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Portugal Visa

Type of Portugal Visas

Tourist Visa (Short term)
  • Processing time: 10-15 days
  • Stay period: Upto 90 days
  • Validity: 6 months
  • Entry: Single/Multiple
  • Fees: INR 7,999/-
Business Visa (Short term)
  • Processing time: 10-15 days
  • Stay period: Upto 90 days
  • Validity: 6 months
  • Entry: Single/Multiple
  • Fees: INR 7,999/-

It takes less than 2 minutes to Apply

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Documents required for Portugal Visa

  • Must have Documents for Portugal Visa:
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    • Original Passport with at least 6 months validity and minimum 3 blank pages + all old passports if any;
    • Visa Application form;
    • 2 recent colour photographs (Photo Specification);
    • Personal Covering letter (For Employed - Plain paper/ For Self-Employed – Company Letterhead);
    • Original updated Bank Statement (last 6 months);
    • Income Tax Returns / Form 16 for last 3 years;
    • Confirmed return flight tickets;
    • Hotel reservation;
    • Day wise Itinerary;
    • Travel Insurance (minimum coverage of EUR 30000);
    • Personal Interview mandatory for first time travellers to Portugal.

    Kindly note: The Govt is very strict on the photograph requirement; please ensure that your photos are as per the specifications.

  • Supporting documents as per your occupation, type of visit:
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    1. If Employed:

    • Original Leave sanctioned certificate with company seal and signature;
    • Last 3 months salary slip.

    2. If Self Employed:

    • Business Registration License / MOA / Partnership deed;
    • Company’s updated bank statement of last 6 months.

    3. If Retired:

    • Proof of retirement like pension book, statement etc.

    4. If Student:

    • School / College / Institute ID Card;
    • Bonafide certificate.

    5. If Minor:

    • Birth Certificate;
    • No Objection Certificate from the parents / non-accompanying parent on Rs 100/- stamp paper;
    • ID proof of parent like passport or PAN card.

    6. If Visiting friend or relative:

    • Invitation letter;
    • Inviter’s ID proof like Passport or Resident Permit;
    • Address proof like any Electricity bill, any Utility bill etc.

    7. If Sponsored:

    • Notarized Original Sponsorship Letter on Rs. 100 Stamp Paper. If the Sponsor is in not in India, the Sponsorship Letter should be Notarized/Attested by a Notary/Advocate if in the E.U. or from the respective Portugal Consulate/Embassy in other countries;
    • Sponsor’s national ID proof like Passport, PAN card or Resident permit;
    • Updated bank statement of last 6 months.

    8. For Business Visa:

    • Invitation letter from host Company stating purpose of trip, business details etc;
    • Covering letter from Indian company on company letterhead.

Applying for Portugal Visa through us is this simple

Pay online &
submit your documents
We verify documents,
fill visa application
& book appointment
You attend Biometrics
& submit visa file
Receive your Visa

Portugal Visa FAQs

  • add What is a Portugal Schengen visa?

    A Portugal Schengen visa is a special kind of visa which allows you to travel among all the Schengen countries including Portugal for a maximum period of upto 90 days. This is a traveller’s dream where with one visa you can travel to any of the other 25 Schengen countries along with Portugal.

  • add Who issues Visas for Portugal in India?

    In India, The Embassy of Portugal in New Delhi and The Consulate General of Portugal in Goa are the sole representatives of Portugal, who issue visas for their country.

  • add Is the visa valid for Portugal only?

    The Embassy and Consulate General of Portugal issues visas for Portugal and Schengen visa which is common to all Schengen States. The Schengen visa issued by the Embassy/Consulate gives an applicant access to 26 Schengen countries in totality.
    However, the Schengen Visa applications will only be accepted by Portugal Visa Application Centre if Portugal is the country of maximum stay. Should the duration of the stay be the same in several Schengen States, then Portugal must be the first point of entry.

