portugal tourist visa from usa

Mapped: New mpox cases reported. What countries have it now?

A new, potentially more deadly strain of the virus is rapidly spreading within Africa and has been discovered in Asia and Europe.

Uganda has reported two new cases of the clade 1b strain of  the mpox virus .

The health ministry has announced that one of the patients is a truck driver and that both are in isolation at a hospital in Entebbe, about an hour south of the capital.

Keep reading

Public health emergency as global mpox cases confirmed, what is mpox and how do you protect yourself, thailand says mpox detected in european who travelled from africa, mpox not the new covid, says who.

As mpox spreads, concerns are rising about the confirmed cases of 1b, a new and potentially deadlier strain.

Where has mpox spread?

Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, the Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand and Uganda have reported cases – a total of 18.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus a “public health emergency of international concern” while emphasising that mpox is “ not the new COVID “.

This is the second emergency alert relating to mpox from the global health agency in two years.

Mpox has been identified in Africa since 2022, originally traced to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The current outbreak is mostly triggered by Clade 1, believed to be a more serious variant that can spread through skin-to-skin contact.

In 2023, a new strain of Clade 1 was discovered in DRC – Clade 1b.

A different outbreak of the virus’s earlier Clade 2 variant is also spreading, although at lower levels, with more than 100 countries reporting infections by last month.

Clade 2 is believed to cause milder infections and has a fatality rate of 0.2 percent compared with 3.9 percent for Clade 1.

Here’s where mpox disease has spread from January to August this year:

According to data from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), WHO, and the governments of Kenya, Mozambique, Uganda and the Ivory Coast, variants of Mpox have been detected in these countries this year:

Clade 1 and Clade 1a

• Burundi (eight cases, zero deaths)
• Cameroon (35, two)
• Central African Republic (213, zero)
• Republic of Congo (146, one)
• DRC (13,791, 450)
• Rwanda (two, zero)
• Uganda (four, zero)
• Kenya (one, zero)
• Mozambique (one, zero)
• Ivory Coast (28, one)
• Ghana (four, zero)
• Liberia (five, zero)
• Nigeria (24, zero)
• South Africa (22, three)

The DRC is experiencing the biggest outbreak of the disease ever recorded with thousands of people infected as of August 21. The government declared an epidemic in December 2022 .

Nearly all reported Mpox cases – 96 percent – across Africa are in the DRC, where children younger than 15 account for 60 percent of the cases, Africa CDC said.

The new Clade 1b strain has been detected in countries neighbouring the DRC: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, which had not previously reported any cases since the outbreak began in 2022.

In West Africa and Southern Africa, the outbreaks are linked to the Clade 2 variant. Cameroon is reporting both Clades 1 and 2.

So far, 541 deaths have been recorded from mpox, with 535 in the DRC (97 percent). The Africa CDC does not classify deaths according to strain.

• Pakistan (one, zero)
• Philippines (one case, zero deaths)
• Thailand (one, zero)

The Philippines, Thailand and Pakistan reported new mpox cases in August.

In Thailand, authorities confirmed a new case of Clade 1b on Thursday, Asia’s first case of the new strain.

The individual, identified as a 66-year-old European male, reportedly returned from an unnamed African country currently experiencing a “large” outbreak of the Clade 1 variant.

He reportedly does not have serious symptoms and was believed to have transited through a Middle Eastern country en route to Thailand.

In the Philippines, authorities said the milder Clade 2 variant has been confirmed in the most recent case there – a 33-year-old Filipino male with no travel history.

The patient is the country’s 10th confirmed case since 2022 and authorities say mpox has likely been spreading quietly for a while.

Pakistani authorities said its first patient reported this year is a male infected with Clade 2.

However, authorities said last week they are trying to trace the patient, who is believed to have travelled to another province before the test results were released.

•  Sweden (one case, zero deaths)

Sweden reported an mpox case on August 15 which was confirmed to be the more serious Clade 1 variant.

It is “highly likely” that Europe will record more cases of Clade 1 because of frequent air travel between Europe and Africa, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

However, sustained transmission might be low in Europe if cases are quickly diagnosed and if testing, surveillance and contact tracing are used, the agency said. The European Union has ruled out closing its borders to hard-hit countries.

Americas, Middle East, Oceania and Antarctica

No countries in North or South America have reported new Clade 1 cases so far.

However, they should be “alert” to possible Clade 1 and Clade 2 cases, the Pan American Health Organization said on August 9.

The region reported more than 62,000 cases of the Clade 2 virus from 2022 to July 2024, including 141 deaths.

There are no confirmed cases of Clade 1 in Oceania or the Middle East.

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in portugal.

Portugal's many lively cities, laid-back towns and paradisiacal islands make it difficult to choose just one destination to visit. A trip to this enchanting country will no doubt have you itching to return, but to help you decide which locations you want to prioritize first, U.S. News considered factors like quality attractions, traveler sentiment and natural beauty to come up with this list of the best places to visit in Portugal. Cast your vote below to help us rank next year's list.

The Algarve

Douro valley, peneda-geres national park.

First-time visitors will want to add Portugal's capital city to the top of their bucket list. Travelers flock to Lisbon from all over the world to revel in its soulful Fado music, marvel at its colorful azulejo tiles and stroll through its historic Alfama district. Get your hands on a pastel de nata, Lisbon's beloved custard tart, then spend the rest of your day visiting top sights like the Bélem Tower, São Jorge Castle and the Jerónimos Monastery. If you need a break from trudging up and down Lisbon's steep hills, take the city's iconic Tram 28 to one of the city's famed overlooks, called miradouros.

This picturesque region in southern Portugal includes roughly 100 miles of golden Atlantic Ocean coastline, so it comes as no surprise that it boasts some of Portugal's best beaches . It's tempting to spend your whole trip lounging on shorelines like Praia da Falésia and Praia da Marinha, but if you can tear yourself away from the sand, you'll find that sampling fresh seafood in fishing towns like Olhão and wandering vibrant resort areas like Lagos and Albufeira is just as worthwhile. But if you're seeking a truly one-of-a-kind experience, make time for a boat tour to the spectacular Benagil Sea Cave.

Known for its port dessert wine, this coastal city in northwest Portugal is an excellent destination for oenophiles who want to spend their vacation sampling vino from Porto's many wine cellars. But there is more to this scenic metropolis than wine. As Portugal's second-largest city, Porto offers a range of attractions to explore, including the Porto Cathedral, Crystal Palace Gardens and sprawling Porto City Park. Don't leave without taking in the view of the Douro River from the Dom Luís I Bridge and perusing the titles on display at Livraria Lello, one of the world's most beautiful bookstores and the rumored inspiration behind several " Harry Potter " set designs.

From emerald-green forests to black sand beaches to natural rock pools, it's easy to see why this group of nine volcanic islands roughly 1,000 miles off the coast of mainland Portugal is called the Hawaii of Europe. Newcomers should head to the archipelago's largest island, São Miguel, where they can wander the historic city of Ponta Delgada, explore Terra Nostra Park's botanical garden and admire unique twin lakes at Sete Cidades. The Azores are also known for their year-round whale-watching opportunities, and you can't miss a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira Island.

Although Sintra sits less than 20 miles northwest of Lisbon, it may as well be worlds away. Set amid the rolling Sintra Mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a getaway for Portuguese nobility is today known for its magnificent castles, including the National Palace of Pena and Quinta da Regaleira. The best way to see Sintra is on a full-day tour from Lisbon, as driving the area's winding roads can be harrowing and you'll learn more history from an experienced guide (plus, many tour providers offer skip-the-line options). Choose a tour that stops in the nearby town of Cascais to wander its charming old town and lounge on its idyllic beaches.

Photos of Madeira's stunning scenery (think: lush greenery, rushing waterfalls and rugged coastlines) don't do justice to this four-island archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa – you'll just have to experience it for yourself. Head to Madeira's capital, Funchal, to knock top attractions like the Monte Palace Madeira, Madeira Botanical Gardens and Mercado dos Lavradores, a popular farmer's market, off your to-do list. Spend whatever vacation hours you have left hiking Madeira's famous irrigation channels, called levadas, and sipping Madeira wine. Just don't leave without going for a dip in Porto Moniz's incredible seaside swimming pools, which are naturally filled with seawater.

Yet another destination on this list known for its wine production, Portugal's Douro Valley was made for travelers who want to slow down and smell the rosé. The whole region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, prized for its unique terraced vineyards, charming villages and gorgeous landscape. Revel in the valley's beauty on a scenic train ride or a boat tour of the Douro River, then visit a historic quinta (wine estate) for a port tasting. No trip would be complete without visiting Peso da Régua's Douro Museum and viewing Paleolithic rock art at the Côa Valley Archaeological Park.

Travelers will be spoiled for choice in this Portuguese city approximately 30 miles southeast of Lisbon. Not only does Setúbal feature a mix of green spaces (like Arrábida Natural Park) and sandy beaches (like Praia da Figueirinha and Praia dos Galapinhos), but it is also one of the country's most important ports. You'll want to pencil in time to tour several historic attractions, including the Fort of São Filipe and the Palmela Castle, as well as browse the stalls of Mercado do Livramento, Setúbal's indoor fish market. And if watching animals in their natural habitat appeals to you, book a dolphin-watching tour of the Sado River.

Who needs more than one national park when you have Peneda-Geres? Despite being the country's sole national park, this 270-square-mile piece of wilderness in northern Portugal has a lot to offer, from ancient forests to valleys to cascading waterfalls. Spend your day observing the park's ample wildlife, which includes mammals like wolves and wild ponies, and hiking to glassy lagoons. You'll also want to visit the granite granaries in historic villages like Soajo and Lindoso and walk along the park's well-preserved Geira Roman Road.

Revered among surfers for its massive swells, this town 75 miles north of Lisbon is sure to impress. Watch professional surfers ride some of the largest waves in the world at legendary Praia do Norte – the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo is said to offer the best views – or spend the day lounging at the tamer Praia da Nazaré. Beyond the beach, Nazaré is a quaint town that cherishes its local customs, as seen in the traditional costumes still worn by some residents. Other must-do activities here include riding the funicular to the cliffside Sítio district and sampling Nazaré's delectable seafood.

As the birthplace of Portugal's first king, Alfonso I, Guimarães appeals to history buffs who want to learn more about the country's medieval past. Begin with a visit to the well-preserved Guimarães Castle, then head to the impressive Palace of the Dukes of Bragança to admire its collection of tapestries, ceramics and furniture. You'll also want to set aside time for exploring the narrow, winding streets of Guimarães' UNESCO-listed historic center, which is lined with cafes and charming plazas. Before you leave, take a cable car to the top of Penha Mountain for postcard-worthy views of the city.

Encircled by medieval walls, this town about 50 miles north of Lisbon is straight out of a dream. Óbidos' charm lies in its whitewashed architecture, cobblestone streets and purple bougainvillea flowers. Stroll down Rua Direita, Óbidos' main street, to browse shops and cafes, or snap a photo of the town's colorful azulejos at Porta da Vila (the town gate). The Óbidos Castle is another must-visit, and you can walk the battlements for panoramic vistas. Meanwhile, travelers with a sweet tooth will want to visit during the town's International Chocolate Festival, which occurs in the spring.

Home to one of Europe's oldest universities, the University of Coimbra, this historic city in central Portugal is characterized by its lively student population and rich cultural heritage. Arrange a visit to the university's hilltop campus, which is a dedicated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and tour popular sights like the Santa Cruz Church, St. Michael's Chapel and the Royal Palace. You'll also want to check out the Machado de Castro National Museum and, if you're craving a piece of nature, Coimbra's botanical garden features several rare plant species, a greenhouse and an aqueduct.

Called "the Venice of Portugal" for its network of scenic canals, this colorful city 45 miles south of Porto on the country's west coast should be on your radar. Travelers should start with a canal cruise on one of the city's traditional moliceiro boats to get a feel for the city, then spend the rest of the day exploring the Aveiro Cathedral and the Museum of Aveiro. When you've toured as many of Aveiro's historic sights as you can, pack a hat and some sunscreen for a tranquil day on nearby Costa Nova beach, known for its iconic striped houses, called palheiros.

Dating back to 16 B.C., this city roughly 35 miles northeast of Porto is one of the oldest cities in Portugal. As one of the world's first Catholic cities, Braga is a popular pilgrimage site for its Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO-listed sanctuary. The city's historic center is home to other religious sites like the Sé de Braga cathedral and Igreja de Santa Cruz. Other can't-miss attractions include the Santa Barbara Garden and Praça da República, a public square lined with cafes and restaurants.

After three shepherd children reportedly saw apparitions of the Virgin Mary here in 1917, this town in central Portugal has become one of the country's most important Catholic pilgrimage sites. The biggest draw is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, a large complex that is home to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Chapel of Apparitions and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity.  Though some devout religious travelers arrive on foot via one of the four Fátima Ways (pilgrimage paths from Lisbon, Coimbra, Nazare and Porto), a stop in Fátima is also included on many organized tours from Lisbon.

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Home » Home » Essential Information on Portugal’s 2024 Golden Visa

Essential Information on Portugal’s 2024 Golden Visa

By Space Coast Daily  //  August 23, 2024

Citizenship and residency by investment programs are growing in popularity. The Portugal Golden Visa is one of the most popular citizenship-by-investment programs. This program allows non-EU citizens to obtain a Portuguese residence permit through investment.

After acquiring the residency permit, applicants have the opportunity to apply for Portuguese citizenship after a certain period. So, what is this program, and who can apply? Let’s explore the details together.

About the Portuguese Golden Visa

The Portuguese government launched the Portugal Golden Visa, also known as the Portuguese Citizenship Investment Program, in October 2012 in an attempt to draw in foreign investment following the 2008 financial crisis. The initiative has successfully raised around €7.5 billion over the last ten years, demonstrating its substantial effect and success.  

The Golden Visa Portugal Program had substantial changes in October 2023, ushering in a new phase of its development. The main emphasis of these modifications, which have no bearing on applications that have already been filed, is on the kinds of acceptable investments. We’ve explained the recent changes to the program for you in the rest of the article.

Why do people apply for the Portugal Golden Visa?

The primary motivation for people to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa, or any other citizenship by investment program, is usually visa-free mobility, living in countries with stronger economies, strong health and education systems, tax advantages, etc. Through citizenship by investment and residence permit programs, it is possible to make investments that meet the specific conditions set by the countries and then embark on a path to obtaining a residence permit in other countries or even citizenship. It is possible to apply for such programs not only individually but also including your family.

Who is eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa?

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens are eligible to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa. Individuals must be over 18 years of age and have a clean criminal record to qualify. If these conditions are met, the applicant can proceed with an investment that is recognized as qualifying by the Portuguese government. Investment options include venture capital funds, company formation with employer responsibilities, and donations. Additionally, applicants can include their family members in the application.

Latest Portugal Golden Visa News

With the law introduced in October 2023, the Golden Visa Portugal program has undergone severe changes. With these changes, the Portuguese Government has made it official that real estate investment will no longer be a valid pathway to the Golden Visa. With the removal of the option to invest in real estate, the opportunity to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa through real estate investment has also ended.

It’s essential to keep in mind…

Although real estate is no longer an investment in the Portuguese Golden Visa, the program continues to receive applications at full speed. Investors who applied for the program by investing in real estate before this law was implemented are still eligible.

Remaining Investment Opportunities through Your Application to the Portugal Golden Visa Program

The Portuguese Golden Visa can be obtained by making a capital transfer of EUR 500,000 or more to qualified venture capital funds (not linked to real estate investment), by creating at least ten jobs, by making a capital transfer of EUR 500,000 or more to research activities carried out by public or private scientific research institutions, by making a capital transfer of EUR 250,000 or more to support the artistic production, recovery, or maintenance of the national cultural heritage, or by making a capital transfer of EUR 500,000 or more to form a commercial company based in the national territory with the creation of five permanent jobs.

An alternative to your Portugal Journey: Portugal D7 Visa

Portugal D7 Visa is also a charming option. This visa is mostly popular among retirees and remote workers, especially those with a steady passive income. This program is also designed for non-EU/EEA citizens who can demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves. The D7 Visa not only offers a path to permanent residency but also the opportunity to acquire Portuguese citizenship.

With the D7 Visa, you can enter the Schengen zone without needing a visa, you can access Portugal’s healthcare and educational institutions. Moreover, D7 visa holders can benefit from Portugal’s advantageous tax regimes.

Source: https://www.theblogler.com/portugal-golden-visa/

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Portugal - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. 

Exercise normal precautions in Portugal.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Portugal.  

If you decide to travel to Portugal:  

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Portugal.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

3 months beyond the date of intended departure.

Not required for stays in the Schengen area under 90 days and within a 180-day period. A new period begins after a 90-day absence from the Schengen area.

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy lisbon.

Av. das Forças Armadas, Sete-Rios 1600-081 Lisbon Portugal Telephone: +(351) (21) 770-2122 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(351) (21)-770-2122 or +(351) (21) 727-3300 Fax: +(351) (21) 727-2354 Email:  [email protected] Facebook

U.S. Consulate Ponta Delgada Av. Príncipe do Mónaco No, 6-2 F 9500-237 Ponta Delgada, Açores Portugal Telephone: +(351) (296) 308-330 EmergencyAfter-Hours Telephone: +(351) (21) 727-3300  Fax: +(351) (296) 287-216 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Contact the embassy of Portugal at 202-350-5400 for the most current visa information. 

Portugal is a party to the Schengen Agreement and part of the European Union.

Traveling Through Europe: If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• U.S. citizens may enter Portugal for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa.
• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.  If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .   
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. 

For information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page .

If you are not staying in a hotel or a similar tourist accommodation, you are required to register your presence in Portugal with the Portuguese Immigration Service (SEF) within three working days of entering Portugal. You must download a declaration of entry form (declaracão de entrada) from SEF's website and personally submit it to the nearest SEF office within three business days of entry. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in an administrative offense punishable with a fine from €60 to €160.

Under Portuguese Immigration law, foreign minors under 18 years of age entering or exiting Portugal must possess an authorization letter of parental consent to travel, if travelling with adults other than their parent(s) or legal guardian. The document must be signed and dated, with the signature(s) certified by a notary. The letter of parental consent to travel must include the dates and reason for travel and the details about the adult responsible for the child. More information here .

