Sao Tome and Principe visa requirements for Chinese citizens in 2026
Last updated 5 Jun 2026
Checked 20 Jul 2026
Entry requirement
Visa required — apply online or on arrival
Max stay
15 days
Purpose
Tourism
Conditions for entry — required on every route
These apply whether you enter visa-free, on a visa on arrival, or on an e-Visa. Airlines can deny boarding if they're not met.
Passport validity
3 months beyond the stay
Onward ticket
Required — airlines may ask to see it at check-in
Your options
Chinese passport holders travelling for tourism have the following routes into Sao Tome and Principe:
1
Visa On Arrival
RECOMMENDED
Upon arriving in Sao Tome and Principe, Chinese citizens have the option to apply for a visa on arrival. This visa can be obtained directly at the country's entry points.
ENTRY
Visa On Arrival
ALLOWED STAY
15 days
PURPOSE
Tourist
2
E-Visa
ALTERNATIVE
Chinese passport holders planning a visit to Sao Tome and Principe for tourism purposes do not need a traditional visa for short durations. Instead, an electronic visa (eVisa) must be applied for and approved online before travel. Processing typically takes several business days.
ENTRY
E-Visa
ALLOWED STAY
15 days
PURPOSE
Tourist
Application details
Processing time
7 business days
Required documents
- Digitalized passport
- Reservation data
- Round-trip flight ticket
Last updated 20 Jul 2026 ·
Source: ST eVisa
Optional · paid service
Want someone to handle the Sao Tome and Principe paperwork?
Our partner iVisa checks your documents, files the application and chases it up — useful
if you are short on time or the form is not in your language.
You can also apply yourself for free using the official link above.
Further notes
- Holders of a visa issued by the United States and the Schengen Area do not require a visa.
- Holders of passports for public affairs do not require a visa.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Sao Tome and Principe from China?
Yes, a visa is required for Chinese citizens. A visa can be obtained upon arrival in Sao Tome and Principe.
Do Chinese citizens need a visa for Sao Tome and Principe in 2026?
Yes, a visa is required for Chinese citizens. A visa can be obtained upon arrival in Sao Tome and Principe. Options include: Visa On Arrival, E-Visa.
Can Chinese citizens travel to Sao Tome and Principe?
Yes, Chinese citizens can travel to Sao Tome and Principe and get a Visa On Arrival.
What is the maximum length of stay in Sao Tome and Principe with Visa On Arrival for Chinese citizens?
The maximum length of stay in Sao Tome and Principe with Visa On Arrival is 15 days. Chinese citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a Chinese citizen overstays their visa in Sao Tome and Principe?
Overstaying a Visa On Arrival in Sao Tome and Principe can result in fines, penalties, and potentially being banned from entering Sao Tome and Principe in the future. It is important to comply with the length of stay specified with the visa and leave the country within the allotted time.
What is the maximum length of stay in Sao Tome and Principe with E-Visa for Chinese citizens?
The maximum length of stay in Sao Tome and Principe with E-Visa is 15 days. Chinese citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
About Sao Tome and Principe
- Official
- Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
- Capital
- São Tomé
- Currency
- São Tomé and Príncipe dobra
- Language
- Portuguese
- Calling code
- +239
- Population
- 220,372
- Region
- Africa · Middle Africa
Reference links
Last checked 20 Jul 2026 ·
Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.