  • add The Schengen Visa is valid for which countries?

    A Schengen Visa (issued by a consulate or embassy of a Schengen State) is valid for all 26 States of the Schengen Area (including the European territory of Portugal), unless it is marked otherwise on the visa sticker. So you do not need another visa to enter or stay in the European territory of Portugal. However, you must be in possession of documentary evidence for the reasons of your stay and your means of support. Schengen Area comprises of the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

  • add How long can I stay in the Schengen area on the basis of my visa?

    The Schengen Visa is a short stay visa and takes the form of a sticker affixed to your passport. The definition of “short stay” is a stay of "90 days in any 180 days period". This means that the total duration of stay is of maximum 90 days in any period of 180 days. The precise length of validity of your Schengen Visa is indicated on the visa sticker under the heading “Duration of visit”. With a single-entry visa you can enter the Schengen area only once. This is indicated on the visa sticker under the heading "Number of entries" by "1". A two-entry or a multiple-entry visa allows for two or several entries during the validity of the Schengen Visa. This is indicated on the visa sticker by "02" or "MULT" under the heading "Number of entries".

  • add Will all Schengen Visas be granted for 90 days?

    No, not necessarily all Schengen Visas will be granted for 90 days. You may get the Schengen Visa only for the number of days that you present in your travel itinerary and your flight & hotel bookings

  • add Can I apply again for a Schengen Visa if my application has been refused earlier?

    You may appeal against this decision. The decision to refuse a Schengen visa and the reasons for the refusal are notified using a standard form that is handed out by the Member State's consulate that refused the visa. The notification of the refusal must include the reasons, on which the refusal were based, and the procedures and deadlines for submitting an appeal. You are free to re-apply again if your application has been refused earlier. However, it is recommended that you take note of the reasons for the earlier refusal before submitting a new application and make amendments, where necessary.
    The visa fee is not refunded if the visa is refused. The visa fee covers the cost of the examination of the visa application.

  • add What is the Schengen Visa cover letter?

    The Schengen Visa cover letter is a letter which summarizes your intent to travel to a country that is part of the Schengen area. In your cover letter you should explain:

    - the purpose of your trip
    - when and where you intend to travel
    - how your trip is going to be funded
    - day-by-day itinerary for your trip
    - duration of the trip

  • add As a Portugal short-stay visa holder can I extend my Schengen Visa while in Portugal?

    You cannot extend your Portugal short-stay while in Portugal except in special circumstances, and exceeding your permitted period of stay is considered an act of illegality or criminality. Instead, you must return to your home country within the permitted period of stay and apply for another Portugal Visa if necessary.

  • add Can I leave the Schengen area and return again with my Schengen visa?

    Schengen visas may allow for a single-entry or multiple entries. With a single-entry visa you can enter the Schengen area only once. This is indicated on the visa sticker by "01". With a visa allowing for two or multiple entries you may enter twice or several times during the validity of the visa.

  • add If my Portugal short-stay multiple entry Schengen Visa is valid for a year, how long can I remain in the Portugal territory?

    A short-stay Schengen Visa allows you to enter and stay in a Portugal territory for a maximum period of 90 days within a period of six months.

  • add How long before the start of the intended visit should I apply for a Schengen Visa?

    You may only submit your Schengen visa application 90 days before your date of departure. We recommend that you apply at least 20 working days before the date you wish to depart as certain types of travel purpose may take longer than usual to process. For instance, the processing time of your Schengen Visa Application will take between 5-15 working days from your appointment date.

  • add How long does it take to obtain a Portugal Visa?

    Typically, a Portugal Visa (Schengen Visa) takes anywhere from 10 to 15 days to process in the Portugal Embassy/Consulate. The processing time for a Portugal Visa is dependent on several factors and can change without notice at the consulate's discretion. This period may be extended up to 30 days or 60 days.

  • add What is the role of VFS?

