Portugal Visa - all the details!
07 Jan 2024
Tourism in Portugal constitutes a unique experience, as stunning nature and rich history combine to create one of the best tourist destinations in Europe. The Portuguese coasts are distinguished by their golden sandy beaches and charming natural landscapes, while the historical cities host distinctive artistic and cultural landmarks. Tourism in Portugal offers diversity that satisfies all tastes, whether you enjoy relaxing on the beach, exploring traditional villages, or visiting wonderful historical sites.
As for the Portugal visa, it is one of the main gateways to entering the European Union. Most visitors who are not from European Union countries must obtain a visa before traveling to Portugal . Visitors must check visa requirements and submit necessary documents to the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate before setting a departure date. A Portugal visa offers the possibility to discover its beauty and enjoy a unique experience in this wonderful destination.
The most beautiful tourist places in Portugal... click here
---Find the best Portugal hotel deals---
Types of visas in Portugal
Portugal offers a variety of visas, including Schengen visas for short stays, national visas for temporary stays, and national visas for long stays. Below is an examination of each type in detail:
1. Portugal Schengen visas (short stay):
- Used for stays lasting up to 90 days, intended for tourism, family visits and other temporary reasons.
The cost of the examination is 80 euros for adults, 40 euros for children between 6 and 12 years old, and 35 euros for citizens of some European and Asian countries, and children under the age of six are exempt from fees.
2. National visas for temporary residence:
- Used for stays longer than 90 days and up to one year, including temporary work visas and study visas.
The cost of the examination is 75 euros, and children under the age of six are exempt from the fee.
3. National long-stay visas (residence visas):
- Residence permits for a period exceeding one year are permitted, including work visas and family reunification visas.
The cost of the examination is 90 euros, and an application for a residence permit must be submitted by the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
List of documents required to obtain a Portugal visa
1. Passport:
- It must be valid for three months after the date of departure from Portugal and contain at least two blank pages.
2. Copies of previous visas:
- If there are previous visas, it is preferable to attach copies of them.
4. Passport size photos:
- Personal photos that match passport requirements.
5. Travel health insurance:
- Includes health care insurance during your stay in Portugal.
6. Payment of visa fees:
- The fees required to process the visa application must be paid.
7. Itinerary:
- Shows flight information including arrival and departure dates.
8. Visa cover letter:
- Includes personal information, reason for travel, arrival and departure times, planned activities, and any travel to other Schengen countries.
9. Proof of sufficient funds:
- This is done by submitting bank statements proving the applicant’s ability to cover accommodation costs.
10. Proof of residence in Portugal:
- Includes a hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a friend or relative.
11. Employment status documents:
- It includes an employment contract, a leave letter from the employer, a business registration certificate for private business owners, a registration certificate from the university or school for students, and a retirement certificate for retirees.
12. Additional documents:
- Some additional documents may be required depending on the reason for travel, for example:
- In the case of medical treatment, the file must be accompanied by medical reports and supporting documents.
- In the case of study, a no-objection letter from the educational institution must be attached.
Places to submit Portugal visa applications
1. Portuguese Embassy:
- Applicants can submit their applications for a Portugal visa directly at the Portuguese embassy in their country.
2. Portuguese Consulate:
- Some countries may have Portuguese consulates, where citizens can apply for a visa at those consulates.
3. Visa Application Centre:
- There could be special visa application centers in which Portugal has cooperated with external sources. Applicants can visit these centers to submit their applications.
4. Embassy/Consulate of another Schengen country:
- In some cases, Portugal can rely on embassies or consulates of other countries in certain regions. Applicants can visit these embassies or consulates to submit their applications.
Please check the official website of the Portuguese Embassy in the applicant's country for accurate information on where to submit your visa application and the procedures followed.
Steps to apply for a Portugal visa
1. Choose the type of visa:
- Select the appropriate type of Portugal visa, whether it is a Portugal Schengen visa or national visas according to the purpose of your trip.
2. Create an account on the website:
- Create a special account on the website designated for submitting Portuguese visa applications .
3. Fill out and sign the form:
- Fill out the required form, download it, print it and sign it as an essential step.
4. Complete documents:
- Complete the required documents which include all necessary documents to support your application.
5. Make an appointment with the embassy or consulate:
- Make an appointment with the available Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country to submit your visa application.
6. Payment of visa fees:
- I pay the fees related to the Portugal visa according to the specified procedures.
7. Submitting the application:
- Submit your application for a Portugal visa within the specified period, which must not be less than 15 days and not more than 6 months before the date of travel.
8. Personal attendance and biometric data:
- Applications must be submitted in person, and you will also be asked to provide biometric or biometric data, including fingerprints.
9. Exclusion of children under 12 years:
- Children under 12 years old are exempt from having their fingerprints taken, but they will also have to take an additional facial photo.
Please note that it is preferable to check the official website of the Portuguese Embassy to ensure up-to-date information and full compliance with current procedures.
The best time to apply for a Portugal visa
We recommend submitting your application at least 15 days before your planned departure date, but no later than 6 months before your travel date.
Waiting period to obtain a Portugal visa
Schengen visa processing usually takes about 15 days, although this period may extend to 60 days in some special cases.
Portugal visa fees
- For individuals aged 12 years and over: 80 euros
-For children aged 6 to 12 years: 40 euros
- Children under 6 years old: free
Please keep in mind that these fees are subject to change and it is best to check the official website of the Portuguese Embassy for the latest information before applying.
The most beautiful tourist places in Portugal... click here
