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Portugal Visa Processing Time How Long Does It Take for Indians?

Last Update: 17-10-2024

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Introduction

If you’re planning to visit Portugal, you’ll need the right visa depending on your purpose of travel. Portugal offers several types of visas, including tourist, business, student, and family reunification visas. Each visa type has different processing times, typically ranging from 15 to 60 days, depending on the complexity. Understanding the specific visa requirements and submitting the correct documents is essential for a smooth application process. This guide will help you learn more about the Portugal visa processing times and the necessary steps to successfully obtain your visa.

Table of Contents


  1. Portugal Visa Processing Time for Indians
  2. Portugal Tourist Visa Processing Time
  3. Portugal Business Visa Processing Time
  4. Portugal Visiting Family and Friends Visa Processing Time
  5. Portugal Medical Treatment Visa Processing Time
  6. Portugal Student Visa Processing Time
  7. Portugal Seasonal Work Visa Processing Time
  8. Portugal Independent Work Visa Processing Time
  9. Portugal Research/Internship/Study Visa Processing Time
  10. Portugal Professional Activity/Entrepreneur Immigrants/Start-up Visa Processing Time
  11. Portugal Family Reunification Visa Processing Time
  12. Learn more about Portugal Visas
  13. FAQs

Portugal Visa Processing Time for Indians

The processing time for a Portugal visa can take 15 working days to 1 month depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. Generally, short-term visas, like tourist, business, or visiting family/friends visas, take around 15 calendar days from the date the application is considered admissible. In some cases, further scrutiny may extend the processing time up to 45 days. For temporary stay visas like medical, seasonal work, or independent business visas, the processing time is typically 30 days.


It’s important to apply well in advance and take note of public holidays and other factors that might affect processing times.

Portugal Tourist Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal tourist visa typically takes up to 15 calendar days from when the application is deemed admissible. However, in some cases, where additional scrutiny is required, the processing time may be extended to 30 days or even up to 45 days in more complex cases. Applications should be submitted at least 15 working days before the intended date of travel, excluding the VFS handling time.


A Portugal tourist visa is a short-term visa required for those who wish to visit Portugal for tourism purposes. This visa allows you to stay in Portugal for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It can be applied for up to 180 days before your planned travel date.

Note:

Applicants must have been residing in India for at least six months to apply through VFS India. If not, they should submit their visa application from the country where they are currently residing.

The documents required for a Portugal tourist visa are as follows:

  • Valid Passport: Must be issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months beyond your return date. Minimum 2 empty visa pages required.
  • Previous Visas: Copies of previous Schengen visas and valid UK, USA, or Canada visas, if any.
  • Travel Insurance: Coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid for the entire Schengen area.
  • Accommodation Proof: Hotel bookings or proof of accommodation for the entire stay.
  • Financial Proof: Bank statements and salary slips for the last 3 months. Also Income Tax Return (ITR) for the last 2 years.
  • Photos: 2 recent passport-sized photos (35-40 mm) with a white background.
  • Travel Itinerary: Flight bookings or travel plan details.
  • Proof of Legal Residence: For non-Indian nationals residing in India.

Portugal Business Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal business visa is typically 15 calendar days from the date the application is deemed admissible. In cases requiring further scrutiny, the processing period may be extended up to 45 days. Applications must be submitted at least 15 working days before the intended travel date, excluding VFS handling time.


A Portugal business visa is required for individuals travelling to Portugal for business-related purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts. The visa is valid for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Applications can be submitted up to 180 days before your intended travel date.


Apart from mandatory documents like your passport, photos, and a cover letter, you also need to carry the following for a Portugal business visa:

  1. Invitation letter from the business partner or organisation in Portugal.
  2. Introduction letter from your employer confirming the purpose, duration, and funding of the business trip.
  3. Proof of transport – Round-trip flight reservations or travel itinerary.
  4. Proof of accommodation – Hotel bookings or private accommodation confirmation for the entire stay.
  5. Travel medical insurance – Coverage of at least €30,000 for all Schengen countries.
  6. Proof of financial means – Bank statements and salary slips from the last 3 months and Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the last 2 years.
  7. Employer-related documents (if employed) – Recent pay slips, employment contract, and approved leave.
  8. Business registration documents (if self-employed) – Proof of company registration and ownership.