Find additional information on traveling with minors on the  Portuguese Immigration Service  webpage.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Portugal.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries, including Portugal, remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant with regard to their personal security.

Crime:  Crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, particularly at popular tourist sites, restaurants, and on public transportation, are common. Pickpockets take advantage of crowds getting on and off all forms of public transportation, such as the popular Tram 28, using the jostling of the crowd as a distraction. Avoid standing near the doors on public transportation, as thieves will often strike just as the train/bus doors open and then dash onto the platform and disappear into the crowd.

• Safeguard your passport and identity documents when traveling throughout Portugal. Foreigners who arrive in Portugal without a valid passport will not be permitted to enter and will be returned to their point of origin.
• Be aware of your surroundings and take personal security measures to stay safe. Thefts of backpacks, electronics and luggage occur regularly. Do not leave valuables in rental cars, especially those with stickers identifying the vehicle as a rental car. Tourists are frequent victims of petty crime/car break-ins.
• Avoid using automatic teller machines (ATMs) in isolated or poorly lit areas. Use the buddy system and indoor bank ATMs when possible. Leave extra cash, credit cards, and personal documents at home or in a hotel safe.
• Keep doors and windows of private rentals locked at all times, taking extra care if easily accessed from the street or other places.
• Illicit drug transactions increase at night, and travelers are often approached by drug dealers in the downtown area of Lisbon, especially near the bars and restaurants. Some travelers have reported incidents in which criminals used drugs to assault or rob them. Use caution when accepting open drinks at bars or clubs, and do not leave drinks unattended.
• Always use a taxi from the queue or kiosk. Do not go with someone who walks up to you and offers a ride. If you have called a ride sharing service such as Uber, confirm that the car information in the App matches the vehicle you are entering.
• Tourists should not leave personal items or valuables unattended while at the beach.
• Reports of thefts from rental homes and online rental apartments have increased.  Secure belongings and lock windows while away or sleeping.

Demonstrations occur in Portugal. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime: Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Report crimes to the local police at 112 (National Emergency Number) and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(351) (21) 770-2122 or the emergency after-hours telephone: +(351) (21)-770-2122 or +(351) (21) 727-3300.

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should seek medical attention if needed and are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.
• For social welfare emergencies such as domestic violence or child abuse, dial the National Social Emergency Line - 144. English-speaking operators are available.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• provide information about a Portuguese victim assistance program, administered through an organization known by its acronym “ APAV ”  
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance. Additionally, Portugal has an “SOS” immigrant line with English-speaking operators who are ready to help you in case of emergency. You may contact them at +351 808 257 257 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules regarding best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Natural Disasters: In the event of a natural disaster or other widespread emergency, travelers can monitor the Portuguese Civil Protection Authority’s website at Prociv.pt for the latest information. All U.S. citizens living or traveling in Portugal should also monitor local news reports, follow directions from local officials, and take appropriate action needed.  Additionally, information about areas in Portugal impacted by any events can be found at: http://www.prociv.pt/en-us/SITUACAOOPERACIONAL/Pages/ocorrenciassignificativas.aspx.

We recommend all Americans enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages, alerts, and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

• Filming and photographing the police or military and certain buildings in Portugal is illegal and could lead to arrest or detention.
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could land you in jail.
• Possession and/or use of narcotics and illegal drugs can result in fines, administrative penalties, mandatory drug treatment, criminal punishment, or prison, depending on type, quantity and usage. 
• Penalties for trafficking illegal drugs are severe. Offenders can expect long jail sentences.
• Pepper spray is illegal and will be confiscated. Persons carrying it are subject to fines or prison.
• Possession of unlicensed metal detectors is strictly forbidden, and persons caught with them are subject to fines.
• Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Furthermore, some U.S. laws allow criminal prosecution in the United States, regardless of where the crime was committed. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. Your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution.

See our  webpage  for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Portugal. See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:   General information on accessibility and accommodations is available on the website of the  Portuguese Tourism Board .

• Driving : You can drive with your U.S.-issued driver’s license for up to six months. Please note that many highways require a toll for use. Highway tolls in Portugal can be confusing, please visit  https://www.portugaltolls.com/en  for more information.
• Public transportation : Public transportation, in general, has specially reserved seats for individuals with disabilities, but some vehicles may not be equipped to load and secure wheelchairs mechanically.
• Trains : The State Railway Operator, Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses (also known as CP – Combóios de Portugal ), has a free service called “integrated mobility service” (SIM), mainly aimed at reduced mobility customers. English-speaking customer service representatives can be reached by phone at + 351 808 100 746 (to request SIM Service) or (+351) 707 210 746 (reduced mobility passengers can request information about various concerns, 24 hours a day). SIM staff provides train and station accessibility, assistance with boarding/exiting or during the train ride, and assistance with trip planning. Some train stations are equipped with elevators. Requests for information or assistance must be made at least 48 hours before travel. For additional information, please visit Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses’ page for Special Needs Customers. 
• Subway (Metro) : Thirty-one of Lisbon Metro’s 52 stations offer full accessibility to people with disabilities. Elevators and moving walkways at main stations provide access from the platform to street level, as well as payment machines adapted for passengers with disabilities and/or visual impairment. Passengers with visual disabilities can travel with their guide dogs as long as their service animals are leashed and muzzled. Check  Lisbon Metro’s website  for more information. Porto’s new metro system provides system-wide accessibility for passengers  with a network of elevators, ramps, and spaces for wheelchairs onboard metro cars. Check  Porto Metro’s website  for more information about accessibility.
• Airports : All Portuguese airports provide wheelchairs and bathrooms to accommodate persons with disabilities.
• Parking : Designated parking with a wheelchair symbol is available in most supermarkets and commercial centers. The National Help Line for the Disabled (Linha Nacional de Apoio à Deficiência) can be reached by phone at +351 21 795-9545 (10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday). Assistance is only available in Portuguese.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Portugal, dial 112.  Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. 

The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

• Good medical care is available, but facilities may be limited outside urban areas. Public hospitals offer services at costs lower than private hospitals.
• Payment is expected upon admission at private hospitals.
• Call the national emergency response for an ambulance at 112 for life-threatening emergencies.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Government of Portugal to ensure the medication is legal in Portugal. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Portuguese law prohibits the mailing of prescription medicines from the United States to Portugal. Any prescription medications mailed to Portugal will be impounded by the Portuguese customs office.

You should bring a sufficient supply of medication with you to cover your anticipated stay in Portugal, along with a copy of your physician's prescription. Portuguese pharmacies generally carry equivalent medications to those found in the United States; however, they may be sold under a different brand name, may not be available in the same dosage, or may require a prescription from a local doctor.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals for Medical Assistance . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  While Portugal has significantly expanded its motorway network with well-constructed roads that decreased the total number of accidents and fatalities, its road-accident fatality rate is still high. Use caution when driving, as aggressive driving habits and high speeds pose special hazards. Use appropriate care and caution while on the roadways, practice safe driving habits, and adhere to the applicable speed limits.

Traffic Laws:  It is against the law to speed, drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or use a mobile phone while driving. Fines for traffic offenses are substantial.

• Seatbelts are mandatory for drivers and all passengers. Small children must be in a child safety seat in the rear seat with seatbelts fastened.
• Portuguese law requires you to leave your vehicle where it is and immediately notify the police when involved in a traffic accident. The national emergency phone number 112.
• Police in Portugal have the authority to fine on-the-spot and most of their vehicles have portable payment machines to facilitate immediate payment.
• You may drive with a valid U.S. driver's license for up to six months. For international driving permits, please contact AAA or the National Auto Club.

Public Transportation:  Taxis and prominent ride-sharing services such as Uber are a reliable means of transportation. Refer to the crime section of this page to alert yourself to other threats related to taxis and ride-sharing services. Bus service is also reliable.

In the Azores, driving can be challenging due to narrow cobblestone streets, blind curves, blind corners, and livestock on country roads. Public buses are inexpensive. Bus services begin at 7 a.m. and generally operate until 8 p.m., depending on the destination.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Portugal’s  national tourist office  and the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed that the government of Portugal’s Civil Aviation Authority is in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Portugal’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Portugal should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be available on the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency  broadcast warnings .

Please see Fact Sheet for Portugal here.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Portugal . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .

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You are about to visit:

• Miranda do Douro
• Viana do Castelo
• Corvo, The Crow Island of the Azores
• Faial, The Blue Island of Azores
• Flores, The Yellow Island of Azores
• Graciosa, The White Island of the Azores
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• Central Portugal
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• Porto & Northern Portugal
• Portugal Survival Guide
• Entering Portugal
• Guide to Learning Portuguese
• Portugal Holidays
• Average Temperatures in Portugal
• Weather in Portugal
• Portugal Visa Guide
• Golden Visa Portugal
• Portugal Digital Nomad Visa 2023
• D7 Visa Guide
• D2 Visa Guide
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Do I need a Portuguese Visa to Visit Portugal?

Eu/efta nationals.

If you are an EU/EFTA citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Portugal. You can stay in Portugal for three whole months. You have 90 days in a 180 day period to spend in Portugal, for tourism, visiting family, work, etc. Family members of EU/EFTA nationals are also allowed to travel without a visa for 90 days. However, if you want to stay for longer, you must request a registration certificate. You can also obtain permanent residency after five years.

Non-EU/EFTA Nationals

If you are a non-EU/EFTA national, you will need a visa to visit Portugal for less than three months. However, Portugal is one of the easiest countries to travel to as the country has diplomatic agreements with 61 countries. If your country is on the list, as is the case for the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, you do not need a visa for short stays. If you wish to stay for longer than three months, you will need to apply for a long-term visa before coming to Portugal.

Types of Portuguese Visas

There are three main types of Portuguese Visas: Short Stay visas, Temporary Stay National visas, and Long Stay National Visas. Let’s go through each type of visa.

1. Short Stay Visas (Schengen Visas)

Also known as a Schengen visa, a Short Stay visa applies for stays up to 90 days. EU/EFTA nationals do not need this visa to travel to Portugal for less than 90 days, as well as those from the 61 countries with visa-free travel agreements. This visa is given for tourism, visiting family, airport transit, as well as other temporary travel reasons and allows visa holders to travel through the Schengen area. There are different types of Portuguese Schengen visas: General Short Stay visa, Seasonal Work visa, and Airport Transit visa.

A Schengen visa usually costs €80, while children between 6 and 12 years old pay €40. Those from Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine only pay €35. Children under six do not pay a fee.

2. Temporary Stay National Visas

If you are looking to stay in Portugal for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a Temporary Stay visa that allows you to stay in Portugal for up to a year. You can enter the country whenever you want throughout that year. EU/EFTA nationals don’t need this visa, neither do their family members. However, even if you come from a country that has a visa-free travel agreement, you must still obtain a Temporary Stay visa to stay in Portugal for longer than 90 days. There are many types of Temporary Stay visas such as a temporary work visa, a study visa, professional training or internship visa, medical treatment visa, youth mobility visa, self-support visa, and a religious purposes visa. A Temporary Stay national visa costs €75, but children under six do not pay a fee.

3. Long Stay National Visas (Residency Visas)

A Long Stay National visa, also known as a Residency visa, allows stays of over a year long. Non-EU/EFTA nationals need to apply for this visa in order to stay in Portugal for over a year, even if their country has a visa-free travel agreement. To apply for this visa, you will have to apply for a residency permit with the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF). You’ll have to show proof that you can financially support yourself throughout your stay. There are multiple types of long-stay national visas including a work visa, study visa, professional training or internship visa, family reunion visa, Portugal Golden Visa, Portugal D7 Visa, and a D2 Entrepreneur Visa. We’ll go through these last three visas in more detail in the next section. A Long Stay national visa costs €90.

Long Stay Residency Visas: Which Portugal Visa is Right For You?

The most famous Long Stay Residency visas in Portugal are the Golden Visa, D7 Visa, and D2 Visa . To be eligible for these, you need to be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national. All of these visas share similar benefits. From being able to travel freely within the Schengen area, being able to study and work in Portugal , family reunification, and eventually being eligible for Portuguese citizenship, the perks are too positive to ignore. We will go through the tax incentives of these visas in the final section.

Portugal Golden Visa

Considering portugal's golden visa program everything you need to know + how to qualify with 325,000 eur.

If you're interested in finding out the latest details about the Golden Visa program and want to take advantage of the new opportunities. Signup for a live Q&A webinar with an expert from Holborn Assets that will answer all your questions. The event is scheduled for September 10 at 5 PM Lisbon Time (1 PM EST) . The live webinar will cover the following:

• Golden Visa basics, how to qualify, who can be included
• New Investment Criteria for 2024
• Golden Visa timeline and process
• How to qualify with just 325,000 EUR - this exclusive offer includes investment loan financing to bridge the gap to reach the 500k minimum investment
• What tax breaks are available?
• Live Q&A for all questions

*If you cannot attend the seminar or would prefer one-on-one, book a call here .

2023 Update: Portugal’s Golden Visa Coming to an End

Portugal shocked the world in  February 2023  when the government announced an end to Portugal’s Golden Visa scheme to tackle the housing crisis. The program will end for new applicants, with the government’s announcement referencing real estate investment options specifically.

While official deadlines are still unclear, your time window is closing if you are looking to obtain a Portugal Golden Visa. Financial and Immigration firms facilitating Portugal Golden Visa applications are urging those who wish to apply to do so as soon as possible.

The Portugal Golden Visa might be suitable for you if you have the funds to make an investment in the country. One of the most attractive Golden visas in the world, it allows non-EU citizens to get a long-term residency permit, and eventually citizenship. However, you do not need to live in Portugal to be eligible for this visa. All you need to do is to stay in the country for at least 7 days in the first year and 14 days in the subsequent years. This visa allows for family reunification where your family members are granted the same residency rights as you.

Guide to Portugal Golden Visa

Portugal Golden Visa: Investment Options

So, what type of investments can you make to be eligible for a Portugal Golden Visa? There are 5 types of investments!

1. Real Estate Investment

• The most common type of investment is purchasing a property . Check out our guide to buying a home in Portugal here.
• You can purchase real estate in a low-density area of Portugal for €400,000.
• Or you can purchase real estate that is over 30 years old in an urban rehabilitation area and renovate it for at least €350,000.
• Or you can purchase property for €500,000.
• You will not pay any tax on the property if you do not rent it out. If you do, the income will be taxed at 28%.
• Since 2022, you CAN NOT buy property in Lisbon, Porto, and coastal towns.

Guide to Real Estate in Portugal

2. Investment Fund

• You can spend a minimum of a €500,000 subscription in a qualifying Portuguese investment fund.
• These are known as “fundos de capital de risco” and are investment funds that support Portuguese businesses.
• The minimum amount used to be €350,000, but it has changed to €500,000 at the beginning of 2022.

3. Capital Transfer

• This is the most expensive option, a €1.5 million capital transfer.
• You must show proof of bank transfer deposits to Portugal from a foreign account that adds up to this amount.
• The minimum amount used to be €1 million, but it has been increased to €1.5 million at the beginning of 2022.

4. Job Creation

• Another investment option is creating jobs in Portugal. There are two options in this category:
• Create a minimum of ten new full-time jobs in a Portuguese business that you own.
• Or invest a minimum of €500,000 in an already existing Portuguese business and create a minimum of five new full-time jobs in that business within three years.

5. Donation

• You can also make a donation in Portugal. There are two options in this category:
• Invest a minimum of €250,000 in preserving national heritage in Portugal.
• Or invest a minimum of €500,000 in a research and development activity in Portugal.

Portugal Golden Visa Steps & Application Process: How to Get a Golden Visa

Portugal D7 Visa

The D7 Visa is also known as the Retirement or Passive Income Visa but is also suitable for remote workers and digital nomads. The Portugal D7 Visa was introduced in 2007 and requires no investment. This visa is for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who want residence in Portugal and have a reasonable passive income. This income can come from real estate, a retirement pension, a salary, etc.

The minimum passive income required is  €8,460 per year  for the main applicant. For a spouse, you must add 50% to this (€4,230) and for a dependent child, you must add 30% to this (€2,538). Therefore, for a couple with one child, you would need around €15,300 a year to be eligible for the D7 Visa.

For this visa, you must spend at least 16 months in Portugal during the first 2 years. Along with a clean criminal record, when applying you need to show that you have proof of address in Portugal (rental or purchase). This visa allows for family reunification where your family members are granted the same residency rights as you.

Guide to D7 Visa

Portugal D7 Visa Steps & Application Process: How to Get a D7 Visa

Portugal D7 Visa vs Portugal Golden Visa

Wondering what the main differences are between the Portugal D7 Visa and the Golden Visa? The main difference is that the Golden Visa requires an investment of at least €350,000, while a D7 Visa requires zero investment. The application process for a D7 Visa is also much shorter as it only takes 3 to 4 months to obtain a visa, while with the Golden Visa this can take up to a year. However, with the Golden Visa, you only need to stay in Portugal for around one week, while with the D7 Visa you need to stay at least 6 months of a whole year. The D7 Visa does require proof of passive income, while the Portugal Golden Visa does not. The Golden Visa is more expensive not only in investment but because the professional service fees such as paying lawyers can cost more than €30,000, while the cost for a D7 Visa is less than €5,000.

These two visas also share some essential similarities. They both contain family reunification where your family members are granted the same residency rights as you. Both visas also pave the way for permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 6 years. Moreover, they both make you eligible for the non-habitual tax regime, an attractive fiscal regime.

Portugal D2 Visa

The Portugal D2 Visa is not as well known as the Portugal D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa, but it could be the right path to take if you are an entrepreneur, freelancer, or independent service provider from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland looking to reside in Portugal. You might be eligible for a D2 Visa if you want to start a business or startup in Portugal, transfer your existing one to Portugal, as well as invest in a business in Portugal. This visa is catered to small and medium-sized businesses to raise foreign investment to develop the Portuguese economy. To apply, you must put together a viable business plan that will be evaluated in terms of its economic, technological, and cultural impact. You can set up any business, from a restaurant to a tech startup.

In terms of cost, the D2 Visa would sit right in the middle between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa. While with the Golden Visa you need at least a €350,000 investment and with the D7 Visa all you need is proof of passive income, the D2 Visa requires you to prove that your business is viable. You must invest in the company’s share capital, which immigration firms advise should be at least €50,000. In truth, the more you invest, the more likely you might be to get your visa. You must also show that you have the financial ability to sustain yourself while living in Portugal.

