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An Essential Guide To Portugal Tourist Visa Application Process And Requirements

Last Update: 17-05-2024

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Aditya Jain

Portugal Tourist Visa
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An Essential Guide To Portugal Tourist Visa Application Process And Requirements

⚡Quick Summary

Is a visa required for Portugal?

Is a visa required for Portugal?

Yes, all Indian passport holders require a visa to visit Portugal.

Portugal tourist visa processing time

Portugal tourist visa processing time

15 working days

Portugal tourist visa fees

Portugal tourist visa fees

  • Embassy fee: Euro 80 ₹ 7,114
  • VFS service fee: ₹ 2,782
Portugal tourist visa validity

Portugal tourist visa validity

180 Days

Portugal tourist visa stay duration

Portugal tourist visa stay duration

90 Days

How to apply for a Portugal visa

How to apply for a Portugal visa

Through VFS visa application centre in India

Documents required for Portugal visa

Documents required for Portugal visa

  1. Passport
  2. Photograph
  3. Cover Letter
  4. Travel Itinerary
  5. Insurance Proof
  6. Residence Proof
  7. Visa Application Form
  8. Flight and Hotel Bookings
  9. See the detailed list below
Portugal Visas on Arrival

Does Portugal offer visas on arrival to Indians?

No, Portugal doesn’t offer visas on arrival to Indians. 

Do Indians Need a Tourist Visa to Visit Portugal?

Yes, Indian citizens need a tourist visa to visit Portugal. They must apply for a Schengen visa, which allows them to travel to Portugal and other countries within the Schengen Area for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is suitable for tourism, visiting family or friends, and other non-business activities.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Portugal Tourist Visa Requirements
  3. Portugal Visa Photo Specifications for Indians
  4. Portugal Tourist Visa Application Process
  5. Validity of a Portugal Tourist Visa for Indians
  6. Portugal Tourist Visa Extension Guidelines
  7. Portugal Tourist Visa Fees for Indians
  8. What is the Processing Time for a Portugal Visa for Indians?
  9. How to Check the Status of a Portugal Visa Application for Indians?
  10. Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Visiting Portugal?
  11. Reasons for Portugal Visa Rejection for Indians
  12. What to do if My Portugal Visa Gets Rejected?
  13. What to do After Reaching the Portuguese Airport?
  14. Conclusion
  15. FAQs

Introduction

Planning a trip to Portugal? Whether you're dreaming of Lisbon's vibrant streets or the stunning beaches of the Algarve, obtaining a tourist visa is your first step towards this exciting adventure. 


Navigating the Portugal tourist visa application process can seem daunting, but don't worry! This comprehensive guide is designed to simplify everything, from understanding the requirements to submitting your application through VFS Global. 


We'll cover all the essential steps and documents you need, ensuring you're well-prepared for a successful application. Get ready to embark on a memorable journey to one of Europe's most enchanting destinations!

Can Indians Get a Portugal Visa on Arrival?

No, Indian citizens cannot get a Portugal visa on arrival. Indians must apply for a Schengen visa in advance to visit Portugal. This application should be submitted through the Portuguese embassy or consulate in India. 

Portugal Tourist Visa Requirements

Mandatory Documents

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 40mm 
  • 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.

Cover Letter

  • Clearly state the purpose of your trip.
  • Specify your travel itinerary.
  • Specify your passport no.

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.

Supporting Documents

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)

For Minors

  • Birth certificate (with Hague Apostille). 
  • If the minor is travelling with only one parent, written consent certified by the public notary of the other parent or guardian, except in cases of a parent having sole custody or guardianship of the minor, in which case a court order or other proof of sole custody or guardianship must be provided. 
  • If the minor travels alone (without parents), written consent, certified by public notary, of both parents or guardians having custody or guardianship of the minor.  
  • Copy of identification documents (with signature and photograph) of the parents or guardian having custody or guardianship of the minor applicant.

Visa applicants (Adults & Children) applying from Mumbai and Pune VFS centre will be required to appear for a Personal Interview (Skype) with The Portugal Consulate if there has been no travel to any Schengen country within the last 3 years at the time of submission. The Visa Application Centre shall help you schedule an appointment for the same.

Portugal Visa Photo Specifications for Indians

Recentness: 

The photo should be taken within 6 months of visa application submission. It must reflect your current appearance.


Size Specifications:  

  • Dimensions: 35mm x 40 mm. 
  • Close up your head and top of your shoulders so that your face takes up 70–80% of the photograph.

Style & Lighting:

  • You should face the camera directly with a neutral expression. 
  • show your eyes open and clearly visible—no hair across your eyes.
  • show you facing square on to the camera, not looking over one shoulder (portrait style) or tilted, and showing both edges of your face clearly.
  • be taken with uniform lighting and not show shadows or flash reflections on your face and no red eye.

Background:

  • Light-coloured background.
  • The photograph should be sharp without any ink marks or creases. 
  • It should be printed on photo-quality paper.

Eye wear:

  • The photograph must show your eyes clearly with no flash reflection off the glasses, and no tinted lenses (if possible, avoid heavy frames— wear lighter frames.