    VFS Global Services Pvt Ltd (VFS) is the Service Delivery Provider for the Embassy of Portugal in Delhi. The role of VFS is to accept visa applications and to dispatch passports and documents back to clients, on behalf of the Embassy of Portugal. VFS does not play any part in or influence the outcome of your visa application.

  • add What proof will I have that the Portugal Visa Application Centre has my visa application?

    When your application is registered in the VFS system, you will be issued a receipt for the fees that you have paid and an acknowledgement receipt of the acceptance of your passport will be given to you. 

  • add How can I check the status of my Portugal Visa application?

    Applicants can check the status of Portugal visa application online using the Portugal VFS Reference number and Date of Birth. Kindly visit the Track Your Application section of the Portugal VFS website.

  • add Will I get my visa at the end of the process?

    As an application centre, the Portugal Visa Application Centre (VFS) will not be able to guarantee you a visa. The issuance or refusal of a Portugal visa is the sole prerogative of The Embassy/Consulate General of Portugal. The Portugal Visa Application Centre cannot influence this decision in any way.

  • add Is it mandatory for me to take an appointment for a Portugal Visa?

    Yes, an appointment is mandatory for Portugal Visa in order to provide your biometrics and submit your visa documents.

  • add Is Personal Interview mandatory for Portugal Visa?

    Yes. Personal Interview is mandatory for all first time travellers and applicants who haven’t travelled to any Schengen country in the last 3 years.

  • add I have a valid long stay visa/residence permit for a country that is part of the Schengen area. Do I need another visa to travel to other Schengen states?

    No. A long stay visa or a residence permit issued by a Schengen State allows you to travel or stay in other Schengen States, while respecting the maximum duration of a “short stay” (a stay of "90 days in any 180 day period")

  • add My family is also applying for a Portugal Visa, how many appointments should we make?

    Every member of the family needs an individual appointment.

  • add Which countries are part of the Schengen Area?

    The Schengen area covers 26 countries ("Schengen States") without border controls between them. These countries are: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. These countries apply the common visa policy for short stay Visas. This Visa allows you to travel through Portugal and the Schengen area for up to 90 days.

  • add I am traveling to multiple Schengen countries. From which Consulate should I apply for my Schengen Visa?

    Schengen Visa must be applied from the Embassy / Consulate of the country where you will be staying for maximum number of days. If your stay has equal number of days in each country then you must apply to the Embassy / Consulate of the country which would serve as the first port of entry. 

  • add Can I leave the Schengen area and return again with my Schengen Visa?

    Schengen Visas may allow for a single-entry or multiple entries. With a single-entry visa you can enter the Schengen area only once. This is indicated on the visa sticker by "01". With a visa allowing for two or multiple entries you may enter twice or several times during the validity of the Schengen Visa.

  • add What is the difference between a single-entry Schengen Visa and a multiple-entry Schengen Visa?

    According to the EU, a single-entry Schengen Visa allows entry to the Schengen area only once, meaning you are not permitted to re-enter the Schengen Area after leaving, while a multiple-entry Schengen Visa allows multiple entries into the Schengen Area within the visa’s validity period (90 days total within 180-day period).

  • add Do I have to present any other document at the Schengen external borders apart from my travel document with the Schengen Visa?

    The short-stay visa does not automatically entitle you to enter the Schengen area. At the border (or during other controls) you may have to show the visa but also provide additional documentation, for example; sufficient evidence that you have sufficient means to cover the stay and the return trip. It is therefore recommended that you carry with you copies of the documents which you presented when applying for the Schengen visa (e.g. letters of invitation, travel confirmations, other documents stating the purpose of your stay).

  • add Do I have to apply in person for the Schengen Visa?

    Yes, applications by mail will not be accepted. The Schengen visa application should be presented in person because biometrical data must be recorded.

  • add I am a family member of an EU-citizen. Are the standard requirements applicable to me?

