Visas can be complicated. The rules change depending on what country you’re going to, what country you’re coming from, and what the purpose of your visit is.
We’re here to make things easier for you. This article provides an in-depth look at the Portugal visa application and entry requirements.
Portugal COVID-19 Requirements: Entry Restrictions in Response to COVID-19
Previously, a negative COVID-19 test, vaccination certificate, or recovery certificate was required to travel to Portugal during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, from 1 July 2022, as per the Portugal COVID entry requirements, it’s no longer required for passengers entering Portuguese national territory (including Azores and Madeira) to present proof of a negative test result for COVID-19, the COVID EU Digital Passport or vaccination certificate, or the recovery certificate.
Portugal Entry Requirements
Portugal’s entry requirements are dependent on your nationality. If you are a European Economic Area (EEA) national, you only need a valid form of identification, such as a passport or an ID Card, to enter Portugal.
US, Canadian, Australian, and UK citizens can enter Portugal for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without needing a visa.
However, suppose you’re not from the EEA or a visa-exempt country. In that case, Portugal travel requirements state that you must show the following at a Portuguese port of entry:
- A passport or travel document issued within the last ten years that is valid for a minimum of three months beyond your planned exit date from Portugal
- A visa
The Portuguese Border Officer may also ask for additional documentation, such as:
- Proof of funds and a return plane ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
They can also question your visit’s purpose, where you’re going to stay, and how long you intend to stay in Portugal. The final decision lies with the border police, so ensure you bring accompanying documents to answer these questions.
Finally, ensure you get a stamp from the border officer, as it is illegal to enter without one.
Who needs a Schengen Visa to enter Portugal?
The Schengen Visa is a short-term visa that allows travelers to visit multiple countries within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Portugal is a Schengen Area member and, therefore, subject to the same visa regulations and requirements as other Schengen countries.
Visiting Portugal for up to 90 days as a U.S. citizen? No visa is required. Ensure your U.S. passport is valid for at least three months beyond your stay or have an approved document by Schengen member states.
Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, do not need a visa to enter Portugal for stays of up to 90 days. However, citizens of other countries, such as India, China, and South Africa, must obtain a Schengen Visa before entering Portugal. Read the list of countries that require a Schengen Visa here.
It is essential to check with your local embassy to determine if you need to apply for a Portugal visa.
What documents are required for a Portugal Schengen Visa Application?
If you’re submitting a Portuguese Schengen Visa application, there are certain documents you must provide with your application. These include:
- A completed and signed visa application form
- Two passport-sized photographs taken within the last three months
- A round-trip reservation or itinerary
- Travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000
- A copy of the photo page of your passport
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Portugal through a bank account statement or sponsorship letter with your sponsor’s bank statement attached
- A letter of invitation from a host in Portugal (if applicable) or other proof of accommodation in Portugal, such as a hotel booking or rental agreement
- Proof of paid visa fee
It is important to note that these are just the basic requirements. Depending on the purpose of your visit, there may be other documents that you need to submit with your visa application.
Additional Portuguese visa requirements based on your employment status
It is important to note that additional visa requirements may apply depending on your employment status. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements for Portugal before applying.
There are options available outside of a Portuguese Schengen Visa. Based on your employment status, you could be eligible for the following visas:
The Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad visa is a brand new scheme introduced by the Portuguese government in 2022. It offers two options:
- Short stays allow remote workers to stay in Portugal for one year
- Residency visa that can be renewed for up to five years
To be eligible, remote workers must prove a monthly income four times that of the current minimum income in Portugal.
They must also provide a work contract or proof that they are self-employed. Here’s our take on Portugal for digital nomads.
Portuguese Residency Visa
The Portuguese Residency Visa allows a more extended stay in Portugal. It can be granted to people in the following circumstances:
- Employed work
- Self-employment or entrepreneurial activities
- Scientific research or teaching
- Study, student exchange, internship, or voluntary service
- Higher education programs (for students already residing in Portugal who want to further their studies)
- Family reunion
- Pensioners and people with passive income
This visa can be issued as a multi-entry visa, meaning you can travel to other Schengen states.
The Portugal Tech Visa
- The applicant must be a third-country national who doesn’t reside in the territory of the European Union.
- The applicant must fulfill all tax obligations.
- The applicant must have a clean criminal record and be at least 18 years old at the time of the Portugal visa application.
