Dreaming of exploring Portugal's stunning coastline, wandering through Lisbon's charming cobblestone streets, or sampling world-renowned Port wine in Porto's historic cellars? If you're a non-EU/EEA national, you may need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) to experience Portugal's rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality for up to 90 days.
When planning a trip to Portugal, this guide can help you explain everything about the Schengen visa, from who’s eligible and how to apply, to the documents you’ll need and why Schengen-compliant travel insurance from Gigasure is essential.
With the right preparation, you can explore Portugal’s UNESCO landmarks and enjoy its famous pastéis de nata with total peace of mind.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Portugal?
UK passport holders can visit Portugal without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, ideal for extended holidays exploring everything from the Algarve's golden beaches to the Douro Valley's terraced vineyards.
However, if you're from a country that doesn't qualify for visa-free travel, or if you're planning to stay longer than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a Schengen visa before entering Portugal.
Like any other Schengen country, Portugal follows the 90/180 rule: you can spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period within the entire Schengen zone. This is incredibly convenient as it means you can easily hop between Portugal and neighbouring Spain, or explore other European countries during your trip without requiring separate visa applications.
Your passport must also:
- Be issued within the last 10 years
- Remain valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from the Schengen area
- Have been issued less than 10 years before your arrival date
Types of Portugal Schengen Visas
- Type C (Short-Stay): Perfect for tourism, business trips, or visiting family and friends for up to 90 days
- Multiple-Entry Visa: Ideal for frequent travellers to the Schengen area (validity varies, typically 1-5 years)
- Airport Transit Visa: Required for certain nationalities transiting through Portuguese airports
- Type D (Long-Stay): For extended stays exceeding 90 days, such as work, study, or family reunification
For most holidaymakers and business travellers, a Type C short-stay visa is what you'll need, but it's always worth double-checking based on your specific travel plans.
Essential Documents for Your Portugal Schengen Visa
Here's your complete checklist for gathering the right documents:
- Valid Passport: Issued within 10 years, valid for 3+ months after your Schengen exit
- Completed Visa Application Form: Available online through Portugal's ePortugal platform
- Two Recent Passport Photos: 35×45mm, meeting Schengen photo requirements
- Travel Medical Insurance: Minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation (covers entire stay and transit)
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings, rental confirmations, or invitation letter from Portuguese hosts
- Financial Evidence: Approximately €40 per day (minimum €75 for entry), demonstrated through bank statements
- Travel Itinerary: Return flight bookings and detailed travel plans
- UK Residence Documentation: BRP card if you're living in the UK but not a UK citizen
- Additional Supporting Documents: Employment letter, study confirmation, or business invitation, as applicable
How to Apply for a Portugal Schengen Visa: Your Step-by-Step Journey
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Requirements
Check if you need a visa based on your nationality and travel purpose. Portugal's official government resources provide up-to-date eligibility information.
Step 2: Complete Your Application
Use Portugal's ePortugal platform for a streamlined digital experience. In-Person Option: Download and complete the paper application form
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment
Book through the appropriate channel based on your location:
- UK residents: Apply through VFS Global centres in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh
- Other locations: Check Portugal's official embassy or designated visa application centres
Step 4: Gather Your Documentation
Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and translated into Portuguese or English where required.
Step 5: Attend Your Appointment
Submit your application, provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo), and pay the required fees.
Step 6: Track Your Application
Monitor progress through your online account or the visa centre's tracking system.
Processing time typically takes 15 - 30 calendar days, though this can extend to 45 days during peak travel seasons. We strongly recommend applying 4 - 6 weeks before your intended departure date.
Portugal Schengen Visa Fees
1. Applicant Category: Adults (12+ years)
- Standard Schengen visa fee: €90
2. Applicant Category: Children (6–11 years)
- Reduced fee: €45
3. Applicant Category: Children under 6
- No fee required: Free
VFS Service Fee: £30-40 (Additional, varies by location)
Certain categories may qualify for fee exemptions, including students, researchers, and participants in specific cultural programmes.
Biometric Requirements & Application Locations
When applying for your Portugal Schengen visa, you'll need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) in person, unless you've done so for another Schengen visa within the past 59 months.