This visa allows for family reunification where your family members are granted the same residency rights as you. Like the D7 Visa and Golden Visa, you can apply for a permanent resident after 5 years and citizenship after 6 years. To be eligible for permanent residence, you must spend at least 6 consecutive months in Portugal within those 5 years.

Portugal D2 Visa Steps & Application Process: How to Get a D2 Visa

Guide to D2 Visa

Portugal Residency Visas: The Non-Habitual Tax Regime

Guide to nhr tax regime.

With a Portugal Golden Visa, Portugal D7 Visa, and Portugal D2 Visa, you can become a non-habitual resident (NHR) and enjoy the incentives of this fiscal regime. This tax regime allows you to transfer your tax residency to the country. To be eligible, you cannot have been taxed in Portugal during the five years before the application.  Here are the benefits of this tax regime:

• You can be eligible to not pay ANY tax on pensions, rental income, real estate gains, and income from non-Portuguese sources if your country has a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with Portugal. You would instead pay taxes in your country of origin. The UK, USA, and many more countries have a DTA with Portugal where this is the case.
• If your pension income is taxed in Portugal, it will be at a flat rate of 10%, including retirement savings and insurance.
• Income from “high value-added activities” in Portugal is taxed at 20%. This includes employment and self-employment income from activities of scientific, artistic, or technical character performed in Portugal. Still, you will pay the same income tax as ordinary tax residents for other types of domestic income.
• You will only be taxed on your worldwide income after the first 10 years of residence.
• Foreign interest, dividends, rents, and property capital gains can be exempted from taxation.
• You will not pay an inheritance or wealth tax.

Want to become part of the large community of US expats in Portugal? Sign up for Holborn Assets’ live webinar on the challenges facing US connected clients moving or living in Portugal. Find out all about the financial perks of moving to Portugal and have all your burning questions answered. The event is scheduled for May 16 at 5 pm (Lisbon Time) / 12 pm EST . If you would like to schedule a one-on-one call instead, you can book one here .

Register Your Spot

Portugal Residency Visas: Cryptocurrency in Portugal

Portugal is a crypto tax haven. There are many incentives for crypto traders to move their residency to Portugal. The country does not view cryptocurrencies as an asset, but rather as a form of payment so they do not tax it as the former. The Portuguese Tax & Customs Authority (PTA) officially  announced in 2019 that buying or selling cryptocurrency in Portugal is tax-free. However, businesses that provide services related to cryptocurrency are taxed on their gains. There are many factors that determine whether this is the case like your profit and the frequency of your trade. To be sure, contact a tax advisor in Portugal.

What makes Portugal a crypto-friendly country goes beyond tax incentives alone. You can actually purchase real estate with bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies through intermediaries and qualify for a golden visa. You can also qualify for any of the investment options with crypto visa cards.

Guide to Cryptocurrency in Portugal

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Related articles, how to prepare for an earthquake in portugal, government reduces taxes for portugal golden visa, guide to renting in portugal, 59 comments.

How can a Bangladeshi citizen apply for d7 visa? Is there any good immigration law firm in Bangladesh who can help for applying for this type of visa. If not then how can a Bangladeshi citizen can get portugal visa processing service? Pls reply somebody. Sayed Alam from Bangladesh

I don’t know any immigration law firms in Bangladesh, but I am sure you can find these online. You can always do the work yourself and apply through the SEF website by logging in and completing the application https://www.sef.pt/pt/Pages/homepage.aspx?requestUrl=https://www.sef.pt/portal/v10/PT/aspx/page.aspx

However, I recommend getting a lawyer as the Portuguese system is quite complex. You can always speak to a law firm in Portugal. Here are some I have found (but have not worked with): https://www.filipeespinha.pt/artigos/the-d7-visa-.php?lang=en#:~:text=The%20D7%20visa%20is%20a,a%20period%20of%204%20months . https://www.ada-legal.com/en/portuguese-d7-visa/

hello sir i am from Bangladesh, i need to anything job from portugal. Right now what is my frist step please healp me.

First, you would need to find a job so you can get a work visa. Take a look at this guide to working in Portugal https://www.portugal.com/business/expat-guide-to-working-in-portugal/

I am in Nigeria and I want to know if there are COVID-19 restrictions still in Portugal.

You can check out the restrictions here https://www.visitportugal.com/en/content/covid-19-measures-implemented-portugal

Respected sir/miss I am from pakistan but live in south korea do you have any consultant in pakistan or in south korea because i want to apply for portugal d7 visa

i visited your website i got a lot of help

Thanks for your message. We do not have any of those contacts, sorry about that!

your website is very helpful and i hope people who want to read easy text can easily understand from your website

i want to know about the work visa opening for the agritecture from myanmar people. Its pay for the 900 EU/per month. These issue are trust or spam. Thanks

We recommend contacting an immigration lawyer or the Portuguese SEF about this query.

My father have a eu passport & permanent residence in portugal till 2012 & last year he is dead. Tell me the benefits for applying visa. I have all the document of my father everthing. If you want to help us for this problem.

I am sorry for your loss. It’s best if you contact an immigration lawyer about your situation. Good luck!

Hello Lara As I want to go ahead on d7 program to proof about passive income how we can do that and 2nd thing is that necessary to book a lawyer in Portugal before applying for assist

I would recommend contacting an immigration lawyer that can answer your questions and help you through the process.

Dear Sir, I am Md Musfiqur Rahman from Bangladesh. First query about Work permit visa in Portugal . Is it possible to get work permit visa from Portugal ;? If any company ready to give us a work permit visa what is the main criteria to need fulfil first. Second question or query is after Covid-19 period Portugal government issues work permit visa ? Thanks for your kind cooperation.

Hi! I recommend contacting an immigration lawyer about work visas in Portugal.

Hi Ms. Lara, I am a US citizen who desires to move to Portugal. I am on SSDI, which is basically my SS. I am working on being certified to teach English online, I am not sure if this is popular thing in Portugal? My SSDI along satisfies what income rules I could find. What visa would you recommend ?

Hi Melodie!

While English is taught in public and private schools in Portugal, you are hopefully likely to find many students who need the extra help! To figure out which visa is best for you, I would definitely recommend contacting an immigration lawyer so you can speak to a more qualified person on the subject. However, from the information you provided me, it seems the D7 would be your best bet (if you are eligible).

Hello, my name is Bilal from Yemen. I make short videos on YouTube about travel and immigration in Europe. I would like to cooperate with you. I will take ideas from your site and make videos from your site in Arabic. Will you allow that in return, I will put the link to your site in the video description box. Message me if you don’t mind [email protected]

Hello, if you want to work with us fill out this form https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdaTW3eqFEgQqag5-XtmqJIhIlC_aq1co-_WtzCLqR5EX4EAg/viewform

HI, I am from Iran but living in lONDON UK now. my wife is study in master degree and we have UK resident permit. We have property in Iran and we are getting rent income from them. Please let me know can we submit D7 visa from UK ? if can please inform me how to start? thanks and best regards

Hi! Usually, you need to apply at the Portuguese embassy in your home country. However, we recommend contacting a Portuguese embassy in the UK to clarify this.

Hi, I’m from Pakistan. I’m a cloth businessman a need to the d2 or d7 visa. Can u help me?

Hi Manzoor! I recommend contacting an immigration lawyer to help you out.

HELLO thank you for the detailed information, I would like to know whether a holder of EU resident permit(from FRANCE) could I apply for business licence and resident permit in Portugal please give some guidance thank you kind regards khan

Hi, We recommend contacting a Portuguese embassy in France or an immigration lawyer.

Hello Lara For almost 90% of the queries, your reply is please contact with immigration lawyer. Which immigration lawyer you are referring?

At the moment, we don’t have any lawyer or lawyers that we can recommend. We are looking at creating a resource to help people find lawyers in the future and will update this article accordingly if that project moves forward.

What document constitutes proof of Criminal Record from the UK is it a DBS certificate ? if so does it need to be the enhanced or basic.

Hi Roger! You should ask an immigration lawyer as they will have the most accurate information.

I am 50 years old still working for an international organization. I have dependent children (2). Is it possible to request a long stay residency visa for them and their mother while I stay in my home country? I can financially support them. If it possible what are the procedures to follow? Is there any consultation firm in Morocco that can assist with this?

Hi Rachid, I am unsure if this is possible. However, you can get a long stay residency visa as the main applicant and then apply for family reunification for your family. I recommend contacting an immigration firm to help you.

Thank You Lara Where can I find an immigration firm that can assist me in filing the request?

At the moment, we don’t have any lawyers or firms that we can recommend. We are looking at creating a resource to help people find lawyers in the future and will update this article accordingly if that project moves forward.

Hi! I am in Ireland, have a residency and its been 20years in the country. I want to visit Portugal on the 26th of October, watching my niece who is coming from South Africa and participating in sport in Madrid on the 26th. Every time I try to do on line, it gives me UK to go and visa. How to do it in Ireland Regards Thesh

If you are a non-EEA citizen and you currently live in Ireland, you may need a Schengen visa to travel to the Schengen Area, even if you have a valid Irish Residence Permit (IRP). The best way to find out is to visit your local Portuguese embassy.

Hi Lara Your website is very informative and helpful. However please could you confirm whether or not I would have to reapply annually, up to 5 year point, for a D7 Visa? I also presume we would have to prove annual income annually too?

Many thanks Andy

Thanks! The D7 visa is a long-term visa of up to 5 years, you do not need to reapply annually. I have also never heard of having to prove income annually either, but its always advisable to contact an immigration lawyer to give you further details.

Could you assist our candidates in Bangladesh with D7 Portuguese visa?

Hi my name is mohsin altaf I am welder 12 years working experience working in Malaysia now can I apply for work Visa can I apply direct embassy in purtgal pilz you help me

Hi Mohsin! You could be eligible for a Portuguese visa, I recommend contacting a Portuguese embassy in your home country.

I kindly need informations regarding Job Seeker Visa ( requirements, apply through VFS center or Consulate…etc )

Thanks in advance

Thank you for the great, informative article. I am very interested in the D7 visa & wanted to verify that your above passive income figure (E8460) is still accurate as of Dec. 29, 2022? Do you have any indication that this may increase in 2023, and if so, approximately when? Many thanks!

The 8460 refers to 12 months of the minimum wage in Portugal (705 euros) in 2022. In 2023, the minimum wage is changing to 760 euros, so the yearly passive income required will now be 9,120 euros.

Thank you so much!!

Your reply: “In 2023, the minimum wage is changing to 760 euros, so the yearly passive income required will now be 9,120 euros.”

If a single person’s passive income falls short of this by only 20 euros/mo. (approx.), are there any options to make up the difference? Is savings considered? Will a freelance business be allowed to fill the gap? Any other options to make it work? Thank you!

I recommend contacting an immigration lawyer. They will be better suited at assessing what extra income qualifies.

I kindly need informations regarding Job Seeker Visa ( requirements, apply through VFS center or Consulate…etc )

Hi Anamul! I recommend contacting your local embassy/consulate or an immigration lawyer.

I have the opportunity to work remotely abroad for my UK-based company for a period of 30 days. I am from the UK, if i was to do this what would be the visa that i would require?

Hi Mark! You can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days visa free.

Thanks Lara, does this also cover working remotely for that period?

Hello Iranian people can’t have bank accounts in foreign countries, how does the D7 visa process work then?

Hi! I recommend contacting an immigration lawyer.

What is the legislation on the 12 month rental agreement that is accepted by the immigration office , when applying for a D7? I understand the property has to be registered as a legitimate long term rental to be accepted and it has to be registered, I think the type of agreement begins with an F?

Can anyone help me?

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Request a short-term Schengen visa

The Schengen visa for short stay allows you to stay in Portugal for a maximum period of 90 days. It is usually requested for reasons of tourism, business or family visits.

The visa does not automatically guarantee entry into Portugal. At the border or any other control point, additional documentation may be requested to prove that you meet the legal requirements to enter the Schengen area.

Service channels

Request Online

Request in person

Through the E-Visa portal

Consult the field “Price”

Available at any moment

At the Portuguese consular offices (Embassies and Consulates) or at the consular representations of European Union countries that have jurisdiction, in case there is no Portuguese consular office

In some countries, at External Services Providers

Search for a point of service near you:

Who can request a short-term Schengen visa?

Any foreigner who is not a national of a Member State of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland can request a Schengen visa for short stay.

The presentation of the Schengen visa to enter Portugal is mandatory for any national of a country listed in Annex I of the Visa Code .

Where request a short-term Schengen visa?

• Through the E-Visa portal .

In person, at:

• Portuguese consular offices (Embassies and Consulates)
• Consular representations of European Union countries that have jurisdiction, in case there is no Portuguese consular office.
• External Services Providers , only in some countries.

What are the documents and requirements to request a short-term Schengen visa?

You can consult all the necessary documents and requirements on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MNE) .

The visa does not automatically guarantee entry into Portugal. At the border, or at any other checkpoint, you may have to present additional documentation proving that you meet the requirements for entering the Schengen area, such as proof that you have sufficient means to cover your stay and the return journey, for example. You can consult the full list of supplementary documentation that may be requested in Annex I of the Borders Code .

What is the price to request a short-term Schengen visa?

Usually, it costs 80€.

For nationals of countries with facilitation agreements with the European Union (EU) and children from the age of six and under 12 , it costs 40€.

It is free of charge for:

• children under the age of six (at the date of submission of the visa request)
• students and teachers when travelling on study or training trips
• researchers travelling for the purpose of scientific research
• representatives of non-profit organizations up to 25 years old participating in seminars, conferences, cultural or sports events organized by non-profit organizations
• family members of nationals of Member States of the EU, EEA or Switzerland.

What is the deadline to request a short-term Schengen visa?

You must submit your request between 6 months and 15 days before the date you intend to enter Portugal. In duly justified cases you can request the visa less than 15 days before the date you want to enter Portugal.

When requesting, the consulate may require an interview. This interview must take place within two weeks of being requested. In urgent and duly justified cases, the consulate may waive the interview or schedule it immediately.

Related topics

Citizenship and documents

Other documents

Foreigners in Portugal

Migrants in Portugal

Practical guides

Travelling abroad

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6.4.8 - 30/07/2024

Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?

May 27, 2023 • 4 min read

For most travelers, getting a visa to visit Portugal is an easy, smile-inducing experience © Marko Geber / Getty Images

Golden beaches, cobblestone lanes, and the scent of chargrilled seafood await in Portugal . But before you book your ticket to Europe’s sunniest coastline , make sure you’re up to date on the latest entry requirements.

Citizens from many countries need a visa to visit Portugal, while those that don’t (those from the US, the UK, and Australia) will see new requirements starting in mid-2024. Here’s a rundown of Portugal’s visa requirements, with information on how long you can stay and how to extend your vacation if you simply can’t bear to leave.

Travel is a breeze if you’re a Schengen Area citizen

Portugal is part of the Schengen Area , a bloc of 26 European countries that allow free movement of people between each of them. As such, citizens from any of these countries do not need a visa to visit Portugal, though if staying longer than three months they must request a registration certificate.

Some non-EU countries also enjoy hassle-free travel (for now)

Citizens from the UK, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, the USA, Israel, Japan, and Singapore can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days in any six-month period without a visa. Non-Schengen European countries and a number of Latin American nations share the same privilege too.

After staying 90 days, travelers will need to leave the Schengen Area for at least 90 days before re-entering. Stays of more than 90 days require a visa. Things will change in 2024 when Portugal introduces a new visa-waiver program. Skip to the final section below for more information.

Others – like India, Nepal and Turkey – require a visa

Citizens from a number of countries – including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Turkey, and South Africa – need a visa to visit Portugal. The most common visa type for tourists is a Schengen visa, which allows visitors to travel through any Schengen country, including Portugal, during the period the visa is valid (usually 90 days). A complete list of the countries that require a visa to enter Portugal is detailed on the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

You should apply for your Schengen visa at your nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country of origin. If you plan to visit multiple Schengen countries, alongside Portugal, then apply at the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country you are planning to spend the most time in. Schengen visas cost €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6 to 12 (there is no charge for children under 6).

If you wish to extend a visa once you're in Portugal (or a 90-day period of visa-free stay) contact the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (Foreigners and Borders Service), which has branches in most major towns. You can book an appointment and download the relevant visa extension forms on the organization’s website .

Get a Youth Mobility Visa for a working holiday

Citizens of Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, New Zealand, Peru, South Korea, and the USA can apply for Youth Mobility Visas, essentially working holiday visas. These allow citizens to visit Portugal for tourist purposes for up to a year and work for up to six months during their stay. Holders of this visa need to be aged between 18 and 30 (31 in Peru and Australia; 35 in Canada) and must show a return ticket and proof of adequate funds for the duration of their stay. This visa cannot be extended and can only be granted once per person.

Portugal has canceled all Covid travel requirements

As of July 1, 2022, all Covid requirements have been lifted so travelers no longer need proof of vaccination or a certificate of recovery in order to enter Portugal. This situation could change in the future so check the latest requirements well in advance at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

Say hello to the new ETIAS scheme in 2024

The EU has finally committed to a significant change affecting some travelers heading to Portugal and other EU nations. In mid-2024, a new visa-waiver program called ETIAS (which stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System) will come into force; this program was originally scheduled for May 2023 but has been pushed back to an unconfirmed date in 2024.

In essence, ETIAS replaces the visa-free travel arrangement for non-Schengen Area visitors. Citizens of the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and 50-plus other countries will be required to complete an ETIAS travel authorization prior to arrival. That means filling out an online form, submitting passport info, and paying a small fee (around €7 per person).

The official authorization will then be sent by email, with approval typically granted in under an hour for most applicants. The usual rules apply here: you can stay for a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period. 

Note that this doesn’t affect citizens of countries that previously required visas – the process for them stays the same. Similarly, nothing has changed for citizens and residents of the Schengen Area, who are exempt from ETIAS requirements. You can find a complete list of nationalities that must apply for an ETIAS visa here .

This article was first published May 27, 2021 and updated May 27, 2023.

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Visa Information

Select the visa type that is right for you to see important information on visa fees, documents required, forms, photo specifications and processing times.

I – SHORT STAY VISA

Schengen visa.

