Portugal visa requirements

Planning a trip to Portugal? Before travelling, it’s important to understand how Portugal visa requirements apply to your nationality, length of stay and purpose of visit. Portugal is part of the European Union and a full member of the Schengen Area, which means travellers benefit from harmonised entry rules across multiple European countries.

General guidelines on visa requirements for Portugal

Visa entry requirements can vary, but the guidelines below apply to most visitors:

Schengen Area travel

If you already hold a valid Schengen visa issued by another member state, you can typically enter Portugal without needing an additional visa.

Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)

Non-EU and non-Schengen nationals may require a Schengen short-stay visa for visits of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

This visa allows travel across all Schengen countries, including Portugal.

Visa-free entry to Portugal

Citizens of numerous countries can enter Portugal visa-free for tourism or business for short stays.

Portugal E-Visa

Some travellers may be eligible to apply for a Portugal e-visa online before arriving.

Long-Stay Visas

For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., study, employment, family reunification), you must apply for a national long-stay visa (Type D) or residence permit before travelling.

In partnership with iVisa

The easiest way to get your travel visa

Detailed application review ensures approval on the first try

GET STARTED

Visa application process

Applications are typically submitted via a Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country.

You may need a completed application form, valid passport, biometric photos, travel itinerary, accommodation proof, financial evidence, and purpose-specific documents.

Key entry requirements to be aware of

• Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure.
• Stay informed on entry requirements: It’s essential to check the most up-to-date information, as visa entry requirements can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate before planning your trip.

To check the specific requirements for your nationality you can visit the official website of the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) for the most up-to-date information.

Portugal visa requirements for UK citizens post Brexit

Since 1 January 2021, the UK is considered a “third country” by the EU. While freedom of movement has ended, British citizens can still travel to Portugal visa-free for short stays.

• UK travellers may enter visa-free for tourism, business, study, training or cultural exchanges.
• A Schengen visa is not required for British citizens visiting Portugal for short stays.

How long can British citizens stay in Portugal?

British passport holders may stay in Portugal, including Madeira and the Azores, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Longer stays require a visa or residence permit.

ETIAS visa waiver for UK travellers

The EU is introducing the ETIAS visa waiver system. Although not yet active, when implemented it will require British travellers to obtain an online authorisation before entering the Schengen Area.

Once approved, ETIAS will be valid for three years and usable for multiple entries.

Traveller tips for visiting Portugal

• Border crossings: Portugal shares open Schengen borders with Spain, making overland travel seamless, though random checks may occur.
• Schengen overstays: Stay aware of your 90/180-day allowance. Overstaying may lead to fines or entry bans.
• Renewing or re-entering: Leaving the Schengen Area does not reset your days; the 180-day rolling window still applies.
• Multiple-country itineraries: If travelling through Spain, France or Germany en route, ensure your visa or entry status is valid for all Schengen states.
• Peak-season processing times: Visa applications can take longer between May and September—apply as early as possible.

FAQs: Portugal visa requirements