- The applicant must have completed Bachelor’s or an equivalent level – level 6, according to ISCED 2011, or level 5 (tertiary level education) with five years of experience in specialized technical functions.
- Hold proficiency in Portuguese, English, French, or Spanish appropriate to the functions/duties performed
Portugal’s D7 Visa
Portugal’s D7 visa allows you to live and work in Portugal as a non-EU/EEA citizen. We’ve set up an eligibility test that lets you check whether this is the proper visa for you in a few minutes.
This visa was introduced in 2007 for people with a passive income. The income could be from a pension, real estate investments, intellectual property, or other financial equity.
It allows its holder permanent free entry and circulation in the Schengen area and the right to live, work, and study in Portugal. What’s more, your entire family is eligible for residency in Portugal under the EU family reunification scheme.
After five years, you can apply for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship, whereby you can obtain a Portuguese passport, provided you meet the requirements under Portuguese nationality law.
It requires that its applicants:
- Be a non-EU/EEA national
- Minimum income requirements: Earn a passive income of at least €760 per month (your income can come from pensions, transferable equity, real estate, intellectual property, or financial equity)
- Have a clean criminal record
- Have proof of savings to support themselves and any dependents for at least one year
- Show proof of a place to live in Portugal
When the residency card is issued, applicants cannot leave Portugal for more than six consecutive months or eight months in total during the two-year period.
Portugal’s Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program. The Golden Visa allows you to live and work in Portugal, with opportunities to become a citizen after five years, provided you meet all the requirements under Portuguese nationality law.
As a Golden Visa holder, you can bring your family members to live, work, and study in Portugal.
The Portugal Golden Visa requires that you make a qualifying investment into the country, with investment options starting from €250,000. Many investment options are available, including real estate and cultural heritage.
If you’re seeking help applying for any of the visas above, do not hesitate to contact us. We can guide you through the program and help you start your journey in Portugal.
Important note: The Portugal Golden Visa is being restructured. You can find out more in our article: Portugal Golden Visa Ending: Everything We Know So Far.
Additional Requirements Based on the Purpose of Entry to Portugal
Portugal’s visa requirements vary depending on the purpose of your visit. If you enter Portugal for tourism or business, you must provide additional documents and the above essential requirements.
Tourists
If you’re looking for a Portuguese tourist visa, you must provide a detailed itinerary of your planned activities, a round-trip flight reservation, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Portugal.
Business traveler
For business travelers, you must provide an invitation letter from the company you will be visiting in Portugal, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, and a letter from your employer stating the purpose of your trip.
Work/study
If you enter Portugal for work or study, you must provide additional documents proving your qualifications and/or plans. For example, if you enter Portugal to work, you must provide proof of a valid work permit or contract. If you are entering Portugal to study, you must provide proof of enrollment in a Portuguese educational institution.
In addition to these requirements, you must also be able to prove that you have a valid reason to leave Portugal before your visa expires by providing evidence of a return ticket or an onward ticket to a third country.
Portugal Airport Transit Visa requirements
Airport Transit Visas (A) are sometimes required for travelers who are only passing through the international zone of a Schengen airport on their way to a non-Schengen destination.
This visa does not allow holders to enter the Schengen area, and they must remain in the airport’s transit area until their connecting flight. It is only valid for one transit through the airport and is optional for passengers with a valid visa for their final destination.
For example, if you are flying from India to the United States with a layover in Frankfurt, Germany, and you do not plan to leave the airport during your layover, you would need an Airport Transit Visa.
Nationals from the following countries are required to hold a Portugal Airport Transit Visa:
- Bangladesh
- The Democratic Republic of Congo
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Nigeria
- Somalia
- Iraq
- Iran
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
Airport Transit Visas are only sometimes required. To read more about exceptions, click here. E.g., For the following do not need Airport Transit Visas:
- People holding uniform visas, long-stay national visas, or residency permits issued by a Member State
- The family members of EU citizens who have freedom of movement rights
- People holding diplomatic passports
- Airport or airline crew members who are nationals of a contracting party to the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation.
Required documents for an Airport Transit Schengen Visa to Portugal
The following documents are required for an airport transit Schengen visa to Portugal:
- Form filled and signed (under Portuguese Immigration Law, minors and people with limited capacity should have their forms filled by a legal guardian)
- Return ticket
- A passport photograph
- An entry visa for the country of their destination
- An authentic and valid travel document
- Work certificate and salary, bank statements from the last three months proving that they have the means to cover their stay and return to their country of origin
Portugal Transit Visa requirements
If you leave the international transit area and pass through customs, you will need a visa to transit in Portugal (unless you’re visa-exempt).
