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Get Your Portugal Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for exploring Lisbon's hills, Porto's wine cellars, and the Algarve's golden beaches
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Portugal Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 10-15 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel dates, and intended itinerary through Portugal. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Schengen visa requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), recent passport-sized photographs meeting Schengen specifications, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and financial documentation. Our visa specialists review every document against Portuguese consular standards before submission.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted through official channels to the Portuguese consulate. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or interview appointments via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa
Your approved Schengen visa sticker is affixed to your passport at the consulate. Collect it in person or receive it by courier (depending on location). Bem-vindo — welcome to Portugal and the Schengen Area!
Portugal Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Schengen Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family
Visa Exemption
Up to 90 days
Citizens from 60+ countries enter visa-free within Schengen
Schengen Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For meetings, conferences, and commercial activities
Golden Visa
Residence permit
Investment-based residency program for non-EU citizens
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background, recent
- Hotel booking or accommodation confirmation for entire stay
- Travel insurance with minimum 30,000 EUR medical coverage
- Proof of sufficient funds (approx. 75 EUR per day)
- Return flight ticket or complete travel itinerary
Visa-Free Entry & Schengen Tourist Visas
Portugal is a member of the Schengen Area, allowing visa-free travel for citizens of over 60 countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Japan, and most Latin American nations. Visa-exempt travelers can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries combined.
Visa-Free Entry
If you hold a passport from a visa-exempt country, you can enter Portugal without prior visa application. Simply present your valid passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond planned departure), and immigration officers will stamp your entry. Remember that the 90-day limit applies to your total time in the entire Schengen Area, not just Portugal.
Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C)
Citizens from countries requiring visas must apply for a Schengen short-stay visa through a Portuguese embassy or consulate. This visa allows tourism, visiting friends and family, and short business trips. Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, though it can extend to 45 days during peak season. The tourist visa permits stays of up to 90 days and may be issued for single, double, or multiple entries depending on your travel history and application.
Work Visas & Golden Visa Program
Work Visa & Residence Permits
Non-EU citizens wishing to work in Portugal must obtain a work visa before arrival. Your Portuguese employer must first obtain authorization from SEF (Immigration and Borders Service). With approval, you apply at a Portuguese consulate for the work visa. After arrival, you register for a residence permit. Portugal offers expedited processing for highly qualified professionals, tech workers, and researchers through various programs.
Golden Visa (Residence by Investment)
Portugal's Golden Visa program remains one of Europe's most attractive residence-by-investment options. Investment routes include real estate (minimum 500,000 EUR, or 350,000 EUR for rehabilitation projects), capital transfer (1.5 million EUR), job creation (10+ positions), or investment in qualifying funds. Benefits include residence rights in Portugal, visa-free Schengen travel, path to permanent residence after 5 years, and potential citizenship after 5 years. The program requires minimal physical presence (7 days in year one, 14 days in subsequent two-year periods).
D7 Passive Income Visa
Popular among retirees and remote workers, the D7 visa allows residence for those with stable passive income (pensions, investments, rental income). Minimum income requirements are approximately Portugal's minimum wage (around 760 EUR/month).
Entry Requirements & Schengen Rules
Essential Entry Requirements
All visitors to Portugal must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area with at least two blank pages
• Travel insurance: Mandatory for visa applicants — minimum 30,000 EUR medical coverage including repatriation
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host
• Sufficient funds: Approximately 75 EUR per day recommended (bank statements, credit cards)
• Return travel: Confirmed return flight or complete onward travel itinerary
Schengen 90/180 Rule
The 90-day limit applies to your cumulative time in all 27 Schengen countries combined. If you spent 30 days in Spain and 40 days in France, you have only 20 days remaining for Portugal within that 180-day window. Use the official Schengen calculator to track your days accurately.
ETIAS (Coming Soon)
From 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain ETIAS authorization before visiting Portugal and other Schengen countries. This is a simple online process (7 EUR fee, valid 3 years) similar to the US ESTA.
Entry Points & Processing Times
Major Entry Points
Portugal visas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airports: Lisbon Humberto Delgado (LIS) — main international hub, Porto Francisco Sa Carneiro (OPO), Faro (FAO) — Algarve gateway, Funchal (FNC) — Madeira, Ponta Delgada (PDL) — Azores
• Land borders: Multiple crossings with Spain; no border controls within Schengen but random checks possible
• Seaports: Lisbon, Porto (Leixoes), cruise terminals throughout the coast
Processing Times
For visa-exempt travelers, entry is immediate upon arrival. For Schengen visa applicants, standard processing takes 15 calendar days from appointment date. During peak season (June-September) or for complex cases, processing may extend to 30-45 days. Apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel during busy periods.
