Question 1

What size photo is required for a São Tomé and Príncipe visa application?

Accepted Answer

Visa applications related to São Tomé and Príncipe — including Schengen visa applications submitted by STP passport holders, and STP e-Visa applications submitted by visitors — require a 35×45mm photo in colour. The head height from chin to crown must be approximately 32–36mm within the frame. The photo must be taken against a plain white background, be sharp and in focus, and have been taken within the last 6 months. This ICAO 35×45mm format is required by all major embassies and the STP e-Visa portal (evisa.gov.st).

Question 2

What background is required for a São Tomé and Príncipe visa photo?

Accepted Answer

The background must be plain white. There should be no patterns, objects, shadows, or other people visible in the background. Schengen embassies and the STP e-Visa portal (evisa.gov.st) require a clean white background for biometric processing. ID Wizard automatically replaces your background with a compliant plain white background.

Question 3

Does São Tomé and Príncipe offer an e-Visa for visitors?

Accepted Answer

Yes. São Tomé and Príncipe offers an e-Visa for eligible foreign nationals wishing to visit the island nation. Applications are submitted online via the official STP e-Visa portal (evisa.gov.st). Applicants must upload a compliant digital photo — a 35×45mm colour image with a plain white background — as part of the application. Many nationalities are also eligible for a visa on arrival. Always check current entry requirements before travelling.

Question 4

Can visitors get a visa on arrival in São Tomé and Príncipe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. São Tomé and Príncipe offers a visa on arrival for nationals of many countries, making it a relatively accessible destination in the Gulf of Guinea. However, travellers are advised to verify current visa-on-arrival eligibility for their nationality before departure, as entry requirements can change. Whether applying for an e-Visa in advance or obtaining a visa on arrival, a compliant 35×45mm ICAO photo may be required.

Question 5

Do STP nationals need a Schengen visa to travel to Europe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. São Tomé and Príncipe passport holders require a Schengen visa to travel to Schengen Area countries, including Portugal, Germany, Spain, and most EU member states. Schengen visa applications submitted at European embassies require a compliant 35×45mm ICAO biometric photo. The same photo format is also valid for the STP passport application. As a CPLP member, STP nationals have a cultural affinity with Portugal, which is the most common Schengen destination for STP travellers.

Question 6

How recent must my São Tomé and Príncipe visa photo be?

Accepted Answer

Your visa photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and must clearly reflect your current appearance. Schengen embassies and the STP e-Visa portal may reject a photo that does not accurately represent your present appearance. ID Wizard produces your photo immediately, so it will always satisfy the recency requirement.

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