{"slug":"sao-tome-and-principe","title":"Sao Tome & Príncipe travel advice","updated_at":"2025-12-10T13:33:54+00:00","reviewed_at":"2025-12-10T13:33:54Z","change_description":"New information about dual nationals returning to the UK (‘Entry requirements’ page).","web_url":"https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sao-tome-and-principe","entry_requirements_html":"

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of São Tomé and Príncipe’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

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The authorities in São Tomé and Príncipe set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the São Tomé and Príncipe Embassy in Brussels, or email the São Tomé and Príncipe authorities. 

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Passport validity requirements 

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Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.  

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Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

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You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

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Dual nationals

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When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.

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Visa requirements 

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You can visit São Tomé and Príncipe for tourism for a period of up to 15 days without a visa.  

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To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the São Tomé and Príncipe government’s entry requirements. 

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Border control 

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You must pay a 20-euro entry fee when you arrive in the country. You can also pay in US dollars or local currency.

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Vaccine requirements  

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To enter São Tomé and Príncipe, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

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For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s São Tomé and Príncipe guide.  

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Customs rules 

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There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of São Tomé and Príncipe. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.  

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Terrorism  

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There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.      

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UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

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Terrorism in São Tomé and Príncipe 

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Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in São Tomé and Príncipe, attacks cannot be ruled out.   

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Political situation  

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Economic difficulties and political rows over the handling of investments in São Tomé and Príncipe’s development can occasionally lead to civil unrest. 

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Crime 

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The crime rate in São Tomé and Príncipe is generally low, but burglaries and armed robberies can happen. You can take steps to reduce your risk and help protect your belongings, including: 

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Laws and cultural differences 

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Illegal drugs and prison sentences 

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There are severe penalties for all drug offences. Pack all luggage yourself and do not carry anything through customs for anyone else.   

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LGBT+ travellers 

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Same-sex sexual activity is legal in São Tomé and Príncipe. Attitudes towards same-sex relationships are less tolerant than in the UK and showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention. 

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Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

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Money 

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Credit cards are not widely accepted in São Tomé and Príncipe. Check if your hotel or restaurant accepts credit cards. There are only a small number of ATMs. You can withdraw cash from the main bank in the capital city, São Tomé. 

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Transport risks  

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Road travel 

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If you are planning to drive in São Tomé and Príncipe, see information on driving abroad. 

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You’ll need to have both the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. 

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Road conditions 

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Many roads are in poor condition and unlit, particularly outside the capital. Animals often walk on roads at night. Landslides after heavy rain can block roads. 

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Public transport 

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Taxis and motorbike taxis (‘motoqueiros’) are the only forms of public transport. They are often unsafe and in poor condition. It’s common for people to share taxis.  

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Air travel 

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The UK Air Safety List (ASL) lists all known airlines in São Tomé and Príncipe that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the UK. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.  

\n\n","customs_snippets":["You can also pay in US dollars or local currency.","You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.","not wearing expensive jewellery or carrying large amounts of cash","Pack all luggage yourself and do not carry anything through customs for anyone else.","You can withdraw cash from the main bank in the capital city, São Tomé.","The UK Air Safety List (ASL) lists all known airlines in São Tomé and Príncipe that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the UK."]}