Peak Travel Seasons
Portugal experiences highest visitor numbers during summer (June-August), especially in the Algarve and coastal areas. Lisbon and Porto remain popular year-round. Easter week sees domestic tourism surge. Book accommodations and apply for visas well in advance during these periods.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.7Customer rating
96%Approval rate
"DoVisa made my Schengen visa for Portugal incredibly straightforward. Their document checklist was thorough and the team caught an issue with my travel insurance before submission. Lisbon was magical!"
"Needed a business visa for a tech conference in Lisbon. DoVisa handled everything professionally. Approved in 12 days and their tracking system kept me informed throughout."
"Good service for understanding Schengen rules. They explained the 90/180 day calculation clearly since I had visited Spain earlier. Porto exceeded all expectations!"
"Applied for the whole family to visit Portugal. DoVisa organized all our documents and applications together. Smooth process at the consulate and amazing trip to the Algarve!"
"First time applying for a Schengen visa and was nervous. DoVisa's step-by-step guidance was invaluable. The Sintra palaces were worth every bit of effort!"
"Reliable service with helpful customer support. They answered my questions about visa-free entry quickly. Enjoyed two weeks exploring Lisbon and the Douro Valley."
"DoVisa helped me understand my options for the Golden Visa program. While I used them for my initial tourist visa, their knowledge of Portuguese immigration is impressive."
"Excellent experience getting my Portugal visa. The pre-submission document review saved me from potential delays. Highly recommend for Schengen applications!"
"Used DoVisa for visa guidance before my honeymoon in Portugal. Clear information about what documents to prepare. The Algarve beaches were absolutely stunning!"
"Professional service from start to finish. Applied for a conference in Porto and received my visa without any issues. Will definitely use DoVisa again."
"DoVisa's team went above and beyond when I needed to reschedule my consulate appointment. Great customer service and my visa was approved for 2 years multiple entry!"
"Helpful for navigating Schengen visa requirements. The insurance requirement was new to me but DoVisa recommended a compliant policy. Portugal was beautiful!"
Portugal Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Portugal?
Portugal offers several visa categories based on your purpose and duration of stay. Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) is the most common, allowing stays up to 90 days for tourism, business, or visiting family. National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) is for stays exceeding 90 days, including work, study, or family reunification. Golden Visa provides residence through qualified investments. D7 Visa is for retirees and those with passive income. Tech Visa offers fast-track processing for qualified tech professionals. Student Visa is for those enrolled in Portuguese educational institutions. Work Visa requires employer sponsorship. The right visa depends on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay in Portugal.
Do I need a visa to visit Portugal?
It depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Visa-exempt countries (60+ nations) include: United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and all EU/EEA member states. Citizens of these countries can enter Portugal without a visa for tourism or business stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Countries requiring visas: Citizens from countries not on the exemption list must apply for a Schengen visa at a Portuguese embassy or consulate before travel. Check the current visa requirements for your specific nationality. Note that from 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need ETIAS authorization (simple online application) before visiting Portugal.
How long can I stay in Portugal as a tourist?
Tourist visitors can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is a Schengen Area rule that applies to your combined time in all 27 Schengen countries, not just Portugal. Calculating your days: If you spent 30 days in France and 20 days in Spain within the past 180 days, you have only 40 days remaining for Portugal. The 180-day window is a rolling period — it's calculated backwards from your current date, not as fixed calendar periods. Extending your stay: If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a national visa (Type D) before your short-stay period expires. This requires leaving Portugal and applying from your home country in most cases. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and future Schengen entry bans.
What documents do I need for a Portugal Schengen visa?
Required documents for all Schengen visa applicants: Completed visa application form, valid passport (3+ months validity beyond return date, 2 blank pages), two recent passport photos (35x45mm, white background), travel medical insurance (minimum 30,000 EUR coverage including repatriation), proof of accommodation (hotel bookings for entire stay), flight itinerary (round-trip), proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing approximately 75 EUR per day), employment verification or proof of income, cover letter explaining travel purpose and itinerary. Additional documents may include: Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family), business invitation (for business visa), conference registration, previous Schengen visas (if applicable). Important: All documents must be in Portuguese or English, or officially translated. Consulates may request additional documentation.
