Best Crypto Exchanges in Sao Tome and Principe (2025)

Cryptocurrency has become a popular way to invest and trade digital assets worldwide, and São Tomé and Príncipe are no exception. 

While the country does not have specific laws regulating crypto, people are still interested in buying, selling, and trading digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. To do this, they need reliable cryptocurrency exchanges. 

In this guide, we have researched  best crypto exchanges available in São Tomé and Príncipe. These exchanges offer different features like low fees, a wide selection of coins, and secure trading options. 

Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced trader, there’s an exchange for you. We’ll also look at how to use these platforms and what payment methods you can use to get started.

Read Also: History of Top Cryptocurrency Exchanges

Key takeaway 

• UEEx offers different ways to trade, including spot trading, futures, and high-leverage options
• Cryptocurrency is not officially recognized or regulated in São Tomé and Príncipe.
• Since local bank transfers may not work, users can deposit funds using crypto transfers, P2P trading, credit/debit cards.
• For enhanced security, transfer your cryptocurrency to a personal wallet.

Exchange	Best for	Trading Fee	Max leverage	Available Asset	Fiat support	Security Feature	Unique Features
UEEx	Best overall	0.09% spot trading and 0.08% – 0.10% margin trading	200x	200+	Yes	93 % of users fund in cold storage, proof of reserve, $100 million Risk mitigation fund	Copy trading, notable privacy feature providing each user with 2000 unique addresses, Native token, UE Coin, boots functionality through transaction
Binance	Variety and P2P trading	0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for Spot and margin (Fees may vary as the level increases	125x	400+	Yes	2FA, cold storage, encryption, and anti-phishing tools	Advanced trading tools, staking, and Binance Launchpad
Coinbase	Beginners and learning rewards	Trading fees: 0.05% – 0.60%	20x	250+	Yes	Two-factor authentication (2FA) and cold storage	Powerful tools like real-time order books, deep liquidity, and sophisticated charting
Gate. io	Altcoins and low fess	Spot Trading: 0.09% / 0.09% maker/taker Futures Trading: 0.020% / 0.048% maker/taker	100x	3200	No	100% proof of reserves CAPTCHA Cold/hot wallet separation storage solution	Exchange wallets, live crypto prices, and airdrop listings via Gate Startup
OKX	Advanced trading and futures	Spot Trading: 0.080% / 0.100% maker/taker Futures Trading: 0.020% / 0.050% maker / taker	125x	300+	Yes	Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), Cold storage and Anti-phishing codes.	Has Web3 integration to manage DeFi portfolios, connect wallets, and explore decentralized applications seamlessly
Bybit	Derivatives and leverage trading	Spot Trading: 0.1000%/0.1000% taker/maker fee  Perpetual & Futures Trading: 0.0550%/0.0200% taker/maker fee)	100x	300+	No	2FA, cold storage and encryption	Has Bybit cards for convenient crypto transactions Offers innovative features like Bybit Web3 platform and NFTs
Crypto. com	Crypto spending and staking	Spot Trading fees: 0.2500% / 0.5000% maker/taker (vary based on trading volume) VIP Trading Fees: Zero/0.0400% maker/taker for VIP1 level(fees reduce as VIP level increases down to VIP5)	5x	350+	Yes	Proof of reserve Passkeys, HSMs, FIDO2, and multi-factor authentication (MFA)	Crypto baskets for portfolio diversification, DeFi tools, and flexible earning options with no lock-up periods.

UEEx: Best Overall 

Source: UEEx Homepage 

UEEx is a global, safe and easy-to-use crypto trading platform. It offers different ways to trade, including spot trading, futures, and high-leverage options. Crypto Users in Sao Tome and Principe can also try demo trading or copy other traders.

The platform supports over 200+ trading pairs, more than 10 fiat currencies, and payment options like Apple Pay and Visa, making buying and selling of crypto simple for São Toméan(s).