The Transit Visa (B) is issued for travelers transiting through a Schengen member country on their way to a non-Schengen destination. It allows the holder to enter and remain in the transit area of an airport or travel through the Schengen Area to reach a non-Schengen destination. This visa is suitable for travelers who must stop in a Schengen member country on their way to a non-Schengen destination.
Required documents for a Transit Schengen Visa to Portugal
These are the same as the required documents outlined in the section above.
Portugal Tourist Visa requirements
Portugal is the perfect travel destination. Don’t just take it from us – there was a whopping 8.1 million visitors in the first seven months of 2022. If you want to come and visit the ‘Best Tourism Destination in Europe,‘ you might need a tourist visa.
If you’re visiting Portugal from a country that does not have a visa-free agreement, you will need a Tourist Schengen Visa, also known as a Short-Stay Visa C. This visa is issued for trips that are less than 90 days in duration. It allows the holder to enter and travel within the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.
This visa is suitable for travelers planning vacations, visiting friends and family, or conducting short-term business. For example, if you plan a two-week vacation to Portugal, Italy, and Spain, you would apply for a Short-Stay Visa.
Tourist Visa application tips
If you plan on spending the same time in each country, apply to the embassy or consulate of the country you’re first visiting.
Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to apply for the Schengen Tourist Visa. The latest you can file your visa application is 15 calendar days before your journey, and the earliest is three months before your trip.
We’d recommend applying for the Schengen Visa somewhere in the middle, as it takes up to ten calendar days for the embassy or consulate to respond.
Required documents for a Tourist Schengen Visa to Portugal
When applying for a Tourist Schengen Visa, you must submit the following personal documents:
- A fully completed visa application form printed and signed
- Two recent photos taken within the last three months
- A valid passport
- Round-trip itinerary or booking
- Travel health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of financial means (through a bank account statement or sponsorship letter)
- Evidence of employment status
- Students must bring proof of enrollment
- Travel itinerary
Minors must additionally bring:
- A birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
- Letter of consent from parents, including passport copies of both parents/legal guardian
Portugal Visitor Visa requirements
A Schengen Visitor Visa and a Schengen Tourist Visa are both types of visas that allow individuals to enter the Schengen Area for a short stay. However, there is a subtle difference between the two.
A Schengen Visitor Visa is intended for individuals who wish to visit friends or family members residing in the Schengen Area. In contrast, a Schengen Tourist Visa is designed for individuals who want to travel to the Schengen Area for tourism purposes.
Both types of visas allow the holder to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days. However the visit’s purpose may be considered during the visa application process.
Required documents for a Schengen Visitor Visa to Portugal
The required documents for a Schengen Visitor Visa to Portugal may vary depending on the individual’s situation. Still, the following documents are generally required:
- A valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages
- A completed and signed visa application form
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of accommodation for the duration of the stay, such as a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from the host
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the stay, such as bank statements or a letter from an employer
- Proof of travel medical insurance
- A flight itinerary or booking confirmation
- Proof of ties to the home country, such as a letter from an employer or a school if a student
- Any additional documents required by the Portuguese Consulate or the nearest Portuguese Embassy from where you are applying
It is important to note that these requirements may change, so it is best to check with the Portuguese Consulate or Portuguese Embassy for the most up-to-date information.
Portugal Business Visa requirements
This visa is suitable for individuals planning to conduct business in a Schengen member country, such as attending a conference or meeting with clients. For example, if you are planning to attend the Web Summit in Portugal.
Required documents for a Business Schengen Visa to Portugal
To apply for a business Schengen Visa to Portugal, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport or travel document: Your passport must be valid for at least three months before your return to your home country, and it should have at least two blank pages for the visa stamp.
- Two recent passport-size photos: These should be taken against a white background and be of good quality.
- A completed and signed visa application form: The form should be filled out in capital letters and signed by the applicant.
- A letter of invitation from the Portuguese company should state the purpose of your trip, the duration of your stay, and the name and address of the company you will visit.
- Proof of accommodation: This can include a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from the host company confirming that they will provide housing for your stay.
- Proof of financial means: This can include bank statements or a letter from your employer confirming your salary and employment status.