Citizens of some non-EU countries are required to hold a valid Schengen visa when travelling to the Schengen area, which is a group of European countries that allows a person, who’s been admitted to the Schengen Area, to travel without any further form of border control within the Schengen Area.

Current Schengen States are: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

A Schengen visa is a short stay visa, i.e. for stays up to 90 days, allowing its holder to circulate in the Schengen Area.

A Schengen visa has to be obtained from the Mission of the Schengen State, which will be the main destination (i.e. where the most nights will be spent) during a single trip to the Schengen Area.

A single trip is considered when an applicant enters the Schengen Area, stays there for a certain period and eventually leaves the Schengen Area.

If an equal amount of nights will be spent in different Schengen States during a single trip to the Schengen Area, then the Schengen visa must be obtained with the Mission of the Schengen State, which will be entered first.

The documentation related to the means of travel and accommodation must cover the complete itinerary of the single trip to the Schengen Area; i.e. travel tickets must be provided, not only for the travel from and to the Schengen Area, but also for the travel between the different Schengen States, when more than 1 Schengen State will be visited during the single trip.

Each Schengen visa application must fully comply with the documents required for the respective visa category and can only be submitted up to 6 months before the intended departure date.

The acceptance of a Schengen visa application and supporting documents by VFS does not guarantee the issuance of a Schengen visa.

The issuance of a Schengen visa, the Schengen visa validity period, the number of entries and amount of travel days are at the sole discretion of the Mission. If a visa application is returned by the Mission requesting missing documents or any other missing/ incorrect information, the applicant must accept responsibility for any delay that may occur in the visa application processing time.

Holders of valid Schengen visas are still subject to immigration control upon arrival in the Schengen Area and are not necessarily guaranteed entry into any of the Schengen countries, even though they may hold a valid Schengen visa for these countries.

Following visa categories are considered Short stay visas:

Tourist visa

• Business/ Conference
• Visiting Family and Friend etc.

EEA/EU FAMILY MEMBER

Participation in political, economic, scientific, cultural, sport or religious events, documents required, photo specifications, processing time, download forms.

Every applicant, including children/infants, has to submit his/her Schengen visa application in person and by appointment only on their appointment date, which needs to be booked online by the applicant.

Applicants, who intend to travel to Portugal purely for tourist purposes, i.e. visiting for pleasure, need to apply for a Tourist visa,.

Eligibility

Applicant must at least meet the following criteria in order to be eligible to submit a Schengen visa application:

• Holding a valid passport/travel document
• Holding a valid US residence permit. In case applicant holds a short stay visa, a B1/B2 type visa, for the US, then applicant needs to apply for a Schengen visa from his/her residence country.
• Applying for a short stay visa (Tourist: including visits to family or friends, Business, EEA/EU Family member or Transit)
• JURISDICTION RESTRICTIONS:

WASHINGTON DC: AREAS OF JURISDICTION

States of: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, District of Columbia.

NEW YORK: AREAS OF JURISDICTION

States of: Connecticut, Michigan and New York Territories of American Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and Puerto Rico

SAN FRANCISCO: AREAS OF JURISDICTION

States of: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming

For Non EU citizens who are not sure whether a Schengen visa is required to travel to the Schengen Area, please click Do I need a visa? to find out.

VFS service fee of US $41.07 (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

Applicants applying in San Francisco and Washington DC are required to pay the Visa Fee by way of a money order or Banker / Cashier check in favor of the “Consulate General of Portugal”. VFS Service Fee can be paid via Debit/Credit card at the center while submitting the application

Please Note:

• Short Stay Schengen Visa- For children between 6 -12 years old and Nationals of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the European Union (Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro, Moldova and Ukraine) the Schengen visa fee amounts as shown in the above table.
• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.
• The following category of applicants are exempted from the Short Stay Schengen Visa fee:
• Short Stay Schengen Visa ONLY- Children under six years;
• School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
• Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations;
• Family member of EU/EEA and Switzerland nationals.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

• TRAVEL INSURANCE: Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here

Important – Retention of document: Please be informed that after processing of Visa/Resident permit applications, Embassy/Consulates only return passport with payment receipt.

Other documents submitted along with your Visa/ Resident permit applications are not returned. We strongly encourage you to retain a copy of all the important document for your reference.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED: The list of documents below is not an exhaustive list of documents and the applicant could be asked for additional documents if desired by the Consulate General of Portugal.

Applicants always have to bring and show their original Passport, but they only need to submit photocopies of the same; unless the requirements specify that an original document has to be submitted. Please refer to the checklist for the list of documents as required by the Portugal consulate, ensure that you have all the documents as per your Visa Categories.

For applying for a short-stay Schengen visa, the following documentation is required:

• Application Form;

Visa application completely filled and duly signed by applicant (For minors and incapacitated, forms should be signed the legal guardian);

• Passport Photograph;

A recent color photograph (35mmx45mm) up-to-date and with enough quality to identify the applicant;

• Passport or Travel Document;

Passport or Travel document must be valid for 3 months beyond the Schengen stay; a photocopy of prior passport and Schengen visas required.

• Certificate of being in a regular situation when the applicant is from a different nationality than that of the country where the visa is being requested;

Proof and copy of residency status in the United States (Green card, Employment Authorization Card, United States Visa)

• Travel reservation

Roundtrip flight reservation showing date of departure and date of return

• Travel medical insurance

Proof of medical coverage, including medical emergencies and repatriation. The insurance should have a minimum coverage of €30,000 or 50,000 USD; shall a multiple entry visa be granted, applicants shall sign the statement, set out in the application form, declaring that they are aware of the need to be in possession of travel medical insurance for subsequent stays.

• Economic and work conditions:

Work certificate and salary, as well as three last bank transcripts (proof of means of subsistence), covering the entire stay and return to the country of origin.

• Travel authorization for minors or court decision (when applicable);
• Hotel reservation (if applicable);

Proof of accommodations for entire stay or statement of responsibility.

• For journeys undertaken for medical reasons;

An official document of the medical institution confirming necessity for medical care in that institution and proof of sufficient financial means to pay for the medical treatment;

• Entry visa for the destination country (if applicable).

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, according the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus.
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
• Full face, non-smiling (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
• Please stick the photograph on the Visa Application Form.

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements, then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

Please be advised that applications sent by mail do not guarantee faster processing than applications done in person. Applications will be processed as per the queue at VFS and the visa Section of the Embassy of Portugal in DC.

Normal processing time for applications submitted in San Francisco is up to 30 days for C category. For D category it will take up to 60 days.

Applications for D type visa for Portugal are on very high demand and it will take time to process all of them. Applicants are advised to expect a longer waiting time in obtaining a decision on their application. You will be notified once the application has been processed by the Embassy of Portugal in Washington DC. Please, be advised, that contacting the Embassy immediately, or repeatedly, will only provoke delays, as resources will have to be diverted from visa processing to answering emails and phone calls.

The visa processing time is a minimum of 3 weeks, depending on the nationality of the applicant of the applicant and provided that a complete visa application is submitted; please click here for the list of nationalities that may have an extended processing time.

Please click here to ascertain any dates that the consulate will be closed, as this will also affect the processing time of your application.

Article 23 for time lines of application processing.

Annex 16 for nationalities that require prior consultation

After a visa application has been submitted, it is still be possible for the consulate to request additional documents/information and by doing so this may prolong or delay the visa processing time.

• Please click Here to complete the visa application form. Please ensure you print and bring the completed application form when attending for your appointment.

Visiting Family and Friends

SANStates of: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming

Schengen Visa (Short Stay Visa)

Applicants, who intend to travel to Portugal purely for tourist purposes, i.e. visiting for pleasure, need to apply for a Tourist visa.

STATES UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF PORTUGAL FOR VISA APPLICATION PROCESSING.

STATES under the Jurisdiction of PORTUGAL

• The Embassy of Portugal in Washington DC
• CONSULAR JURISDICTION: States of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, District of Columbia
• Consulate General of Portugal in New York
• CONSULAR JURISDICTION: States of Connecticut, Michigan, and New York. Territories of American Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Bermuda’s, and Puerto Rico.
• Consulate General of Portugal in San Francisco
• CONSULAR JURISDICTION: States of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming and the territories of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas.

If you don’t see your State above, please click here

VFS service fee of US $40.73 (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

Applicants applying for Schengen/ C-Visa can pay their visa fee and VFS service fee via credit or debit card at the visa application center. (Except for San Francisco location, Money order is required for Visa fee)

Applicants applying for a D-Visa/ Long Terms visa in San Francisco and Washington DC are required to pay the Visa Fee by way of a money order or Banker / Cashier check in favor of the “Consulate General of Portugal”. VFS Service Fee can be paid via Debit/Credit card at the center while submitting the application.

Ethiopian citizens that plan to apply for a visa to visit the Schengen area, please note -

• Holders of diplomatic or service passports, must pay for their visas.
• Processing time is 45 days.
• Multiple entries are no longer permitted for Ethiopian citizens.

Applicants, who intend to travel for business purposes, i.e. visiting a business/company to have meetings, to make business deals, to recruit, to train or other work related activities can apply for a Business visa.

Every Business visa application has to be confirmed by an invitation letter from a business/company based in Portugal, if not, applicant will have to apply as a Tourist.

In regards to conference/seminar/workshop the following applicants can also apply for a Business visa:

• Students going to attend a conference/seminar/workshop related to their studies
• Applicants/Employees going to attend a conference/seminar/workshop organized by their company or another company directly related to their company
• Applicants going to be actively involved in a conference/seminar/workshop

National Visa

National visas , in compliance with existing domestic law, can be either temporary or for residency authorization purposes, depending on the duration of the stay and granting the visa holder an authorization to stay in the country according to different purposes: study, internship, work, medical treatment, among others.

• *Customers must be physically present in the US when applying for any of the visa category, including residency visa for Portugal through the VFS Portugal Visa Application Center. Visas cannot be issued for applicants who are not in the United States. Visas cannot be issued if the applicants are physically in Portugal.
• *All documents that must be notarized as per Embassy checklist should be done at Notary Public in the state where customer legally resides in the USA i.e. as per the address proof submitted by the applicant for US state in the application documents.
• *Check the jurisdiction restrictions before submitting your application. Applications from other jurisdictions may be denied.

3.1 National Visa Temporary category E

Temporary Stay Visas allow entry and stay in Portugal for less than a year. Temporary stay visas are valid during the entire stay and allow for multiple entries.

This category allows applications for the following purposes -

3.1.1 Work and Investigation

3.1.2 Study

3.1.3 Health

3.1.4 Professional training, internship or volunteer work

3.1.5 Religious Purposes

3.1.6 Familiar

3.2 National Visa Residency Type D

Residency Visas allow two entries and is valid for a period of 4 months. During that time, the holder of a residency visa is required to request a residency permit with the Immigration and Border Services (SEF).

3.2.1 Study and Research

3.2.2 Professional training, internship or volunteer work

3.2.3 Familiar

3.2.4 Fixed Residency

Retention of document: Please be informed that after processing of Visa/Resident permit applications, Embassy/Consulates only return passport with payment receipt.

Other documents submitted along with your Visa/ Resident permit applications are not returned. We strongly encourage you to retain a copy of the entire important document for your reference.

• VERY IMPORTANT:
• *Customers must be physically present in the US when applying for any of the visa category for Portugal through the VFS Portugal Visa Application Center.

*Check the jurisdiction restrictions before submitting your application.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: The list of documents below is not an exhaustive list of documents and the applicant could be asked for additional documents if desired by the Consulate General of Portugal.

General documentation

Visa application completely filled and duly signed by applicant

The original passport must be submitted for identity verification and will be returned within 5 business days. The original passport will need to be resubmitted once the visa is approved. (Please note the passport must have 2 blank pages consecutive front and back)

Proof of Health Insurance that covers medical expenses in Portugal

Statement signed by applicant specifying reason for settling in Portugal, intended area of residency and type of accommodations (rental, purchase of private property, or family home)

Permission to the Department of Borders and Customs to obtain criminal record from Portugal

Issued from the country of origin or the country where the applicant is residing for over a year (children under the age of 16 are exempt from producing a criminal record); issued by the FBI; This document must be requested with an apostille or remain unopened in original sealed envelope. https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks

All documents MUST be dated from last six months at time of submission.

Lease agreement signed, or letter from inviting institution, or declaration from family member residing in Portugal. Hotel/Airbnb reservations may be admitted, but they will have to be long stay (minimum of Months);

3 months Bank statements (electronic print outs are accepted must be full statements for each month);Proof of Pension is also accepted Proof of subsistence means can be made through a statement of responsibility, signed by a Portuguese national or by a foreign national legally resident in Portugal.

BUSINESS Conference

Every applicant has to submit his/her Schengen visa application in person and by appointment only on their appointment date, which needs to be booked online (see Schedule an Appointment) by the applicant.

Employer/student letter needs to confirm clearly the purpose of attending the conference/seminar/workshop, if not, applicant will need to apply for a Tourist visa .

• holding a valid passport/travel document
• holding a valid US residence permit (NOT a B1/B2-type visa; in case applicant holds a short stay visa for the US, then applicant needs to apply for a Schengen visa from his/her residence country)
• applying for a short stay visa (Tourist, Family/friend visit, Business or EU family)

VFS service fee of US $41.27 (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

The visa processing time is a minimum of 2 weeks, depending on the nationality of the applicant of the applicant and provided that a complete visa application is submitted; please click here for the list of nationalities that may have an extended processing time .Please click here to ascertain any dates that the consulate will be closed, as this will also affect the processing time of your application.

• Please click here to complete the visa application form. Please ensure you print and bring the completed application form when attending for your appointment.

Every applicant has to submit his/her Schengen visa application in person and by appointment only on their appointment date, which needs to be booked online by the applicant.

Following family members of an EEA/EU national are entitled to apply for a Schengen visa under EU category, i.e. exempt from paying the applicable visa fee, when travelling together with their EEA/EU family member:

• Parents (only if child is under 18 years old or elderly parent cohabiting with his/her EEA/EU child)
• Registered partner

You can also refer to the following: checklist .

Any applicants, travelling without their EEA/EU family member, or proof that they will be joining that family member, cannot apply under EU category and need to apply for a Tourist visa , i.e. providing all the required documents and paying the applicable visa fee.

Exemption visa application for certain EEA/EU family members:

Family members of an EEA/EU National holding a valid UK Residence permit as demonstrated below, do not need a Schengen visa to enter Portugal, only if the following 3 conditions are fulfilled:

• they’re travelling with/joining the EEA/EU family member in Portugal (EU Directive 2004/38/CE)
• their nationality is not subject to Schengen Visa

their UK Residence permit literally bears the wording:

Residence Card of a Family Member of an EEA National (endorsed in passport)

Permanent Residence Card (endorsed in passport)

Residence Card of a Family Member of a Union Citizen (biometrics card)

However when applicant, holding one of the above mentioned UK residence permits, is travelling without their EEA/EU family member, then they have to apply for a Tourist visa , i.e. providing all the required documents and paying the applicable visa fee.

• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee.

The visa processing time is a minimum of 2 weeks, depending on the nationality of the applicant of the applicant and provided that a complete visa application is submitted; please click here for the list of nationalities that may have an extended processing time.

Every applicant has to submit his/her Schengen visa application in person and by appointment only on their appointment date, which needs to be booked online (see Schedule an Appointment ) by the applicant.

PORTUGAL NATIONAL VISAS "D"

Long-stay visas, in compliance with existing domestic law, can be either temporary or for residency authorization purposes, depending on the duration of the stay and granting the visa holder an authorization to stay in the country according to different purposes: study, internship, work, medical treatment, among others.

• *Customers must be physically present in the US when applying for any of the visa category or residency visa for Portugal through the VFS Portugal Visa Application Center.
• *Check the jurisdiction restrictions before submitting your application at the Washington DC, Portugal VFS Visa Application Center.

Temporary stay visas allow entry and stay in Portugal for less than a year. Temporary stay visas are valid during the entire stay and allow for multiple entries.

Residency visas allow two entries and are valid for a period of 4 months. During that time, the holder of a residency visa is required to request a residency permit with the Immigration and Border Services (SEF).

Please Click Here to know more about the Portugal National Visa “D

States of: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, District of Columbia.

• Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here

The list of documents below is not an exhaustive list of documents and the applicant could be asked for additional documents if desired by the Consulate General of Portugal.

• *Check the jurisdiction restrictions before submitting your application at the New York, Portugal VFS Visa Application Center.
• Official form; Mail in application: Please ensure it is signed before mailing your application, in a US Notary Public at the State where customer legally resides)
• Notarized copy of the passport or other travel document, valid for an additional 3 months following the duration of the intended stay (Mail in application: Do not send the original Passport);
• Two identical passport photographs, up-to-date and in good condition, allowing proper identification;

Document certifying the third-country national is in a regular situation when the applicant is from a different nationality than that of the country where the visa is being requested;

• Valid travel insurance with, zero deductible, covering necessary medical expenses, including emergency assistance and repatriation;
• Form authorizing access to Portuguese criminal record by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF)( click here )
• FBI Criminal record from country of origin or country of residency for over one year (minors under 16 years of age are exempt from producing any criminal record related document); this document must be requested with an apostille or remain unopened in original sealed envelope.
• Proof of means of subsistence, as stipulated by law;
• Proof of subsistence means can be made through a statement of responsibility, signed by a Portuguese national or by a foreign national legally resident in Portugal.

SUBORDINATE WORK ACTIVITY

• Work contract, work promise or demonstration of interest; 
• Professional certificate, when such profession is regulated in Portugal.
• To determine means of subsistence, means obtained through a work contract or work contract promise should be taken into consideration.
• Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the workers hosting entity.

Additional Document- MINOR APPLICANT

• In case of minors, application forms should be signed by the parent holding parental responsibility or legal guardian;
• When minors are not travelling with both parents, or are travelling with a third person, a travel authorization of one or both parents respectively, or a court order, is required.

The visa processing time is a minimum of 4 weeks for temporary stay visas (up to one year) or 8 weeks for long term stays (over one year), depending on the nationality of the applicant of the applicant and provided that a complete visa application is submitted.

• *All documents that must be notarized as per Embassy checklist, should be done at Notary Public in the state where customer legally resides in the USA i.e. as per the address proof submitted by the applicant for US state in the application documents.