    Family members of EU citizens who have exercised their right of free movement (meaning that the EU citizen resides in or travels to a Member State other than his/her country of origin) benefit from certain procedural facilitations. The basic criteria to be fulfilled are the following:

    • the EU citizen has exercised his/her right of free movement
    • the family member (applicant) belongs to one of the categories covered by Directive 2004/38/EC
    • the family member (applicant) accompanies the EU citizen or joins him/her in the Schengen State of destination.
  • add Why is personal appearance mandatory for Portugal Visa?

    As from 2nd November 2015 following the introduction of the Visa Information System (VIS), all Schengen visa applicants in India have to appear in person in order to provide biometric data (fingerprints and digital photography). The photograph can be digitally taken at the time of the application or scanned from an existing one. For subsequent applications within the 5 years the fingerprints can be copied from the previous application file in the VIS. In case of reasonable doubt regarding the identity of the applicant, the consulate will again collect fingerprints within the 5 year period specified above. Furthermore, the applicant may request that they be collected if, at the time when the application is lodged, it cannot be immediately confirmed that the fingerprints were collected within this 5 years period.

  • add Do I need to provide travel insurance for my Visa application?

    Yes. Applicants should prove that they are in possession of adequate and valid travel insurance to cover any expenses which might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention and/or emergency hospital treatment or death, during their stay(s) on the territory of the Schengen Member States. The insurance should be valid throughout the territory of the Member States and cover the entire period of the person’s intended stay or transit. The minimum coverage must be EUR 30000.

  • add What are the Schengen Visa travel insurance requirements?

    Your travel Insurance plan for a Schengen Visa must meet the following requirements:

    • Minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros (approx. USD $34,000)
    • Coverage for repatriation for medical reasons
    • Coverage for emergency medical treatment
    • Coverage for expenses resulting from your death
    • Coverage for the entire period of your intended stay
    • Valid in all Schengen Area countries
  • add Can you process the Travel Insurance for me?

    Even though Travel Insurance is a mandatory requirement for processing Schengen Visa, you are strongly advised to purchase a health / travel insurance to secure yourself as medical treatment can be very expensive in the Schengen country. Your travel insurance offers protection against unexpected emergencies on international travel such as coverage of medical expenses, flight delay and cancellations, passport and baggage loss or personal accident.  For financial safety and security on your international trip we highly recommend you to purchase travel insurance and avail our special offer.

  • add What is the easiest way to apply for a Portugal Visa?

    The easiest way to apply for a POrtugal Visa is to contact us. We are experts in the travel and tourism sector with over 40 years of experience. Through our expertise, in-depth knowledge and integrity, we commit to delivering an exceptional experience to our customers each and every time you use our service. In order to help us understand your unique visa needs, please drop in your query and our Expert will get in touch with you.

  • add Are you still having doubts about the Visa process?

    We have you covered across India with presence in all the major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Lucknow and many more.

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Simple steps to get a Portugal Visa:

Akbar Travels has been a part of more than one million travel dreams. We offer a superior, quick and hassle-free Visa Facilitation service. With a highly professional and dedicated team of Visa Experts, we are here to cater to all your Portugal visa application requirements. Read more

Throughout your visa process, you will have a dedicated Visa Expert handling your application.

Here are the steps to apply for a Portugal Visa through Akbar Travels:

Step 1: Provide your travel details to our Visa Expert and get all your queries answered.

Step 2: Pay the visa fee and upload your documents online through our secured online document locker to ensure its confidentiality.

Step 3: Our Visa Expert will verify the documents, complete your visa application and schedule your appointment.

Step 4: On the appointment day visit the Visa Application Center (VAC) to submit your Biometrics (fingerprinting & photograph) and documents.

Step 5: Receive your Visa.

