What Plug Does São Tomé and Príncipe Use?

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São Tomé and Príncipe uses Type C as the primary plug, with Type E common and Type F seen less often. The country supplies 230 V at 50 Hz; the most useful takeaway is to bring a European 2-pin (Type C/E) adapter and check your devices for 100-240 V compatibility.

Voltage
230V
Frequency
50 Hz

Plug Types

Also Used

Do I Need a Travel Adapter for São Tomé and Príncipe?

Visitors from US & Canada: Yes, you will need an adapter for A/B plugs.\nVisitors from UK & Ireland: Yes, you will need an adapter for G plugs.\nVisitors from Europe: No, C/F/E plugs are already compatible.\nVisitors from Australia & NZ: Yes, you will need an adapter for I plugs.\nVisitors from India: No, D/C plugs are compatible.\nVisitors from Japan: Yes, you will need an adapter for A/B plugs.\nBuy a Type C/Type E adapter or a small universal adapter that supports C, E and F sockets to cover most sockets in the country.

Travelling fromYour plugsPlug adapterVoltage converter
US & Canada Type A/B Needed Check your devices
UK & Ireland Type G Needed Not needed
Europe Type C/F/E Not needed Not needed
Australia & NZ Type I Needed Not needed
India Type D/C Not needed Not needed
Japan Type A/B Needed Check your devices

Do I Need a Voltage Converter in São Tomé and Príncipe?

São Tomé and Príncipe uses 230 V at 50 Hz. Travellers from the US, Canada and Japan should check device labels because some appliances are single-voltage and may need a converter. Visitors from the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and India generally do not need a voltage converter for appliances designed for 230 V. Use dual-voltage chargers (marked 100-240 V) without a converter, and if a device is single-voltage, choose a converter rated for the device wattage or use a travel hair dryer designed for 230 V.

São Tomé and Príncipe Plugs and Sockets Explained

Type C (CEE 7/16 Europlug) is the primary plug: two round pins, not earthed, and very common.\nType E (CEE 7/5, French) is common: two round pins plus a female earth contact in the socket, so it provides earthing when used with matching plugs.\nType F (CEE 7/4 Schuko) appears less often: two round pins with earth via side clips, and it is earthed. Visitors should expect to see mostly C and E style outlets, with F less common.

Tips for Charging Your Devices in São Tomé and Príncipe

  • Pack a Type C / Type E adapter or a reliable universal adapter that covers European sockets.\n- Check each device for a 100-240 V label before assuming it will work without a converter.\n- For high-wattage single-voltage items like hair dryers and straighteners, use a proper voltage converter or buy a travel model rated for 230 V.\n- Bring a multiport USB charger for phones and tablets to reduce the number of adapters you need.\n- Carry a spare adapter and any small plug-to-USB cables you use regularly.

São Tomé and Príncipe Plugs FAQ

What plug does São Tomé and Príncipe use?
São Tomé and Príncipe mainly uses Type C (CEE 7/16 Europlug), with Type E common and Type F seen less often.
What is the voltage in São Tomé and Príncipe?
The mains voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Can I use a US plug in São Tomé and Príncipe?
No, US A/B plugs will not fit. You will need an adapter, and you should check whether your devices need a voltage converter.
Can I use a UK plug in São Tomé and Príncipe?
No, UK G plugs will not fit and you should bring an adapter, but you generally will not need a voltage converter for UK devices.
Can I use a European plug in São Tomé and Príncipe?
Yes, European plugs (Type C, E and F) are compatible and visitors from mainland Europe usually do not need an adapter or a voltage converter.
Can I use an Australian plug in São Tomé and Príncipe?
No, Australian I plugs will not fit. You will need an adapter, but a voltage converter is usually not necessary for Australian devices designed for 230 V.