West & Central Africa

São Tomé and Príncipe: tax at a glance

A Portuguese-speaking island micro-state with a 25% corporate rate and progressive personal tax. It launched a statutory citizenship-by-investment programme in 2025.

Worldwide (residence-based) Last verified July 2026

Ways to relocate to São Tomé and Príncipe

The residency and citizenship routes that lead here, weighed against the tax picture above.

The taxes

Personal income (top)
25%
Corporate income
25%
Capital gains
Included in ordinary income.
VAT / IVA
15%
Dividends (WHT)
15%
Interest (WHT)
15%
Royalties (WHT)
15%
Social security (employee)
6%
Social security (employer)
8%
Wealth tax
None
Inheritance / estate
None
Property tax
Property tax applies on urban property.
Other
VAT was introduced in 2023, replacing the former consumption tax. The dobra is pegged to the euro.

How the system works

Tax system
Worldwide (residence-based)
Foreign income
Taxed (worldwide)
Taxes by citizenship
No
Exit tax
No
CFC rules
No
CRS
Not participating
Special regime
Citizenship by investment under Decree-Law 07/2025, administered through a private operator

The rates below are indicative headline figures (top marginal, standard, and headline rates), reviewed 2026-07. Brackets, surcharges, and state, provincial or cantonal taxes vary. Treat this as a reference map, not advice.

Sources (1)