VFS service fee of US $40.19 (inclusive of VAT) is charged per visa application, in addition to the applicable visa fee.

Applicants always have to bring and show their original documents, but they only need to submit photocopies of the same; unless the requirements specify that an original document has to be submitted. Please refer to the checklist for the list of documents as required by the Portugal consulate, ensure that you have all the documents as per your Visa Categories.

• Official form; (Mail in application: Please ensure it is signed and notarized before mailing your application, in a US Notary Public at the State where customer legally resides)
• Notarized Copy of the passport or other travel document, valid for an additional 3 months following the duration of the intended stay;
• Form authorizing access to Portuguese criminal record by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF); ( Click here )
• FBI criminal record or Criminal record from country of origin or country of residency for over one year (minors under 16 years of age are exempt from producing any criminal record related document); this document must be requested with an apostille or remain unopened in original sealed envelope.

SPORTS VISA SPECIFIC DOCUMENTS

• Work contract for less than one year;
• Document issued by sports federation certifying the practice of the referred sport;
• Statement of responsibility signed by the sports association or sports club responsible for housing and payment of necessary health care and repatriation costs.
• To determine means of subsistence, means obtained through a work contract or work contract promise should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the workers hosting entity.

Please provide one recent color photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, according the following requirements:

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements, then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

STARTUP VISA

Applicants who can apply for StartUp Visa

• Independent Professional Activity
• Migrants Entrepreneurs
• Customers must be physically present in the US when applying for any of the visa category or residency visa for Portugal through the VFS Portugal Visa Application Center.
• All documents that must be notarized as per Embassy checklist should be done at Notary Public in the state where customer legally resides in the USA i.e. as per the address proof submitted by the applicant for US state in the application documents.
• Check the jurisdiction restrictions before submitting your application at the Washington DC, Portugal VFS Visa Application Center.
• Official form; Mail in application: Please ensure it is signed and notarized before mailing your application, in a US Notary Public at the State where customer legally resides)
• Form authorizing access to Portuguese criminal record by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF) ( click here );
• FBI Criminal record or Criminal record from country of origin or country of residency for over one year (minors under 16 years of age are exempt from producing any criminal record related document); this document must be requested with an apostille or remain unopened in original sealed envelope.
• Work contract or service agreement in the framework of an independent and temporary work activity.
• When applicable, statement issued by the competent institution verifying compliance with necessary professional requisites, when the referred profession is subject to special qualification in Portugal.

INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY:

• Contract or written service provider proposal for liberal professions; and, if applicable, declaration by competent authorities certifying professional competence for the referred activity;

MIGRANT ENTREPRENUEURS:

• Investment operations executed
• Proof of financial means available in Portugal, including those obtain through a financial institution is Portugal, and proof, by any means, of intention to invest in Portuguese territory; or,
• Declaration issued by the Agency for Competition and Innovation (IAPMEI), certifying the signing of an incubation contract with a certified incubator, in accordance with Article 6o of Normative Order n.º 4/2018 of the Minister of Economy, of 2 February that regulates the « Startup Visa » Program.

STUDENT VISA

• Notarized copy of passport or official travel document valid for at least 3 months beyond date of intended stay in Portugal. The original passport must be submitted once the visa is approved.
• Form authorizing access to Portuguese criminal record by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF);( click here )
• Document issued by the higher education or training institution certifying admission to a course for the duration of less than one year.
• Additional Documents: RESIDENCY VISAS

RESEARCH PURPOSE:

• Work contract or agreement with the research center or university, letter of acceptance by the research center or university scholarship or research stipend or statement of responsibility signed by the research center or university to cover admission and living costs.
• Researchers that have been admitted to officially recognized research centers or universities are exempt from producing any health insurance or similar, work contract or agreement, travel insurance or means of subsistence.
• To determine means of subsistence, means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence will not be necessary when the applicant benefits from a scholarship or research grant. Researchers admitted to officially recognized research or higher education centers (Article 91o-B Law 23/2007) are exempt from providing proof of means of subsistence.

HIGHER EDUCATION PURPOSE:  

• Fulfills admission criteria or has been accepted to university for a study program and has sufficient resources to attend such program. Students that have been admitted to officially recognized university are exempt from producing any health insurance or similar, proof of compliance with admission criteria or acceptance to the university, travel insurance or means of subsistence.
• Document issued by the higher education institution certifying admission or eligibility for admission. This document is waived when benefiting from a scholarship.
• To determine means of subsistence, means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. Students benefiting from a scholarship are exempt to provide proof of means of subsistence, as well as nationals from Portuguese-speaking countries.

SECONDARY EDUCATION PURPOSE:

• Proof of acceptance in high-school; respect the maximum age limit set by law; proof of host family or of adequate housing, for the duration of the stay. These documents will not be necessary when benefiting from a scholarship from the Instituto Camões.
• To determine means of subsistence, means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. In case of student exchange, proof of means of subsistence can be made through a statement of responsibility issued by the organization in charge of student exchange programs.

INTERNSHIP PURPOSE:

Proof of internship acceptance by certified host institution, proof of practical and theoretical training in the field of studies obtained or ongoing, including:

Description of training program, including objectives and learning components;

Duration and schedule for training; 

• Location and supervising conditions;

Legal status of the intern within the host institution;

Statement that internship does not constitute a replacement for a professional post and acknowledgment of responsibility of payment by the host institution of living costs and removal in case of illegal stay.

• To determine means of subsistence, means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence can be made through a statement of responsibility issued by the entity hosting interns.

VOLUNTEER WORK:

• Proof of contract with host institution responsible for volunteer program, including description of content and duration of program, schedule, supervising conditions, and living costs guarantee (housing and food), including a minimum living stipend or per diem; subscription of a civil liability insurance except for volunteers participating in the European Volunteer Service.
• In case of student exchange, proof of means of subsistence can be made through a statement of responsibility issued by the organization in charge of volunteer work programs.
• When minors are not traveling with both parents, or are traveling with a third person, a travel authorization of one or both parents respectively, or a court order, is required.

RESIDENCY VISA

• Customers should apply for their visas only 3 months prior intended departure date.

Temporary stay visas: allow entry and stay in Portugal for less than a year. Temporary stay visas are valid during the entire stay and allow for multiple entries.

Under Temporary Stay visa the applicable categories are: Work, Study and Research, Professional training or Internship or Volunteer Work, Health, Youth Mobility- International Agreements, Religious Purpose and Exceptional reasons- upto 1 year.

The Temporary stay visa for periods of over 3 months is issued, in exceptional and dully justified cases ONLY.

Residency visas: allow two entries and are valid for a period of 4 months. During that time, the holder of a residency visa is required to request a residency permit with the Immigration and Border Services (SEF).

Under Residency Visa (Over 1 year) the applicable categories of visas are: Work, Study and Research, Professional training or Internship or Volunteer Work, Family Reunification and Fixed Residency.

For Family reunification (prior SEF consent required) : Residency visa for family reunification purposes

Fixed Residency over 1 year, v is for retirement purposes, religious purposes or for people living out of individual revenue.

• Retirement Purpose
• People living out of individual revenue
• Religious training within a religious congregations
• Religious person undertaking studies in a recognized institution
• Notarized copy of the passport or other travel document, valid for an additional 3 months following the duration of the intended stay; (Mail in application: Do not send the original Passport) ;
• Proof of accommodation for the first 6 months.

RELIGIOUS PURPOSE:

• Certificate from the church or congregation they belong to, as long as such church or congregation is recognized by the Portuguese legal system.

RETIREMENT PURPOSE:

• Document certifying retirement amount.
• Present proof of an account and funds in Portugal with at least the equivalent of 12 months of the national minimum salary,

PEOPLE LIVING OUT OF PERSONAL REVENUE:

• Document certifying revenue from movable and immovable property; intellectual or financial assets.

FAMILY REUNIFICATION:

• Notification of family reunification authorization by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF);
• Proof of family relationship: birth certificate or marriage certificate;
• Minors or unfit persons require a travel authorization by the parents or legal guardian.

TEMPORARY STAY VISA OVER 3 MONTHS- EXCEPTIONAL AND WELL-FOUNDED CIRCUMSTANCES: This is applicable namely for programs of study in a Certified institution, Student exchange, Unpaid professional internship, Volunteer work or pursuant to WTO obligations or those arising from conventions and international agreements to which Portugal is a state party.

• Proof of exceptional circumstances; or,

For study purposes for less than a year in a certified institution, or in the framework of a student exchange program, for a similar duration, the following documentation is necessary:

• Document issued by the institution and document certifying enrollment;
• Statement signed by the host family; or,
• Proof of housing.
• To determine means of subsistence, means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the workers hosting entity.
• For professional internship purposes, the following documents are necessary, document issued by the company or professional training facility, officially recognized, certifying acceptance to the program, and when necessary, training contract and calendar. Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the organization hosting interns.
• For volunteer work purposes, there is a minimum age requirement as set by the relevant ordinance issued by the Government entity responsible for home affairs. Additionally, the following documents are necessary: document issued by an officially recognized institution in charge of the volunteer program, in Portugal, certifying admission to the program. Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the organization hosting volunteers.

In the framework of international commitments related to free movement of services , the following documents are necessary

• Service agreement contract between the third-country national and the final consumer;
• Certificate of technical qualification for the delivery of the referred service.
• In case of minors, application forms should be signed by the parent holding parental responsibility or legal guardian;

II – LONG STAY D VISA

Please Select the relevant sub-categories from the drop-down list

Subordinate work

RETENTION OF DOCUMENT: Please be informed that after processing of Visa/Resident permit applications, Embassy/Consulates only return passport with payment receipt.

To preempt possible additional requests, we recommend adding the following elements at the onset of the application:

a. Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF) / Tax Identification Number;

b. Permanent Domicile – Twelve month lease with duly registered landlord or proof of purchase of habitable property. Or, in absence of these, notarized “Termo de Responsabilidade” (responsibility letter) by the sponsoring host;

c. Portuguese Bank account summary.

• Official form;
• Passport or additional travel document valid for 3 months after the duration of the stay;
• Two passport photos;
• Valid travel insurance, allowing medical coverage, including medical emergencies and repatriation;
• Proof of being in a regular situation when from a different nationality than that of the country where the visa is being applied for;

Personal Statement;

• Request for criminal record enquiry by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF);
• Criminal record certificate;

Issued from the country of origin or the country where the applicant is residing for over a year (children under the age of 16 are exempt from producing a criminal record); issued by the FBI; This document must be requested with an apostille or remain unopened in original sealed envelope.

https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks

• Proof of accommodation;

Lease agreement signed, or letter from inviting institution, or declaration from family member residing in Portugal. Hotel/Airbnb reservations may be admitted, but they will have to be long stay.

• Proof of means of subsistence as stipulated by law;

Subordinate work activity

• Work contract, work promise or demonstration of interest;
• Declaration issued by the Portuguese Employment and Training Institute (IEFP) (*);
• To determine means of subsistence: means obtained through a work contract or work contract promise should be taken into consideration.
• Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the workers hosting entity.

Independent work purposes, start-ups or entrepreneurs etc.

REQUIRED DOCUMENT: The list of documents below is not an exhaustive list of documents and the applicant could be asked for additional documents if desired by the Consulate General of Portugal.

Independent work activity or migrant entrepreneur

Independent Professional Activity:

• Contract or written service provider proposal for liberal professions; and, if applicable, a declaration by competent authorities certifying professional competence for the referred activity;

Migrants Entrepreneurs:

• Investment operations executed;
• Proof of financial means available in Portugal, including those obtained through a financial institution in Portugal, and proof, by any means, of intention to invest in Portuguese territory; or,
• Declaration issued by the Agency for Competition and Innovation (IAPMEI), certifying the signing of an incubation contract with a certified incubator, in accordance with Article 6o of Normative Order n.º 4/2018 of the Minister of Economy, of 2 February that regulates the «Startup Visa» Program.

Highly qualified activity, Higher Education Teaching/ Professorial activity, Highly qualified subordinate activity, Show business and performing artists

Teaching purposes, highly qualified or cultural activity, or highly qualified subordinate activity

Professorial activity, highly qualified activity and cultural activity (art. 61.º):

• Work contract, work promise or service provider contract; or,
• An invitation letter issued by a higher education institution or professional training institution; or,
• Statement of responsibility provided by a certified company as stipulated by law; or,
• An invitation letter issued by a company or institute developing a relevant cultural activity, in the Portuguese territory, recognized by the government agency responsible for cultural activities, or as stipulated by law; or,
• An invitation letter issued by a research center;
• To determine means of subsistence: means obtained through a work contract or work contract promise should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence can be made through a statement of responsibility signed by the workers hosting entity.

Subordinate highly qualified activity (art. 61.º-A):

• Valid work contract or work promise, for a minimum period of one year and for a salary of 1,5 times de annual gross salary, or three times the indexed value for social welfare support (IAS);
• Professional certificate, when required, for regulated highly qualified professions, as stipulated by Law n.º 9/2009, 4 March, or specific legislation referring to the recognition of professional qualifications necessary for the profession mentioned on the work contract or work promise;
• A professional certificate, in the case of unregulated professions, adequate for the referred field of work or sector stipulated in the work contract or the work promise. For work-related activities in the 1st and 2nd international category types (CITP) groups, as stipulated by the Council of Ministers, and following the opinion of the Permanent Commission for Social Harmonization (CPCS). For professional activities considered particularly in need for professionals from third countries, de minimum salary should (Article 1, a) ) correspond to 1,2 times de annual gross salary, or two times the indexed value for social welfare support (IAS);

For further information on types of activities and for the purpose of verification of professional experience of third-country nationals, line ministries responsible for employment, education and science should provide their formal opinion prior to the decision to issue the visa.

Research, Secondary education, Bachelor´s, Master´s, PhD, Post-Doc, Mobility program / Exchange program, Religious person undertaking studies in a recognized institution, Professional training, Unpaid internship, Volunteer work

Research, study, higher education students exchange, internships and volunteer work

Research purposes:

• work contract or agreement with the research center or university, letter of acceptance by the research center or university scholarship or research stipend or statement of responsibility signed by the research center or university to cover admission and living costs.
• To determine means of subsistence: means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence will not be necessary when the applicant benefits from a scholarship or research grant. Researchers admitted to officially recognized research or higher education centers (Article 91o-B Law 23/2007) are exempt from providing proof of means of subsistence.

Higher education purposes:

• Fulfils admission criteria or has been accepted to university for a study program and has sufficient resources to attend such program. Students that have been admitted to an officially recognized university are exempt from producing any health insurance or similar, proof of compliance with admission criteria or acceptance to the university, travel insurance or means of subsistence.
• To determine means of subsistence: means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. Students benefiting from a scholarship are exempt to provide proof of means of subsistence, as well as nationals from Portuguese-speaking countries.

Secondary Education purposes:

• Proof of acceptance in high school; respect the maximum age limit set by law; proof of host family or of adequate housing, for the duration of the stay. These documents will not be necessary when benefiting from a scholarship from the Instituto Camões.
• To determine means of subsistence: means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. In the case of student exchange, proof of means of subsistence can be made through a statement of responsibility issued by the organization in charge of student exchange programs.

For internship purposes:

Proof of internship acceptance by the certified host institution, proof of practical and theoretical training in the field of studies obtained or ongoing, including:

• Description of the training program, including objectives and learning components;
• Duration and schedule for training;
• The legal status of the intern within the host institution;
• A statement that internship does not constitute a replacement for a professional post and acknowledgement of responsibility of payment by the host institution of living costs and removal in case of illegal stay.
• To determine means of subsistence: means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence can be made through a statement of responsibility issued by the entity hosting interns.

For volunteer work purposes:

• Proof of contract with host institution responsible for the volunteer program, including a description of content and duration of program, schedule, supervising conditions, and living costs guarantee (housing and food), including a minimum living stipend or per diem; subscription of civil liability insurance except for volunteers participating in the European Volunteer Service.
• In the case of student exchange, proof of means of subsistence can be made through a statement of responsibility issued by the organization in charge of volunteer work programs.

Family regrouping

Family reunification

Due to Retirement, People living on their own income, Religious training within a religious congregation

Fixed residency for retirement purposes, religious purposes or people living out from individual revenues

Remote Work (Digital Nomad)

• In case of subordinate work, one of the following documents:
• Work contract; or,
• Promise of work contract; or,
• Declaration by employer confirming the labour link.
• In case of independent professional activity, one of the following documents:
• Society contract; or,
• Contract of services provision; or,
• Written proposal of services provision contract; or,
• Document attesting the services provided to one or more entities.
• Proof of average monthly income for the last three months with a minimum value equivalent to four monthly minimum guaranty remuneration;
• Document attesting his fiscal residence.

Residency - Job Search

Residency Visa - Job Search

GENERAL DOCUMENTATION

• National Visa application filled and duly signed by applicant;
• Passport or other travel document, valid for 3 months after the estimated date of return. Photocopy of passport (biographical data);
• 2 Photos, even, passport type, recent and in good condition to identify the applicant (1 for this form);
• Proof of regular situation in case of residence in a country other than the country of current nationality;
• Request for criminal record enquiry by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF) (Not applicable to minors under the age of sixteen);
• Criminal record certificate, issued by the competent authority of the country of the applicant’s nationality or of the country where the applicant has resided for over a year (except for applicants under sixteen), with the Hague Apostille (If applicable) or legalised;
• Valid travel insurance, covering necessary medical expenses, including urgent medical assistance and possible repatriation;
• Transport document - Roundtrip flight reservation showing date of departure and date of return;
• Proof of financial resources equivalent to at least the sum of three guaranteed monthly minimum salary.

Proof of the financial resources may be waived upon presentation of a term of responsibility with recognized signature made by a Portuguese citizen or a foreign citizen, with a legal residence authorization in Portugal, which guarantees food and accommodation for the visa applicant, as well as the repatriation costs, in case of irregular stay.

The signatory of the responsibility term must also prove to have financial capacity in the amount of, at least, three times the value of the guaranteed minimum monthly salary (€705).

SPECIFIC DOCUMENTS

• Declaration with indication of the conditions for the estimated stay.
• Proof of presentation of a declaration of expression of interest for enrolment in the IEFP (EN)/ (PT) / (FR) / (ES).

