipe Tourism Board for travel information and assistance

Can provide information about accommodations, tours, and local regulations. Limited online presence.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (cannot be included on parent's passport). Yellow fever vaccination is required for children over 1 year of age. Children under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) in Portuguese or English, along with copies of the parents' passports. This is particularly important for single parents, guardians, or children traveling with one parent. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. Unaccompanied minors require special documentation and airline approval. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationship.

Traveling with Pets

Pets (dogs and cats) can be imported but require extensive documentation. Required: Import permit from Ministry of Agriculture (apply at least 30 days in advance), valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before travel), health certificate issued by licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, proof of treatment for internal and external parasites. Pets must be microchipped with ISO-compliant microchip. Some breeds may be restricted. Quarantine may be required upon arrival depending on country of origin. Contact the São Tomé and Príncipe embassy for current requirements and permit applications. Airlines have additional requirements for pet transport.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas are typically issued for 30 days but can be extended locally through the Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras (Immigration Service) in São Tomé city. Extensions must be applied for before your current visa expires. Bring passport, passport photos, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and extension fee (varies). Extensions may be granted for an additional 30-60 days. For stays longer than tourist visa allows, consider applying for a temporary residence permit if eligible (employment, investment, study, family reunification). Business visas may allow longer stays. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. Always maintain legal status.

Business Travelers

Business visitors should apply for a business visa (available as e-Visa or on arrival) rather than tourist visa. Required documents include invitation letter from São Toméan company or organization detailing purpose and duration of visit, proof of business registration of inviting company, and your own company documentation. Business visa allows attendance at meetings, conferences, and negotiations but not actual employment. For work permits and employment, separate authorization is required from Ministry of Labor. Keep all business documentation accessible during your stay.

Journalists and Media Professionals

Journalists, photographers, and film crews require special authorization from the Ministry of Communication and Media before arrival. Apply through the São Tomé and Príncipe embassy with detailed information about your assignment, locations to be visited, and purpose of coverage. Tourist visas do not permit professional journalism or commercial filming. Unauthorized media activities may result in deportation and equipment confiscation. Allow several weeks for approval process.

Students and Researchers

Students enrolling in educational institutions or researchers conducting studies require student/research visas. Required documents include acceptance letter from institution, proof of enrollment or research authorization, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means for duration of stay, and police clearance certificate. Apply through embassy or consulate. Upon arrival, register with immigration authorities and obtain residence permit if staying longer than 90 days.

Dual Nationals

Travelers holding dual nationality including São Toméan citizenship must enter and exit São Tomé and Príncipe using their São Toméan passport. Contact the embassy if you have questions about dual nationality entry requirements. Some countries may have specific regulations regarding dual nationals.

Travelers with Disabilities

Travelers with disabilities should contact their airline and accommodation in advance regarding accessibility. Airport and immigration facilities have limited accessibility features. Bring sufficient supplies of any specialized medications or medical equipment, as these may not be available locally. Medical equipment and assistive devices are generally allowed duty-free but should be declared at customs. Carry doctor's letters explaining medical conditions and equipment needs.

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