---
title: Belgium visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe
description: "Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Belgium and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90 + €30 service fee. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/belgium/sao-tome-and-principe
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Belgium visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Belgium and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

*Verified · last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

Application site: https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en/services/travel_to_belgium/visa_for_belgium/short_stay_visa

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Embassy / VFS · Short-stay Schengen visa (C)
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Visa validity:** 90 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Processing time:** 15–45 days
- **Government fee:** €90 + €30 service fee
- **Passport validity:** At least 3 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Bank statements for the last 3 months showing sufficient funds for the stay.

## How to apply

1. **Determine visa type and complete application form** — Go to the Belgian embassy website and fill out the short-stay Schengen visa application online.
2. **Gather required documents** — Prepare all documents including passport, photos, itinerary, insurance, financial proof, and accommodation.
3. **Book appointment** — Schedule an in-person appointment at the Belgian embassy or consulate in São Tomé (or VFS Global if applicable).
4. **Attend appointment — submit biometrics and documents** — Appear at the visa application center to submit documents and provide fingerprints and photograph.
5. **Pay visa fee** — Pay the Schengen visa fee (80 EUR) plus any service charge at the center.
6. **Wait for processing** — Processing usually takes 15–45 calendar days.
7. **Collect passport with visa** — Return to the center to pick up your passport or receive it by courier.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Issued within last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure, with at least 2 blank pages.
- **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Online or paper form signed by applicant.
- **Passport-sized photographs** (Identity): Two recent color photos meeting ICAO standards.
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel): Round-trip flight reservation or confirmed tickets.
- **Accommodation proof** (Travel): Hotel bookings or invitation letter with host's ID.
- **Travel medical insurance** (Supporting): Minimum coverage 30,000 EUR for the whole Schengen area and duration of stay.
- **Proof of employment / student status** (Employment): Employment letter or school enrollment certificate.
- **Bank statements** (Financial): Last 3 months showing sufficient funds.
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel reservation or rental agreement.
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Financial): Proof of payment of the visa fee (80 EUR + service fee).

## Proof of funds

- **Minimum balance:** approx. 45–60 EUR per day of stay
- Bank statements
- Sponsorship letter
- Traveler’s cheques

Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the trip is required.

## Good to know

- All documents must be in English, French, Dutch, or German, or accompanied by a certified translation.
- Incomplete applications may be rejected.
- Biometrics are required every 5 years.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient funds** — Provide comprehensive bank statements showing adequate balance.
- **Incomplete documentation** — Double-check the checklist and translate any non-language documents.
- **Doubts about return intention** — Submit strong ties to home country (employment, property, family).

## FAQs

### Do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Belgium?

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Belgium and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay Schengen visa (C).

### How long can citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe stay in Belgium?

Up to 90 days.

### How much does the Belgium visa cost for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

### How long does Belgium visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

### What documents do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need for Belgium?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form; Passport-sized photographs; Travel itinerary; Accommodation proof; Travel medical insurance; and 4 more.

### How long must my passport be valid for Belgium?

At least 3 months.

### Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en/services/travel_to_belgium/visa_for_belgium/short_stay_visa. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

## Sources

- [diplomatie.belgium.be](https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en/services/travel_to_belgium/visa_for_belgium/short_stay_visa)

## More

- [Belgium visa for every passport](/visa/belgium)
- [Every destination for São Tomé and Príncipe passport holders](/visa/passport/sao-tome-and-principe)