III - TEMPORARY STAY E-VISA

Medical treatment

Every applicant, including children/infants, has to submit his/her Schengen visa application in person and by appointment only on their appointment date, which needs to be booked online by the applicant. Applicants, who intend to travel to Portugal purely for tourist purposes, i.e. visiting for pleasure, need to apply for a Tourist visa,. Eligibility Applicant must at least meet the following criteria in order to be eligible to submit a Schengen visa application:

WASHINGTON DC: AREAS OF JURISDICTION States of: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, District of Columbia. NEW YORK: AREAS OF JURISDICTION States of: Connecticut, Michigan and New York Territories of American Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and Puerto Rico SAN FRANCISCO: AREAS OF JURISDICTION States of: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming

For Non EU citizens who are not sure whether a Schengen visa is required to travel to the Schengen Area, please click  Do I need a visa?  to find out.

DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST

Visa applications completely filled and duly signed by applicant

• Passport or another travel document, valid for an additional 3 months following the duration of the intended stay;

Transport document;

Statement signed by applicant specifying reason for settling in Portugal, intended area of residency and type of accommodations (rental, purchase of private property, or family home

• Valid travel insurance covering necessary medical expenses, including emergency assistance and repatriation;

Form authorizing access to Portuguese criminal record by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF);

Accommodations from the inviting institution if on campus or confirmed hotel reservations, stating name, address and telephone number of the hotel, including confirmation number

Specific documentation related to purpose of stay

Temporary stay visa for medical treatment purposes

• Medical report;
• Document issued by the public health establishment or officially recognized health establishment certifying inpatient or outpatient care;
• In case of patients travelling under Cooperation Agreements, a document issued by a medical committee and medical appointment must be produced. In such cases, proof of means of subsistence and proof of housing may be replaced by a statement issued by the relevant Embassy in Lisbon to ensure the referred conditions.

The visa processing time is a minimum of 3 weeks, depending on the nationality of the applicant of the applicant and provided that a complete visa application is submitted; please  click here  for the list of nationalities that may have an extended processing time.

Please  click here  to ascertain any dates that the consulate will be closed, as this will also affect the processing time of your application.

Article 23  for time lines of application processing.

Transfer of workers or service providers when the applicant has been working for over one year

Temporary stay visa to accompany a family member undergoing medical treatment

• Proof of kinship;

Independent work

Temporary stay visa in the framework of transfer of nationals to state parties to the World Trade Organization (WTO), for service providing or professional training purposes

Document certifying that the transfer:

• is occurring within the same company or corporate group, and that the host institution is providing similar services to those provided by the institution from which the third-country national is being transferred;
• partners or workers in a managerial position working as senior staff and perform executive administration tasks, under the guidance of the board of administration;
• partners or workers with the necessary technical skills to the delivery of the referred activity, research equipment, as well as technical and managerial skills;
• partners or workers due to get professional training in Portugal.

Highly qualified activity, Investigation, Professorial activity, Show business and performing artists

Temporary stay visa for independent work purposes

• Work contract or service agreement in the framework of independent and temporary work activity.
• When applicable, a statement issued by the competent institution verifying compliance with necessary professional requisites, when the referred profession is subject to special qualification in Portugal.

Amateur sports activity

Temporary stay visa for scientific research purposes, academic teaching purposes, or highly qualified activity purposes, for less than a year

Document certifying:

• Admission to collaborate with the research center, dully recognized by the Ministry of Education and Science, namely through a work contract or confirmation of employment offer, service agreement or service agreement offer, or scientific research scholarship; or,
• Work contract or confirmation of employment offer, service agreement or service agreement offer, for academic teaching purposes or for highly qualified activity purposes in Portugal.
• To determine means of subsistence: means obtained through a work contract or work contract promise should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the workers hosting entity.

In case of doubt regarding the referred professional activity, an official opinion is necessary from the Ministry of Education and Science.

Secondary Education, Bachelor´s, Master´s, PhD, Post-Doc, Unpaid internship, Volunteer Work, Transfer of workers or service providers when the applicant has been working for less than one year, Mobility program / Exchange program

Accompany family member.

Temporary stay visa for periods of over 3 months, in exceptional and well-founded circumstances, namely for programs of study in a certified institution, student exchange, unpaid professional internship, volunteer work or pursuant to WTO obligations or those arising from conventions and international agreements to which Portugal is a state party

• A statement signed by the host family; or,
• To determine means of subsistence: means obtained through grants or scholarships should be taken into consideration. Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the workers hosting entity.
• For professional internship purposes, the following documents are necessary, a document issued by the company or professional training facility, officially recognized, certifying acceptance to the program, and when necessary, training contract and calendar. Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the organization hosting interns.
• For volunteer work purposes , there is a minimum age requirement as set by the relevant ordinance issued by the Government entity responsible for home affairs. Additionally, the following documents are necessary: a document issued by an officially recognized institution in charge of the volunteer program, in Portugal, certifying admission to the program. Proof of means of subsistence can be produced through a statement of responsibility issued by the organization hosting volunteers.
• In the framework of international commitments related to the free movement of services , the following documents are necessary

Subordinate seasonal work

Temporary stay visa for seasonal work purposes for a period of over 90 days

• Transport document (return ticket) may be waived;
• Work contract or valid work offer for seasonal work purposes, with a temporary work company or an employer established in Portuguese territory, identifying the location, time, type of work, as well as duration, salary and paid vacation.
• In the case of regulated professions, compliance with national legal requirements for that profession is mandatory;
• Adequate medical protection, in similar terms to national citizens, or medical insurance for the periods that may not be covered by medical protection; as well as work accidents insurance provided for by the employer;

The work activity must be registered in the list of work sectors for which seasonal work is available, defined by the Government:

• Agriculture, livestock, hunting, forestry and fishing (Division 1, 2 and 3 of the CAE Rev.3);
• Hospitality, restaurants and similar (Division 55 and 65 of the CAE Rev.3);
• Food industry, liquor and tobacco industries (Division 10, 11 and 12 of the CAE Rev.3);
• Gross and Retail commerce (Division 46 and 47 of the CAE Rev.3);
• Construction; (Division 41, 42 and 43 da CAE Rev.3);
• Land transport (Division 49 of the CAE Rev.3).

Simplified procedure

A third-country national that has had a prior admission into national territory for the purpose of seasonal work, at least once, in the last five years, having respected the requirements set by law regarding entry and stay in Portugal, will benefit from a simplified procedure for the delivery of a temporary stay visa for seasonal work purposes. Namely, the referred third-country national is exempt from producing documents referred to in subparagraph c) and e) of paragraph 1 of article 51. A (housing, regulated profession certificate and return ticket). The visa application should be granted priority status for treatment purposes, and the deadline for issuing a decision cannot exceed 15 days.

Job Seeker Visa

The job seeker visa entitles its holder to enter and remain only in Portugal for the purpose of looking for job; authorizes him/her to carry out a subordinated work activity, until the visa expires or until the residence permit is granted.

This visa is granted for a period of 120 days, renewable for another 60 days and allows only one entry into Portugal.

The issuance of this visa supposes the attribution of a date of scheduling in the competent services, within the period of validity of 120 days of the visa, and it allows the applicant, after the formalization of the employment contract throughout that period, the right to apply for a residence permit. To do so, you must fulfil the general conditions for granting a temporary residence permit, under the terms of article 77 of the Law.

Once the maximum validity limit of the visa for looking for work has expired, without an employment relationship having been established nor the process of requesting the granting of a residence permit having begun, the visa holder must leave the country.

In these situations, you can only re-apply for a new visa application for this purpose, one year after the expiry of the previous visa's validity.

The request for a visa extension by a job seeker visa holder must be accompanied by proof of registration with the IEFP, I.P., and a declaration by the applicant indicating that the conditions of the planned stay are maintained, which will be assessed considering the reasons that justified its issuance.

• *Check the jurisdiction restrictions before submitting your application. Applications from other jurisdictions may be denied
• Criminal record certificate, issued by the competent authority of the country of the applicant’s nationality or of the country where the applicant has resided for over a year (except for applicants under sixteen), with the Hague Apostille (If applicable) or legalized;
• Copy of return transport title;

Proof of the financial resources may be waived upon presentation of a term of responsibility with recognized signature made by a Portuguese citizen or a foreign citizen, with a legal residence authorization in Portugal , which guarantees food and accommodation for the visa applicant, as well as the repatriation costs, in case of irregular stay.

The signatory of the responsibility term must also prove to have financial capacity in the amount of, at least, three times the value of the guaranteed minimum monthly salary.

Student Visa

Please select the consular Jurisdiction you live in to learn at which Visa Application Centre you can apply for a visa.

For Washington DC location: We are NOT accepting Mailed-in applications for National Visa D (Residence, Digital Nomad, Job Seeker, etc) Only National Visa Temporary Stay type E (Students and Work Visa) and Short Stay- Schengen Visa are accepted.

National Visa Temporary category E

Temporary Stay Visas allow entry and stay in Portugal for less than a year.

Temporary stay visas are valid during the entire stay and allow for multiple entries.

Professional training, internship or volunteer work

National Visa Residency Type D

Professional training

Temporary stay visa for academic or professional training purposes

Remote Work (Normal Digital)

• You pick the destination, we have all the visa information ready

• How to Apply for Portugal tourist visa in 7 easy steps
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Portugal Tourist Visa

Table of Contents

Do you need a Portugal tourist visa?

If you need a Portugal tourist visa or not is a matter of your nationality. You need to know that Portugal is a member of the Schengen Area. So the EU, EEA, and Switzerland nationals don’t need a visa to enter the country. They can visit Portugal by passport or travel documents. However, the visit must be short terms for up to 90 days.

Apart from the EU nationals, a few other countries are free from the Portugal short-stay visa . For instance, the US, Japan, South Korea are among them. Such non-EU countries can visit Portugal for the short term without a visa. Yet, they need a visa for the long term. In other words, they have to get a visa for stays longer than 90 days.

See the link provided above. If your country is among them, you have to apply for a Portugal tourist visa. If not, Congratulations. You can move to the country with your valid passport.

You can find the links and extra information explained in the video here:

The list of countries that need and don’t need a Portugal tourist visa 

Application form 

The list of Portugal embassies and consulates to submit your application 

The website to apply online 

Portugal tourist visa requirements

The requirements for a Portugal tourist visa are the required documents for a Schengen visa. They prove the applicant’s eligibility. He/she has been honest with his/her application. Yet, you might have to provide further documents depending on your:

• Nationality
• Traveling alone or by family

A general list of requirements are as follows:

Travel document

You can define it as a passport or travel ID. It must be valid for over the duration of your stay in Portugal. Holding at least one blank page with the passport is a must.

Don’t wait no more. Move to Portugal as a Nurse with ease. How? just take a look at our article.

You need two photos for a tourist visa. They must be identical to the instructions. A few Photography’s know about the visa photo. They can give you good tips. See if you can find one of them in your city.

If you apply to a visa center like VISAMETRIC and the photo doesn’t comply, they take new ones. For the embassy, you need to be careful. The embassies often don’t provide such services.

Completing the Schengen visa application form is a must. You can get the form from the Portugal Embassy or the visa center’s website. If you apply from a visa center, you’re better off getting the form from them. They might have a particular option in the form for your country, you not knowing.

Complete the form with your information, then print the date and sign it.

You need insurance to enter Portugal. It must be valid for all the Schengen Area members and cover your expenses for 30.000 EUR.

Be careful with the insurance you purchase. See if it’s valid in Portugal or not. Don’t be misled by fake advertisements. Also, see if they return your money in case of visa rejection.

In case of applying to a visa center, determine if they provide insurance services or not. Their prices are a bit more reasonable than others.

Cover letter 

It is a letter stating the purpose of your trip. Try to explain everything with details in it. If you have a relative or friend in Portugal, mention her/his details.

Proof of accommodation

Explain where you will stay during your visit. A rental agreement or reserved hotel could make it clear. Providing that you will be staying with a friend or family member, provide his/her details.

Reserved flight ticket (if applicable)

Proof to have enough funds 

The Schengen officials are really strict about this item, so don’t take it easy. You can provide bank statements proving you have enough money. But consider one point with the statement. Banks are often inconsiderate with the bank statement, and it might not fulfil the rules.

Check the dates and make sure it’s in Euro, not your local currency. The numbers must also be Latin, as the numbers are different in some languages. For instance, in Persian, “۲” is for two.

Invitation letter

In case visiting a friend or family, ask her/him to provide you an invitation letter. He/she must write don full details:

• Passport Number
• Contact Number
• Place of residence in Portugal

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Requirements based on your job status

You need to provide further documents based on your employment status:

• Job contract
• Bank statements for the latest six months
• Income Tax Return (ITR)
• Permission leave

Self-employed

• Business license copy
• Banks statements of the company for the latest six months

Attention : Depending on your situation and nationality, the officials might ask you for further requirements. You need to have the original documents translated to English or Portuguese.

Portugal tourist visa application process

The application process for a Portugal tourist visa is up to your nationality. You might have to go through different procedures by the country you live in. However, a comprehensive way to follow is as follows:

1. Do you need a Portugal visa?

The article explained that not everyone needs a Portugal tourist visa. We can say not everyone needs a Portugal short-stay visa. Many countries are exempt from it. Many more have to receive it.

Determine if you need a visa or not. The section above is your guideline on this stage.

If you need the visa, follow the below steps.

2. Where to apply?

Find out where you should apply for the Portugal visa. Again, it is up to where you live. You might have to visit:

• Portugal embassy or consulate
• An authorized visa center like VFS
• The embassy or consulate of Portugal in a neighboring country

For instance, there is no US embassy in Iran. Its citizens have to visit the Swiss embassy for visa services. It is also common that they get to Turkey to visit the US embassy in Istanbul.

The same thing might be true about the Portugal embassy in your country.

3. Filling the application form

When you find where to apply, get the application form for a Portugal tourist visa from them. You could receive it from the Portugal embassy’s website.

Complete it with your information and print it.

Be careful when you complete the form. The written information must be identical to your documents.

Many applicants make a mistake with names. For instance, Juhan, Juho, Janno. They all look the same but have subtle differences. You need to write the spelling identical to your passport.

4. Visa appointment

Schedule a meeting with the Portugal embassy or consulate. You need to find the place to submit requirements before this part.

When getting the time, see if you can keep up with it. You have to prepare the requirements by then.

5. Requirements

The requirements for a Portugal tourist visa are the supporting documents. They prove you are qualified to enter the country.

Keep in mind that you might have to provide further documents. It is up to the officials’ decision. See the part above to get familiar with them

6. Visa interview

Go to your visa meeting on time. Try to reach there early enough so as not to be late, even for a few minutes. Keep in mind to bring the requirements, including your passport. It will stay with the officials until they issue the visa.

Submit all the documents to the authorities when you meet them. You also need to pay the fee for visa processing. The fee is different. In case your family accompanies you, you need to pay more.

If you haven’t visited the Schengen Area in the last five years, you might have to submit your biometrics. The embassy will also ask the purpose of your visit. Of course, it is to see a friend, family, or visiting tourist attractions. Be honest and give true answers.

7. Processing

The Portugal embassy or visa center needs time to work on your application. Providing that the embassy requires further documents, they will tell you. So the processing will get longer. If they ask you to give further explanation for the purpose of your trip, you need to wait for a longer period.

Keep in mind that you can not apply earlier than three months to the date you want to enter Portugal. You may not apply later than 15 days either.

When your visa is ready, the officials will post it to your address. You might have to get it yourself from the embassy. It’s up to the embassy you apply to.

Now you can move to Portugal.

How long is the Portugal tourist visa valid for?

The validity of a Portugal tourist visa depends on the officials’ decision. The visa might be valid for up to five years. Yet, you can stay in Portugal for 90 days in six months. You have to apply for another visa to stay longer.

Bear in mind that the allowed times to enter the country is also different. You may have a:

• Single entry -permits you to enter Portugal once in the authorized time.
• Double entry -lets you enter the country twice in the legal given time.
• Multiple entry -permits you to enter Portugal several times in the permitted time.

The type you will receive will depend on:

• Officials’ decision
• The purpose of your visit
• Your background

The better and stronger background you have, the more likely to receive a multiple entry visa.

Portugal tourist visa length

Many applicants ask about the length of validity of a Portugal tourist visa. It’s only valid for 90 days in six months. You may not stay for longer than 90 days in a six month period.

The times you can enter Portugal or the Schengen Area depends on the type of visa. It could be a single entry, double-entry, or multiple-entries.

The decision on the type is up to the officials, your purpose, and background.

Portugal tourist visa from the UK

The residents or national of the UK don’t need a Portugal visa if they hold one of the below passports:

• British subjects (BS)
• British overseas citizen (BOC)
• British overseas territories citizen (BOTC)
• British protected person (BPP)
• A full UK passport

However, many non-EU nationals living in the UK might need a Portugal Schengen visa.

The guaranteed way to know if you need a Schengen visa from the UK is the Schengen visa checker .

When you enter the site, you have to complete two blanks. Your country of citizenship is the first one. Then it asks about your residing status in the UK. If you have a Residence permit, will it be valid for at least three months after you return to the UK?

If it is so, you may apply for a Schengen visa from the UK. You have to apply from your home country.

Let’s sum up…

If you are going to visit Portugal for sightseeing or visiting friends, you might need a Portugal tourist visa. It is up to your nationality that you need it or not. The above section explained your answer well.

The text also covered how to apply for a tourist visa in Portugal, requirements, and FAQs.

To know more about Portugal visa, see the left sidebar.

In case you hold one or two experiences with a Portugal visa, please write it down in the comment section.

• Published by
• January 12, 2021

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Hello. How can I get insurance after entering Portugal?

Hey there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. Insurance cover is one of the requirements of a Portugal tourist visa, so you should get it before entering the country.

I own a house in Portugal so need to e tend the 90 day tourist visa to 180 day how do I do that

Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. We will be happy to guide you through the application process. However, we should first beware of the purpose of your visit to help you in a more precise way.

great post to read

Thank you. It’s a pleasure for us that you found the content useful.

How much fund required to be eligible for retirement visa ?

Portugal D7 Visa (Retirement Visa) applicants in 2024 will need to have passive income equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage. In 2024, the minimum wage in Portugal is €820 per month. Application for a D7 visa requires proof of a yearly income of €9,840 (€820 times 12 months). If the applicant’s spouse is also an adult family member, the annual income requirement for that person rises to €4,230, a 1.5-fold increase.

