This is more open than most people expect. São Tomé and Príncipe abolished the visa requirement for short visits by nationals of the United States and several European countries, so an American tourist can generally arrive without applying for anything in advance. Confirm the exact permitted length for your dates.
Quick facts
The yellow fever certificate is the requirement most likely to stop you. It is checked on arrival across the region and needs arranging well ahead of travel.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Short tourist visit | No visa | Confirm the allowance |
| Longer stays | Visa or permit required | Ask the mission |
| Yellow fever vaccination | Charged by your clinic | Required for entry |
| Malaria prophylaxis | Charged by your clinic | Take medical advice |
| Work permit | Charged at home | Through the employer |
Most routes connect through Lisbon, Accra or Libreville, and those countries’ transit rules apply. Lisbon is the commonest gateway and brings Schengen transit rules into play for some nationalities.
How to prepare
- Confirm the current visa-free allowance for your nationality.
- Ask for that confirmation in writing if you can.
- Arrange the yellow fever vaccination well ahead.
- Take medical advice on malaria.
- Check the transit rules for your connecting country.
- For longer stays or work, ask the mission which category applies.
Required documents
- Passport valid at least six months beyond arrival.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate.
- Return or onward ticket and accommodation details.
- Transit documentation for your connecting country.
- Proof of lawful residence in the United States for third-country nationals.
- Evidence of funds where requested.
Where to enquire
At the Permanent Mission in New York, the only Santomean representation in the country.
No offices currently listed.
Additional notes
Get it in writing
Where a country has recently liberalised entry, airlines are often the last to know. An email is worth carrying.
Príncipe is a separate journey
Reaching the smaller island means a short flight or a long boat crossing. Plan it as part of the trip, not an afternoon.
Santomeans need no visa
But renewing a passport from here is difficult. See the passport page.
Verify close to travel
Entry arrangements change. Confirm near the date.