São Tomé and Príncipe entry requirements for Lebanon 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
Lebanese passport holders need an eVisa to enter São Tomé and Príncipe. You apply online before traveling. As of 2026, this is the only way to get a visa — no visas on arrival or embassy applications for tourists.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for your São Tomé and Príncipe eVisa at the official portal (evisa.smf.st) at least 5 business days before departure. The eVisa is single-entry and valid for 30 days from issue. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport — immigration will stamp you in on arrival.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for duration of stay | Your Lebanese passport must be valid for at least the full length of your stay in São Tomé and Príncipe. No minimum 6-month rule applies here — just cover your dates. Airlines may still check for 6 months validity, so verify with your carrier before check-in. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at São Tomé International Airport routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return or onward ticket ready. If you don't have one, you may be denied boarding or entry. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended to carry | While not always checked, having a hotel booking or invitation letter with a local address speeds up immigration. If you're staying with friends, ask them to write a simple letter with their contact details and address. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended to carry | Officers may ask how you'll support yourself during your stay. Carry a bank statement or credit card showing access to at least $500 USD equivalent. Cash in euros or dollars is widely accepted on the islands. | Recommended |
eVisa is mandatory — no exceptions
There is no visa on arrival and no embassy application option for tourists. You must apply online at evisa.smf.st before you travel. If you show up without it, you'll be sent back.
Passport validity counts from entry date
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you land in São Tomé and Príncipe, not from your departure date. Check this before applying.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for eVisa online
Go to evisa.smf.st and fill out the application. Upload a passport-style photo and a copy of your passport data page. Pay the fee (check the site for current cost — it varies). Processing usually takes 3–5 business days.
2
Receive eVisa approval
You'll get an email with the approved eVisa. Print it or save a PDF on your phone. Keep it with your passport.
3
Arrive at São Tomé International Airport
At immigration, present your passport, the eVisa, and your return ticket. They may ask for your accommodation booking. The process is straightforward — expect a short queue.
4
Collect luggage and exit
After clearing immigration, pick up your bags and walk through customs. There's usually no baggage check unless you look suspicious.
Download São Tomé and Príncipe Entry Checklist
PDF · Lebanon 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, non-extendable
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$120 USD (approx. $120 USD)
Standard eVisa for tourism.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, non-extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$200 USD (approx. $200 USD)
For travellers needing multiple visits.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for Lebanon passport holders applying online. | $120 USD (approx. $120 USD) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)Same as eVisa, typically processed online. | $120 USD (approx. $120 USD) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | $200 USD (approx. $200 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayPenalty for overstaying visa validity. | $50 USD per day (max $500 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
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
Lebanon passport holders transiting through São Tomé and Príncipe do not need a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket.
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)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country; prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Mosquito-borne; use repellent and nets.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Common; drink bottled water and eat well-cooked food.
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 immigration office for visa issues and extensions.
Practical information for LB 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 flight to be safe. The official site is evisa.smf.st.
No. There are no visas on arrival for Lebanese passport holders. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel.
The fee varies. Check the official eVisa website (evisa.smf.st) for the current amount. It's usually around $50–$100 USD.
You'll be denied entry. Renew your passport first, then apply for the eVisa. The 6-month validity is counted from your date of entry.
If you're arriving from a country with yellow fever, yes. Otherwise, it's not required. Check the latest health requirements before you go.
The eVisa is not extendable. You'd need to leave and re-apply for a new eVisa if you want to stay longer.
Not officially, but it's strongly recommended. Medical costs in São Tomé and Príncipe can be high, and insurance covers evacuation if needed.
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.