Living in Sao Tome and Principe: the ultimate expat guide

São Tomé and Príncipe has streamlined entry procedures to attract visitors and investors. Multiple visa options accommodate different stay durations and purposes.

Visa exemption for short stays

Citizens of EU countries, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom can enter visa-free for tourist or business visits up to 15 days. This exemption allows you to explore before committing to a longer stay. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.

e-Visa for extended visits

Stays exceeding 15 days require an e-Visa obtained through the official portal with approximately 2-day processing time. A single-entry tourist visa costs EUR 20 and permits 30-day stays, valid for 120 days after issuance. Business visa with multiple entries runs EUR 60 with 6-month validity.

Required documentation includes a passport valid 6 months, proof of funds at EUR 100 per day, return ticket, and confirmed accommodation booking.

Work permits and employment visas

The temporary work visa targets short-term assignments. At approximately 1,000 STN (USD 50), it permits work for up to one year with renewal options. Local employers must sponsor applications and provide employment contracts.

For long-term projects, the permanent work visa costs around 1,500 STN (USD 75) and covers multiple years based on contract duration. Registration with the Ministry of Labor is mandatory. Allow 4-6 weeks for work visa processing.

Permanent residence and citizenship

Permanent residence requires 5 years of continuous residency. Conditions include Portuguese language proficiency, good character, sufficient means of support, and renouncing previous citizenship as dual nationality isn't recognized.

Citizenship by investment program

São Tomé and Príncipe offers an investor program with a EUR 50,000 minimum investment in business creation or property acquisition. Benefits include visa-free access to 60+ countries (including Singapore and Hong Kong), fast processing of 6-8 weeks, and no residence requirement. Note that this passport doesn't grant Schengen or UK access.

Tax treaties exist with Portugal, Angola, and Cape Verde to prevent double taxation, covering income, corporate taxes, and withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalties. US citizens should note that FATCA reporting obligations continue regardless of this second passport.

The Santomean economy is transitioning from agriculture dependence toward tourism and energy diversification. The job market presents challenges but offers opportunities for skilled expats.

Labor market overview

Unemployment stands at 14.21% as of 2023, with youth unemployment (ages 15-24) reaching 21.3%. The average net salary is EUR 460 monthly (approximately 7,010,000 dobras or USD 1,682), while the civil service minimum wage sits at just 1,300,000 dobras (USD 60 per month). This disparity explains why many Santomeans supplement income through informal activities.

Salary ranges vary dramatically by sector, from USD 425 for entry-level positions to USD 7,488 for senior executives and international experts.

Growth sectors and opportunities

Agriculture remains the economic backbone, with cocoa representing 70-80% of national exports worth approximately USD 17 million in 2021. Coffee, palm oil, and coconut production complement cocoa exports.

The tourism sector shows steady growth despite modest numbers. Ecotourism and boutique hospitality offer excellent prospects for savvy entrepreneurs, as the country remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism.

The energy sector attracts significant investment, particularly offshore oil exploration partnering with Angola, TotalEnergies, and Shell. Ambitious solar projects are planned: 2 MW financed by AfDB and UNDP, plus an 11 MW IFC-backed project for 2025.

Fishing and fish processing are developing sustainably, while telecommunications and construction have experienced significant recent growth.

Sources: The Business Year, World Bank

In-demand skills

Employers actively recruit telecommunications engineers, tourism professionals (hotel managers, multilingual guides), educators, energy sector experts, construction managers, and qualified hospitality staff (reservation agents, reception personnel).

Starting a business

Entrepreneurs need a minimum EUR 50,000 investment to qualify for advantageous investor frameworks. No restrictions limit foreign participation or control of local enterprises.

Tax incentives include a reduced 15% rate for agriculture during limited periods, tourism benefits through the Special Economic Zone regime, and specific incentives for renewable energy. Registration occurs through the Investment Agency.

Economic outlook

After modest 1.1% growth in 2024, the IMF projects acceleration to 2.5% in 2025 and an average 3.7% for 2026-2027. Inflation remains elevated at 10.7% for January-July 2025 (down from 16.1% in 2024), expected to decline to 10% in 2025 then 6% by 2027.

Main trading partners include the Netherlands, Belgium, Portugal, France, and Spain, with exports dominated by gas turbines, cocoa beans, aircraft parts, and chocolate.

São Tomé and Príncipe's tax system has undergone significant reform in recent years, notably introducing VAT in 2023. Rates remain moderate compared to international standards, but understanding your obligations is essential.