UEEx offers strong security measures which includes a two factor authentication, cold storage, proof of reserve, unlimited wallet addresses, and advanced encryption. This ensures that the privacy and data of crypto users in Sao Tome and Principe are secured. It focuses on safety, keeping 93% of assets in cold wallets and using advanced encryption to protect users. 

UEEx offers fair and competitive fees of 0.09% spot trading and 0.08% – 0.10% margin trading. Its native token, $UE, gives extra benefits to São Toméan(s) such as lower trading fees and staking rewards. With low fees, strong security, and 24/7 customer support service in Sao Tome and Principe UEEx provides a safe and flexible trading experience, making it ideal  for traders in Sao Tome.

Pros

• Supports over 200+ trading pairs and 10+ fiat currencies.
• Offers innovative tools like copy trading and auto-invest.
• Strong security measures, including fund protection.
• Advanced risk control technology by storing 93% of their user assets in cold wallets.

Cons

• Advanced tools may be complex for beginners.
• Identity verification is optional but required for some features.

Fees and Deposit 

• Trading fee: 0.09% per trade
• Deposit: Free
• Withdrawal fees: Varies by cryptocurrency (USDT – TRC20: 1 USDT)
• Payment methods: Multiple options are available like Bank transfer and credit/debit card.

Binance: Best for Variety and P2P Trading

Source: Homepage 

Binance is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the world. It offers many features for buying, selling, and trading digital currencies. Even though cryptocurrency is not officially regulated in São Tomé and Príncipe, people in the country can still use Binance. 

It is a good choice for users in São Tomé and Príncipe because it offers a wide Range of Cryptocurrencies, low fees, easy deposit and withdrawals and a user-friendly app. 

Read Also: Best Crypto Exchanges in Colombia (2025)

It also has advanced security features like two-factor authentication (2FA) and cold storage for funds. While local banking options may be limited for users in São Tome and Principe, they can still buy and sell crypto through P2P trading and other payment methods.

Pros

• Binance supports hundreds of coins, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and many altcoins.
• Binance Supports Multiple Trading Options
• Users can access spot trading, futures, staking, and P2P trading
• Binance provides two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage for funds
• Binance has an easy-to-use app that allows users to trade on their phones.

Cons

• Binance may not support direct bank deposits or withdrawals in São Tomé and Príncipe
• Cryptocurrency is not officially regulated in São Tomé and Príncipe, so there is no government support or protection for users
• Some users may find the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification process difficult
• Binance has many advanced features, which might be confusing for beginners.

Fees and Deposit 

• Spot and Margin Trading Fees: 0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for(Fees may vary as the level increases).
• Deposit Fee: Free for crypto deposits and varies for fiat deposits
• Withdrawal Fee: Vary with each cryptocurrency
• Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards and bank transfers.

Coinbase: Best for Beginners and Learning Rewards

Source: Coinbase Homepage 

Coinbase is a global cryptocurrency exchange known for being easy to use, secure, and beginner-friendly. However, since cryptocurrency is not officially regulated in São Tomé and Príncipe, using Coinbase may have some challenges.

People in São Tomé and Príncipe can access Coinbase, but some services may be limited. The platform allows users to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and many others.

Read Also: Best Crypto Exchanges in Greece (2025)

However, direct bank deposits and withdrawals may not be available in the country but other payment options are available.

Coinbase uses strong security measures like two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect user accounts. It gives learning rewards and crypto users in São Tome and Principe can earn free crypto by learning about different coins.

Pros

• Easy to use, great for beginners
• Strong security and trusted platform
• Offers a built-in crypto wallet
• Learning rewards for users

Cons

• Limited banking support in São Tomé and Príncipe
• Some features may not be available
• Higher trading fees compared to some other exchanges
• Requires identity verification (KYC)

Fees and Deposit 

• Trading Fee: Coinbase’s trading fees can range from 0.05% – 0.60%
• Deposit Fee: Depositing funds into your Coinbase account is free for ACH transfer, $10 USD for wire transfer and €0.15 EUR through SEPA(EUR)
• Withdrawal Fee: Withdrawal fees on Coinbase vary depending on the method you choose. Free for ACH and SEPA withdrawal, $25 USD for wire transfer

Gate.io: Best for Altcoins and Low Fees

Source: Homepage 

Gate.io is a popular cryptocurrency exchange that allows users to buy, sell, and trade digital currencies. It offers many features, including spot trading, futures trading, and staking. 

