Richard Moir of NTL Trust sat down with Alfredo Trindade, the Chief Operating Officer of São Tomé and Príncipe’s Citizenship by Investment Unit, during IMI Connect Rome for a focused conversation on what investors truly need to know. 

Richard presented the key questions investors consistently ask, and Alfredo provided the official answers directly from the leadership of São Tomé’s CIU.

In this piece, each question from Richard appears alongside Alfredo’s responses, presented exactly as discussed.

Is the CBI program backed by a formal law rather than only a decree?

Yes, the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program is fully supported and protected under national legislation, specifically Nationality Law No. 07/2022 and Decree-Law No. 07/2025 (Regulation on Nationality by Investment or Donation), also referred to as the CBI Act.

Under what circumstances can citizenship be revoked, if at all?

Citizenship may be revoked under the following circumstances:

• If the individual acts against the security of the São Toméan State or public health.
  
• If the individual obtained São Toméan nationality through falsification, fraud, or by misleading the competent authorities.
  
• If the individual is subject to a final and binding criminal conviction that legally warrants revocation.
  

In such cases, the individual is permanently barred from reacquiring São Toméan nationality under any circumstances.

Is citizenship permanent and inheritable for future generations?

Yes, citizenship is permanent and can be inherited by future generations without limitation.

What safeguards prevent sudden suspension or cancellation of the program?

The program is safeguarded by its legal basis, as it is established and governed under national law. Any suspension or cancellation would require a formal legislative process.

Are negotiations underway to expand mobility (EU, UK, Schengen, etc.)?

It is on the government agenda. Negotiations and diplomatic engagements are underway with several international partners to expand mobility benefits. Before approaching the major stakeholders in Europe, our priority is first to deliver tangible improvements within the country itself by deploying the resources of the National Transformation Fund.

Which fees are refundable if an application is rejected?

The submission fee of US$5,000 is non-refundable; this is the only fee required to submit the application.

What is the realistic processing time, not the marketing estimate?

The realistic processing time is 2 to 2.5 months from the submission of complete documents to the issuance of all citizenship documents, including the national ID, citizenship certificate, and passport. Once the embassy in Abu Dhabi is fully operational, passport issuance will be further streamlined and expedited.

How many applications have been approved to date?

To date, approximately 21 applications have been approved (as of the time of this piece).

Are there any tax obligations triggered by acquiring citizenship?

Acquiring citizenship does not in itself trigger any tax obligations. Tax obligations arise only when a citizen becomes a tax resident.

Do investors receive full political rights (voting, running for office)?

Citizens who obtain citizenship through investment enjoy the same rights as those born in São Tomé and Príncipe, as set out in the law, including the right to vote.

Where is program revenue allocated (public projects, budget, development funds)?

The contributions flow into the National Transformation Fund. Among the projects to be funded are uninterrupted electricity for the population, initiatives in renewable energy, and infrastructure improvements.

Will future renewals (passports, ID cards) always be available to CBI citizens?

Yes, post-citizenship services are available to CBI citizens, including passport and ID renewals. These services are facilitated through the CIU, and citizens may also approach the nearest embassy or consular mission for assistance with renewals.

Get Your São Tomé Citizenship Now

São Tomé and Príncipe’s Citizenship by Investment Program is quickly establishing itself as one of the most efficient and accessible options in the global marketplace. With fast processing, a solid legal framework, and a price point that opens the door to a wide range of investors, the program is shaping a new era of flexibility and personal freedom.

If you are considering a second citizenship, this is the moment to explore what São Tomé offers. NTL Trust can guide you through every step, answer your questions, and help you determine whether this program aligns with your goals.

To begin the conversation and learn more, visit NTL Trust’s website today.