UK Application Centres
- London: VFS Global Visa Application Centre
- Manchester: VFS Global Visa Application Centre
- Edinburgh: VFS Global Visa Application Centre
For other countries, Portugal has delegated visa processing to various external service providers, including VFS Global, TLS Contact, and BLS International, depending on your location.
Portugal's Travel Insurance Requirements
Portuguese authorities require comprehensive travel medical insurance meeting specific criteria:
- Minimum €30,000 coverage
- Emergency medical and hospitalisation coverage
- Repatriation coverage
- Valid throughout the entire Schengen area
- Coverage for your complete travel period, including transit days
Gigasure's Portugal Plans
- Instant PDF certificate ready for visa applications and airport checks
- Full Schengen area coverage across all 29 countries
- Complete refund if your visa is denied
- 24/7 emergency assistance in multiple languages
- Competitive pricing with transparent coverage
Upcoming Changes: Preparing for ETIAS & EES
- ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System): Expected from late 2026, this €7 travel authorisation will be required for visa-exempt travellers, including UK passport holders.
- EES (Entry/Exit System): Launching October 2025, this system will replace passport stamping with electronic entry/exit logging for all non-EU travellers.
While these systems won't directly affect current Schengen visa applicants, they represent important changes for future travel to Portugal and the broader Schengen area.
What If Your Portugal Visa Application Is Refused?
Common refusal reasons include
- Incomplete or missing documentation
- Insufficient proof of financial means
- Unclear travel itinerary or accommodation details
- Inadequate ties to your home country
- Issues with passport validity or condition
Your options if refused:
- Appeal the Decision: Submit a written appeal within 15 days to the Portuguese embassy/consulate, or within 3 months to Portugal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Reapply: Address the specific issues mentioned in your refusal notice and submit a fresh application
Essential Contacts for Your Portugal Visa Journey
- VFS Global Portugal Visa UK: Book appointments and track your application status
- Portugal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Official visa policies and embassy information
- Portuguese Embassy London: Direct consular services and complex enquiries
Your Top Questions about Portugal Visa
How long does it take to get a Schengen visa for Portugal?
Processing typically takes 15-30 calendar days, though it can extend to 45 days during busy periods like summer months. Apply well in advance, ideally 4 - 6 weeks before travel, to account for potential delays and give yourself peace of mind.
Do I need travel insurance for my Portugal visa application?
Absolutely! Travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage is mandatory for all Portugal Schengen visa applications. The insurance must cover your entire stay and be valid across all Schengen countries.
Can I visit Spain and other Schengen countries with my Portugal visa?
Yes! A Schengen visa issued by Portugal allows travel throughout all 29 Schengen countries, provided Portugal remains your main destination or entry point. This makes it perfect for multi-country European adventures.
What's the maximum stay with a Portugal tourist visa?
You can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period throughout the entire Schengen area. Remember, this includes time spent in other Schengen countries, not just Portugal.
Can I work in Portugal with a tourist Schengen visa?
No, Schengen tourist visas strictly prohibit employment. If you're planning to work in Portugal, you'll need to apply for a specific work visa or long-stay visa (Type D) designed for employment purposes.
What happens if I overstay my Portugal visa?
Overstaying can result in serious consequences including fines up to €600, deportation, and potential bans from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years. Always respect your visa's validity dates.
Portugal Awaits! Start Your Portuguese Adventure Today
If you're planning to surf the legendary waves of Nazaré, explore Porto's historic Ribeira district, discover the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra, or simply relax on the Algarve's stunning beaches, Portugal will offer unforgettable experiences for every type of traveller.
From the vibrant street art of Lisbon to the ancient vineyards of the Douro Valley, this captivating country seamlessly blends rich history with contemporary charm.
Get your Schengen-compliant Travel Insurance from Gigasure in minutes and begin your Portugal visa application with confidence. Let us handle the insurance complexities while you focus on planning the Portuguese adventure of a lifetime, complete with fresh seafood, stunning coastlines, and some of Europe's most welcoming people.
Note: Information accurate as of June 2025. Always verify current visa requirements with official Portuguese government sources or the Portuguese embassy in your country before applying.
