There are different visa rules and requirements for people of different nationalities. So please check with the embassy for the latest information. In general, citizens of European Member Countries (EEA, EFTA) can live and work in Portugal without a visa or a work permit. Nationals of certain countries can visit Portugal for up to three months without a visa but will need to be granted a work permit to take up employment.
For more information on visa requirements, please click here.
Visa Types
Below is a brief guide to the main types of visa available for Portugal and some of the requirements to obtain it. For a more complete and comprehensive guide, please click here.- Tourist Visa: A tourist visa is valid for 30 - 90 days. You'll need a passport or official document accpeted in Schengan coutries with a minimum validity of three months, 1 passport sized photo, a letter of invitation, proof of sufficient funds and medical insurance in some cases.
- Business Visa: Letter from employer or, if self-employed, from solicitor, accountant, bank manager or local Chamber of Commerce stating purpose and duration of the visit. References may also be required.
- Student Visa: Valid for the duration of the study. Best to apply in advance as it can take 2-3 months to be approved.
- Employment Visa: Members from non-EU countries planning to work in Portugal will need an employment visa.
- Permanent Residence: If the spouse is a Portugese national, the other spouse can apply for Portugese Permanent Residence.
The work permit for foreign nationals
Portugal does not apply any restrictions on the access to its labour market by citizens of other EEA countries including citizens of the New EU member countries (Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia).
If you are from a country that is not a European member, you must obtain a work visa or permit to work in Portugal.
Update 7/09/2009
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