Personal income tax

The system operates progressively with rates from 0% to 25%. Exemptions apply below certain income thresholds, followed by intermediate brackets at 10%, and a top rate between 25-30% depending on sources. Tax residency establishes after 183 days of presence annually.

Residents face taxation on worldwide income, while non-residents pay only on Santomean-source income. Staying under 183 days annually means your foreign income escapes local taxation.

Value Added Tax

Introduced June 1, 2023, VAT replaced several previous taxes with a standard 15% rate. Reduced rates apply to specific sectors. This reform aims to modernize and simplify indirect taxation.

Corporate income tax

The standard corporate profit tax rate is 25%. Agricultural enterprises benefit from a preferential 15% rate during specified periods. The tax base comprises total revenues after cost deductions for resident companies, and attributable income for permanent establishments.

Social security contributions

Employers contribute 8% of gross salary to the National Social Security Institute (INSS), while employees contribute 6%. These fund the limited local social protection system.

Notable tax advantages

São Tomé and Príncipe distinguishes itself with no wealth tax, no inheritance tax (though administrative fees apply), and no capital gains tax on foreign-held property. This lighter tax burden attracts investors and retirees.

Permitted deductions

Several expense categories qualify for deduction: educational expenses for children's schooling, medical expenses above certain thresholds, and for self-employed individuals, professional expenses (supplies, services, necessary equipment).

International tax treaties

The country has signed double taxation avoidance agreements with Portugal, Angola, and Cape Verde. These cover income, corporate taxes, and withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalties. US citizens should note that these treaties don't affect FATCA reporting requirements, and UK citizens won't find a specific bilateral agreement.

Ongoing reforms

The IMF and government plan comprehensive tax regime reassessment in 2025, including fuel taxation, VAT exemptions, and property taxes. These changes aim to broaden the tax base and increase state revenues.

São Tomé and Príncipe's healthcare system presents significant challenges for expats. The medical infrastructure is rudimentary and requires thorough preparation before relocation.

Healthcare system structure

The mixed system combines public and private sectors. Public care, free only for Santomean citizens, operates under the General Health Inspectorate within the Ministry of Health. Primary care exists at district level, while extremely limited secondary care is only available centrally. Expats must use private facilities with direct payment or private insurance.

Medical facilities

The archipelago has just 50 medical establishments: 6 Centros de Saúde, 29 Postos de Saúde, 13 Postos de Saúde Comunitária, and 2 hospitals. Hospital Central Ayres de Menezes in São Tomé (+239 2-221-222) is the country's main facility. Príncipe Island has Hospital de Príncipe in Santo António (+239 225 1005) with very limited capabilities. Centro médico Gnóstica in São Tomé offers private care, particularly for trauma.

Quality of care and limitations

Care quality suffers from poor infrastructure, limited medical training, and chronic shortages of medications and supplies. Available services essentially cover primary care only. Any complex conditions or major surgical procedures require medical evacuation to Libreville (Gabon), Lisbon, or other specialized centers.

International health insurance: mandatory coverage

International health insurance with medical evacuation coverage isn't optional but absolutely essential. Without this protection, evacuation costs can reach tens of thousands of dollars. Build a personal pharmacy with essential medications, as local supply is unreliable.

Specific health risks

Malaria is endemic throughout the archipelago, including potentially fatal cerebral malaria. Antimalarial prophylaxis must begin 2 weeks before arrival and continue per medical recommendations. Tap water isn't potable: always boil or sterilize it. Unpasteurized milk must also be boiled before consumption. Consult a tropical medicine specialist before departure to establish an appropriate vaccination plan.

Improvement projects underway

Encouraging initiatives aim to strengthen healthcare. A Portugal-São Tomé and Príncipe telemedicine platform is developing, while approximately 1,282 health professionals receive ongoing training as of 2024. Cooperation with Portugal and the European Union continues to consolidate the national health system.

São Tomé and Príncipe's education system presents major challenges for expat families. International school options are virtually nonexistent, requiring careful planning before relocation.

Local education system

The system follows the Portuguese model inherited from colonization. Compulsory education covers only the 4 primary years, followed by accessible but inconsistent quality secondary education. All instruction occurs in Portuguese. In 2017, 93% of school-age children were enrolled, up sharply from 56% in 2008.

The system faces significant challenges: inequalities based on geographic location, special needs, and gender, plus education quality concerns. Approximately 18% of poor families withdraw children from school for financial reasons despite theoretical free education.