Can I extend my Portugal visa or stay?
Extending a short-stay Schengen visa within Portugal is generally not possible except in exceptional circumstances (medical emergency, force majeure, humanitarian reasons). For legitimate emergencies: Contact SEF (Immigration and Borders Service) before your visa expires with supporting documentation. Extensions are granted at their discretion and are not guaranteed. For longer stays: You must apply for a national visa (Type D) before entering Portugal, or leave and apply from your home country. Schengen 90/180 rule: Even if your visa validity extends beyond 90 days (common with multiple-entry visas), you cannot stay more than 90 days total within any 180-day period. Consequences of overstaying: Fines of 80-160 EUR per day, potential deportation, entry ban to all Schengen countries for up to 5 years. Always plan your travel within legal limits.
Can I work in Portugal with a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas and visa-free entry do not permit employment in Portugal. Any form of paid work requires proper authorization. Working legally requires: A national work visa (Type D) obtained before arrival. Your Portuguese employer must first obtain authorization from IEFP (Employment Institute). With approval, you apply at a Portuguese consulate, then register for a residence permit after arrival. Digital nomads and remote workers: Portugal does not have a specific digital nomad visa yet (though one is under consideration). Remote workers employed by non-Portuguese companies technically need residence authorization for extended stays. Short visits while doing remote work are a gray area. Self-employment: Requires a D2 visa for entrepreneurs. Penalties for illegal work: Fines, deportation, and future visa bans affect both the worker and employer.
Do I need to print my Portugal visa?
For Schengen visas, the visa is a physical sticker affixed directly to your passport at the consulate — there is nothing to print. You present your passport with the visa sticker at Portuguese immigration. For visa-free travelers, no visa document is needed — your passport serves as your travel document, and immigration stamps your entry. Documents you should print: Proof of accommodation, return flight itinerary, travel insurance policy, and proof of funds. Immigration officers may request these at entry, and while they often accept digital versions, printed copies are more reliable. ETIAS (from 2025): When implemented, this authorization will be linked electronically to your passport, but printing the confirmation is recommended as backup.
How long does Portugal visa processing take?
Standard Schengen visa processing takes 15 calendar days from your appointment date. However, processing times can vary significantly. Factors affecting processing: Peak season applications (summer, Christmas) may take 30+ days. First-time Schengen applicants may face longer review. Complex travel histories or incomplete documentation cause delays. Some nationalities require additional security clearance (up to 45 days). Recommended timeline: Apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel during busy periods, or 3 weeks minimum during off-peak times. You can apply up to 6 months before your trip. Expedited processing: Not generally available for Schengen visas. Some consulates offer premium appointment booking services but not faster processing. Tracking your application: Most consulates provide online tracking through VFS Global or similar service providers.
What happens if my Portugal visa application is rejected?
Schengen visa rejections are not uncommon, but most can be resolved. Common rejection reasons: Insufficient travel insurance coverage, incomplete financial documentation, unclear purpose of travel, missing accommodation proof, previous Schengen overstays, failure to attend biometric appointment. If rejected: You receive a refusal letter citing the specific reason(s) from the rejection code list. Appeal process: Portugal allows administrative appeals within 15 days of notification. Submit written appeal to the consulate with additional documentation addressing the refusal reasons. Reapplication: You can also submit a new application immediately (paying fees again) with strengthened documentation. There's no mandatory waiting period. DoVisa assistance: Our pre-submission document review identifies potential issues before they cause rejections, significantly improving approval rates.
What is the best time to visit Portugal?
Portugal enjoys a mild climate year-round, but optimal timing depends on your activities. Spring (April-June): Ideal overall — warm weather, blooming flowers, fewer crowds than summer. Perfect for Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Summer (July-August): Peak beach season with hot temperatures (30C+). Algarve and coast are crowded; book accommodations early. Great for festivals and outdoor events. Autumn (September-October): Excellent conditions — warm weather, wine harvest season in Douro Valley, reduced crowds, lower prices. Winter (November-March): Mild and rainy in the north; pleasant in the Algarve. Best for budget travel and cultural exploration. Madeira and Azores offer year-round mild weather. Key events: Santo Antonio Festival in Lisbon (June), Porto's Sao Joao (June), Carnival in February, Semana Santa (Easter week).
Is Portugal safe for tourists?
