São Tomé and Príncipe entry requirements for Canada passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 31, 2026·View sources
No visa required
15 days
Max stay
15 days
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Canadian passport holders can visit São Tomé and Príncipe without a visa for stays up to 15 days. This policy started in 2023. Just show up at the airport with your passport and a return ticket.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of your stay | Your Canadian passport needs to be valid only for the period you plan to stay in São Tomé and Príncipe. Airlines may still enforce a 6-month validity rule — check with your carrier before departure. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from São Tomé and Príncipe | Immigration officers routinely ask for a confirmed onward or return ticket at the border. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight booking ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host. Officers rarely check this, but having it avoids delays. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself during your stay | Have a bank statement or credit card ready. Immigration may ask how you'll cover your expenses, especially if you're staying near the 15-day limit. | Recommended |
Visa-free only for 15 days
If you plan to stay longer than 15 days, you must apply for a visa at a São Tomé and Príncipe embassy before you travel. There is no way to extend once you're in the country.
Passport validity is strictly enforced
Airlines check your passport validity at check-in. If you have less than 6 months remaining, you will not be allowed to board. Double-check before you go.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at São Tomé International Airport (TMS)
After landing, follow signs to 'Immigration' or 'Passport Control'. There's usually one queue for all foreign visitors. Have your passport and return ticket ready.
2
Present your documents to the immigration officer
Hand over your passport and return ticket. The officer will check your passport validity and stamp you in. No visa is needed — it's a straightforward process.
3
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, proceed to baggage claim. Then walk through customs (usually no inspection for tourists). You're free to enter.
Download São Tomé and Príncipe Entry Checklist
PDF · Canada Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 31, 2026
Overstay calculator
Enter your arrival date and we'll tell you exactly when you need to leave.
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$50 USD (equivalent in local currency)
Apply at São Tomé and Príncipe embassy or online if available. Requires passport, photo, and proof of accommodation.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$100 USD
Allows multiple entries; suitable for travellers planning to leave and re-enter.
Long-stay visa
Max stay90 days
Validity1 year
Cost~$200 USD
For longer stays; requires justification (e.g., volunteer, research). Apply at embassy.
work visa
Work Visa (Autorização de Trabalho)
1 year, renewable
~$300 USD
For those with a job offer in São Tomé and Príncipe. Requires employer sponsorship and contract. Allows longer stay and multiple entries.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$150 USD
For enrolled students at a recognized institution in São Tomé and Príncipe. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
~$1,000 USD
For individuals investing a minimum of $100,000 USD in local business or real estate. Includes residency rights.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Stay extension costVisa-free stay is not extendable. | Not available |
| Overstay fine per dayOverstay penalties are not officially published; avoid overstaying. | Varies |
Common reasons for entry denial
No return ticket35%
Insufficient funds25%
Suspicious travel pattern20%
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
Canadian 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 risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialYellow FeverRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country; prophylaxis recommended.
DengueModerate risk
Mosquito-borne; use repellent and mosquito nets.
ChikungunyaModerate risk
Also mosquito-borne; similar prevention as dengue.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present throughout São Tomé and Príncipe. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended for all travellers.
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 12 de Julho, São Tomé
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Main immigration office for visa-related inquiries. Bring passport and supporting documents.
Practical information for CA 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 = 21.11 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
No. The visa-free entry is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a visa before traveling or leave and re-enter.
You will likely be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at immigration. Renew your passport before traveling.
Not required for entry from Canada, but if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever, you'll need proof of vaccination. Check with your airline.
No. You need a return or onward ticket showing you'll leave within 15 days. Airlines check this before boarding.
No. There is no arrival fee for Canadian passport holders under the visa-free policy.
The local currency is the dobra (STN). Euros and US dollars are widely accepted at hotels and restaurants. ATMs are available at the airport and in São Tomé city.
Yes. You'll be given a small arrival card on the plane or at immigration. Fill it out with your passport details and accommodation address.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 31, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.