Portugal Visiting Family and Friends Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal visiting family or friends visa typically takes up to 15 calendar days from the date the application is considered admissible. However, if further scrutiny is required, the processing time can be extended up to 45 calendar days.


Applications must be submitted at least 15 working days before the intended travel date, excluding the VFS handling time.


This visa is intended for individuals travelling to Portugal to visit family members or friends. The visa allows stays of up to 90 days and can be applied for up to 180 days before your intended travel date.


Apart from mandatory documents like your passport, photos, and a cover letter, you also need to carry the following for a Portugal visiting family/friends visa:

  1. Invitation letter from the host in Portugal, mentioning details of the invitee, duration of stay, and relationship with the host, along with a copy of their Portuguese/Indian passport or residence permit.
  2. Travel itinerary – Flight reservations or travel plan.
  3. Proof of accommodation – Hotel bookings or proof of residence where you will be staying.
  4. Travel medical insurance – Coverage of at least €30,000 for all Schengen countries.
  5. Proof of financial means – Bank statements for the last 3 months and Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the last 3 years.
  6. Sponsorship proof (if the trip is being sponsored) – Sponsorship letter (Termo de Responsabilidade), along with a copy of the sponsor's passport and residence permit.
  7. Proof of relationship (if visiting family) – Documents showing the familial connection.
  8. NOC letter for minors – If minors are travelling without their parents, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required from both parents.

Portugal Medical Treatment Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal medical visa depends on the type of visa applied for. For a Temporary Stay visa (E Visa), the processing time is up to 30 days, while for a Resident visa (D Visa), the decision must be made within 60 days. Applications should be submitted at least 30 working days before the planned date of travel, excluding VFS handling time.


The Portugal medical visa is a temporary stay visa issued to individuals traveling to Portugal for medical treatment at a recognized hospital. This visa is granted for a period of less than one year, allowing applicants to receive necessary medical care in Portugal.


Apart from mandatory documents like your passport, photos, and a visa application form, you will need to provide the following for a Portugal medical visa:

  1. Travel reservation ensuring return to your home country.
  2. Valid travel insurance covering medical expenses, including emergency assistance and repatriation.
  3. Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from your country of residence (valid for 3 months).
  4. Proof of accommodation during your stay in Portugal.
  5. Proof of financial means – Bank statements for the last 6 months and ITR for the last 3 years (if applicable).
  6. Medical report outlining the required treatment.
  7. Proof of treatment appointment at a recognized medical institution in Portugal.

Portugal Student Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal student visa  is typically 30 calendar days. This timeline begins once the application reaches the Consular Section of the Embassy of Portugal in New Delhi. Keep in mind that public holidays do not count as working days, and it may take up to two working days for the application to reach the embassy.


The E9 temporary stay visa is for students who have been accepted into technical or professional courses in Portugal that last less than one year. This visa allows Indians to attend short-term training or study programs at recognized institutions in Portugal.


Apart from mandatory documents like the visa application form, passport, photos, and travel insurance, it’s important to carry the following for a Portugal student visa:

  1. Travel reservation: Proof of return flight booking.
  2. Police Clearance Certificate (PCC): Valid for up to 3 months.
  3. Proof of financial means: Bank statements, salary slips for the last 3 months, and ITR for the last 3 years.
  4. Letter of enrollment: Issued by the training institution in Portugal, confirming course details and duration.
  5. Proof of tuition fee payment: Official document from the institution.

Portugal Seasonal Work Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal seasonal work visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for. For a Temporary Stay visa (E Visa), the processing time is up to 30 days, while for a Resident visa (D Visa), the decision can take up to 60 days.


