São Tomé and Príncipe passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

Embassy / VFSB1/B2 Visitor Visa

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

Official application site

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 · B1/B2 Visitor Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	3650 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	3–10 days
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements or pay stubs showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 Form Online
Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application form at ceac.state.gov/genniv/ and print the confirmation page.
2
Pay the Visa Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable MRV fee (currently $185) at the designated bank or online as per embassy instructions.
3
Schedule an Interview Appointment
Use the online system to book a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Accra, Ghana (or other designated consulate) since there is no U.S. embassy in São Tomé and Príncipe.
4
Prepare Required Documents
Gather all documents including passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, fee receipt, and supporting evidence.
5
Attend the Visa Interview
Arrive at the embassy on time with all documents. Biometrics (fingerprints) will be taken, and you will be interviewed by a consular officer.
6
Wait for Processing
After the interview, your application is processed. Typical wait time is 3-10 business days, but may vary.
7
Receive Passport with Visa
If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker, either by mail or pickup.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
DS-160 confirmation page
Completed online application form
Photo (2x2 inches)
Recent, white background, meeting US visa photo standards
Previous US visa copies
Optional
If applicable, show travel history
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For accompanying spouse or family ties

Travel

Travel itinerary
Optional
Round-trip flight reservations or planned travel dates
Hotel reservations
Optional
Proof of accommodation for the duration of stay

Financial

Visa fee receipt
Proof of payment of MRV fee
Bank statements
Optional
Last 3-6 months to demonstrate financial means

Employment

Proof of employment
Optional
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and leave approval

Supporting

Visa appointment letter
Confirmation of scheduled interview
Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
From host in US, including their status and address
Proof of ties to home country
Optional
Documents showing strong economic and social ties to São Tomé and Príncipe
Criminal record certificate
Optional
May be requested if previous legal issues

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of $200 per day of stay

Bank statements
Pay stubs
Tax returns

Sufficient funds to cover travel and stay without working.

Good to know

Early application recommended: apply 3-6 months before travel.
Visa interview is mandatory for applicants aged 14-79.
Failure to prove strong ties may lead to denial.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide clear bank statements and asset documents.

Weak ties to home country

Show employment, family, property, or other commitments in São Tomé and Príncipe.

Incomplete application or missing documents

Double-check all requirements and submit all forms.

FAQ

Do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Visitor Visa.

How long can citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe?

Government fee: $185.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 3–10 days.

What documents do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need for the United States?

Valid passport; DS-160 confirmation page; Photo (2x2 inches); Visa appointment letter; Visa fee receipt; Proof of employment; and 8 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

Sources

ceac.state.gov

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