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Basic Requirements to visit Portugal

  • Have a valid Passport and valid Portugal Visa;
  • Be in good health; Read more
  • Good moral character;
  • Be able to convince the immigration officer that you have your family, property, assets, etc. that would serve as an incentive to come back to your home country;
  • Be able to convince the immigration officer that you will leave the country before your Portugal visa expires;
  • Have sufficient funds to support yourself in Portugal and the amount depends on how long you will stay in Portugal and whether you will be staying with family, friends or any paid accommodation.
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Travel Checklist

  • Passport;
  • Valid Portugal Visa; Read more
  • Confirmed return Ticket;
  • Contact details of your relative, friends or business contact in Portugal;
  • Confirmed hotel bookings (If Any);
  • Portugal Currency and other forms of forex;
  • An unlocked smartphone, preferable with a Sim card from India;
  • Any additional documents required to prove your purpose of visit (especially if you are travelling on a business Visa).
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What to do when you arrive in Portugal

  • Keep your Declaration form in hand (provided to you on the flight); Read more
  • Keep all travel documents (passport, valid Portugal Visa, return ticket, hotel bookings etc.) ready in case the immigration officer asks to produce any document;
  • If you are an unaccompanied minor, make sure you stay with the flight attendant who is in charge of your safety. Additionally, you must recognise the adult picking you up at the airport. If you have any doubts, you must inform the airline staff immediately.
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Portugal travel guide

Portugal is one of Europe’s oldest extant nations, an ancient kingdom defended by hilltop castles and dramatic walled towns. Read more

First-time visitors are usually struck by the friendliness of the people, the affordable food and wine, and the diversity of a country that is relatively easy to travel round in just a few days. Its cities – notably Lisbon and Porto – amply showcase Portugal’s former role as a maritime superpower that ruled the waves from Brazil to East Asia, though it’s not all about history: the cities boast some of Europe’s best clubs and most adventurous modern architecture.  Head inland and there are endless possibilities, from touring wine estates to walking, cycling or kayaking down inland rivers. It is the coast, however, that is the biggest draw. From cliff-backed coves to endless stretches of sandy dunes, you are rarely far from a stunning beach. While its western Atlantic dunes are still relatively unknown to those outside the surfing community, the calmer waters of the Algarve offer the quintessential laidback beach experience. Portugal’s borders have changed little since it became an independent country in the twelfth century. Mountains make up the bulk of the frontier with Spain, with the large rivers of the Minho in the north and the Guadiana in the south adding to this natural divide. Early Portuguese monarchs fortified the border with a series of walled towns, many sited on dramatic hilltops, and these make the border areas some of the most fascinating to visit.

Beaches and high mountains aside, the rest of Portugal is a diverse and verdant country of deep valleys and rolling hills dotted with stone-built villages. For generations, families have eked out a living from the steeply terraced vineyards of the mountainous north, and from the cork oak plantations roamed by wild boar that dominate the vast agricultural plains of the south. Portugal’s prestige and economy have never regained the heights they attained during the golden ages of the fifteenth to eighteenth centuries. The country spent most of the twentieth century in deep poverty under the dictatorial rule of Prime Minister Dr Salazar, and while joining the European Union had great initial benefits – funding new roads and communications – Portugal has struggled badly in the recent years of economic crisis. Yet although it remains one of the EU’s weakest economies, Portugal is a remarkably unified country – there are no minorities agitating for independence, while rivalry between the north and south consists of little more than gentle mockery. Indeed Portugal is generally a very tolerant nation, and has integrated a substantial population from its former colonies in Africa, Asia and Brazil with relative ease. Contemporary Portuguese tastes are influenced by the flavors, sounds and styles of Brazil, Angola and Mozambique in particular.

