Prepare for your arrival visa
Check the accepted arrival points, documents and payment arrangements before departure.
Prepare your application
Start with the official document list for your passport, purpose and legal residence.
Submit through the official channel
Follow the official instructions for where and how to submit.
Check the permission you receive
Check the passport details, dates and entry conditions on the permission you receive.
What to prepare for your trip
Check each item as you prepare it. Labels show which documents are required, conditional, or recommended.
Your circumstances may require additional documents. Ticks track preparation, not eligibility or admission.
Details that can change your plans
Prepare scans for a child’s application
For a minor’s visa application, prepare a scanned birth record and a declaration from the legal guardians.
Official guidanceVisa payment takes place at the border
The SMF application service states that payment is made at the border. Check the applicable visa charge before travel; online submission is a separate step.
Official guidanceSao Tome and Principe at a glance
- Capital
- Sao Tome
- Currency
- STN
- Calling code
- +239
Questions for this route
Do travelers with an ordinary passport from China need a visa for Sao Tome and Principe?
For tourism in Sao Tome and Principe, travelers using an ordinary passport from China should prepare for a visa on arrival.
What if I’m going to work, study or stay longer?
This guide is for a short tourist visit on an ordinary passport. It does not establish eligibility for employment, study or residence. Use the destination’s official guidance for your actual purpose.
Does my country of residence change the answer?
Passport nationality and legal residence are different. This page starts with your passport. Residence can change where you apply and which application channel is available; an existing visa or residence permit may also create an exception. Check the official eligibility guidance for your circumstances.
Official websites
Use these government websites to confirm requirements and complete any application.
Sao Tome and Principe visitor information
Read the official visitor conditions and contact the responsible authority about your circumstances.
Check your Sao Tome entry authorization
Check the decision using the application reference or process number.
About this guide
This guide covers short tourist visits on an ordinary passport. Your nationality, residence, travel document and purpose can affect the entry conditions. Check the linked official guidance before travel; the border authority decides admission and your permitted stay.
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