International schools and alternatives

The absence of recognized international schools is the primary constraint for expat families with children. Options are limited to local public schools in Portuguese and a few private schools also teaching in Portuguese, sometimes with limited English or French instruction.

Facing this situation, expat families typically choose homeschooling or online education programs through US, UK, Canadian, or Australian distance learning institutions. This solution requires strong parental involvement and rigorous organization.

Higher education

Universidade de São Tomé e Príncipe (USTP) is the main higher education institution. It offers initial teacher training for secondary education and various programs. Laboratory improvement and institutional capacity building projects are underway. However, most Santomean students pursue higher education in Portugal or other European countries.

Diploma recognition

Degrees from UK, US, Canadian, and Australian institutions generally receive good recognition, particularly through bilateral agreements with Portugal. For regulated professions, an equivalency procedure through Santomean authorities may be necessary.

Practical recommendations

Before relocating with children, seriously evaluate educational options. Budget for distance learning or boarding school fees in Portugal or home countries for secondary education. Some families choose to reside in São Tomé and Príncipe during school holidays only, with children attending school abroad otherwise. Companies recruiting expats sometimes include education allowances in compensation packages to offset these constraints.

São Tomé and Príncipe's property market operates largely informally. Supply remains limited and infrastructure basic, but prices stay affordable compared to international standards.

Available housing types

The housing stock includes apartments downtown or in outlying areas, houses often in Portuguese colonial style, eco-lodges suitable for tourist or long-term stays, and a few developing luxury hotels. Preserved colonial architecture provides unique charm, though buildings often lack modern amenities like air conditioning.

Average rental rates

A 1-bedroom apartment downtown runs approximately EUR 233 monthly (range EUR 100-300). Outside the center, rates drop to EUR 163 (EUR 90-200). Families will find a 3-bedroom apartment downtown for around EUR 575 monthly (EUR 400-750), or EUR 450 outside the center (EUR 300-600).

These rates, based on April 2025 data, position São Tomé as an affordable destination, comparable to some provincial Portuguese cities.

Property purchase

The price per square meter outside downtown sits around EUR 118 (EUR 10.97 per square foot). Downtown data is unavailable, reflecting the market's informal nature. Property purchase is possible for foreigners without major restrictions, but renting for several months before considering purchase is strongly recommended to know the country and its specifics.

Popular neighborhoods in São Tomé

Downtown offers proximity to services, shops, and government offices. The Ana Chaves Bay waterfront attracts with views, restaurants, and bars. Guadalupe provides a quieter residential area preferred by some expats.

In the island's north, Neves attracts oil sector professionals thanks to its port and beaches. On Príncipe Island, Santo António (the small main center) and coastal areas offer paradisiacal but isolated settings.

Market characteristics

The Santomean property market features basic infrastructure, limited access through rare formal agencies, and often informal transactions. Viewings typically happen through word-of-mouth or local contacts. Expect comfort standards below Western norms: possible power cuts, non-potable water, variable internet.

Practical advice

Prioritize an initial 3-6 month rental before any purchase decision. Get accompanied by a reliable local contact. Verify installation conditions (electricity, plumbing, roof) and internet connection quality if working remotely. Always negotiate terms and request improvements before signing.

Relocating to São Tomé and Príncipe requires meticulous preparation. This isolated archipelago demands anticipating many practical aspects often taken for granted elsewhere.

Essential documents and formalities

Gather your identity documents: passport valid at least 6 months, appropriate visa or exemption confirmation, birth certificates for children. Bring certified copies of your diplomas and professional certificates, as recognition may be required. Your vaccination record should be current, with yellow fever strongly recommended.

Health: vital preparation

Purchase international health insurance that must include emergency medical evacuation. Begin antimalarial prophylaxis two weeks before departure and ensure sufficient supply. Build a comprehensive personal pharmacy: chronic medications for 6 months minimum, basic antibiotics, painkillers, antihistamines, gastro-intestinal products, first aid supplies. Local supply is unreliable, so anticipate your needs.

Arrival logistics

Book temporary accommodation for your first weeks while finding permanent housing. Contact your employer or local partners before arrival to organize reception and facilitate procedures. Bring cash in EUR or USD: São Tomé and Príncipe operates primarily on cash, with credit cards rarely accepted. Arrange transport from the international airport located 5 km from downtown.

