AGP Executive Report
Last update: 9 hours agoUS Visa Bond Goes Permanent: From Aug 3, the U.S. made its refundable visa bond programme permanent for B1/B2 business and tourist visas, with consular officers able to demand $10,000, $15,000 or up to $20,000 from nationals of 50 countries—including São Tomé and Príncipe—with full refunds only if travellers follow visa rules and leave on time. UNESCO World Heritage Boost: UNESCO added 25 new World Heritage sites, including Roças of São Tomé and Príncipe, a major win for heritage tourism and for stays at newly recognized plantation properties. Golden Passport for Development: São Tomé and Príncipe is promoting a citizenship-by-investment “golden passport” programme, offering citizenship for a $90,000 contribution (plus fees), positioned as a way to fund development amid energy and growth pressures. Visa-Free Travel Update: Panama published its visa-free list, and São Tomé and Príncipe is among the nine African countries allowed in without a visa for up to three months. Tourism Networking: The CPLP is setting up a tourism business and investment forum to improve connectivity and support youth and MSMEs across Portuguese-speaking countries.
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