Portugal is consistently ranked among Europe's safest countries and welcomes millions of tourists annually. Safe throughout: Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, Madeira, and the Azores all have low crime rates and excellent tourist infrastructure. Common concerns: Pickpocketing in tourist areas (Tram 28 in Lisbon, Porto's Ribeira), occasional bag snatching. These are manageable with standard precautions. Practical advice: Keep valuables secure in crowded areas; use hotel safes; be aware of surroundings on public transport; don't leave items unattended on beaches. Emergency services: Dial 112 for police, fire, or medical emergencies. Tourist Police stations in Lisbon and Porto have English-speaking officers. Health: Tap water is safe; healthcare is excellent; EU citizens should carry EHIC/GHIC cards; travel insurance recommended for non-EU visitors. Road safety: Generally good but be cautious on mountain roads and during summer traffic.
Do I need vaccinations for Portugal?
No vaccinations are required for entry into Portugal from most countries. Portugal has excellent healthcare and no endemic tropical diseases. Recommended routine vaccinations: Ensure measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and COVID-19 vaccinations are current. Optional considerations: Hepatitis A if you have specific risk factors; Hepatitis B for extended stays or if you might have exposure to blood; Rabies only if you plan extensive outdoor activities in rural areas. COVID-19: Entry requirements have been relaxed but check current regulations before travel. Vaccination may expedite entry procedures. Travel health: Portugal has a high standard of healthcare. EU citizens can use EHIC/GHIC cards for public healthcare. Non-EU visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance. Pharmacies (farmacias) are widely available and well-stocked.
What currency is used in Portugal?
Portugal uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. Cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted throughout Portugal, including small shops and restaurants. Contactless payment is common. American Express is less widely accepted. Cash: Still useful for small purchases, markets, some taxis, and rural areas. ATMs (Multibancos) are widespread and accept international cards. ATM fees: Portuguese ATMs don't charge fees, but your home bank may apply foreign transaction fees. Exchange: Avoid airport exchange bureaus (poor rates). Banks and ATMs offer better rates. Tipping culture: Not obligatory but appreciated — round up bills at cafes, 5-10% at restaurants if service was good, 1-2 EUR for hotel staff. Budget: Portugal is relatively affordable compared to Western European neighbors. Expect 50-80 EUR per day for budget travel, 120-200 EUR for mid-range.
Can I travel to other Schengen countries with my Portugal visa?
Yes, a Portugal Schengen visa allows you to travel freely throughout all 27 Schengen member states. Countries included: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland. Important rule: Your visa must be issued by the country that is your main destination (where you spend the most time) or first point of entry if time is equal. Misrepresenting your itinerary to obtain a visa from a different country can result in visa cancellation. 90/180 rule: Your 90-day limit applies across ALL Schengen countries combined. Border controls: Generally no passport checks between Schengen countries, but carry your passport and visa as random checks occur.
Do children need their own visa for Portugal?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own passport and visa (if applicable) to enter Portugal. There are no provisions for children on parents' passports. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's name with appropriate validity, separate visa application and fees (if visa required), passport-sized photos meeting specifications. Additional documentation: If traveling with one parent — notarized consent letter from absent parent, copy of absent parent's ID. If traveling without parents — notarized consent from both parents, copies of both parents' IDs, letter stating guardian details for the trip. Birth certificate: Carry a copy showing relationship to traveling adults. Schengen visa applications: Both parents usually need to sign the application form for minors, even if one parent is traveling. Family-friendly Portugal: Very welcoming to families with excellent facilities for children throughout the country.
What is Portugal's Golden Visa program?
Portugal's Golden Visa is a residence-by-investment program offering residency permits to non-EU/EEA citizens who make qualifying investments. Investment options (2024): Investment funds (minimum 500,000 EUR in qualifying funds), research activities (500,000 EUR minimum), cultural heritage (250,000 EUR for arts/culture support), company formation (500,000 EUR business investment creating 5+ jobs), job creation (10+ jobs). Note: Real estate investment route was discontinued in 2023. Benefits: Residence permit for Portugal, visa-free travel throughout Schengen Area, ability to live, work, and study in Portugal, path to permanent residence after 5 years, citizenship eligibility after 5 years (with Portuguese language requirement). Minimum stay requirement: Only 7 days in year one, then 14 days in each subsequent 2-year period. Family inclusion: Spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents can be included. Processing time: Currently 12-18 months due to high demand.
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