Applications must be submitted at least 30 working days before the planned travel date, excluding VFS handling time.


This visa is for applicants travelling to Portugal for seasonal work lasting more than 90 days. Eligible industries include:

  • Agriculture, livestock, hunting, forestry, and fishing
  • Housing, hotel, and restaurant industries
  • Food, drinks, and tobacco industries
  • Wholesale and retail commerce
  • Construction industries
  • Land transport (Drivers must show proof they are allowed to perform driving duties in Portugal, such as an international driving licence).

Portugal Independent Work Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal independent work visa varies depending on the visa type. For a Temporary Stay visa (E Visa), the decision is made within 30 days, while for a Resident visa (D Visa), the processing time can take up to 60 days. Applications must be submitted at least 30 working days before the intended travel date, excluding VFS handling time.


The Temporary Stay visa is issued to applicants travelling to Portugal for independent business activities lasting less than one year. This visa is ideal for individuals working on self-employed business ventures or projects in Portugal.

Portugal Research/Internship/Study Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal research, internship, or study visa typically takes 45 to 60 working days.


This visa is issued to applicants travelling to Portugal for research, study, high school student exchange, internships, or volunteering, with a stay period of more than one year. It allows individuals to participate in educational or professional programs during their time in Portugal.

Portugal Professional Activity/Entrepreneur Immigrants/Start-up Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal D2 visa is typically 60 calendar days from when the application reaches the Consular Section of the Embassy of Portugal in New Delhi. It may take an additional two working days for the application to reach the consular section. Public holidays do not count as working days.


The D2 visa is for entrepreneurs, start-up founders, and independent professionals who want to set up their own business or work independently in Portugal. It’s also for foreign nationals hired as service providers by a Portuguese company or organisation.

Portugal Family Reunification Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Portugal family reunification visa (D6 visa) typically takes around 1 month.


The D6 visa is for family members of foreign nationals who are already living in Portugal with a valid residency permit. This visa allows eligible family members to join their relatives in Portugal and apply for residency. The specific family members eligible for reunification are defined by Portuguese law.

Final thought

In summary, applying for a Portugal visa requires careful attention to processing times and document requirements based on the type of visa you need. Whether you are travelling for tourism, business, study, or visiting family, it's crucial to submit your application on time and ensure all documents are in order. By following the correct procedures and staying informed about the visa process, you can increase the chances of a smooth and successful application, allowing you to enjoy your trip to Portugal without any hassle.

FAQs

How long does it take to process a Portugal tourist visa?

The processing time for a Portugal tourist visa typically takes up to 15 calendar days. However, if further scrutiny is required, it can take up to 30 or 45 days. It’s recommended to apply at least 15 working days before your intended travel date, excluding VFS handling time.

How long is the processing time for a Portugal business visa?

The Portugal business visa processing time is generally 15 calendar days from when the application is deemed admissible. In complex cases requiring additional checks, processing can take up to 45 days. Be sure to apply at least 15 working days in advance of your travel date.

How long does it take to get a Portugal student visa?

The processing time for a Portugal student visa is usually 30 calendar days once the application reaches the Consular Section. Public holidays and the two-day transit for the application to reach the consular section may impact this timeline, so plan ahead accordingly.

When should I apply for a Portugal visa to avoid delays?

You should apply for a Portugal visa at least 15 to 30 working days before your intended travel date, depending on the visa type. For Resident visas, it’s recommended to apply 60 days in advance to avoid delays, especially during peak seasons.

Why does my Portugal visa application take longer than expected?

Portugal visa applications may take longer than expected if additional scrutiny is required, or if documents are missing or incorrect. Public holidays or peak seasons can also slow down processing times, potentially extending it to 45 to 60 days.

Can I track the status of my Portugal visa application?

Yes, you can track your Portugal visa application status online through the VFS Global portal. You’ll need your reference number and last name from your application receipt to check the current status of your visa.

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