São Tomé and Príncipe customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

São Tomé and Príncipe permits non-resident adults (18+) to import duty-free: 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/beer, and 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco (combined allowance not allowed). Cash or equivalent over USD 10,000 must be declared. Narcotics, unprocessed agricultural products without phytosanitary certificate, and certain other items are strictly prohibited. Personal goods up to USD 800 are duty-free.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine/beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Amounts of USD 10,000 or equivalent (including in STN) must be declared on the customs arrival form.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 duty-free; above that, duty applies at standard rates.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without prior authorization
  • Pornographic materials
  • Counterfeit goods and currency
  • Endangered species and products (CITES-listed)
  • Unprocessed agricultural products (e.g., fresh fruits, vegetables, meat) without phytosanitary certificate

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use (prescription required for controlled substances)
  • Plants and seeds (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Pets (require vaccination records and import permit)
  • Radio transmitters and satellite phones (require prior authorization from the telecom authority)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require export permit from the Ministry of Culture)

Rules worth knowing

Dobra currency restrictions

Import and export of local currency (STN) is limited to 100,000 dobras per person. Amounts above must be declared and may be confiscated.

Temporary import of vehicles

Vehicles may be temporarily imported for up to 90 days with a carnet de passage or customs bond. Extensions require approval from customs.

Duty-free shops at airport

Duty-free purchases made at São Tomé International Airport are subject to the same allowances as imports from abroad. Keep receipts for inspection.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, personal electronics like laptops and cameras for your own use are generally allowed duty-free as part of the USD 800 personal goods allowance. If the total value exceeds USD 800, duty applies on the excess.
Yes, you should declare all prescription medications. Carry a doctor's prescription or a letter explaining the medication. Controlled substances require prior approval from the Ministry of Health.
You will be charged customs duty on the excess. Duty rates vary, but expect around 20-30% of the value. It's best to declare voluntarily to avoid penalties.
Yes, but the limit is 100,000 STN (about USD 4,500). Amounts above must be declared and may be subject to confiscation if not declared.
Yes, fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products are generally prohibited without a phytosanitary certificate. Processed and sealed food for personal consumption is usually allowed in small quantities.
Yes, any currency equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared. This includes euros, pounds, and other foreign currencies. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.

Official source

General Customs Authority of São Tomé and Príncipe

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with General Customs Authority of São Tomé and Príncipe before travelling.