Can I work in Portugal with a business visa?

No, a Portugal business visa does not permit you to take up employment in Portugal. It is intended for short-term business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, and seminars.

Can I travel to other Schengen countries with a Portugal business visa?

Yes, a Portugal business visa is a type of Schengen visa that allows you to travel within the Schengen Area, including other participating countries, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Can I travel to Portugal for investment purposes with a business visa?

Yes, you can travel to Portugal for investment purposes with a business visa, provided your activities include meetings and negotiations related to potential investments. Ensure that your intentions are clearly stated in your visa application.

Are there any restrictions on the type of business activities allowed with a Portugal business visa?

Yes, the Portugal business visa allows for specific activities such as attending meetings, negotiations, training sessions, and conferences. Activities that involve earning a salary or taking up employment in Portugal are not allowed.

Can I apply for a Portuguese business visa online?

You cannot complete the entire application process online. While you may start your application online and fill out forms, you must submit your application and supporting documents in person at a visa application centre.

What should I do if my Portugal business visa application is denied?

If your visa application is denied, you will receive a reason for the refusal. You have the right to appeal the decision within the time frame specified in the refusal notice. Review the grounds for refusal carefully to address them in your appeal or subsequent application.

How early should I apply for a Portuguese business visa?

You should apply for a Portugal business visa at least 15 working days before your intended travel date. However, it is recommended to apply as early as possible, ideally at least two months in advance, to accommodate any delays in processing.

Portugal Business Visa 2024: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Planning a business trip to Portugal? Navigating the visa application process can often seem like a tough task, but it doesn't have to be.

This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through every step of obtaining a Portugal business visa for Indians. Whether you're heading to Portugal for meetings, training sessions, or other business engagements, understanding the types of visas available, the documents you'll need, and the application process is crucial.

Our guide will help ensure that your visa application is as smooth and stress-free as possible, letting you focus on the purpose of your trip rather than the paperwork.

What is a Portugal Business Visa?

A Portugal business visa for Indians is a type of Schengen visa that allows Indian nationals to enter Portugal for business-related purposes. This visa is suitable for activities such as attending business meetings, conferences, seminars, training sessions, or establishing professional business contacts. It is classified under the short-stay visa category and allows the holder to stay in Portugal and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Eligibility for Portugal Business Visa

To be eligible for a Portugal business visa, applicants must meet several criteria and provide specific documentation to substantiate their application. This type of visa is designed for individuals who intend to engage in business-related activities, such as meetings, conferences, or training sessions.

Valid Travel Document: You must possess a valid passport with at least two blank pages. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay in the Schengen Area.
Proof of Purpose: An invitation letter from a Portuguese company or the host organization detailing the purpose of your visit, your role in the activities, the dates of your visit, and details of any events you are scheduled to attend.
Employment Status: An introduction letter from your employer in India. This letter should confirm your employment, outline your position, state the purpose of your visit, the duration of your trip, and whether your expenses will be covered by the employer.

By meeting these requirements, applicants can demonstrate their intent to visit Portugal for legitimate business purposes without seeking employment.

Photo Specifications for Portugal Business Visa

Recentness: Ensure that the photo is taken within the last 6 months to accurately represent your current appearance for the business visa application.
Size Specifications: The dimensions should be 35mm x 40mm. Frame your head and top of your shoulders to ensure your face occupies 70–80% of the photo.
Style & Lighting: Face the camera directly with a neutral expression. Your eyes should be open and clearly visible, with no hair obstructing the view. Your face should be centred and not angled or turned to the side. The photo should be evenly lit with no shadows or reflections, and red-eye should be avoided.
Background: Use a light-coloured background. The photo must be clear and free of any marks or creases, printed on high-quality photographic paper.
Eyewear: Glasses should not obscure your eyes. There should be no reflections on the lenses, and tinted lenses or heavy frames should be avoided if possible.
Headwear: Headwear is generally not allowed except for religious purposes. Ensure that your facial features, from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and the sides of your face are fully visible.
Photo Guidelines for Children: No other individuals or objects, like toys, should be in the child’s photo. The child must be looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression and mouth closed.

Portugal Business Visa Application Process

Apply through VFS Global Visa Application Centres in India

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Firstly, identify the correct visa type for your business trip. Check that you meet all the eligibility requirements and gather the necessary documents. Ensure all documents are in English, or have them translated if necessary.

Step 2: Collect Required Documents

Compile all the documents needed for a Schengen business visa for Portugal. This includes an invitation letter from the Portuguese company, proof of your business status in India, and financial documents among others.

