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Labor Laws in Sao Tome and Principe

  • Annual Leave: 30 days
  • Public Holidays: 12
  • Maternity Leave: 60 days
  • Workweek: 40 hours per week.

Income Tax in Sao Tome and Principe

Sao Tome and Principe has progressive income tax rates from 0% to 25%.

Value Added Tax (VAT) in Sao Tome and Principe

The standard VAT rate is set at 15%.

Social Security in Sao Tome and Principe

Employers must contribute 8% of the employee's gross salary to social security, paid monthly to the National Institute of Social Security (INSS).

Employees are required to contribute 6% of their gross salary to social security.

Work Visas in Sao Tome and Principe

Here is the main work visa available in Sao Tome and Principe:

Temporary Work Permit:

  • Purpose: For foreign nationals coming to work in São Tomé and Príncipe for a limited time.
  • Duration: Typically valid for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal depending on the employment contract.

Long-Term Work Permit:

  • Purpose: For expatriates who have secured long-term employment in the country.
  • Duration: Valid for multiple years, often aligned with the length of the employment contract.

Investor Visa:

  • Purpose: For individuals looking to invest in or start a business in São Tomé and Príncipe.
  • Requirements: Proof of investment and a detailed business plan may be required.

Specialized Skills Permit:

  • Purpose: For professionals with specialized skills or qualifications that are in demand within the local labor market.
  • Requirements: Employers must demonstrate that the skills are not readily available among local workers.

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