Crypto users in São Tomé and Príncipe can access Gate.io, but some services may be limited due to a lack of local banking support.

Gate.io offers a wide range of coins, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and many altcoins.The platform uses encryption and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect user accounts. 

It also has a mobile app that allows you to trade cryptocurrency easily anytime, anywhere.

Pros

• Gate.io supports a large number of cryptocurrencies
• It offers futures trading, staking, and margin trading
• It has strong security features

Cons

• Limited banking support in São Tomé and Príncipe
• Some advanced trading features may be complex for beginners
• Requires identity verification (KYC)
• Customer support response time can be slow

Fees and Deposit 

• Spot Trading: 0.09% / 0.09% maker/taker
• Futures Trading: 0.020% / 0.048% maker/taker
• Interest Rate: 18.0% effective fee
• Deposit Fee: Free
• Withdrawal Fee: Vary by cryptocurrency.

OKX: Best for Advanced Trading and Futures

Source: OKX Homepage 

OKX is a well-known cryptocurrency exchange that allows users to buy, sell, and trade digital currencies. It is known for its advanced trading, crypto users in São Tomé and Príncipe can access OKX. 

However, since cryptocurrency is not officially regulated in the country, some services, like direct bank deposits and withdrawals, may not be available. Users can still trade by using alternative payment methods.

OKX supports many Cryptocurrencies which includes Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and many altcoins. It offers spot trading, futures trading, staking, and margin trading. 

It Uses encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA) and cold storage to protect user funds. It has a secure wallet for storing crypto assets, and a user-friendly mobile app for easy trading in São Tome and Principe.

Pros

• OKX Supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies
• It offers advanced trading features like futures and staking
• It has strong security measures to protect users
• User-friendly platform with a mobile app

Cons 

• Limited banking support in São Tomé and Príncipe
• Some advanced features may be difficult for beginners
• Requires identity verification (KYC)

Fees and Deposit

• Trading Fee: OKX charges a 0.080% maker fee and a 0.100% taker fee for spot trading.
• Deposit Fee: Depositing funds on OKX is free.
• Withdrawal Fee: Withdrawal fees vary by cryptocurrency. For example, withdrawing BTC costs 0.00003 BTC.
• Max Daily withdrawal: The daily withdrawal limit is $10,000 but can be increased upon request for eligible accounts.

Bybit: Best for Derivatives and Leverage Trading

Source: Bybit Homepage 

Bybit is a popular cryptocurrency exchange that offers trading services for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many other digital coins. It is known for its fast trading system, derivatives and leverage trading, strong security, and low fees.

Bybit is available in São Tomé and Príncipe. However, since cryptocurrency is not officially regulated in the country, users may face challenges with deposits and withdrawals. Despite this, they can still trade using alternative payment methods

Read Also: Best Crypto Exchanges in Ecuador (2025)

Bybit supports multiple Cryptocurrencies in São Tome. It has various trading options and uses advanced security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA) and cold storage for funds. It has a mobile app that makes it easy for you to trade crypto  anytime, anywhere.

Pros

• Bybit offers advanced trading features like futures and derivatives trading
• It has strong security and protection for user funds
• Bybit offers an easy-to-use platform and mobile app

Cons

• Limited banking support in São Tomé and Príncipe
• Some features may be complex for beginners
• Requires identity verification (KYC)

Fees and Deposit 

• Trading Fee: Bybit charges a 0.1000% taker/maker fee for spot trading.
• Deposit Fees: Bybit offers free deposits.
• Withdraw Fee: Withdrawal fees on Bybit depend on the cryptocurrency being withdrawn. Each crypto has its own fee structure, so it’s essential to check the specific rates before initiating a withdrawal.