Step 3: Start Your Visa Application

Download and fill out the business visa application form from the VFS website. Print this form and prepare to submit it with your documents at the Visa Application Centre.

Important

Applications to be submitted at the Portugal Consulate in Goa must be completed online through the e-Visa website. The Goa Consulate oversees regions including Goa, Maharashtra, Daman, Diu, Dadra, and Nagar Haveli.

Step 4: Book Your Appointment Schedule an appointment at your nearest VFS Application Centre to submit your biometrics and documents. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details. Individual appointments are required for each group member.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fees

Pay the required visa application fees at the time of your appointment at the Visa Application Centre.

Step 6: Visit the Visa Application Centre

Attend your scheduled appointment to submit your application form and documents. Accurate and complete documentation is essential for a successful visa application.

Step 7: Track Your Application

You can track the progress of your visa application using the VFS online tracking tool.

Step 8: Collect Your Passport and Documents

Once a decision is made, collect your passport and documents from the Visa Application Centre. You may also choose to use their courier service for delivery. Ensure you have the original ICR & a copy of your Government ID for collection. If lost, you will need to retrieve your passport in person.

Note that third-party collection of documents is only permitted for immediate family members or company representatives with proper authorization.

Please be aware that all fees are non-refundable and may vary due to factors such as foreign exchange rates, courier services, and additional facilities.

Here's a breakdown of extra costs:

Standard courier service is priced at ₹450 for each application.
Enhanced courier assurance is offered at ₹550 per application.
SMS updates can be availed for ₹115 per application.
Access to the Premium Lounge costs ₹2600 per application.

Portugal Business Visa Processing Time

The Portugal business processing time is about 15 working days. However, this can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your application, such as the completeness of the documentation provided, the need for additional information or interviews, and the workload at the consulate where the application is submitted. During peak travel seasons or due to unforeseen events, the processing time may extend, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

How to Check Portugal Business Visa Status?

To check the status of your Portugal business visa application, you have multiple options:

Email Updates: You will be notified via email once your application decision has been made and the documents are returned to the Visa Application Centre. Ensure your email details are correct and check your inbox regularly.

SMS Notifications: For more immediate updates, you can opt for SMS notifications. This service sends updates directly to your mobile phone. Check with the Visa Application Centre at the time of your application to see if this service is available.

Online Tracking:

Visit the VFS online application tracking webpage.
Enter the Application Reference Number found on the invoice or receipt provided by the Visa Application Centre.
Input your last name as it appears on the application.
Enter your date of birth and the security captcha as requested.
Click ‘Submit’ to view the status of your visa application.

These methods provide convenient ways to keep informed about the progress of your visa application, allowing you to plan accordingly.

Additional Resources

VFS Portugal Business Visa

Embassy of Portugal in Delhi

Consulate General of Portugal in Goa

Portugal Visa Appointment

Portugal Visa for Indians

Portugal Tourist Visa

Conclusion

Securing a business visa to Portugal involves careful preparation and attention to detail. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can efficiently manage your application and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

The key to a smooth visa application experience is to start early, gather all necessary documents, and understand the specific requirements for your visa type. With everything in place, you'll be well on your way to exploring business opportunities in Portugal.

Safe travels!

Is a business visa required for Portugal?	Yes, all Indian passport holders require a Schengen visa to visit Portugal for business purposes.
Portugal business visa processing time	15 working days
Portugal business visa fees	Embassy fee: Euro 80 ₹ 7,114 VFS service fee: ₹ 2,782
Portugal business visa validity	180 Days
Portugal business visa stay duration	90 Days
How to apply for a Portugal business visa?	Apply through VFS visa application centres in India
Documents required for Portugal visa	Passport Photograph Invitation Letter from a Portuguese Company Introduction Letter from the Employer Travel Itinerary Insurance Proof Residence Proof Visa Application Form Flight and Hotel Bookings

