Let’s know a little bit about São Tomé and Príncipe, the home of the newest and cheapest citizenship by investment program! 

São Tomé is a well-known paradise island nation in West Africa. The Portuguese and Creole-speaking country consists of two main islands and several smaller ones. Located approximately 250 kilometres west of Gabon, the country is the second-smallest and second-least populous country in Africa, with a population of around 220,000. The country may seem small, but it offers stunning landscapes, friendly people, a rich cultural heritage, and renowned local dishes.

São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the rare stable countries in Africa. It became independent from Portugal in 1975. Elections are regular and peaceful, and there is a climate of trust and civic engagement. Don’t forget that in São Tomé and Príncipe, the people know each other. The political system is a semi-presidential republic, with the president serving as the head of state and the prime minister serving as the head of government.

Life in São Tomé and Príncipe is laid-back and community-oriented. The islands are renowned for their lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and charming, perfect beaches, making them a haven for eco-tourism. Most residents live in rural areas, relying on fishing, agriculture, and commerce. Cocoa remains the country's main export product, and tourism is likely to be the future economic driver.  

Personal income tax in São Tomé and Príncipe is progressive, with rates ranging from 0% to 25%. Corporate tax is standard 25%. The minimum VAT is 7.5%, while the maximum burden is 15%. The currency of São Tomé and Príncipe is the Dobra. In August 2025, 1 euro is worth 24,73 San Tomean Dobra.

Rental costs are relatively low in the West African island nation. A one-bedroom home costs around $ 211 USD per month, while a 3-bedroom family home can cost around $ 569 USD per month in the city centre, according to Numbeo.com.  The cost of living is comparable to that of other island nations in the region, such as Cabo Verde. A single person, including rent, can live well spending a total of $ 1,000, meanwhile a family of four spends $ 2,369. The average squad meter cost in the country is $1,433 USD, even for the nicest beach houses. Salaries are comparable to African averages, it is only 283 USD/month. As São Tomé and Príncipe is an island nation, exported goods are always more expensive than on the continent.

Obtaining a residency permit is not too difficult in São Tomé and Príncipe. You must register a company. The amount of the company's capital depends on the sector. If you have an established business (with proof of income or investment) and a valid proof of address, you can apply for a residence permit. The processing time is fast, usually 15 business days.

How to get citizenship by investment in São Tomé?

The African country launched a CIP (Citizenship by Investment Program) in 2025. The minimum investment required for citizenship is $ 90,000 USD.

Take a look at the details of the citizenship by investment program of São Tomé and Principe here!

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