Headwear:  

  • Not permitted except for religious reasons, but your facial features from bottom of chin to top of forehead and both edges of your face must be clearly shown.

Photo guidelines for children:

  • There should be no other person or toy  visible in the child’s photo. 
  • The child should be facing the camera with eyes open. 
  •  Neutral expression and your mouth closed.

Portugal Visa Photo Specifications for Indians

Portugal Tourist Visa Application Process

Here is the step-by-step guide to apply for your Portugal visa through VFS Global-


Step 1: Identify Your Visa Type

The first step is to determine the right visa for your trip. Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, know the documents that you would need,  the amount of mode of fee payment, etc. Make sure your documents are in English. If not, get them translated before proceeding.


Step 2: Collect the Required Documents

Gather all the documents you would need for a Schengen visa to Portugal. Refer to the section above, to know the comprehensive list of documentation required. 


Step 3: Get Started With Your Visa Application

Now that you are ready to apply, download the visa application form, complete it, print it, and bring it with you to the Visa Application Centre along with the documents required. 

Important

Applications that are to be submitted at the Portugal Consulate in Goa, should be filled online, through the e-Visa website. The Goa Consulate has jurisdiction over Goa, Maharashtra, Daman, Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

Portugal Consulate/Embassy in IndiaStates/Territories Covered

Consulate General of Portugal, Goa

Goa, Maharashtra, Daman, Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Embassy of Portugal, New Delhi

Jurisdiction over the entire Indian territory, except for Goa, Maharashtra, Daman, Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Note

Application will be accepted only until 15 working days (excluding VFS handling time) before the date of travel.

Step 4: Book Your Appointment at the Visa Application Centre

After filling your visa application form, book an appointment at the VFS Application Centre to have your fingerprints and photo taken. You’ll receive an appointment confirmation email along with the letter of appointment upon successfully scheduling your appointment.

If you are part of a group, you’ll have to book individual appointments for each member of the group.


Step 5: Pay Your Fees

It’s time to pay your visa application fee. If you download the form to print and bring it to the Visa Application Centre, payment will be made at the time of your appointment.


Step 6: Visit the Visa Application Centre

Submit your printed application form, documents, and fee at the VFS Visa Application Centre in person. Remember, documents are crucial for getting your visa application approved. 

Visa Application Centres for Portugal

LocationOperating 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

Step 7: Track Your Application

If you submitted your application at a VFS Visa Application Centre, you can use the VFS online application tracking tool to check the status of your application. To know about this in detail refer to our section, ‘How to Check the Status of a Portugal Visa Application for Indians?’


Step 8: Collect Your Passport and Other Documents

Once the visa authorities have decided on your visa application, you can collect your documents back from them. You have the option to avail their courier services at an additional price or collect the documents in person. 


You will need the Original ICR & Copy of Govt ID Proof for collecting your documents in person.


Third-party collection of the documents is not permitted, except if the person is an Immediate family member (i.e. parents, children, siblings, or spouse). Representatives of a company can also collect the documents. They will need an Authorization letter on the letterhead of the company and the official ID card.

Third parties will also need to carry the following documents-

  • Photocopy of Govt. ID card of all applicants
  • Original ICR
  • Authorization Letter from the applicant.

In case an applicant loses their ICR, they need to come in person for the collection of their passport from the counter.

Validity of a Portugal Tourist Visa for Indians

Indian citizens can travel to Portugal for tourism purposes with a Schengen visa. The Schengen visa typically allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area, which includes Portugal.

Portugal Tourist Visa Extension Guidelines

If an Indian citizen wishes to extend their stay beyond the duration granted by their Schengen visa, they would typically need to apply for an extension through the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF - Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) or the relevant consulate or embassy. Extensions are usually granted only in exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies or force majeure situations.


Eligibility Criteria:

  • An application fee is required.
  • Applicants must adhere to the original visa requirements.
  • Stays in Portugal or the Schengen zone must not exceed 90 days.
  • A compelling and unforeseen reason is necessary for extension requests. Valid reasons include accidents, sudden illness of a close family member, or unexpected delays in scheduled business meetings, occurring after your arrival in Portugal.

Portugal Tourist Visa Fees for Indians

Applicant AgeFee TypeAmount

12 + years

Visa Fees

₹ 7,114 (€ 80)

VFS Service Fees

₹ 2,782

Between 6 - 12 Years

Visa Fees

₹ 3,557 (€ 40)

VFS Service Fees

₹ 2,782

Below 6 Years

Visa fee

Zero fees

All fees can be paid by Cash/Visa/MasterCard/Rupay.


Also, note that the fees are non-refundable and subject to change based on additional factors like foreign exchange fluctuations, courier & SMS facilities, etc.


List of additional charges -

  • Courier facility available at ₹ 450 per application.
  • Courier Assurance facility available at ₹ 550 per application.
  • SMS facility available at ₹ 115 per application.
  • Premium Lounge facility available at ₹ 2600 per application.

What is the Processing Time for a Portugal Visa for Indians?

Decisions on visa applications usually take 15 working days from the date the application reaches the Portugal Embassy/Consulate in Delhi/Goa. This visa processing period may be extended up to 45 working days when further scrutiny of the application is needed.

