Residence in São Tomé and Príncipe: permits and requirements
Living legally in São Tomé and Príncipe is possible through 4 permit types: work, family, study. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Residence certificate for employed activity
Residence type #1 of 4
Residence certificate for salaried employment; requires a contract with a favorable opinion from the Ministry of Labor (Law 5/2008, art. 35).
Requirements
- Employment contract with a favorable opinion from the Ministry of Labor
- Residence visa for establishing residence (e-Cidadão / SMF)
- Criminal record certificate and adequate accommodation
- Visa + authorization depending on activity; CELP/CPLP regime for PALOP nationals
- Proof of means of support and accommodation
Documentation
- Valid travel document and NIF
- Criminal record certificate
- Endorsed employment contract
- Passport
- Visa
- Contract or proof of activity/studies
- Certificates required by the e-Cidadão form
Frequently asked questions about residence in São Tomé and Príncipe
How many types of residence permits are there in São Tomé and Príncipe?
São Tomé and Príncipe offers 4 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, family, study. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in São Tomé and Príncipe last?
Durations vary by permit type: 1 year renewable (Law 8/08); 1 year renewable until the end of the course (Law 8/08); Same as principal holder (2 years if the principal holder is permanent). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in São Tomé and Príncipe be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of São Tomé and Príncipe (4 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in São Tomé and Príncipe?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Contrato de trabajo. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in São Tomé and Príncipe lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Ordinary naturalization pathway, which requires 5 years of legal residence. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Residence and nationality updates
Subscribe to know when a country changes its residence or nationality routes. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about São Tomé and Príncipe?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about residence pathways in São Tomé and Príncipe, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.