Application Forms
The SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) website offers a secure portal where applicants can complete the online visa application form.
Photographs
Each application must include 2 recent color passport-sized photos. The images must meet the following requirements:
- No more than 6 months old.
- Minimum size: 35mm x 45mm, maximum size: 38mm x 50mm.
- Printed on photographic paper.
- Sharp and clear, taken against a plain white or light gray background.
- A frontal pose looking directly at the camera, showing the full face.
- The face should occupy 70-80% of the photograph.
- The expression must be neutral, with both eyes open and mouth closed, without hair covering the eyes.
- Only head coverings worn for religious reasons are allowed; hair bands are not permitted.
- Sunglasses are not acceptable.
- If glasses are worn, they should be clear, ensuring the eyes are visible.
Note: Please print your name clearly on the back of all submitted photographs. Do not attach photographs to your application form or summary sheet.
Passport
Each applicant must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the planned departure date from Portugal. Include two photocopies of the bio page of your passport.
If you have a previous passport, it must be submitted with your application. If unavailable, provide a written explanation along with any relevant police reports.
Submitting Documentation
Submit 2 passport-sized color photographs along with the visa application summary sheet, signed by the applicant.
Refer to the Visa Types section for details on supporting documents required for each visa category.
Any documents submitted in languages other than Portuguese must be accompanied by an English translation.
All letters must be on official company letterhead, including full contact details for verification: postal address, contact name, position, landline number, and relevant email addresses (Yahoo or Hotmail addresses are not accepted). Include website addresses if available.
Provide copies of all original documents. Expect verification checks regarding the information and documents supplied.
If you have been refused a visa from any country, include details and submit the original refusal letter. Concealing visa refusals will lead to the denial of your Portuguese visa application.
General Advice
- Visa applicants typically are not required to attend an interview. However, the Visa Office may request an interview on a case-by-case basis.
- No medical check is necessary prior to visa issuance.
- It is strongly recommended not to purchase travel tickets before a visa decision is made, as this may incur unnecessary costs if a visa is not granted.
- If visiting another country before traveling to Portugal, ensure you obtain that country’s visa prior to applying for a Portuguese visa.
- Submit all required documents with your application.
- Read all relevant information on this website and the visa application form before submission.
- Do not use clips, staples, or files to attach documents.
- The issuance of a multiple-entry visa is at the discretion of the Visa Officer. If only a single-entry visa is granted, the difference in fees will not be refunded.
- If applying for a Long Stay visa to work, study, or join family, apply for a Single Entry visa only.
Visa Fees
For applicants residing in China, details regarding visa fees and payment methods can be found on the VFS website. When applying for a multiple-entry visa, indicate on your application the reasons for requiring one.
Where to Apply
The SEF has outsourced the collection and return of visa applications in China to VFS Global. You must submit your visa application in person at one of the Visa Application Centres across China and Hong Kong. Please visit the provided link to find the most convenient application center.
For inquiries, call the Visa inquiry helpline at +86 10 65326945, available from 14:30 to 16:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. In-person appointments must be made in advance.
On Arrival in Portugal
If your application is approved, verify that all details on your visa are correct. For any questions regarding visa requirements or limitations, contact the Visa Office.
The validity dates on your visa indicate when it must be presented to an Immigration Officer at the port of entry.
Remember, a visa is a form of pre-entry clearance and does not guarantee entry. Immigration Officers may question individuals about their intentions upon entry.
- If your intended stay is less than 90 days and your visa is successful, you will receive a ‘C’ visa. If granted permission to enter, you may stay for up to 90 days.
- If your intended stay exceeds 90 days, you will receive a ‘D’ visa. You must register with the local authorities within 90 days of arrival.
Keep your invitation letter, accommodation booking, school acceptance letter, or other relevant documents handy for presentation to Immigration Officers.
Ensure you have relevant travel and medical insurance for the duration of your stay. Proof may be requested at the port of entry.
You must leave Portugal and apply for a new visa if you want to do anything with your time that isn’t covered by your current one. While you’re waiting for a response on your new application, you might not be able to return.
For information on obtaining a re-entry visa while in Portugal, contact SEF.
If a visa holder remains longer than allowed, they risk being prosecuted or deported.
What If My Visa Is Refused?
If your application is refused, you will receive a letter detailing the reasons. You can appeal the decision within 2 months of the letter’s date.
All grounds for rejection must be included in a written appeal. Appeals submitted by fax or email will not be processed. Enclose all further supporting documentation with your appeal.
If your visa application is denied due to fraudulent documentation, you will not be able to file an appeal. Your right to appeal will be specified in the letter of refusal.
There is no processing fee for an appeal.
Please send your appeal to:
The Appeals Officer
Embassy of Portugal
Applying for a Portuguese visa requires following the rules carefully and submitting the correct documents. Make sure everything is complete and accurate to increase your chances of approval. Follow the instructions, get ready ahead of time, and ask for help if you’re unsure about anything. This will make the visa process easier and help avoid delays or problems.