How to Check the Status of a Portugal Visa Application for Indians?

Here is how you can monitor your Portugal visa application through VFS: 


  1. Access the VFS online application tracking page.
  2. Input the Application Reference Number present on the invoice/receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre.
  3. Fill in your date of birth.
  4. Enter captcha and hit ‘Submit’.

Portugal Visa Application for Indians?

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Visiting Portugal?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for visiting all Schengen countries including Portugal.


  • Minimum coverage of € 30,000 / $ 50,000 / 50,000 CHF per person.
  • Coverage of all expenses that might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, or emergency hospital treatment.  
  • The insurance has to cover the entire stay in the Schengen territory. 
  • The document must be original.

Consider policies from well-known insurance companies such as Tata AIG, Digit Insurance, and HDFC Ergo that meet your travel needs and financial plan. You can refer to this list of approved Indian travel insurance providers for your Portugal visa

Reasons for Portugal Visa Rejection for Indians

When applying for a Portugal visa, knowing what could potentially lead to denial is crucial for strengthening your application and boosting the likelihood of getting approved. Here are some important considerations:


  1. Lack of Proper Documentation

All Portugal visit visa or tourist visa documents you submit must be authentic, complete, and satisfactory. Submitting incorrect or misleading information can cause your application to be rejected immediately and may lead to potential bans on future applications.

  1. Lack of Funds

 Inadequate proof of financial stability and inability to cover the cost of your stay can lead to rejection. A recommended bank balance is ₹ 3,00,000 per applicant.

  1. Weak Ties to Home Country 

Portugal authorities may question your intentions to return to India, if you cannot demonstrate strong ties, such as family, property, or employment in India, and, hence, may reject your visa application.

  1. Questionable Travel Record

A history of overstaying visas in other countries could be seen as a red flag, suggesting a risk of not adhering to Portugal’s visa regulations.

  1. Intentions Under Scrutiny

Not being able to convincingly explain the reason for your visit and its consistency with your planned activities might arouse suspicion. For example, expressing plans to work on a visa that doesn't allow employment could result in denial. 

What to do if My Portugal Visa Gets Rejected?

If your Portugal visa application is rejected, you have several options to appeal the decision:


  1. Complain to the Author of the Act: You can file a complaint to the author of the decision within 15 days of receiving the notification. This is done at the Consular Post or Consular Section where you submitted your application. This process is in accordance with Article 191 of the Code of Administrative Procedure.
  2. Hierarchical Appeal: Within three months of receiving the notification, you can appeal hierarchically to the government member responsible for foreign affairs. This appeal is also made at the Consular Post or Consular Section, in line with Paragraph 2 of Articles 58 and 59 of the Code of Procedure in Administrative Courts.
  3. Initiate Administrative Action: You can also initiate an administrative lawsuit within three months of the notification. This action is taken at the Administrative Court of Lisbon Circle, as stipulated by Articles 58 and 69 of the Code of Procedure in Administrative Courts.

The mentioned options are not mutually exclusive, meaning you can pursue an appeal to the Minister and, depending on its outcome, proceed to litigation. Furthermore, you can appeal the decision and simultaneously bring an action to the administrative court without waiting for the appeal's result, as allowed by Paragraph 5 of Article 59 of the CPTA.


The administrative cost for handling each appeal procedure is €75, except for applications resulting from authorizations for family reunification. This fee covers the use of administrative guarantees to contest a visa application's decision.

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Teleport's Expert Tip

If your Portugal visa application is rejected, consider reapplying instead of appealing. Reapplying can often be a faster and more straightforward process compared to navigating the complexities of an appeal, which can be lengthy and may still result in a denial. Make sure you rectify the mistakes of your initial application, provide additional documentation and clearer travel plans, etc. before reapplying.

What to do After Reaching the Portuguese Airport?

When you arrive at a Portuguese airport, here are key points visitors should keep in mind:


  1. Prepare your travel documents: Ensure you have your passport, valid Portugal visa (if applicable), return flight ticket, and accommodation confirmations at hand. This streamlines the immigration process.
  2. Advice for minors: Minors travelling alone should remain with the airline staff assigned to them for security. Upon landing, locate the pre-arranged adult who will meet you, ensuring a seamless arrival.
  3. Familiarise yourself with Portugal's Customs regulations: Head to the customs area if you need to declare items or if your baggage requires inspection. Understanding the customs rules at Portuguese airports is crucial to prevent any complications.

Additional Resources

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VFS Application Page

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Embassy of Portugal in Delhi

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Consulate General of Portugal in Goa

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Harmonised Application for Schengen Visa

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Application Tracking

Conclusion

Securing a Portugal tourist visa from India might initially seem like a meticulous task, but with the right guidance and preparation, it becomes a straightforward part of your travel plans. 


This guide has walked you through every step of the application process, from gathering documents to booking your appointment at the VFS Centre. 


Remember, the key to a smooth visa application lies in careful planning and attention to detail. Now that you know what to expect and how to prepare, you're all set to turn your Portuguese holiday dreams into reality. 


Safe travels, and enjoy every moment of your exploration in beautiful Portugal!

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