São Tomé offers the world’s cheapest CBI program at $90,000. As a CPLP member (Community of Portuguese Language Countries), it provides a fast-track pathway to Portuguese and Brazilian residency.
Cheapest CBI globally: Starting at just $90,000 for a single applicant
CPLP membership: Fast-track pathway to Portuguese and Brazilian residency
Portuguese connection: Portuguese-speaking nation with cultural ties to Portugal
No residency required: Full citizenship without living there
Family inclusion: Spouse and children included
Passport: 61+ visa-free countries
This program is ideal for budget-conscious applicants seeking a pathway to Portuguese residency. It’s particularly suited for:
Budget-conscious applicants seeking the most affordable citizenship globally.
Those targeting Portugal who want to use CPLP status for Portuguese residency.
Brazil-focused individuals seeking easier access to Brazilian residency.
Families looking for affordable second citizenship options.
Long-term planners who see this as a stepping stone to EU residency.
The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment program follows a structured process:
Engage with an authorized agent to understand requirements and gather documents.
Submit complete application package through authorized channels.
Government conducts background checks on all applicants.
Upon preliminary approval, make the required contribution to the National Development Fund.
Citizenship granted upon investment confirmation.
São Tomé passport issued and delivered.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Must have no criminal record.
Must pass due diligence checks.
Must make qualifying contribution.
Completed application forms.
Certified copies of birth certificates and passports.
Proof of address.
Police clearance certificates.
Medical certificates.
Source of funds documentation.
Passport-sized photographs.
National Development Fund Donation: $90,000 USD for a single applicant. Couple: $120,000 USD. Family of 4: $150,000 USD.
Due Diligence Fee: $5,000 USD per adult applicant.
Processing fees: Approximately $3,000-5,000 USD.
Passport Fee: Included.
Comprehensive Consultation: Detailed assessment of eligibility and CPLP pathway benefits.
Document Preparation: Expert assistance gathering and certifying documents.
Application Management: Submission through authorized channels.
Due Diligence Facilitation: Support through background check process.
Post-Approval Support: Ensuring smooth citizenship and passport processing.
CPLP Guidance: Information on Portuguese and Brazilian residency pathways.
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Document preparation | 2-3 weeks |
| Application and due diligence | 4-8 weeks |
| Investment contribution | 1-2 weeks |
| Citizenship and passport | 2-3 weeks |
| Total | 2-3 months |
Cheapest CBI: At $90,000, this is the most affordable citizenship by investment globally.
CPLP pathway: São Tomé citizenship provides preferential treatment for Portuguese and Brazilian residency applications.
Limited mobility: 61 visa-free countries. No Schengen access directly.
No US E-2: São Tomé does NOT have an E-2 treaty.
Dual citizenship: Permitted.
