---
title: Vatican City visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe
description: "Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Vatican City and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €80. Processing: 15 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/vatican-city/sao-tome-and-principe
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Vatican City visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

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

- **Completed Schengen visa application form** (Identity): Must be signed and dated.
- **Valid passport** (Identity): Validity at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area, with at least two blank pages.
- **Recent passport-size photographs** (Identity): Must meet ICAO standards, typically 35x45mm.
- **Travel health insurance** (Travel): Minimum coverage €30,000, valid throughout Schengen area.
- **Flight itinerary or reservation** (Travel): Round-trip or onward ticket showing entry and exit dates.
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement.
- **Bank statements for the last 3–6 months** (Financial): Show regular income and sufficient balance.
- **Employment contract or employer letter** (Employment): Must include position, salary, and approved leave dates.
- **Proof of civil status** (Supporting, optional): Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc.
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of visit** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [Vatican City visa for every passport](/visa/vatican-city)
- [Every destination for São Tomé and Príncipe passport holders](/visa/passport/sao-tome-and-principe)