Visa Application Form	A filled and signed Visa Application Form
Passport	Issues within the last 10 years Should be valid for at least 3 months after the intended return Should have at least 2 blank pages Previous passports (if any)
Old Schengen Visas	Copy of all previous Schengen Visas, if stamped on another passport together with copies of the first page (bio-data) and last page of the passport. If you have been refused a visa by an Embassy or High Commission in the last 2 years, a refusal notice or a written explanation about the reasons for refusal. Copies of valid UK, US, or Canada visas (if any). If you continue to travel to a third country (i.e. UK, USA, Canada, or others) after leaving the Schengen area, the visa of the next country needs to be obtained first.
2 Photographs	Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm Colour photograph with white background One picture must be pasted on the application. One picture has to be clipped on the last page of the passport. Photographs should be taken within the last 6 months.
Insurance	Minimum coverage of € 30,000 per person. Coverage of all expenses which might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention and/or emergency hospital treatment. The insurance has to cover the entire stay in Schengen territory. The document must be original.
Invitation Letter from a Portuguese Company	Must include the complete address and contact details of the inviting person or organisation in Portugal. If the invitation is from a company outside Portugal, then a letter from the organisers in Portugal on the letterhead of the respective organiser is required. Alternatively, the original invitation letter must be attested by the Consulate/Embassy of Portugal in the inviting country.
Introduction Letter from the Employer	This letter should be on the company’s business letterhead. It needs to be original, signed, and stamped by HR or the directorate. The letter should mention the applicant's position, current profile, place of residence in India, and duration of service. If the applicant works remotely, this should be stated with the complete residential address. The letter should detail the dates and purpose of the trip and state whether expenses are covered by the employer/company.
Invitation/Acceptance Letter from the University/Research Organization/Organizing Committee	If the visit is for a conference, workshop, or seminar, the invitation or acceptance letter should be on the letterhead of the institution. It must be signed and stamped by the responsible person, stating the dates and purpose of the trip. The letter should clarify if expenses are covered by the institution. Proof of payment of fees for the conference/seminar/workshop must also be provided.
Travel Itinerary	Complete itinerary for your travel plans within Portugal and other Schengen countries
Proof of Accommodation	Hotel booking confirmation for the entire stay in the Schengen area.
Flight Reservation	Roundtrip flight bookings.
Residence proof	Any residence proof in the jurisdiction of the consulate
Birth Certificate	Mandatory for all applicants.

If Employed	Employer NOC - the employer may state the designation, current profile of the applicant, place of residence in India, purpose and itinerary of the visit, and number of days of leave authorised. If the applicant works remotely, the same should be mentioned in the letter, with the complete home address. Last 3 months' salary slips and 3 months' salary bank account statements Last three months' personal bank account statements ITR-V or Income Tax Return Acknowledgement for the last 2 years
If Self-Employed	Business registration certificate / GST Registration / Partnership Deed / Proof of proprietorship or other proof of ownership, letter from the partners (if running a partnership business). Last 3 months’ personal bank account statements. Last 3 months’ business bank account statements. Company’s ITR-V for the last 2 years. Personal ITR-V for the last 2 years
If Retired	Personal pension bank statement for the last three months. Proof of regular income generated by ownership of property or business.
If Student or Unemployed	Parents or legal guardians must provide their personal bank statements for the last 3 months (for a minor student). ITR-V for the last 2 years along with a confirmation letter of financial support and copies of their passports. Letter confirming enrolment in the college, school or university. NOC from college, school or university.
If Sponsored	Sponsorship letter notarized by a Public Notary (if the sponsor is in India). sponsorship letter should be notarized/attested by a Public Notary or lawyer if in the EU or from the respective Embassy/Consulate of Portugal in other countries (If the sponsor is not in India). If the sponsor is a Portuguese - Statement of Responsibility, marriage certificate (if the sponsor is your spouse), birth certificate (if the sponsor is your parent)

Location	Operating Hours (Mon - Fri)
Ahmedabad	09:00 - 17:00
Bengaluru	09:00 - 13:00
Chandigarh	09:00 - 14:00
Chennai	08:00 - 15:00
Goa	08:00 - 15:00
Hyderabad	08:00 - 15:00
Jalandhar	09:00-14:00
Kolkata	9:00 - 14:00
Lucknow	09:00 - 16:00
Mumbai	08:00 - 16:00
New Delhi	09:00 - 14:00
Pune	08:00 - 14:00

Visa Type	Fee Type	Amount
Schengen Visa (Type - C)	VFS Appointment Fees	€ 30 (₹ 2,782/-)
	Embassy Fees (up to 6 years old)	No Fees
	Embassy Fees (6-12 years)	€ 40 (₹ 3,557/-)
	Embassy Fees (12+ years)	€ 80 (₹ 7,114/-)

Portugal Business Visa: Types, Requirements, and Process

Table of Contents

Introduction

What is a Portugal Business Visa?

Eligibility for Portugal Business Visa

Portugal Business Visa Requirements

Mandatory Documents

Supporting Documents