São Tomé & Príncipe launches $90000 CBI program — Cheapest Route to a Second Passport
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In a strategic move to attract foreign capital and support national transformation, São Tomé and Príncipe has officially launched its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, effective August 1, 2025. This African island nation now joins a growing list of countries offering second citizenship to global investors in exchange for direct financial contributions.
Designed with transparency and efficiency in mind, the program is now among the most cost-effective and streamlined in the world, especially appealing to individuals and families looking for a second passport without the complications of residency, interviews, or long processing times.
Key Features of the Program
Minimum Investment Requirements
- Single applicant: USD 90,000 donation to the National Transformation Fund
- Family of 2–4 members: USD 95,000
- Each additional dependent: USD 5,000
Mandatory Submission Fee
A non-refundable submission fee of USD 5,000 applies to every application, regardless of the number of applicants. This fee covers due diligence and initial processing.
Additional Government Fees (per person)
- Passport issuance: USD 350
- National ID card: USD 150
- Certificate of Registration: USD 250
Administered by Experts
The program is overseen by the newly established Citizenship Investment Unit (CIU), operated under a public–private partnership between the São Toméan government and STP Service Advisory, a private firm based in Dubai. This unit will be responsible for end-to-end processing of applications, ensuring transparency and compliance with international standards.
- CIU operations officially began on August 1, 2025
- Applications will start in the first week of September 2025
Fast, Remote, and Hassle-Free
One of the most compelling aspects of São Tomé and Príncipe’s program is its speed and simplicity. There are no requirements for applicants to reside in or travel to the country.
- Processing time: As fast as six weeks
- No residency required
- No interviews or language tests
- Biometric passport model
- The entire process is managed remotely
Dependents, Nationality Rules & Future Additions
The program defines qualifying dependents as:
- Spouses
- Children up to 30 years old, if unmarried and financially dependent
- Parents over 55 years old
Additional dependents can be added after initial approval:
- US$10,000 for spouses
- US$5,000 for each additional dependent
- US$500 for newborn children
Nationality policy:
- Open to all nationalities, including Russians and Iranians
- Only North Koreans are restricted
Visa-Free Access
São Tomé and Príncipe passports currently allow visa-free access to 61 countries, including Hong Kong (SAR China), Singapore, and South Africa. However, EU and UK visas are still required.
That said, the government emphasizes the deeper value of citizenship beyond just travel convenience:
- Global mobility
- Legal tax restructuring
- Asset protection and estate planning
- Business expansion opportunities
- Privacy enhancement
- Global diversification
This program is specifically tailored to sophisticated investors who recognize second citizenship as a long-term strategic asset.
Purpose-Driven Investment
The financial contributions from the CBI program are not just revenue; they are intended to directly fund national development projects. The funds will be allocated to the National Transformation Fund, which focuses on:
- Expanding renewable energy infrastructure
- Improving roads and educational facilities
- Supporting affordable housing initiatives
- Encouraging small business growth and entrepreneurship
Why Consider This Program?
São Tomé and Príncipe’s offering enters the CBI market with a highly attractive proposition, particularly for budget-conscious investors who still expect speed, credibility, and transparency.
What makes it stand out:
- Affordability: Among the lowest-priced programs globally
- Efficiency: Approval in as little as six weeks
- Simplicity: No travel, interviews, or language tests
- Impact: Contributions support real, long-term national development
Final Thoughts
This launch marks a significant milestone for São Tomé and Príncipe. With an efficient application process, and a clear national development agenda, the program is expected to gain strong traction among international investors. It’s a strategic opportunity to contribute to an emerging nation’s future while securing your own.
Stay Informed with UNO Capital
At UNO Capital, we remain one step ahead of global changes and closely follow new developments in citizenship and residency schemes. With the world changing, we make sure our clients are always ready, facilitated, and strategically directed towards making the optimal investment choice.
Speak with our experienced investment consultants to determine which program is best for your future. Contact us now!
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