Travel to Angola is now easier with its eVisa policy. The Government has made it much simpler for the citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe to get their visa in advance by implementing an online pre-visa application. They no longer need to personally visit any embassy or consulate since they can quickly apply through a web-based application.

An Overview of Online Angola Pré-Visa for São Tomé and Príncipe Citizens

The Angola Online Pre-Visa system offers a convenient way for São Tomé and Príncipe citizens to apply for an entry visa to Angola. This digital visa system allows travelers to submit their applications online, eliminating the need for a physical visit to an embassy or consulate. The pre-visa is an essential step for São Tomé and Príncipe citizens who wish to visit Angola for tourism, business, family visits, transit or short term visits. Once the eVisa application is approved, applicants will receive a pre-authorization letter, which must be presented upon arrival in Angola along with other supporting documents.

What is the Angola Pre-Authorization letter?

An Angola Pre-Authorization Letter is an official document that is issued to be part of the Angola eVisa process. This document grants provisional approval for eligible travelers to enter Angola. It is required in order for applicants to receive the actual visa when they arrive. This letter is sent to the applicant's email after their eVisa application has gone through a successful review and approval.

Key Features:

• Purpose: It confirms the eligibility of the traveler to enter Angola for a particular purpose such as tourism, business, family visit, among others 
• Requirement on Arrival: The travelers need to present this pre-authorization letter at the immigration counter in Angola along with other important documents like a valid passport and Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for receiving their visa-on-arrival.
• Validity: Normally the letter is valid for entry within a specified timeframe; this timeframe is determined by the conditions of the eVisa.
• Document Required: It will not be possible to enter Angola without this letter for those using the eVisa system.

Travelers are advised to print a physical copy of the letter and carry it during their trip for smooth processing at the port of entry.

Why Choose the Angola Online Pre-Visa?

The online pre-visa system offers several advantages for São Tomé and Príncipe citizens:

• Convenience: Apply from anywhere without needing to visit an embassy.
• Faster Processing: The eVisa is processed faster compared to traditional visa applications.
• Simplicity: The process is straightforward, requiring only basic documentation and an online payment.

Eligibility for São Tomé and Príncipe Citizens

São Tomé and Príncipe citizens may apply for an Angolan eVisa, upon meeting the Angolan government's set requirements, which include having a valid passport, having funds covering the trip, and clear intentions of the purpose of the visit-tourist, business, or family visits.

Documents Required for the Angola eVisa

The following documents shall be required for São Tomé and Príncipe citizens to apply for the Angola eVisa:

• Valid Passport: The passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
• Passport Photo: A recent passport photo.
• Travel Itinerary: Details regarding travel, such as flight bookings and reservations about accommodation.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements or evidence of financial means to support the stay in Angola.
• Yellow Fever Certificate: A vaccination certificate required for Angola.
• Payment of the Fee: The applicant needs to provide proof of the visa fee payment.

Angola eVisa Application process for Sao Tome Citizens

Angola eVisa application is relatively easy. Here is a step-by-step process in an easy way:

1. Apply Online: Visit the official Angola eVisa portal, create an account with your email, and fill out the Angola eVisa application form with your personal details, travel dates, and purpose of the trip. Upload the required documents (passport, photo, itinerary, and Yellow Fever certificate).
2. Make Payment: Pay the processing fee using an international credit or debit card.
3. Wait for Approval & Receive eVisa: Your application will be processed in 3–7 days (faster options are available). Once approved, you’ll receive your eVisa via email. Print it out to show upon arrival in Angola.

Processing Time and Fees

The standard processing time for the Angola eVisa is usually up to 7 business days. Expedited processing for urgent visas, on the other hand, will reduce the processing time to as low as 24–72 hours. The cost of the eVisa depends on the type of visa and the processing speed one chooses.

Factors Affecting Processing Time

• Completeness of the application: Errors or missing documents can cause delays.
• Peak travel seasons: Higher application volumes may extend processing times.
• Verification requirements: Additional checks by immigration authorities may lengthen the process.

Payment for the eVisa is made online via the official portal, and São Tomé and Príncipe citizens should use an international credit or debit card that has support for online payment.

Validity and Duration of Stay

The Angola eVisa for São Tomé and Príncipe citizens is valid 120 days from the date of issuance. Generally, travelers are allowed to stay in Angola for a maximum of 30 days. It can be extended for another 30 days by applying to the immigration authorities in Angola.

Health and Safety Requirements

Before embarking for Angola, all citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe must fulfill the requirements on health and safety issues:

• Yellow Fever Vaccination: One must have a vaccination certificate for entry into Angola.
• Travel insurance for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, among other unexpected situations, is highly recommended.

Entry Points for Sao Tome Citizens with Angola Online Pre-Visa

Sao Tome citizens traveling with an approved Angola Online Pre-Visa can enter Angola through the following entry points:

1. Airports

• Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (Luanda): The primary international airport serving Angola.
• Lubango Mukanka Airport: In high demand for tourists visiting southern Angola.
• Catumbela Airport: Serving the Benguela province, mostly coastal destinations.

2. Land Borders

• Santa Clara Border Post: Strategically situated at the Namibia-Angola border, convenient for overland travelers from Southern Africa.
• Massabi Border Post: Close to the DRC, this border post is normally used for cross-border trade and travel.

3. Seaports

Port of Luanda: Very important entry point for sea-bound travelers, including cruise ship passengers

Arrival in Angola: Visa Finalization

While arriving in Angola, Sao Tome and Principe citizens should be prepared to present the following at immigration:

• The printed pre-visa letter of authorization.
• Valid passport.
• Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
• Proof of accommodation and your financial standing.

Immigration will check the documents and then issue the visa in your passport.

Tips for São Tomé and Príncipe Citizens Visiting Angola

Here are some travel tips you need to keep in mind when traveling from Sao Tome to Angola:

• Book in Advance: Accommodations and travel plans should be made well in advance.
• Carry Copies of your Documents: Always have copies of your important documents like passport, visa, and travel insurance.
• Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with Angola’s local customs and regulations to avoid any misunderstandings.
• Currency: Exchange your São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra for Angolan Kwanza. Credit cards may be accepted in some establishments, but cash is recommended.

FAQ

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance and subject to change. For current information, refer to the official websites before lodging an application. Please note that this page was last updated in November 2024; thus, some visa rules might change.