São Tomé and Príncipe officially updates citizenship-by-investment timeline

What changed in the São Tomé and Príncipe CBI timeline

São Tomé and Príncipe has replaced the earlier 4-month internal estimate with a new official benchmark: 6 months or more.

The 4-month figure was used as an internal guide for the full process, from application submission to receipt of citizenship documents. The new memo gives a more realistic timeline and separates the process into two stages ^[1] Source: The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Unit published a memorandum on June 29, 2026 . 

About 2 months — review before approval. The Citizenship by Investment Unit receives the file, checks the applicant and family members, reviews the source of money, and sends the case to government agencies involved in the decision.

The timing depends on the family composition, case complexity, document quality, and Due Diligence results. Missing documents, unclear source-of-money explanations, or additional checks can extend the review.

At least 12 weeks for citizenship documents after approval. This stage starts after the applicant receives approval, pays the state contribution, and submits post-approval documents.

The Citizenship by Investment Unit explains the longer timeline by a higher workload, changes to internal procedures and legislation, stronger Due Diligence, and closer coordination between agencies.

To reduce delays, the unit is hiring more staff, improving internal processes, and working on faster coordination between government agencies.

How to obtain São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment

São Tomé and Príncipe has offered citizenship by investment since August 2025. Foreign investors can obtain a passport by making a non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund. The minimum contribution is $90,000 for one applicant and $95,000 for a family of up to 4 people, with $5,000 for each additional family member.

Applicants also pay a $5,000 application fee. The fee is the same for one investor and for a family. If the application is submitted with a sponsor, an additional $5,000 sponsor fee applies.

The main applicant must be over 18, have no criminal record, and have no serious medical conditions. They must also have no sanctions, restrictions, or entry bans in countries that have visa-free arrangements with São Tomé and Príncipe.

An investor’s family can obtain citizenship together with the main applicant; the application may include a spouse, children, and parents.

Citizenship is granted for life. The passport of São Tomé and Príncipe is valid for 7 years and must be renewed after expiry.

Passportivity helps investors obtain residence permits and second citizenship by investment. Book a free consultation with our experts.

Practical guide

Guide to obtaining São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship

• Step-by-step procedure
• Requirements for applicants
• Answers to frequently asked questions

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