São Tomé and Príncipe passport → Vatican City

Vatican City visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short Stay)

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Vatican City 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 · Schengen Visa (Short Stay)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Processing time	15 days
Government fee	€80
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements showing sufficient funds for the trip

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Confirm you need a Schengen visa for tourism/business and collect all required documents.
2
Book an appointment
Schedule an appointment at the Italian embassy/consulate or VFS Global center.
3
Attend appointment and submit application
Submit your form, documents, pay fee, and provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
4
Wait for processing
Typical processing time is 15 calendar days; may be extended to 45 days in exceptional cases.
5
Collect passport
Return to the center or receive by courier depending on the service chosen.

Documents checklist

Identity

Completed Schengen visa application form
Must be signed and dated.
Valid passport
Validity at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area, with at least two blank pages.
Recent passport-size photographs
Must meet ICAO standards, typically 35x45mm.

Travel

Travel health insurance
Minimum coverage €30,000, valid throughout Schengen area.
Flight itinerary or reservation
Round-trip or onward ticket showing entry and exit dates.
Proof of accommodation
Hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement.

Financial

Bank statements for the last 3–6 months
Show regular income and sufficient balance.

Employment

Employment contract or employer letter
Must include position, salary, and approved leave dates.

Supporting

Proof of civil status
Optional
Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc.
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but recommended to clarify itinerary.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: At least €50 per day of stay (or €100 per day for non-accommodated).

Personal bank statements
Sponsorship letter
Traveler's cheques
Credit card statements

Proof of sufficient funds for the entire trip, including accommodation and daily expenses.

Good to know

Vatican City has open borders but de facto follows Italian visa policy; all applicants must obtain a Schengen visa from Italy.
Saint Tomean citizens may need to apply at the Italian embassy in a neighboring country if no embassy exists in São Tomé and Príncipe.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all file requirements and submit a complete package.

Insufficient travel insurance coverage

Purchase insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage and valid for the whole Schengen area.

Insufficient financial means

Provide proof of adequate funds (e.g., recent bank statements, sponsorship letter).

Unclear purpose of stay or return plans

Provide a detailed itinerary, hotel bookings, and proof of ties to home country.

FAQ

Do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Vatican City?

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

How long can citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe stay in Vatican City?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Vatican City visa cost for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe?

Government fee: €80.

How long does Vatican City visa processing take?

Typically 15 days.

What documents do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need for Vatican City?

Completed Schengen visa application form; Valid passport; Recent passport-size photographs; Travel health insurance; Flight itinerary or reservation; Proof of accommodation; and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Vatican City?

At least 3 months.

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