- Travel itinerary: This should include your flight and hotel reservations and any other travel plans you have while in Portugal.
- Health insurance: You will need to provide proof of travel health insurance that covers your stay in Portugal. The health insurance plan has to provide a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Proof of business or professional status: This can include a letter from your employer or a copy of your business registration papers.
- Other relevant documents can include any additional documents pertinent to your trip’s purpose.
It’s important to note that the above list of documents may vary depending on the purpose of your trip and the length of your stay, and the nearest Portuguese embassy from where you are applying may request additional documents.
Portugal Study Visa Requirements
There are two different types of Portuguese Study Visas for non-EEA nationals
- The short-term student visa (Type C) is for students or researchers who plan to participate in a course or research project in Portugal for less than 90 days
- The long-term student visa (Type D) is for students and researchers researching or studying in Portugal for more than 90 days
The Type D visa requires non-EU students to apply for a year-long Residence Permit once they arrive in Portugal. After the year, the residency permit can be renewed for up to five years at a local SEF office.
For a Portugal study visa, you can read our article with helpful information and tips.
Required documents for a Student Schengen Visa to Portugal
- A valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages
- A completed and signed visa application form
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- A certificate of enrolment at a Portuguese educational institution
- Guarantee of sufficient financial means to cover the expenses of the stay
- Proof of accommodation, such as a rental contract or a letter of invitation from a host in Portugal
- A study plan or course syllabus
- Proof of language proficiency, if required by the educational institution
Portugal Medical Visa requirements
To apply for this visa, individuals must provide proof of their medical condition, such as a letter from a doctor or hospital, and evidence of adequate health insurance coverage.
It’s important to note that the Schengen Medical Visa does not grant the holder the right to work or engage in any activities other than receiving medical treatment.
Required documents for a Medical Schengen Visa to Portugal
- A valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages
- A completed and signed visa application form
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- A letter from a doctor or hospital in Portugal confirming the need for medical treatment
- A detailed medical report from the applicant’s doctor
- Proof of health insurance that provides coverage overseas
- Guarantee of sufficient financial means to cover the expenses of the stay
- Proof of accommodation, such as a rental contract or a letter of invitation from a host in Portugal
Portugal Visa for cultural/sports/film crew/religious purposes: Requirements
This type of Portuguese Schengen visa is issued for individuals traveling for cultural, sports, religious, or film-related activities. It allows the holder to enter and travel within the Schengen area for a specific period, usually between 1 and 90 days.
This visa is suitable for individuals planning to participate in cultural, sports, religious, or film-related activities in a Schengen member country. For example, if you plan to perform in a concert or participate in a film festival, you would apply for a Cultural/Sports/Film/Religious Purpose Visa.
Required documents for a Schengen Visa to Portugal for cultural, sports, film crew, or religious purposes
- A valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages
- A completed and signed visa application form
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- An invitation letter from a Portuguese host or organization
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the expenses of the stay
- Proof of accommodation, such as a rental contract or a letter of invitation from a host in Portugal
- A detailed program of the cultural, sports, film crew, or religious activities
- Any other relevant documents that prove the purpose of the trip
Portugal Visa for the spouse of a Portuguese national: Requirements
The Portugal Visa for the spouse of a Portuguese national is a specific visa that allows the spouse of a Portuguese national to enter and reside in Portugal.
The individual must be married to a Portuguese national and provide proof of their marriage and their spouse’s Portuguese citizenship. They must also provide evidence of adequate financial means and valid health insurance. The visa is usually issued for one year, but you can renew it if the marriage is still valid.
Required documents for a Portuguese Schengen Visa application for the wife/husband of a Portuguese citizen
- A valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages
- A completed and signed visa application form
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of marriage to a Portuguese citizen
- Evidence of the Portuguese spouse’s citizenship
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the expenses of the stay
Portugal Official Visit Visa Requirements
The Portugal Official Visit Visa is a type of visa that is intended for official delegations, government officials, and diplomats who are visiting Portugal on official business. This includes attending conferences, meetings, or signing agreements.
To apply for this visa, the individual or organization must provide an official invitation letter from the Portuguese government or a relevant Portuguese organization, as well as proof of their official status. They must also provide evidence of adequate financial means and valid health insurance.
