Nationality of São Tomé and Príncipe: all obtaining pathways
São Tomé and Príncipe requires five years of legal residence for ordinary naturalization, with a partial waiver for investment, sport, or science under Article 10.2 of its law. The spouse and minors acquire citizenship under Article 6.
1Citizenship by origin
Citizenship by origin
Requirements
- Child of a Santomean father or mother (Nationality Law No. 07/2022; formerly Law No. 6/90)
Documentation
- Birth certificate
- Parent's nationality document
2Ordinary naturalization
Ordinary naturalization
Requirements
- Of age under Santomean law
- Reside legally in the territory for at least FIVE (5) years
- Sufficient knowledge of Portuguese or a national language
- No sentence ≥ 3 years (under judicial review)
- Not posing a danger to national security or defense (terrorism)
- Carry out an activity that ensures subsistence (art. 10.1 of Law 07/2022)
Documentation
- Application to the Government with a favorable opinion from the Minister of Justice (art. 12)
- Prior endorsement of the Public Prosecutor’s Office (30 days)
3Naturalization by investment, sport, or science (partial waiver)
Naturalization by investment, sport, or science (partial waiver)
Requirements
- Investments that increase employment and development; high-level sports activity; relevant application of knowledge, science or culture; donations and direct financial support to the country — with exemption from the residence and language requirements (art. 10.2 and 10.3)
Documentation
- Proof of investment/support or sporting/scientific merit
- Application with MP endorsement
4Citizenship of spouse and minors
Citizenship of spouse and minors
Requirements
- The spouse of a naturalized person may acquire nationality under art. 6 (marriage); minors included in the application; option up to 1 year after reaching the age of majority (art. 10.4-10.5)
- Restriction: may not be granted to anyone holding more than two foreign nationalities; loss upon acquiring a fourth (art. 11)
Documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Family documents
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of São Tomé and Príncipe
How many years of residence does São Tomé and Príncipe require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of São Tomé and Príncipe (Ordinary naturalization), the term is 5 years of legal residence. The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
Can the nationality of São Tomé and Príncipe be obtained by marriage?
Yes, through the Citizenship of spouse and minors pathway (Under Art. 6 (marriage)). The complete requirements appear in the fact sheet of that pathway.
What documentation does naturalization in São Tomé and Príncipe require?
The Ordinary naturalization pathway requires: Application to the Government with a favorable opinion from the Minister of Justice (art. 12); Prior endorsement of the Public Prosecutor’s Office (30 days).
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of São Tomé and Príncipe?
São Tomé and Príncipe provides 4 pathways: Citizenship by origin, Ordinary naturalization, Naturalization by investment, sport, or science, Citizenship of spouse and minors.
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