São Tomé and Príncipe entry requirements for Bahrain passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 27, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Bahraini passport holders need an eVisa to enter São Tomé and Príncipe. The online application takes about 15 minutes, and you'll get approval before you travel. As of 2026, this is the only way to get a visa for tourism or business.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply online before travel | Apply for an eVisa at the official São Tomé and Príncipe eVisa portal. Processing takes 2–5 business days. Print the approval email and carry it with your passport — immigration checks it on arrival.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover your entire stay | Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay. São Tomé and Príncipe does not require 6 months beyond departure, but airlines may enforce it — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure | Immigration officers routinely ask for a return or onward ticket at the border. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight itinerary ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Carry a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host. Immigration may ask where you are staying — having it printed avoids delays. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can cover your trip | Have a bank statement or cash equivalent to cover your stay. No fixed amount is published, but showing at least $500 USD for a short trip is a safe bet. | Recommended |
eVisa is mandatory
There is no visa on arrival for Bahraini passport holders. You must apply and receive approval before you travel. Apply at least a week in advance.
Passport validity counts from entry date
Your passport must be valid for 6 months from the day you land in São Tomé and Príncipe, not from your departure date. If it expires sooner, renew before applying.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to https://evisa.smf.st/ and fill out the application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation info. Upload a passport-style photo and a copy of your passport data page. Pay the fee online.
2
Wait for approval
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days. Check your email (including spam) for the approval. Print a copy or save it on your phone.
3
Arrive at São Tomé International Airport
At immigration, present your passport, the eVisa approval, and your return ticket. They'll stamp you in. The process is usually quick — 10–15 minutes.
Download São Tomé and Príncipe Entry Checklist
PDF · Bahrain Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 27, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost€50 (approx. $55 USD)
Standard option for tourism.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost€100 (approx. $110 USD)
For frequent visitors.
Long-stay visa (work/study)
Max stay1 year, renewable
Validity1 year
Cost€200 (approx. $220 USD)
Requires employer or school sponsorship.
work visa
Work Visa (Autorização de Trabalho)
1 year, renewable
€200 (approx. $220 USD)
For those with a job offer in São Tomé and Príncipe. Requires employer sponsorship and contract. Allows long-term residence.
student visa
Student Visa
1 year, renewable
€150 (approx. $165 USD)
For enrollment in recognized educational institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for Bahrain passport holders. | €50 (approx. $55 USD) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)Same as eVisa, if applying at embassy. | €50 (approx. $55 USD) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity. | €100 (approx. $110 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayMaximum cap not specified; avoid overstay. | €10 (approx. $11 USD) per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through São Tomé and Príncipe
No transit visa needed
Bahrain passport holders transiting through São Tomé and Príncipe do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsSão Tomé International Airport (TMS)
Health & vaccines for São Tomé and Príncipe
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country; prophylaxis recommended.
DengueModerate risk
Mosquito-borne; use repellent and nets.
Food/waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Avoid tap water and street food; practice hygiene.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round in all areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
São Tomé
Serviço de Migração e Estrangeiros
Avenida Marginal, São Tomé
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits.
São Tomé
Polícia de Fronteira (Airport)
São Tomé International Airport
24/7
Handles entry/exit issues at the airport.
Practical information for BH travellers
Country basics
CapitalSão Tomé
LanguagePortuguese
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US driver's license for up to 90 days.
Money
CurrencySão Tomé and Príncipe dobra (STN)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 21.04 STN
Time zone
Local timeUTC+0
vs New York+5h
vs Los Angeles+8h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,FType C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with grounding clips)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Typically 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe. Check your spam folder for the approval email.
No. Bahraini passport holders must get an eVisa before travel. There is no visa on arrival option.
The official fee is not listed on the database, but expect around $50–$100 USD. Check the application site for the exact amount.
You must renew your passport before applying. Immigration will deny entry if your passport has less than 6 months validity from your entry date.
Not required for Bahraini travellers unless you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. But it's a good idea to check with your doctor.
The database shows extensions are not available. Plan your trip within the eVisa's allowed stay period.
Your passport, the eVisa approval (printed or on phone), and your return ticket. They may also ask for your accommodation booking.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 27, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.