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

# France visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

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

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Embassy / VFS · Short-stay visa (Schengen)
- **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
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Bank statements from last 3 months showing sufficient balance

## How to apply

1. **Gather required documents** — Collect all documents listed above.
2. **Complete visa application form** — Fill out the Schengen visa application form online or on paper.
3. **Book an appointment at the French embassy** — Appointment is mandatory for biometrics and submission.
4. **Attend appointment in person** — Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints, photo), and pay the fee.
5. **Wait for processing** — Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, can extend up to 45 days.
6. **Collect passport** — Collect your passport either in person or via courier if arranged.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)** (Identity): Issued within last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area.
- **Completed Schengen visa application form** (Supporting): Signed in person at embassy.
- **Passport-sized photos (35x45 mm, white background)** (Identity): Taken within last 6 months, meeting ICAO standards.
- **Travel itinerary (round-trip flight reservations)** (Travel): Showing entry and exit from Schengen area.
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)** (Travel): For entire stay in Schengen.
- **Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)** (Supporting): Valid for all Schengen countries for the entire stay.
- **Proof of employment (employment letter, payslips, or business registration)** (Employment): For employed or self-employed applicants.
- **Bank statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): To demonstrate sufficient funds for stay.
- **Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate if applicable)** (Identity, optional): If applicable.
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of visit** (Supporting, optional): Optional but recommended.
- **Previous Schengen visas (copies)** (Supporting, optional): If applicable.

## Proof of funds

- **Minimum balance:** Approx. €120 per day of stay
- Bank statements
- Sponsorship letter
- Traveler's checks

If sponsored, include sponsor's bank statements and a letter of undertaking.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient or inconsistent documents** — Double-check all documents are complete and consistent with your application.
- **Previous visa violations in Schengen area** — Provide a letter explaining any past overstay or issues.
- **Unclear purpose of visit** — Write a clear and convincing cover letter detailing your itinerary.

## FAQs

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

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

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

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

### How long does France visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

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

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed Schengen visa application form; Passport-sized photos (35x45 mm, white background); Travel itinerary (round-trip flight reservations); Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); and 5 more.

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

At least 6 months.

## More

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