According to another source, the monthly income requirement is €3,040, which is four times the Portuguese minimum wage. The Digital Nomad Visa, and not the Retirement D7 Visa, may be the intended recipient of this data. The D7 Visa appears to primarily require a €820 monthly passive income.

Everything You Need to Know about Portugal Travel Requirements

You might worry about Portugal travel requirements, whether you’re taking a vacation or relocating to the country. No doubt, Portugal is a fine place to be. It has breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and delicious food. 

What I’m about to share in this article, is a comprehensive guide on Portugal travel requirements for first-timers.

This article will help you familiarize yourself with the country’s travel requirements, especially if you’re coming from outside the European Schengen Area. 

What do you need to travel to Portugal from anywhere?

Your passport is your key to entry. Ensure it has at least 3 months of validity beyond your intended departure date and contains at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps.

Furthermore, your passport must:

• Be issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country
• Must have at least 3 months of validity left after the date you plan to leave Portugal.

Always ensure that your passport meets these requirements. You can also contact your embassy if you think your passport does not meet the requirements. Renew your passport if necessary.

For most countries, you will need a visa to travel to Portugal. However, for stays under 90 days within a 180-day period, citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, don’t need a visa. 

Other countries that can travel to Portugal visa-free for short stays includ e Estonia, Finland, France, Czech Republic, Belgium, Austria, Iceland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Greece, Germany, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

However, if you’re unsure about your visa status, it’s crucial to check with the nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate well in advance.

Other Essentials

To ensure a smooth border crossing, you also need to have proof of the purpose of travel to Portugal. 

This boils down to documents such as hotel reservations, tickets to a show, invitation letters from friends/relatives, booked tours, and your onward travel itinerary (like a plane ticket). You may also need to present your return ticket and proof of accommodation. 

Furthermore, you will need proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statement) readily available. You’ll need to have a minimum of €45 (or 47.43 USD) per day to visit Portugal

Documents Required for Short-stay Portuguese Visa Application (Portugal Schengen Visa Application)

• Your passport (following the instructions above)
• A completed and signed Portugal visa application form
• Two passport-sized photographs taken in the last three months
• A round-trip reservation or itinerary 
• Travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros
• A copy of the photo page of your passport 
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Portugal using your bank account statement or sponsorship letter
• Proof of your accommodation in Portugal such as hotel booking or rental agreement or Letter of invitation from a host in Portugal (where applicable).
• Proof of paid visa fee
• Minors must additionally provide birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent

Additional Considerations

• Traveling with minors: If traveling with minors, specific requirements may apply depending on whether they’re traveling alone, with one parent, or both. Generally, Portuguese law demands that foreign minors under 18 years entering or exiting Portugal must have an authorisation letter of Parental consent to travel. 
• Long-term stays: If you plan to stay in Portugal for more than 3 months, registering your presence with the authorities is mandatory. You can complete this process at any immigration office or police station within 3 business days of arrival.

COVID-19 Updates – Do I need Vaccinations to Travel to Portugal?

As regulations can change quickly, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest COVID-19 entry requirements for Portugal. 

You can find the most recent information on the official Portuguese government website or through travel advisories from your country’s embassy/consulate in Portugal. Nevertheless, here are some common requirements and steps you can expect:

• A valid vaccination EU Digital COVID Certificate (with a complete vaccination schedule or a complete COVID-19 vaccination schedule and vaccine booster)
• Or a valid proof of vaccination certificate or recovery certification issued by a third country under reciprocal conditions from the CDC
• Or a negative COVID-19 or RT-PCR Test at about 72 hours before boarding 
• Or a negative Laboratory Rapid Antigen Test about 24 hours before boarding. 
• Or a valid test or recovery EU Digital COVID Certificate.

There are however, exemptions for children and kids under the age of 12. 

Steps to travel to Portugal

if it’s your first time traveling to another country, especially Portugal, you might be concerned about the full details of the entry process. Here’s what you must know.

• Ensure you have a visa when you need one. Portugal is part of the Schengen area. So there might be circumstances (as explained before) where you might need or not need a visa.
• You can get your visa by visiting the embassy or consulate of Portugal. Make sure you allow at least 15 calendar days before your journey when applying for the short-stay visa. Furthermore, the earliest you can apply is three months before your trip. 
• Get a clear stamp on your passport when you first enter the Schengen area. Airlines might refuse boarding, if you don’t have proof of entry or have overstayed your visa. 
• Always carry your passport. This is important especially when crossing borders in the Schengen area. 
• Stay updated on entry and exit conditions. It can change at any time. So you need to pay attention to the guidelines in the Portuguese Immigration and Border Service , or your embassy/consulate of Portugal . 

Furthermore, once you arrive in Portugal, you’ll need to pass through border protocols before entering the country. On occasion, this means going to the dedicated lane for foreign arrivals. There you must present your passport to be stamped. 

The Portuguese border authorities might also ask for additional confirmation such as the purpose of your trips and whether you have sufficient information. Do note that sometimes they might not ask for additional information. But it’s always best to have your valid documents with you to provide proof where necessary. 

Finally, your passport is stamped and you can enter Portugal freely. Remember if you entered for a short stay, you have only 90 days within 180 days to stay in Portugal.

It is unwise to overstay your visa (or short-stay). Doing so attracts a fine and you might be banned from entering in the future. 

Decoding Portugal’s Customs Regulations

Another important part of learning about Portugal travel requirements is knowing what you can bring into the country. Familiarizing yourself with Portugal’s customs regulations is important to avoid any unnecessary delays or issues upon arrival. 

Fortunately, Portugal has a generous duty-free allowance for travelers entering from non-EU countries. Here’s a quick guide on what you can carry on your person. But also remember that you must be above 17 years old before this applies to you. And if you carry beyond the allowances, you must declare them and pay the duty on the excess amount. 

• Tobacco: 40 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco.
• Alcohol: 1 liter of spirits with an alcohol content of over 22% OR 2 liters of spirits with less than 22% alcohol content OR 4 liters of wine OR 16 liters of beer.
• Perfume: 250ml of eau de toilette or 50ml of perfume.
• Other goods: Goods for personal use up to a value of €430.

Portugal’s Currency Exchange

Portugal uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. This simplifies things for travelers who are coming from or will be visiting other European countries. Plus, you can always exchange your country’s currency at a variety of options including banks, airport exchange booths, and currency exchange offices. Also ATMs are a convenient way of accessing cash during your trip. 

But you should also be aware of any potential fees that might apply. It’s always wise to carry a small amount of Euros in cash for immediate needs upon arrival, especially if you arrive outside of regular banking hours. And cash makes it easier to purchase things during your trip. Some travelers, have even said that sometimes, they meet all-cash parking lots, making it difficult to access when they don’t carry cash. 

Wrapping Up

Portugal travel requirements aren’t as complicated as you might imagine. But familiarizing yourself with the different steps, helps you prepare ahead. You should also pay attention to any updates that might appear before you travel to Portugal. 

Frequently asked Questions about Portugal Travel Requirements

What medications are restricted in portugal.

Any medications that require prescriptions are restricted under Portuguese law. This ranges from heart condition rugs, antibiotics, diabetes, injectable medicines, codeine, plain cortisone creams, asthma medications, and more. So you can only carry prescription medications for personal use into Portugal. 

Is Portugal’s visa easy to get? 

A Portuguese visa only takes about 15 calendar days and is pretty straightforward. But then the time of the year, such as summer, and having incomplete documentation can delay your application. That said, you should get a replay in no later than a month or two. 

Is healthcare free in Portugal for tourists?

Portugal does not offer free medical treatment to tourists, outside the EU citizens. However, you can purchase travel medical insurance that would cover your private health care, emergency, hospitalization, and even repatriation. Nevertheless, the cost of healthcare in Portugal is very affordable. You can easily purchase that insurance and cover any out-of-pocket fees with ease. 

Do I need injections for Madeira?

You don’t require any vaccinations officially to visit Portugal. But, the WHO and CDC recommend getting all your applicable vaccinations whether you are moving to Madeira or any other parts of Portugal (or any country in particular). These vaccines include hepatitis B, hepatitis A, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), Tdap, chickenpox, pneumonia, and COVID-19 vaccines. 

Can you travel to Portugal unvaccinated?

No, you cannot travel to Portugal unvaccinated. It is super vital to have all applicable vaccinations required before traveling to Portugal.

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How to Stay in Portugal For More Than 90 Days (as a non-EU citizen)

For non-EU citizens, spending an extended period in Portugal may seem like a challenge due to the limitations of the Schengen Visa. This visa allows non-EU citizens to come to Portugal for 90 days in a 180 day period. This is enough for many tourists, but often not enough for those sizing up Portugal as a place to permanently move to.

However, there are several options available that can allow you to stay in the country for longer periods. In this article, we will explore a few different pathways for non-EU citizens, such as those from the UK or USA, who wish to spend more than 3 months in a row in Portugal.

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Option 1: Just Stay within the Schengen Visa Limit

If you are content with spending a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period in Portugal, then there is no immediate need to apply for additional visas or undergo any complex processes. Under the Schengen Visa rules, non-EU citizens are allowed to stay in the Schengen Area for 90 days within any 180-day period. This means you can come and go, spending up to 3 months in Portugal, without needing to apply for additional permits or file taxes in the country.

Want to spend 180 days in Portugal next year? Come to Portugal for 90, leave for 90, and then come back for another 90. You don’t necessarily have to go back home. You could spend those 90 days in an EU country that’s not in the Schengen Area, like Ireland, Romania, or Bulgaria, or go to the UK, which is no longer a part of the EU. It’s far from ideal, but it’s the simplest option normally.

Option 2: Try to Get the Schengen Visa Extended

Extending the Schengen Visa can be a possibility for non-EU citizens who have a valid reason to stay in Portugal or any other Schengen Area country for more than the initial 90-day limit.

It’s important to note that extending the Schengen Visa is not guaranteed and is generally reserved for exceptional circumstances or emergencies. That said, some Portugalist readers have said they’ve managed to get this extended without needing an emergency explanation — they just stated they’d like to stay longer.

However, to apply for an extension, individuals normally need to provide a strong justification for their request, such as medical treatment, family emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances. The decision to grant an extension lies with the respective immigration authorities, who carefully assess each application on a case-by-case basis. It’s crucial to consult with the local immigration authorities or seek professional guidance to understand the specific requirements and procedures for extending the Schengen Visa in Portugal.

Option 3: Join the Golden Visa Program

If you desire the freedom to spend more than 3 months in a row in Portugal and are looking for the simplest option, the Golden Visa program is worth considering. The Golden Visa program provides a pathway to residency and eventually citizenship for non-EU citizens who make a qualifying investment in Portugal. However, it’s important to note that this program might be ending in 2023, so it’s advisable to act promptly.

Why the golden visa? Because it only requires you to spend an average of 7 days per year in Portugal, although you can spend more than this if you wish to. The golden visa is unique in this sense, as most visas expect you to spend around six months of the year in Portugal [ source ].

As of late 2023, investing in property is no longer an option. It’s expected that investing in funds will become the most popular investment route now, but it isn’t the only route to obtaining the golden visa.

Investment and donation options:

• Funds (such as a venture capital fund):  €500,000.
• Donation to Portugal’s Arts & Culture sector:  €250,000.
• Creation of 10 jobs:  No minimum amount.
• Company Incorporation & Creation of 5 jobs:  €500,000.
• Investment in research (such as scientific research):  €500,000.

Option 4: Obtain Residency in Portugal

For those who do not wish to invest a significant amount of money in the Golden Visa program but still want to spend more than 3 months in Portugal, there are a number of residency visas that are worth exploring. Obtaining residency is a challenge in itself and brings obligations (staying for more than 6 months in Portugal typically means you’re considered a tax resident) so this is an option that requires careful consideration.

The following visas are just examples of two of the most popular residency visas.

The D7 is designed for individuals who have sufficient funds to support themselves without needing to work in Portugal. The most common income sources are a pension, social security, or income from a rental property. To be eligible for the D7 visa, you would need to demonstrate that you have a consistent source of income or adequate financial means to sustain yourself during your stay in Portugal.

This visa allows you to reside legally in Portugal full-time, giving you more time to immerse yourself in the culture, explore the stunning landscapes, and enjoy the rich heritage of Portugal.

The Digital Nomad Visa

If you’re a freelancer or remote worker with an income from outside of Portugal, you could apply for Portugal’s digital nomad visa or D8 . There are two parts to this visa, but one of these is for people that want to stay in Portugal for between 3 and 12 months. Normally, staying for more than 6 months could lead to you being considered a tax resident in Portugal. However, in a Portugalist webinar, lawyer Sandra Gomes Pinto suggested that getting a 1-year visa does not necessarily imply intent to stay, another factor in considering tax residency in Portugal, and the issue is more complex.

There’s also the option of the longer 24-month visa that’s available on the D8, or digital nomad visa, which is aimed at those that really do want to move to Portugal.

Like the D7, this is aimed at those that expect to spend around six months of the year in Portugal and are willing to accept the responsibilities (e.g. taxes) as well as the benefits that come with being resident in Portugal.

Regardless of the option you choose, it is essential to gather all the necessary information, consult professionals, and ensure compliance with Portuguese immigration regulations. By doing so, you can enjoy an extended stay in Portugal and fully immerse yourself in the beauty and charm this remarkable country has to offer.

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Types of Portugal Visa: Your Guide for Visiting and Staying in Portugal

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Moving to Portugal , Planning , Portugal Visas , Visa Types

Table of Contents

• Who needs a Portugal visa?
• Two main types of Portugal Visa
• Short Stay Portugal Visa
• Temporary Stay Portugal National Visa
• Most common types of Portugal visas
• How much does a Portugal Visa cost?
• How much time does it take to process a Portugal visa?

Confused about a Portugal visa ? No matter where you from, in this article you’ll find everything you need to know about the different types of visas available for Portugal that you may need to legally enter, visit or live in Portugal. As you may see in a little while, there are many types of Portugal visa. We will try to give you the best information we have about each one, but we will focus a little more on the visas that may be used by those who wish moving to Portugal . This article is for you if you want to:

• Invest in Portugal;
• Start a business in Portugal;
• Work as a freelancer in Portugal; or
• Simply enjoy a good quality of life as a retiree or an investor.

We will also talk about the costs of these visas and where you can apply for them.

Do US citizens need visa? What about citizens from the UK or South Africa? What about citizens holding European passports, do they need visa for Portugal? Well, we have some good news for you. Did you know Portugal is one of the easiest countries to travel to? Due to the multiple diplomatic deals Portugal holds with many, many countries, it is really easy for citizens from all over the world to come to Portugal or for Portuguese citizens to visit other countries.

European passport holders don’t need a visa to visit Portugal

First, let’s just let clear that nationals holding an EU/Schengen Area/Switzerland valid national ID do not need any kind of visa in order to enter Portugal . That’s one of the benefits of being a member state of the EU/Schengen Area. That includes citizens from the following countries:

• Liechtenstein;
• Switzerland; and
• United Kingdom! (Yes, even after Brexit)

Being exempt from holding a visa when entering Portugal means you have up to 90 days in a 180 days period to come to the country and enjoy it without any problem. These 90 days may be used for tourism, family visits, seasonal work, transit, etc. Please note, that if this is your case and you wish to extend your stay you may need to visit SEF or a “câmara municipal” in your area to register yourself as a resident in Portugal. Find out more about SEF in Portugal here. Conclusion (TLDR): If you have an European Passport you don’t need a visa to travel to Portugal . But there are other countries that benefit from a visa-free travel policy with Portugal. For instance, those who hold a Brazilian passport can travel to Portugal without needing a Portugal visa.

List of countries that have a visa-free deal with Portugal

Citizens from the following countries can visit Portugal without a visa, if holding a valid passport:

• Costa Rica;
• Korea (Republic of);
• New Zealand;
• San Marino;
• Slovak Republic;
• United States;
• Vatican City; and

Please take into consideration that even though there’s a visa-free policy, other requirements may be necessary. You should check your situation with your Portuguese Consulate or Portugal Embassy in your country. All other countries need a Portugal visa including:

• Cape Verde;
• Saudi Arabia;
• South Africa; and
• Many others ( see a list here ).

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss the latest tips for your visit or move to Portugal.

Portuguese visas can be categorised into two categories, depending on the reason you want to visit the country and depending on how long you wish to stay:

• Short Stay Visa (or Schengen Visa);
• Temporary Stay Visa (National Visa).

The Short Stay Portugal Visa, also known as a Schengen Visa, is an authorisation issued by one of the member states of the Schengen Area for the purpose of airport transit, traveling within the Schengen Area or an intended short stay in one or more countries of the Schengen Area. Keep in mind that even if you get the Schengen Visa, you may have to go through border control upon arrival and you might have to prove that you have enough money with you in order to survive for the time you are in Portugal.

Types of Schengen Visa

Within the Schengen Visa, you can find three types:

Airport transit visa

You get to enter the Airport Space and get from one flight to the other without actually entering the Schengen Area.

Seasonal work visa

In case you will be working for less than 90 days in Portugal in previously approved fields of work.

Short-term visa

Short-term visa is the visa that allows you to enter the Schengen Area one or multiple times, in the period of 90 days within 180 consecutive days. Here you can find the forms for the Short Stay Visa  from your country.

The National Visa is classified into two types of visa:

Temporary Stay Visa

The Temporary Stay Visa is valid for one year. You can enter and stay in Portugal as many times as you need with a Temporary Stay Visa within one year; You can get a Temporary stay Visa for the following purposes:

• Study and research;
• Professional training, internship or volunteer work;
• Youth mobility;
• Religious purposes; or
• Exceptional reasons.

Residency Visa

The Portuguese Residency Visa is valid for four months. This visa allows you to enter Portugal a maximum of two times in order to request a Residency Permit by the Immigration and Border Services ( SEF ). The reasons that may justify your visa may have to do with the following:

• Family reunification; and/or
• Fixed residency.

On the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website , you can find the application form you need to fill when applying for the National Visa (residence and temporary stay). Is it all too confusing? We get that it may seem a little confusing, but you don’t need to worry. You know we like to try to simplify things a little. That’s why we thought we could talk about the more prevalent types of visas in Portugal and we developed a list of the more commonly used types of Portugal visa.