It’s a Catholic country – there are ancient churches in every community – and while support for the institutions of the Church may have waned, a belief in traditional values remains. The Portuguese have embraced contemporary life without ever quite getting rid of the more appealing aspects of previous centuries. Fully wired town centres have Wi-Fi hotspots and cell-phone shops by the score, but they also have a butcher, a baker and (quite literally) a candle-stick maker. Children will be both seen and heard at any time of the day or night, as the family remains at the centre of most things.
When times were hard at home, the Portuguese traditionally emigrated to pastures new, but their homeland’s blend of tolerance and tradition, its bucolic scenery and year-round sunshine, persuade most emigrants to return at some stage – and it is this same allure that makes the country so appealing to visitors. Prepare to be charmed.

Places to visit in Portugal

1. Madeira

Start the year off right by waking up in Madeira. This subtropical island system has become one of the trendiest destinations in Portugal for hiking, spending warm days by the seaside as a winter sun retreat, and eating exotic food, plus, the capital Funchal offers one of the best New Year’s Eve parties in the world. You’ll get the festive feel, without the cold weather of home. If you can’t head over for New Year’s, no problem; visiting the main island and smaller, adjacent islands is always a good plan and Porto Santo is where beach enthusiasts will find one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in Portugal. Other landmarks in Madeira and the smaller islands include the house that once belonged to Christopher Columbus, the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, called Museu CR7, and the Madeira Wine Museum. Visit our article for more on escaping to Madeira in the Autumn.

2. Porto

Don’t miss Portugal’s second largest city. It may seem a lot like the capital since both are characterized by old, colorful buildings sprawled across hilly streets and they sit beside major rivers, but Porto is the yin to Lisbon’s yang. Where Lisbon is literally bright and sunny, Porto shines with culture. Anyone who loves Portugal’s azulejos tiles shouldn’t miss the São Bento railway station, which offers a stunning mosaic of tiles, transforming the walls into memorable works of art. There is no shortage of gardens, medieval palaces, and cathedrals, and the cuisine is often referred to as the best in the country. Known for its famous Port wine, Porto’s stretches of vineyards make up most of the nearby Douro Valley.

3. Lisbon

The capital continues to sit at the top of travel itineraries, and visitors usually can’t wait to sink their teeth into authentic pasteis de nata, try one of the many bacalhau dishes, and explore the Portuguese calçadas (traditional mosaic walkways). Despite the boom in tourism, this continues to be a city that can be explored on a budget and is still one of the most tranquil and affordable capitals in Europe. Visitors can anticipate winding, narrow roads, and phenomenal lookout points; walking around at night is also a treat. In Alfama, mouthwatering aromas and wistful melodies (known as fado) drift from cozy restaurants that line the narrow, cobblestone labyrinth of streets. Don’t miss Chiado, the trendy district with the oldest bookstore in the world, or boho-chic Bairro Alto, which comes alive at night. Great weather and plenty of sunlight means there’s never a bad time to visit Lisbon.

4. Ericeira

Surfing is one of the main attractions in Portugal, and Ericeira is a small fishing village with a big reputation for catching waves. It’s also easy to get to from Lisbon, and while it’s not the closest beach town to the capital, it is one of the busiest. However, sitting along the cliffs that fringe the coast and watching surfers (or surfing yourself) isn’t the only thing to do here; Ericeira’s restaurants are among the top spots for indulging in fresh, delicious Portugese seafood.

5. Algarve

Algarve is one of the best places to go to mix warm weather, hiking expeditions, trendy beaches, and even trendier social scenes. Each of the major cities is worth visiting—including Albufeira, Lagos, Vilamoura and Portimão—and a weekend away may convince anyone that heaven exists here on Earth. Tiny treasure troves of jewel-bright waters and mesmerizing cliffs—like Camilo Beach in Lagos—are sprinkled across the region, and don’t worry about not speaking Portuguese if you need directions. Many neighborhoods in the Algarve (if not most), are more English-speaking than Portuguese these days, especially around Albufeira and Vilamoura. Anyone wanting to break away from the Portugese tourist crowds, however, still has plenty of places to visit—a few of the most tranquil towns are Sagres, Tavira, and Aljezur.

