This is a question many interested travelers to Portugal ask themselves, and it is a valid question to ask if you don’t want to run foul of the country’s immigration laws.
In this post, we will provide you with all you need to know about the length of time you can stay in Portugal without a Schengen visa and other important information. We will also help you with the right course of action if you do need to apply for a Portugal visa — your best bet is VisaHQ.
Traveling To The Republic of Portugal
Portugal is one of the Schengen countries, situated in the Western Europe. It has a population of 10.2 million people and a land area of 92,212 km2. The country is also a member of the European Union.
Portugal has a unique history and social architecture brought by the numerous invaders who held sway over the country at different historical periods. It joined the Schengen zone in 1995 and subscribed to similar immigration laws with its fellow EU members.
It also has a thriving tourism industry with lovely beaches and historic landmarks. For instance, did you know: the oldest bookshop in the world is in Portugal.
How Long Can You Stay In Portugal Without A Visa?
Before asking this question, you should know whether you even need a visa to enter Portugal. If you are from a neighboring EU country or a Schengen nation, you don’t need a golden visa to enter Portugal. Furthermore, citizens of the UK, US, Canada, and a few other countries do not need a Portuguese visa either.
However, you can’t stay in Portugal indefinitely without a visa. Based on Portuguese law, visitors cannot stay in Portugal beyond the 90 days of grace. This means you should leave the country on or before the 90th day.
Subsequently, if you had a visa, but it expires while you are still in the country, you are expected to leave within 3 months after the visa expiration; staying beyond the 90 days will be treated as a violation, and this will attract sanctions like fines, bands or jail time in worse cases.
Types of Portugal Visas: By Duration
Visitors are advised to be sure of how long they plan to stay in the country before applying for a visa.
Visas have different durations and are categorized into short-stay visas and long-stay visas.
Long Stay Visas: Long stay visas are for long-term commitments like study visas, medical treatment, internships, work, and any other purpose that will keep you in the country longer than 1 year.
Short Stay Visas: Short stay visas are for temporary visits like tourism. This visa is valid for less than 1 year, and in most cases, the holder is not allowed to remain in Portugal longer than 6 months. Applicants are also allowed to apply for multiple-entry short-stay visas.
Residency Visa: This type of visa is a short-stay visa that is valid for 4 months. It allows the holder to enter the country twice, but you must submit a signed request for a residency permit to the Portuguese immigration and borders service.
Portugal Visa Requirements
Now that you know how long you can stay in Portugal without a visa, you definitely need a visa if you plan to stay in the country for more than 90 days, regardless of whether you come from any other Schengen country or are foreign residents who enjoy visa free travel. The documents required of you will depend on your country of origin. Citizens from EU countries can apply for a visa with their ID cards. Citizens of non-EU countries may be required to submit the following for their visa application process:
Valid passport: A valid passport not older than 10 years that will not expire three months after the visa expires.
Photograph: A recent photograph taken not later than 6 months in colored form. The photograph must clearly show the applicant's face, neck, and shoulders.
Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation or where they plan to stay during their visit.
Proof of funds: Statement of account to prove they can fund their expenses in the country.
Travel medical insurance: A medical insurance issued by a Schengen-recognized insurance company. The insurance should provide a minimum balance of €30,000 to cover potential medical expenses.
How To Apply For A Portugal Visa Online
You can apply for a Portugal visa by visiting VisaHQ.
Log onto VisaHQ. Select Portugal as your destination
Select your country
Choose the visa you want
Complete the application form
Upload the required documents
Pay the application processing fee
Submit for approval
Now that you know the circumstances under which visa free entry is allowed in Portugal, head to VisaHQ to apply for a visa if you wish to stay in Portugal for more than 90 days or are the citizen of a country that doesn't have a visa free agreement with the country.