Government launches document issuance system at the Embassy of São Tomé and Príncipe in Portugal

Within the framework of its policy of proximity and mindful of the situation of São Toméan citizens living in the diaspora, as well as the constraints faced in obtaining civil and identification documents, the XIX Constitutional Government of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe has decided, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Communities, to launch the Document Issuance System at the Embassy of São Tomé and Príncipe in Portugal.

Here is the professional English translation, suitable for an official note, institutional communication, or press release:

The launch ceremony of this system, which will enable citizens to request services provided by the Directorate-General for Registry and Notary directly through the digital portal, with direct access for Embassies, took place at the auditorium of the Embassy of São Tomé and Príncipe in Portugal and was presided over by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Communities, Ilza Maria Amado Vaz.

In her speech, the Minister stressed that this initiative “represents another achievement within an ongoing reform process, guided by a strategic vision, thus completing two major transformative actions, namely the Integrated Registry Management System (SIGA), implemented in 2017, and the Integrated Public Service, first implemented in Mé-Zóchi in 2024 and soon to be launched in Lobata.”

Ilza Maria Amado Vaz further stated that the launch of the system at the Embassy of São Tomé and Príncipe in Portugal “carries significant symbolism for the Government, as it marks an important milestone in the implementation of public policies aimed at promoting the integration of the São Toméan diaspora in their host country and represents the fulfilment of one of the actions designed to bring essential public services closer to citizens, regardless of where they are located.” She added that this initiative materialises the commitment made by Prime Minister Américo Ramos during his meeting with representatives of the community.

Through the Document Issuance System, members of the diaspora will be able to apply for the following documents:

Birth Certificate requests;
Polycarbonate National Identity Card;
Criminal Record Certificate;
Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry.

This initiative allows for the digital and local processing of data recorded in the Integrated Registry Management System (SIGA) and other information of particular relevance to communities. It includes policy measures aimed at improving service delivery to citizens by reducing physical, time and financial barriers.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Communities also assured in her address that “the Government is committed to extending this service to other Embassies during the course of 2025.”

Ilza Amado Vaz acknowledged the efforts and commitment of the Director-General of the Directorate-General for Registry and Notary (DGRN), the entire DGRN team, the Central Services of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Communities, and the Consular Section.

The Ambassador of São Tomé and Príncipe to Portugal, Esterline Gonçalves Género, representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Communities of Portugal, associations of São Toméan nationals in the diaspora, and several Portuguese dignitaries were also present at the launch of the Document Issuance System.