6. Alentejo

Break away from the crowds by visiting the Alentejo region. The area’s capital city, Évora, is another lovely spot with a rich history and a mysterious nature that makes it a perfect Halloween destination, especially when taking into consideration the Capela dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones. Inside (and on) the walls of this 16th-century church are approximately 5,000 human skeletons. Of course, tourists shouldn’t miss the other historical sites, like the Roman Temple or Cathedral of Évora, nor overlook visiting one of Alentjo’s most unique hotels. Évora and the nearby villages are ideal retreats into nature where it is possible to hide away, enjoy true comfort food, and indulge in phenomenal wine.

7. Sintra

Hans Christian Andersen, the most famous author of children’s fairy tales, once lived in a house in Sintra’s woods, and pleasantly-surprised visitors still stumble across the house while trekking downhill from the city’s many palaces and fortresses. A living fairy tale itself, there’s no shortage of inspiration for imaginations like Andersen’s. Located approximately 30 kilometers from Lisbon, getting to Sintra is easy and makes a great day trip, though you may prefer two or three days to see everything in detail. From the romantic 19th-century Pena Palace to the exquisite Monserrate Palace and medieval Castle of the Moors, the city will overwhelm the senses and transport minds to fictional destinations like Camelot or Westeros.

8. Óbidos

Speaking of castles, how about visiting a city located within castle walls? Charming, picturesque, and romantic, Óbidos is a great place to bring a camera or smartphone and make your Instagram account more colorful. Expect clusters of white houses framed in bright flowers and souvenir shops ready for tourists. Don’t miss a taste of the Ginja de Óbidos, a cherry liqueur sometimes served in tiny chocolate cups. Once offered as the wedding gift from Portuguese kings to their queens, the city has developed a reputation as one of the most romantic destinations in Portugal. Óbidos has also been labeled a city for book lovers in large part due to the stunning Literary Man Hotel

9. Serra da Estrela

This destination is a little harder to get to, but still well worth the effort. Portugal isn’t all beaches, and Serra da Estrela is home to the highest mountain peak in continental Portugal (the highest in all of Portugal being in Pico Island, Azores). Nature-lovers should take note because the remote mountain range of Serra da Estrela has plenty to see and do, and is the only place to go skiing in winter. Sparsely speckled with tiny villages, including one of the Seven Wonders in Portugal for 2017, the mountain feels rather remote and nature is the main attraction, but foodies may enjoy tasting the homemade honey and the creamy, pungent cheese that are made there.

10. Coimbra

In the country’s center is a city that attracts more visitors than most others in Portugal. Coimbra is home to a high number of Roman and medieval ruins and is another historical center, having once served as the capital of the country. Among the most visited tourist attractions is the University of Coimbra, which is one of the oldest continually-operating, degree-seeking institutions in the world. But its greatest claim to fame is the library; the Baroque-styled Biblioteca Joanina has been listed numerous times as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

11. São Miguel

Nearly halfway between the American and Portuguese coasts is the Azorean archipelago, and each island is worth a visit. The largest, São Miguel, is the easiest to reach by air, and there’s plenty to see in this rolling green oasis for a thoroughly Azorean experience. Hiking trails, waterfalls, and the beautiful twin lakes called Lagoa das Sete Cidades are only the beginning. But one recommendation not to miss is Furnas. This small village is where visitors can experience the bright side to volcanic power, as the ground is both a place to relax and cook food due to the natural, mineral-rich hot springs and cooking holes called caldeiras.

12. Monsanto

Want to travel back in time? For travelers after a real feel for old Portugal, it doesn’t get better than visiting the most Portuguese village in the country, which has barely changed over hundreds of years. This hidden gem remains widely unknown, and its most special characteristic is obvious upon arrival. The village is built around, in and under huge boulders.