Here are the more common types of Portugal Visa:

• Schengen Visa (Short-term visa or Tourist visa);
• Study Visa;
• StartUP Visa;
• D7 Visa; and
• Golden Visa.

Schengen Visa for Portugal

We already covered almost everything about the Schengen Visa above, but just so that you remember, it is valid for 90 days and you can use it to enter Portugal, travel within the Schengen Area and simply enjoy the benefits. You can find all the official requirements and forms for the Schengen Visa here .

Study Visa for Portugal

Depending on the duration of your study, you may have to apply for a Temporary Stay Visa or a Residency Visa. Here is the specific documentation related  to a visa for studying in Portugal .

Work Visa for Portugal

As the name implies, this is the visa you will need in case you would like to work as a subordinate in Portugal. If the period you will work in Portugal is between 90 days to one year, you will need a Temporary Stay Visa. Otherwise, you will have to apply for a Residency Visa by meeting the requirements you can find here .

The Tech Visa is an exciting and new type of visa for Portugal. In order to attract as many brilliant minds as possible and get them into the country from all over the world, starting in January 2019, tech companies can hire employees from outside the EU/Schengen Area. If eligible, companies can hire people from all over the world and give them the opportunity to work in Portugal. Depending on the geographic area of Portugal they are located, these companies may have 50% to 80% of their employees from abroad that can come to Portugal using the Tech Visa.

StartUP Visa

You can apply for a StartUP Visa if you are thinking about opening a startup business in Portugal. However, keep in mind, that in order for you to receive the StartUP Visa, you have to fulfil the following requirements:

• Get its economic potential approved by IAPMEI (website is in Portuguese);
• Develop innovative products OR develop innovative production or service activities;
• Create qualified job positions; and
• Have the potential to attain, five years after the incubation period, a turnover over €325,000 per year, and/or assets value over €325,000 per year.

You can apply for the StartUP Visa here .

The D2 Visa is a type of visa you can apply for if you are an entrepreneur and wish to conduct business and reside in Portugal. Whether you already have a business or you would like to create a small business, a startup in Portugal or have any other project, this visa may be for you. Besides the normal documentation you need when applying for a Residency Visa, you need at least one of the following legal requirements:

• Have already invested in Portugal;
• Have available financial means in Portugal;
• Prove your intention to invest in Portugal.

Contact SEF to apply for a D2 Visa.

The D7 Visa will allow you to move to Portugal and live off the income you get from your retirement fund or any investment you have abroad. Besides all the documents you need , you will also have to show proof of means. This is what you are expected to show, as the minimum proof of means: The first adult applicant: €600(100% of the minimum national wage) x 12 months = €7,200 per year. The second adult applicant: €300 (50% of the minimum national wage) x 12 months = €3,600 per year. Every member of the family under 18 years: €180 (30% of the minimum national wage) x 12 months = €2,160 per year. This is the minimum you need to have, on a yearly basis, in order to be eligible for the D7 Visa for Portugal. However, keep in mind that the higher your income, the better are your chances of getting your application accepted.

Golden Visa Portugal

The Golden Visa is designed to attract investors from all over the world and have them investing in Portugal. This programme is fantastic for those who have a lot of capital available in order to invest in Portugal. At least one of the following requirements must be met:

• Investment of at least €350,000 in scientific research in Portugal;
• Investment of at least €250,000 in Portuguese arts, culture and heritage;
• Investment of at least €500.000 in small and medium businesses in Portugal;
• The purchase of real estate property in Portugal worth at least €500,000;
• The purchase of real estate property in Portuguese urban regeneration areas at least 30 years old to the value of at least €350,000;
• The creation of at least 10 job positions in Portugal; or
• Transfer €1 million into Portugal.

If eligible, you will get the Residency Permit and all the advantages that come with it, plus, if you live in Portugal for less than 183 days per year, you are exempt of paying any taxes on any worldwide income. Find out more about the Golden Visa scheme here.

Short Stay Visa fees

The two types of Short Stay Visas cost the same:

• Airport Visa: €60, payable at the consulate or embassy of Portugal; or
• Schengen Visa: €60, payable at the consulate or embassy of Portugal.

There are some exceptions to these prices, for example:

• Nationals from Georgia, Kosovo, Russia and Ukraine pay only €35;
• Children aged between six to 11 years pay only €35.

And there are also some others who are exempt from paying a fee for the Short Stay Visa:

• Children under six years of age;
• Representatives of non-profit organisations aged under 25 participating in events organised by non-profit organisations;
• Students, postgraduates and teachers who are traveling for educational or training purposes;
• Researchers of developing countries traveling for the purpose of scientific research; and
• Family members of EU Member States nationals or Swiss nationals.

Temporary Stay Visa fees

The Temporary Stay Visa fee is €75 while the Residency Visa fee is fixed at €90, both are payable at the consulate or embassy of Portugal. There are some exceptions that are exempt from this visa fee:

• Children under the age of six years;
• Descendants holding a residency permit, under family reunification clauses;
• Foreign nationals with a study scholarship granted by Portugal;
• Highly qualified professionals working on research activity purposes (residency and temporary stay); and
• Patients and accompanying persons traveling under Cooperation Agreements in the Field of Health with Portugal.

Golden Visa Portugal fees

The Golden Visa fees can vary, depending on the situation and on the person. Here are the prices, all of them payable directly to the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF):

• The processing fee of the first application or the renewal of the Golden Visa for the first applicant: €527.60;
• The processing fee of the first application or the renewal of the Golden Visa for each additional family member: €82.30;
• Initial Golden Visa fee for the first applicant: €5274.40;
• Initial Golden Visa fee for each additional family member: €5274.40;
• Renewal of each Golden Visa: €2637.20.

For a full list of fees (in Portuguese) see the SEF table of fees here .

Well, depending on the type of visa, you should be prepared to wait up to 90 days. During these 90 days, your file will be evaluated and you should receive a notice calling you in for an interview. After that interview, if everything goes well, you will have your visa. When that happens, we wish you enjoy your stay and have an epic time in Portugal! Did you find this information about Portugal’s types of visas useful? Do you have any doubts or wish to find out more Portugal’s types of visas? Feel free to leave a comment or a question below.

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A Tourist Visa in Portugal: A Simple Guide

Ever felt tangled in the intricate web of visa policies? Welcome to the light!

Our simple guide navigates you through the labyrinth of obtaining a tourist visa in Portugal.

A beacon for expats, we clear the haze around protocols and pave your way to a seamless Portuguese escapade

What Is A Tourist Visa For Portugal?

The tourist visa for Portugal is also known as the Schengen visa . Portugal is one of the member states of Schengen countries that have signed an agreement with each other. 

People from one of these 27 Schengen countries can easily visit all the Schengen countries with just one stamp on one’s passport. Others would need to apply for a Schengen tourist visa.

The passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months before applying for the Schengen tourism visa with proof of one’s finances and return air ticket. People can stay in Portugal for a maximum of 90 days on a tourist visa.

As a holder of a Schengen tourist visa, one can visit friends and family to see all the beautiful locations in Portugal but cannot apply for a job or study in any Portuguese institutions permanently. 

Thus, with the Schengen Tourist visa, one can visit all the famous locations, attend festivals, and travel to sightsee all the monuments in the Schengen area of Europe , including Portugal.

What Are Different Characteristics Of Schengen Tourist Visa In Portugal?

The Schengen tourist visa allows the citizens of the Schengen countries to travel visa-free and saves them a lot of hassle and time. However, individuals from other countries still need to go through the process of applying for a tourist visa to visit Portugal.

There are different characteristics related to the Portugal tourist visa that one needs to be aware of if one wants to apply for it to visit Portugal. 

Short-Term Or Temporary Stay

The Tourist visa for Portugal and other Schengen countries is only for a temporary or short-term stay. At maximum, people can stay in Portugal for 90 days on this visa consecutively or with breaks.

They’ll need to leave Portugal after they have completed 90 days under the span of 180 days.

Several Entries

The best characteristic of Schengen visas is that they often allow multiple entries . It means that one may enter or leave the Schengen area several times within the valid limit of the period the tourist visa allows.

Thus, one might enter or leave Portugal within 6 months several times if one has yet to cross the stay of over 90 days .  

Purpose Of Tourist Visa

Tourist visas in Portugal are to travel for leisure in the country and other Schengen areas. People can acquire this visa for visiting family and friends who are residents of Portugal.

One can also apply for this visa to attend cultural festivals or enjoy vacations and other leisure activities.

No Employment

One cannot look for work, apply for work, or even work part-time on a Tourist Schengen visa. 

Schengen tourist visa is a short-term visa. One would either need to apply for a Schengen temporary visa, work permit, or job seeker visa for Portugal if one wants to work in Portugal. 

One must apply for the Schengen tourist visa to study in Portugal. One would again need to apply for a Schengen temporary visa and obtain a resident permit in Portugal to study in Portugal. 

Visa-Free Travel

For some residents of EU and EEA countries , citizens do not need to apply for this visa and are allowed to travel visa-free in all the European states of the Schengen area. 

In conclusion, it is always better to be aware of all of these characteristics of the Schengen Tourist visa before applying for it to visit Portugal.

Who Can Request A Short-term Schengen Visa?  

Any individual who belongs to a Member State of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) does not need to apply for the Schengen tourist visa. 

So, foreigners who do not belong to any of the states mentioned above need to apply for a tourist visa. 

Also, someone other than a resident of Switzerland can and must apply for a Schengen visa for touring Schengen countries like Portugal. 

Thus, it is compulsory for any individual who wants to tour the Schengen area as well as Portugal to present the approved visa papers to the authorities according to their nationality to ensure they are legally permitted to travel through Portugal. 

When To Apply For A Tourist Visa For Portugal?

The tourist Visa applications for Portugal must be submitted:

• 15 days before the travel date 
• Under 3 months before the travel date, not before 6 months .

Where To Apply For The Tourist Visa For Portugal?

Applications for the tourist visa should be presented either through the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy or any other authorized visa application center connected with Portugal.

If a country does not have a Portuguese consulate, one can request to submit the tourist visa applications at the Consulate or embassy of any other Schengen state.

An applicant must submit the visa applications in one’s home country . Applying from countries other than one’s home country is permissible in some cases.

One would need to present a valid reason for taking such action and confirm with the relevant authorities before applying. Nonetheless, one’s application may only be accepted if it goes against the laws .

How To Request A Tourist Visa Application?  

If one wants to tour Portugal and wants to access the Schengen tourist visa application, then one might be able to do that through the following ways:

It is easy if one can get the visa applications online . Portugal has made it easy to access and download Visa applications through their online portal or Foreign Ministry . One would need to print the form.  

However, one would need to go physically to the embassy or Consulate to submit the applications, as the acceptance of the visa application for tourists is not accepted by Portugal online.

Physically, In Person:

One can go physically to get the tourist visa applications. One would need to go to the following places to get the application forms:

• Portugal Embassy or Consulate Office
• Consular representative offices of any European Union country if there is no Portuguese consular office in one’s home country.
• In some countries, there are also some approved service providers where one can get the application forms for tourist visas.  

How Long Can One Stay In Portugal With a Tourist Visa?

One can stay in Portugal with a tourist visa for 90 days within a limited period of 6 months . 

The exact dates of one’s approved stay and the deadline of the stay are usually mentioned on the papers of visa stickers on one’s passport . 

What Is The Deadline To Request A Schengen Tourist Visa?  

One must apply for the Schengen Tourist Visa for Portugal between 6 months to 15 days before the intended travel date. 

In some emergency cases, one may submit a request for the visa application when one might have less than 15 days to travel but would need to provide a valid reason for such action. The visa fee might be different for urgent cases. 

What Are The Required Documents for a Portugal Schengen Tourist Visa?

Before collecting all the required documents, one needs to attach them with one’s tourist visa applications for Portugal. One needs to know in which language the documents must be approved. 

The application form for the tourist visa of Portugal is also available in different languages:

• French 

Though the application forms are available in the languages mentioned above, if the documents that the applicant needs to attach with the application forms are present in any other language than Portuguese or English.

Then, one would need to get the documents translated or notarized and approved by the embassy of one’s home country before they could be attached to the visa application. 

The table below shows that the following documents are required to be attached to the tourist visa application for Portugal:

All of the documents shown in the table are required to be attached with a completed application form for a tourist visa for Portugal.

What Are The Steps To Applying For a Portugal Tourist Visa?

Like any other visa application, the whole process of applying for a tourist visa for Portugal is also detailed for individuals who are not residents of the Schengen states. 

One needs to follow the below-given steps to get one’s application for a tourist visa in Portugal approved.

Verifying Eligibility

One must verify if one is eligible to apply for a Schengen tourist visa for traveling to Portugal. If one is a resident of EU/EEA states , then one won’t need a tourist visa.

Whereas residents of other countries would need to verify the following to be eligible:

• Have Clear Purpose And Good Intentions: One must have valid and good intentions behind traveling to Portugal, which should be for touring and not for work or studies.
• Financially Able: One must have enough means to support oneself and any dependents during the travels.
• Confirm Return: Attaching a return ticket will confirm that one will only stay in Portugal for the approved, set time as a tourist and then will return after the stay.
• Sound Character: A person is only eligible if one has a clear criminal record , which is a must. 
• Healthy: Travelling, as well as the tourist visa, requires one to be in good health .

Visiting The Portuguese Consulate Or Embassay

The second step after verifying one’s eligibility for the tourist visa is to look for the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy to get the application form for the tourist visa. One needs to get the application form from there.

If there is no Portuguese embassy or Consulate in one’s country, one can apply through any other Schengen States embassy. 

Attaching All The Required Documents

Gathering all the required documents per the instructions given in the tourist visa application form is one of the most critical steps. One’s missing or wrong documents usually lead to the rejection of one’s application.

So, carefully read the details, gather the documents on time, and attach them after re-checking. 

Scheduling An Appointment

After filling out the application form for the tourist visa and attaching all the documents, one needs to schedule an appointment in the authorized office to submit the visa application .

Remember to re-check every instruction and tick-mark the checklist of documents provided at the end of the visa application form! 

Taking Visa Interview

The consulates or working officials at the embassy usually call the applicant for an in-person interview. They might ask questions concerning the attached documents and mention details on the application form.

They may also ask about one’s travel plans, financial means, accommodation , and reasons for touring and verify it with the written information on one’s application. 

Attending this interview is mandatory. It will likely prevent one’s application from being rejected. 

Paying The Fee

People must double-check the required fee for one’s tourist visa application for Portugal because there are different fee criteria for different age groups and nationalities .

Wait For Processing 

One should always apply at the earliest after the decided date of travel . This caution is necessary because a delayed visa application processing might lead to a delayed or complete cancellation of one’s travels. 

It usually takes 15 to 45 days to process the tourist visa application for Portugal.

What Are The Further Steps For Approved Visa Applications?

After the visa applications have been accepted, one must ensure that all the information on the application form is correct and valid .

The following things should be considered by the Applicants who have got their approved Schengen Tourist Visa for Portugal:

• Inform the Portuguese Consulate of any change in your travel plans or place of accommodation. 
• The approval of a Schengen visa does not guarantee entry upon arrival to Portugal or other countries in the Schengen area.
• Obtaining a Schengen visa only provides a partial percent assurance that one will be admitted to Portugal or other Schengen countries when one arrives.
• One might still need to present additional documentation per the requirements of each member of the Schengen area, proving one’s ability to pay for travel or lodging.

What Are The Further Steps For Denied Visa Applications?

On the unfortunate occasion of rejection of one’s Schengen Tourist visa application, one may take the following steps:

• Within 15 days of rejection, one may complain to the Consulate that rejected the application.
• One can also appeal to the Portuguese minister within 30 days of rejecti ng one’s application. 
• When the appeal to the Foreign Ministry has been refused, one can make the appeal again through Lisbon’s Administrative Court within 3 months of getting the rejection.
• However, the appeal can only be processed if one has paid a non-refundable fee again.

Thus, one may follow the steps mentioned earlier in case of rejection of the Schengen Tourist Visa Application for Portugal.

What Is The Fee To Request A Tourist Visa For Portugal?  

The average cost of applying for a tourist visa for Portugal is 80€. Schengen residents and children under the age of twelve have to pay 40€.

Portugal and other Schengen countries also give fee concessions . The following individuals are not expected to pay fees for tourist visa applications: 

• Children younger than 6 . 
• Students and teachers when traveling on study trips .
• Researchers travel for scientific research or to collect data for research.
• Non-profit organizations’ representatives above 25 years of age. Specifically, touring to attend cultural or social events , seminars, and conferences that Portuguese or international non-profit organizations have organized.
• Family members or nationals of Member States of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.

What Are The Obligations Of Tourist Visa For Portugal?

Each country has specific laws and regulations imposed on its citizens and travelers. So, one must know what compulsions one must follow when visiting Portugal on a tourist visa. 

One needs to register one’s entry on arrival . Even if one has reached Portugal after traveling by air, sea, or land , one must register one’s entry with the officials.

Suppose one decides not to stay in the mentioned hotel or any tourist accommodation mentioned in the application. In that case, one is also obligated to inform the local immigration office within three days of one’s stay in Portugal. 

Portuguese Immigration Services provide a declaration of entry upon registering the tourists’ entry into Portugal. This document also mentions the duration of one’s stay.

If one fails to follow this protocol and does not make a timely registration of entry, then one has committed a punishable offense . Thus, one will be fined €60 to €160 by the authorities. 

For underage adolescents, carrying a parental consent form with their passport is mandatory . It must also be notarized in Portuguese to ease any local officer’s understanding.

According to the immigration laws of Portugal, the parental consent document must have the signature of the parents or guardian. It must mention the reason for travel and duration of stay.

Not having this document can lead to rejecti ng one’s visa application. If one loses this document during one’s stay in Portugal, then one must inform the authorities immediately.

Venturing into the heart of Portugal is a breeze when armed with the right knowledge ! Dive deep into the culture, savor the exquisite cuisine , and let the Portuguese charm weave its magic around you. With the right visa, every alley is an invitation to explore more.

Happy Exploring!

But wait, there’s more! You might also be interested in the following:

• Job Seeker Visa in Portugal: The Ultimate Guide
• Work Employment Visa in Portugal: Explained
• Dual Citizenship in Portugal: An Expats Guide