Finances and daily life

Opening a local bank account occurs after arrival. Budget comfortably for initial setup: EUR 1,250-1,900 monthly for a couple during installation phase. Quickly acquire a local SIM card with data plan at Cartao offices. Fixed internet subscription costs around EUR 62 monthly for 60+ Mbps connection.

Transport and mobility

If planning to rent or buy a vehicle, an international driving permit is essential. Familiarize yourself with the yellow taxi system that provides the main public transport. Minibus-taxis serve inter-regional routes.

Customs restrictions

Currency import has no restrictions. For export, declare amounts equal to or exceeding EUR 10,000 with entry documentation. Note that entry restrictions may apply to nationals from Ebola-affected countries during outbreaks.

Cultural adaptation

Mentally prepare for the Santomean "leve-leve" rhythm: patience and flexibility are essential. Learning basic Portuguese will greatly facilitate integration. Accept infrastructure limitations (power cuts, unstable internet, non-potable water) as part of the experience. This psychological preparation is as important as material logistics.

São Tomé and Príncipe offers exceptional natural and cultural wealth. The archipelago will delight ecotourism enthusiasts, hikers, and divers in a setting still untouched by mass tourism.

Cultural and colonial heritage

The Museu Nacional de São Tomé & Príncipe, housed in a historic fort, presents exhibitions on the archipelago's history and offers remarkable panoramic views. Portuguese colonial architecture dots the capital with its cathedral, Presidential Palace, and a remarkably preserved 16th-century fort.

The roças, former cocoa plantations, provide fascinating testimony to colonial history. Visit Roca Agua Izé or Roca Agostinho Neto to discover period installations, some still operating, others romantically abandoned to tropical vegetation.

Hiking and nature exploration

Obo National Park spans 75 km² of primary rainforest harboring spectacular waterfalls and endemic birds. Ascending Pico de São Tomé (2,024 m), the country's highest point, takes two days and rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramas.

The Volta a Ilha trek follows the west coast over two days, while Caminho do Fugido offers a 5-hour loop to Lagoa Amelia. These trails traverse landscapes of striking beauty between dense forest and wild coasts.

Pico Cão Grande, a 663 m volcanic needle erupting from the jungle, has become the country's emblem. This volcanic neck offers a geological spectacle unique in the world.

Beaches and water activities

Praia Jale is perfect for diving and sea turtle observation. On Príncipe, Praia Banana regularly features among the world's most beautiful beaches with fine sand, turquoise waters, and postcard setting. Praia de São Miguel concentrates beach bars and restaurants for a livelier atmosphere. Ilheu das Rolas, a small southern islet, marks the terrestrial equator line, a symbolic must-see location.

Santomean waters suit diving, snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddle, and sport fishing. Excellent underwater visibility reveals rich, preserved marine life.

Wildlife observation

From July to November, humpback whales frequent the archipelago's waters, offering unforgettable displays. Dolphins can be observed year-round. Bird enthusiasts will catalog among the 143 bird species present, including 16 endemics found nowhere else. Sea turtles nest on the coasts, particularly in the wet season.

Santomean cuisine

Local cuisine blends African and Portuguese influences. Try moqueca de peixe (fish stew), blá-blá (smoked fish), calulu (fish or meat dish with leafy greens). Fresh tropical fruits abound, while local cocoa and chocolate delight the most discerning palates.

Among recommended tables, Mucumbli ecolodge excels in seafood, Celvas in Guadalupe offers upscale local cuisine, and Xico's Cafe downtown provides charming colonial ambiance.

Best time to visit

The dry season from June to September is ideal for hiking and whale watching. The wet season from October to May enables turtle observation and enjoys lower tourist numbers, with even greener landscapes.

Life in São Tomé and Príncipe requires significant adaptation from Western standards. The relaxed "leve-leve" (slowly, slowly) rhythm permeates all aspects of daily life.

Getting around daily

Public transport is virtually nonexistent, limited to a few school buses. Yellow taxis provide the main transportation method, with fixed prices in town and negotiable rates for longer trips. You can also charter them daily for your movements.

Minibus-taxis serve inter-regional routes: hail them on the street or at informal stations. For more autonomy, car rental is available from several agencies. A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended outside urban areas. International permit is mandatory.

The road network covers 320 km including 218 km paved and 102 km unpaved. Main roads are EN1 (São Tomé-Guadalupe-Neves), EN2 (São Tomé-Porto Alegre), and EN3 (São Tomé-Monte Café). Bicycles and motorcycles offer interesting alternatives for local exploration. No trains operate, with the former rail network abandoned.