Crypto.com: Best for Crypto Spending and Staking

Source: Homepage 

Crypto.com is a well-known cryptocurrency exchange that allows users to buy, sell, and trade digital currencies. It is popular for its easy-to-use platform, strong security, and extra features like crypto staking and a Visa card. 

Crypto.com is available in São Tomé and Príncipe. However, because cryptocurrency is not officially regulated in the country, local banking support may be limited. Users may need to use alternative payment methods to deposit and withdraw funds.

It has a visa card and crypto users in São Tome and Principe can spend crypto using a Visa card (availability may vary by region). It also offers two-factor authentication (2FA) and other security measures to protect accounts. It allows you to earn interest by staking crypto. It mobile app makes it easy to trade on the go.

Pros

• Crypto.com offers a Visa card for spending crypto (if available)
• Low trading fees
• Users can earn interest through staking
• Strong security features

Cons 

• Limited banking support in São Tomé and Príncipe
• Some features may not be available in all regions
• Requires identity verification (KYC)

Fees and Deposit 

• Spot Trading fees: 0.2500%/0.5000% maker/taker (vary based on trading volume)
• Deposit fees: Free for bank transfers and crypto deposits.
• Withdrawal fees: Vary by cryptocurrency(Charges 0.0004BTC for BTC withdrawal)
• Deposit methods: Bank transfer, SEPA, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay

Factors to consider when choosing a crypto exchange in Sao Tome and Principe 

Source: Freepik

If you want to buy, sell, or trade cryptocurrency in São Tomé and Príncipe, choosing the right exchange is important. Since crypto is not regulated in the country, you need to be careful when selecting a platform. Here are the key things to consider:

Security

Security is the most important factor.  It protects your funds and data. Before choosing a crypto exchange, you should consider an exchange with strong security measures.  

You should also check if the exchange has a good reputation for security. UEEx has a good reputation and offers the following security measures:

• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds extra protection to your account.
• Cold Storage: Keeps most funds offline to prevent hacking.
• Encryption: Protects your personal and financial data.

Exchange	Security Feature
Exchange	93 % of users fund in cold storage, proof of reserve, $100 million Risk mitigation fund
Binance	2FA, cold storage, encryption, and anti-phishing tools
Coinbase	Two-factor authentication (2FA) and cold storage
Gate. io	100% proof of reserves CAPTCHA Cold/hot wallet separation storage solution
OKX	Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), Cold storage and Anti-phishing codes.
Bybit	2FA, cold storage and encryption
Crypto. com	Proof of reserve Passkeys, HSMs, FIDO2, and multi-factor authentication (MFA)

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Not all exchanges offer the same coins. If you want to trade specific cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other altcoins, make sure the exchange supports them. UEEx offers over 230+ cryptocurrencies enabling you to have a vast selection of cryptocurrencies.

Exchange	Available Asset
Exchange	200+
Binance	400+
Coinbase	250+
Gate. io	3200+
OKX	300+
Bybit	300+
Crypto. com	350+

Ease of Use

If you’re new to crypto, choose an exchange with a simple design and easy navigation. A mobile app can also be helpful for trading on the go.

Fees and Costs

Exchanges charge different fees for transactions, deposits, and withdrawals. Look for:

• Low trading fees
• No hidden charges
• Affordable withdrawal fees

UEEx offers a competitive fee of 0.09% spot trading and 0.08% – 0.10% margin trading compared to other exchanges that place relatively high charges on their trading fees. It has a free deposit fee and an affordable withdrawal fee.