Portuguese Schengen Visa applications for members of official delegations
The Portuguese Schengen Visa for Members of Official Delegations is a specific visa for individuals who are part of an official delegation traveling to Portugal for official business. This includes attending conferences, meetings, or signing agreements.
To apply for this visa, the individual must provide an official invitation letter from the relevant organization or government and proof of their official status within the delegation. They must also provide evidence of adequate financial means and valid health insurance.
It’s important to note that this visa does not allow the holder to engage in activities outside the official delegation’s itinerary.”
Please note the above information is general guidelines; it’s always best to check with the Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate in your country for the most current and accurate information.
We Can Help
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique immigration firm that can provide any advice or help needed with your visa applications. We’re experts in taking care of the complicated parts so that you can enjoy Portugal. We’re happy to answer any of your questions about Portugal visa applications and entry requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions about Portugal’s Visa Application and Entry Requirements
Is it easy to get a Portuguese visa?
It is difficult to say whether Portugal is easy or difficult to get a visa for, as it depends on the individual circumstances of each applicant and the specific type of visa they are applying for.
Factors such as the purpose of the trip, the applicant’s financial and personal situation, and the completeness and accuracy of the application can all affect the outcome of the visa application.
How much does a Portugal Tourist Visa cost?
The cost of a Portugal Tourist Visa can vary depending on the country where the application is made, the type of visa, and the processing time.
However, as a general rule, the cost is usually around 60 Euros. It is advisable to check with the Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate in your country for the exact fee and requirements.
What are the Portugal entry requirements for UK citizens?
UK citizens can enter Portugal for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without needing a visa.
The (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) FCO Portugal entry requirements can be found here for further clarification.
What are the Portugal entry requirements for US citizens?
U.S. citizens can stay in Portugal for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without requiring a visa. It’s essential to ensure that your passport remains valid for at least three months beyond your intended period of stay. However, if you intend to transit through a Schengen country before arriving in Portugal, review the guidance on U.S. Travelers in Europe for additional information and entry requirements.
Are there any Covid restrictions in Portugal?
From 1 July 2022, it’s no longer required for passengers entering Portuguese national territory, which includes the autonomous islands of the Azores and Maderia, to present proof of a negative test result for COVID-19, the COVID EU Digital Passport or vaccination certificate, or the recovery certificate.
Does Portugal require a COVID-19 test?
No, you will not require a COVID-19 test to enter Portugal.
Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
Whether you need a visa to travel to Portgual will depend on the country you are from and the length of time that you wish to stay in Portgual. You will, however, need a visa to stay in Portugal long-term unless you are an EU citizen.
What do I need to travel to Portugal?
What you need to travel to Portugal will depend on the country you are coming from and how long you intend to stay in Portugal. If you are an EU citizen, you will have no problem entering Portugal, while if you are non-EU citizen, you may have to get a visa.
With this said, many countries, such as the UK and the USA, have agreements with Portugal so that you can enter easily and stay for 90 days. It is best to check the entry requirements for Portugal based on your country of origin.
Is Portugal open to foreign travel?
Yes, Portugal is open to foreign travel, and there are no Portugal COVID restrictions.
Does Portugal allow vaccinated tourists?
Portugal vaccine requirements allows vaccinated travelers to enter Portugal. Also, non-vaccinated people can also enter the country.
Do you need to print a passenger locator form to enter Portugal?
The Passenger Locator Form is no longer required to enter Portugal.
Can I apply for a visa to start a business in Portugal?
Yes, as a foreign citizen, you can apply for a business visa to start business activities in Portugal. The business visa allows you to visit Portugal with the intention of exploring or establishing business opportunities.
How long does it take to process a visa application for Portugal?
The processing time for visa applications can vary, but typically, it takes about 15 calendar days. However, this can extend up to 30 days and, in exceptional cases, up to 60 days, especially if there are issues with the supporting documents you provide or if further scrutiny of your immigration status is required.
Additional Information:
Portugal, being a member of the Schengen Agreement, offers various visa types based on the purpose of the visit. While the business visa caters to those looking to engage in business activities, there are other visa types for different purposes. Remember that visa fees are applicable, and the exact amount might vary depending on the visa type and duration.
Once in Portugal, it’s crucial to stay updated with the local authorities regarding your immigration status, especially if you intend to transition from a business visitor to a long-term business resident. Always ensure that your supporting documents are in order, as this will facilitate smoother communication with the authorities and expedite the visa processing time.
