Visas for Portugal

Before expats move to the country, it's important to ensure they have the correct paperwork in order and have obtained the correct visa for Portugal, if necessary. As Portugal is an EU member state, citizens of other EU states can travel to the country with only their passports.

Although EU citizens are permitted to live and work in Portugal without a visa, some documents are still required to obtain the necessary residence permit. Residency permits are necessary for any stay longer than six months and can also be used as proof of residence for administrative tasks.

Non-EU citizens travelling to Portugal for a short visit or holiday may need to apply for a short-stay visa. On the other hand, those who plan on moving to or working in Portugal will need either a temporary-stay visa or a long-stay visa, depending on the duration of their stay in the country.

Useful links

• Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Short-stay visas

Portugal is a signatory to the Schengen Agreement. Nationals of countries also signatory to the agreement don't need to apply for a tourist visa before arrival. Citizens of some countries such as the USA, Australia, and New Zealand are also entitled to stay in Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa.

Visitors from other countries must apply for a short-stay visa, also known as a Schengen visa, before arriving in Portugal. Short-stay visas are typically granted for tourism, business, family visits, temporary work, and airport transfers. Applicants will need to submit several documents for their Schengen visas, including: 

• proof of adequate funds
• valid travel insurance
• proof of onward travel
• invitation letter for business, family, and work visits 

As Portugal is part of the Schengen territory, you can visit multiple destinations that are signatories to the agreement once you have your visa. If you plan to travel to several Schengen countries, you should make your application at the consulate of the country in which you plan to spend the most time.

Temporary-stay visas

Nationals of third-party countries planning on staying in Portugal for longer than 90 days but less than a year will need to apply for a temporary-stay visa rather than a short-stay visa. Temporary-stay visas allow multiple entries into the country and are renewable.

Temporary-stay visas are typically granted for work, job-seeking, studying, and medical treatment purposes, among others. Depending on the reason for your application, you'll likely need to submit supporting documentation. 

Long-stay visas for Portugal

Long-stay visas, also known as residency visas, are for stays of longer than a year and are renewable. If you are moving to Portugal for work, you will usually need to obtain this visa and a work permit.

The application process for a long-stay visa is similar to that of a temporary-stay visas. Those looking to apply for a long-stay visa will find several categories such as work, study, family reunification, professional training, and retirement visas. The digital nomad and golden visa schemes also fall under long-stay visas. Expats must note that real estate investments no longer qualify for residency, but the Portuguese government will allow residency through social investment. 

Generally, for a long-stay visa, you'll need to submit the following documents: 

• Passport or valid ID
• Proof of medical insurance
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of sufficient fund to cover your stay
• Documents granting the Portuguese authorities access to your criminal records

Holders of long-stay visas must apply for a residence permit within four months of arriving in Portugal. You'll also need to apply for a Portuguese tax identification number, known as an NIF. This is essential for setting up utilities, registering for healthcare, and opening a bank account. 

Permanent residence visas and citizenship 

After five years in the country, you can apply for permanent residency in Portugal. Permanent residents can then apply for citizenship after an additional year. Some expats, such as those married to a Portuguese citizen, are eligible for permanent residency and citizenship earlier than those without such ties to the country.

Useful links

• Agency for Integration, Migrations, and Asylum

*Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.