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Visa requirements · updated Jul 2026

Do Sao Tome and Principe citizens need a visa for South Africa?

Visa-free · 90 days

Citizens of Sao Tome and Principe can visit South Africa visa-free for up to 90 days. Just a valid passport at the border.

Check a visa → South Africa → Sao Tome and Principe
VISAXSJul 2026
→
Visa-free
Sao Tome and Principe → South Africa
90days

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Hotels

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Sao Tome and Principe vs South Africa: passport comparison

Sao Tome and Principe

26

visa-free countries

Global rank: #151 · mobility 81

South Africa

61

visa-free countries

Global rank: #97 · mobility 111.5
24

countries both Sao Tome and Principe and South Africa can enter visa-free together

South Africa: good to know

Pretoria

Capital

South African Rand (ZAR)

Currency

South Africa Standard Time (UTC+2)

Time zone

+27

Calling code

Where else Sao Tome and Principe goes visa-free

→ AngolaVisa-free · 30 days → → BahamasVisa-free · 90 days → → BarbadosVisa-free · 90 days → → BeninVisa-free · 90 days → → Costa RicaVisa-free · 30 days → → DominicaVisa-free · 21 days → → EcuadorVisa-free · 90 days → → El SalvadorVisa-free · 180 days → → GambiaVisa-free · 90 days →
Check another route

Documents you'll usually need for South Africa

The usual basics for the trip. Always confirm exact requirements with the embassy or consulate.

Valid passport

Valid at least 6 more months

Return / onward ticket

Proof you will leave the country

Proof of funds

Enough money for your stay

Accommodation

Hotel booking or an invitation

Travel insurance

Recommended, sometimes required

Up to 90 days

No visa needed for the stay

Frequently asked

Do Sao Tome and Principe citizens need a visa for South Africa?
Citizens of Sao Tome and Principe can visit South Africa visa-free for up to 90 days. Just a valid passport at the border.
How long can Sao Tome and Principe citizens stay in South Africa without a visa?
Sao Tome and Principe passport holders are allowed to stay up to 90 days per visit.
Which passport is stronger — Sao Tome and Principe or South Africa?
The South Africa passport is stronger: 61 visa-free countries versus 26. Global rank: Sao Tome and Principe #151, South Africa #97.
Where can Sao Tome and Principe and South Africa citizens travel together visa-free?
Both passports get visa-free access to 24 of the same countries.
What documents do I need for South Africa?
Usually: a valid passport (6+ months), a return ticket, proof of funds and accommodation. Always confirm exact requirements with the embassy.
Can visa requirements change between Sao Tome and Principe and South Africa?
Yes, visa rules change periodically. This data is current as of Jul 2026 — always confirm with the embassy before you travel.

Sao Tome and Principe passport ranking

Where else the Sao Tome and Principe passport can take you and how it ranks worldwide.

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