---
title: China visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe
description: "Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for China and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: $140 + $30 service fee. Processing: 4–5 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/china/sao-tome-and-principe
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# China visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for China 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.*

Official application site: https://www.visaforchina.org/

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Embassy / VFS · Tourist Visa (L) · Single Entry
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 30 days
- **Visa validity:** 90 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Processing time:** 4–5 days
- **Government fee:** $140 + $30 service fee
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds

## How to apply

1. **Prepare documents** — Gather all required documents as per checklist.
2. **Complete online application form** — Fill out the visa application form on the CVASC website.
3. **Book appointment** — Schedule an appointment at the nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Center.
4. **Pay visa fees** — Pay the visa fee and service fee online or at the center.
5. **Attend appointment in person** — Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
6. **Wait for processing** — Processing typically takes 4-5 business days.
7. **Collect passport** — Return to the center to collect your passport with visa, or opt for courier delivery.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
- **Completed visa application form** (Supporting): Online form printed and signed
- **Recent passport-size photo** (Identity): White background, 33mm x 48mm
- **Round-trip flight itinerary** (Travel): Confirmed booking with dates
- **Hotel reservation for entire stay** (Travel): Must cover all nights in China
- **Travel insurance covering medical expenses** (Supporting, optional): Recommended but not mandatory
- **Proof of employment or leave letter** (Employment): For employed applicants
- **Bank statements for last 3 months** (Financial): Showing sufficient funds for trip
- **Copy of previous Chinese visas (if any)** (Supporting, optional): If applicable
- **Invitation letter from Chinese host (if visiting friends/family)** (Supporting, optional): Notarized copy required
- **Proof of residence in São Tomé and Príncipe** (Identity): e.g., utility bill or ID card
- **Visa application fee payment receipt** (Supporting): Paid at CVASC or bank
- **Appointment confirmation** (Supporting): Printed from CVASC website
- **Additional documents for minors (birth certificate, parental consent)** (Supporting, optional): If traveling with one parent

## Proof of funds

- **Minimum balance:** Equivalent of $1,000 USD
- Bank statements
- Pay slips
- Sponsorship letter

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay.

## Good to know

- Visa application must be submitted in person; no third-party submission allowed.
- Incomplete applications may be rejected without refund.
- Visa validity starts from date of issue, not date of travel.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Incomplete or incorrect application form** — Double-check all fields before submission.
- **Insufficient funds** — Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance.
- **Invalid passport validity** — Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
- **Missing required documents** — Follow the checklist carefully.

## FAQs

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

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for China and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa (L) · Single Entry.

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

Up to 30 days.

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

Government fee: $140 + $30 service fee.

### How long does China visa processing take?

Typically 4–5 days.

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

Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages; Completed visa application form; Recent passport-size photo; Round-trip flight itinerary; Hotel reservation for entire stay; Proof of employment or leave letter; and 8 more.

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

At least 6 months.

### Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.visaforchina.org/

## Sources

- [visaforchina.org](https://www.visaforchina.org/)

## More

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