Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people in São Tomé and Príncipe face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQ residents.

Both male and female forms of same-sex sexual activity are legal in São Tomé and Príncipe, however LGBTQ persons face stigmatization among the broader population.

Under the Penal Code of São Tomé and Príncipe that took effect in November 2012, same-sex sexual activity is legal.

No worker or job candidate can be privileged, benefited, harmed, deprived of any right or exempt from any duty in reason, namely, of ancestry and social origin, race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family situation, genetic heritage, ability to reduced work, disability, chronic illness, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, political beliefs or ideological and union affiliation.

[4] Under Article 130(2)(d) of the Penal Code, crimes motivated by hatred of the victim's sexual orientation are eligible for enhanced sentencing.