Exchange	Trading Fee	Deposit	Withdrawal Fee
UEEx	0.09% spot trading and 0.08% – 0.10% margin trading	Free	Varies by cryptocurrency (USDT – TRC20: 1 USDT)
Binance	0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for Spot and margin (Fees may vary as the level increases	Free for crypto deposits and varies for fiat deposits	Vary based on crypto
Coinbase	Trading fees: 0.05% – 0.60%	Free	Withdrawal fees on Coinbase vary depending on the method you choose. Free for ACH and SEPA withdrawal, $25 USD for wire transfer
Gate. io	Spot Trading: 0.09% / 0.09% maker/taker Futures Trading: 0.020% / 0.048% maker/taker	Free	Vary by cryptocurrency
OKX	Spot Trading: 0.080% / 0.100% maker/taker Futures Trading: 0.020% / 0.050% maker / taker	Depositing funds on OKX is free	Withdrawal fees vary by cryptocurrency. For example, withdrawing BTC costs 0.00003 BTC.
Bybit	Spot Trading: 0.1000%/0.1000% taker/maker fee  Perpetual & Futures Trading: 0.0550%/0.0200% taker/maker fee)	Free	Varies by crypto
Crypto. com	Spot Trading fees: 0.2500% / 0.5000% maker/taker (vary based on trading volume) VIP Trading Fees: Zero/0.0400% maker/taker for VIP1 level(fees reduce as VIP level increases down to VIP5)	Free for bank transfers and crypto deposits.	Vary by cryptocurrency(Charges 0.0004BTC for BTC withdrawal)

Regulation and Trustworthiness

Even though crypto is not regulated in São Tomé and Príncipe, it’s best to use exchanges that follow international regulations. Platforms like UEEx with licenses from trusted financial authorities are safer to use.

Deposit and Withdrawal Methods

Since São Tomé and Príncipe do not have local crypto service providers, check how you can deposit and withdraw funds. Good exchanges support:

• Bank transfers
• Credit/debit cards
• E-wallets (like PayPal or Skrill)
• Crypto deposits

Customer Support

Reliable customer support is important in case you have problems with your account or transactions. UEEx offers the following customer support services:

• 24/7 support
• Live chat or email support
• Help center with FAQs

How To Trade with UEEx in Sao Tome and Principe 

Getting started with trading on UEEx in Sao Tome and Principe is easy. Just follow these steps.

Open an Account

Visit the UEEx website and click on Sign Up at the top of the homepage. You’ll need to:

• Enter your email address or phone number, including the country code.
• Create a strong, unique password for your account.
• If you have an invitation code, apply it to earn a commission.

Once you sign up, a verification code will be sent to your email or phone. Enter the code to verify and activate your account.

Deposit Funds

After activating your account, deposit funds to begin trading

• Open the Asset Management section.
• Choose to add either cryptocurrency or regular money.

• In the Recharge section, pick your deposit method.
• Follow the steps shown to finish the process.

Buy Cryptocurrency

Now that you have funds available in your account, you can start trading 

1. Click Trade next to the asset you want to trade.
2. Select an order type:
   • Market Order: Instantly buys or sells at the current market price.
   • Limit Order: Lets you set a specific price for buying or selling.
3. Enter the amount of cryptocurrency you want to buy or the fiat amount you want to spend.
4. Review your order and click Buy or Sell to complete the transaction.

Withdraw /Transfer to Wallet 

For enhanced security, transfer your cryptocurrency to a personal wallet.  Hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor store your assets offline, providing robust protection. Alternatively, software wallets such as MetaMask and Trust Wallet  allow you to manage your crypto online.

To place a withdrawal from UEEx:

• On the homepage,  click the profile icon.
• Go to the Asset Management section.
• Choose to withdraw either fiat currency (regular money) or cryptocurrency.
• Find the asset (crypto or fiat) you want to withdraw and select Withdraw.
• Enter the receiving wallet address and the amount you want to withdraw on the next page. Make sure to select the correct network.

Transferring to a personal wallet provides better protection for your assets.

Are Crypto Exchanges Legal in Sao Tome and Principe?

Cryptocurrency is not officially recognized or regulated in São Tomé and Príncipe. The government has not made any clear statements about it, and there are no crypto service providers in the country.

Conclusion 

Cryptocurrency is becoming more popular in São Tomé and Príncipe, even though it is not officially regulated. People in the country can still use international exchanges to buy, sell, and trade crypto.

Since local banking support may be limited, users often rely on crypto deposits, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) trading, credit or debit cards, and third-party payment services to fund their accounts. Always do your own research and trade responsibly.

FAQs