Air and maritime connections

São Tomé International Airport (TMS), located 5 km from center, maintains external connections via TAP Air Portugal (Lisbon), TAAG Angola Airlines (Luanda), and STP Airways. A USD 100 million Chinese-financed expansion is underway to modernize infrastructure. Shuttles and taxis serve the airport for approximately USD 5.

Príncipe Airport (PCP) has a 1,750 m paved runway modernized between 2012-2015, handling domestic flights. Main ports are located in São Tomé (Ana Chaves Bay), Neves (oil port), and Porto Alegre (ferry), with secondary facilities at Santo António (Príncipe) and Ilheu das Rolas.

Food and shopping

Local markets offer tropical fruits, fresh fish, and vegetables at affordable prices. São Tomé supermarkets provide limited selection with expensive imported products. Prioritize local products: cocoa, bananas, fish, cassava, seasonal fruits. Dining ranges from street food (fish skewers for a few euros) to upscale tables in lodges.

Lifestyle and climate

The "leve-leve" lifestyle values patience and relaxation. Schedules are indicative, deadlines approximate, and rushing is frowned upon. This cultural adaptation is essential for your wellbeing. The equatorial climate stays hot and humid year-round, with a marked rainy season from October to May.

Security is excellent with very low crime. The population is warm and welcoming toward expats. Electricity (220V) experiences regular cuts, and tap water is never potable: always boil or use bottled water.

Communication and connectivity

Fixed internet is available in town for around EUR 62 monthly (60+ Mbps) but quality varies with frequent outages. 3G/4G mobile networks are gradually developing. Buy a local SIM card at Cartao, with 10GB+ plans at EUR 24.50 (EUR 19-30). Mobile subscription rates reached 47.2 per 100 people in 2019, constantly growing.

Banking and money

The national currency is the Dobra (STN). Exchange offices operate in São Tomé, notably near Xico's Cafe and at the gas station. Banks are present in town but credit cards are rarely accepted. Always keep cash in EUR, USD, or dobras. ATMs remain limited and unreliable.

Language and integration

Portuguese is essential for daily life. English is rarely spoken outside upscale tourist lodges. Investing in Portuguese learning will greatly facilitate integration and administrative procedures. Local creole languages (Forro, Angolar, Principense) enrich the linguistic landscape but Portuguese remains the inter-community communication language.

São Tomé and Príncipe's cost of living proves generally affordable for expats with Western incomes, though imported goods are expensive. The country operates essentially on cash, with credit cards rarely accepted.

Monthly budget for a single person

A single expat should budget EUR 750-950 monthly for comfortable living. This includes all regular expenses but excludes exceptional leisure and travel.

Source: Numbeo (April 2025)

Monthly budget for a family of 4

A family with two children should anticipate EUR 1,700-2,700 monthly. School fees can significantly increase this amount if choosing distance learning or boarding school abroad.

Source: Numbeo (April 2025)

Food prices and dining

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around EUR 25, while dinner for two at a mid-range establishment runs EUR 33.71 (range EUR 22-50). Local products remain affordable: bread (500g) at EUR 1.13, rice (500g) at EUR 0.75, eggs (12) at EUR 3.87. Imported products are expensive: milk (4 liters) at EUR 5.11, chicken (500g) at EUR 7.94.

A local beer (0.5L) costs just EUR 1.52, cappuccino EUR 2.12, while a wine bottle runs EUR 8. Marlboro cigarettes at EUR 2 remain very affordable.

Other regular expenses

Leisure remains accessible: cinema ticket EUR 18, gym membership EUR 32 monthly, tennis court rental (1h) EUR 25. A single transport ticket costs EUR 1.07, gasoline approximately EUR 5.48 per gallon (3.78 liters). Clothing can be cheap locally: leather shoes for men from EUR 16.40.

International comparisons

São Tomé's cost of living compares to Lisbon, Porto, São Paulo, or Rio de Janeiro. The archipelago is approximately 12% cheaper than Berlin but 7% more expensive than Mexico City. These comparisons mask significant disparities: local products (cocoa, bananas, fresh fish) are very cheap, while imported electronics and luxury goods are very expensive.

Important considerations

The local average salary of EUR 460 net obviously doesn't support the Western lifestyle described above. The indicated budgets correspond to an expat lifestyle with imported products, comfortable housing, and international insurance. Adapting consumption habits to local products can significantly reduce expenses. Always keep sufficient cash: the country operates essentially on cash.