13. Peneda-Gerês National Park

Portugal only has one national park and this is it. Located in Minho, a region known for its beauty, Peneda-Gerês National Park offers oak forests, a winding Roman road with ancient markers, bridges and waterfalls. Camping is allowed in specific parts of the park and some natural pools allow swimming during the warmer months. This is another excellent location to get in a good hike and also for bird-watching.

14. Guimarães

If you have extra time, use it to visit the country’s first capital. In the 12th century, Portugal’s first king, Afonso I, ruled from his birthplace, Guimarães. Since then the city has adopted the reputation and nickname of “The Birthplace of Portugal” and tourists can visit the castle where the king and many other historical figures once resided. Guimarães is easily accessible by car and bus and is only 50 kilometers from Porto.

15. Braga

Tying together old and new is Portugal’s fourth largest city, one of the oldest in the country with a strong, youthful following. In fact, it was labeled the European Youth Capital in 2012 and attracts students from the nearby University of Minho. Brimming with cafés, shops, restaurants and bars, the city is truly vibrant, but it’s also known for its religious side. In addition to the local cathedral being the oldest in the country, the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte is a religious retreat and the cathedral is quite unlike most others. Located on a hill in the woods and surrounded by gardens, visitors can climb the 116 meters of stairs and enjoy a breathtaking view at the top.

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Portugal Facts and Figures

Name
The Portuguese Republic
Location:
Western Europe
Time:
IST (-) 5 ½ hours Read more
Capital:
Lisbon
Major cities:
Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Amadora, Vila Nova de Gaia
Language:
Portuguese (official), Mirandese (official, but locally used) and English
Area:
92,345 sq kms
Population:
10,839,514 
National day:
10 Jun
Currency:
Euro (EUR)
Main Airline:
TAP Air Portugal TP
International Airports:
Lisbon Portela (LIS)
Francisco de Sa Carneiro (OPO)
Faro (FAO)
Best time to visit Portugal
March to October but July and August are peak seasons
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Portugal Embassy

No.4, Block B, Diplomatic Enclave,  
Chanakyapuri 
New Delhi 110 021 
India

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Other Portugal Visa types

We currently only process Tourist and Business Visas. Kindly contact the Embassy for the following visa applications.

Portuguese visa requirements depend on the purpose of your visit and how long you intend to stay. If your nationality requires an entry visa or long-term residence permit for Portugal, you will need to apply for the relevant Portuguese visa applicable to your situation, explained below.

1. Schengen short-stay Visa

If you are visiting Portugal as a tourist or intend to stay for less than three months, you can apply for a Portuguese Schengen visa. The Schengen short-stay visa allows you to stay in Portugal, or anywhere in the Schengen area, for a total of 90 days out of an 180-day period.

There are different types of Portuguese Schengen visa:

a. Airport transit visa (Visa A) – allows transit within the international area of an airport, from one flight to another, without entering the Schengen area. This visa is mandatory for all passengers that change flights in a Schengen country airport, unless they are exempt from requiring an entry Portuguese visa.

b. Transit and short-term stay visa (Visa C) – issued for transit and short-term stays in the Schengen area. These visas are valid for a total of 90 days within a six month period, allowing one, two or multiple entries. The most common types of short-stay visas issued are the Portuguese tourist visa and the business visa.

c. Limited Territorial Validity (LTV) Visas – a special visa that allows travel to only one Schengen state, or to certain other Schengen states if specified when applying for the visa. This type of visa may be required in emergency situations where the traveller doesn't possess a valid travel document.

2. Long-stay Portuguese Visas: Temporary stay visas

This is a Portuguese visa that allows a temporary stay for a four-month period with multiple entries. Long-stay Portuguese visas can be granted on any of the following conditions:

  • Medical treatment in a health facility
  • Transfer of workers between countries within the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to provide services or training
  • Temporary employment or self-employment
  • To conduct scientific research or teaching in a higher education establishment
  • To pursue an amateur sports activity
  • Implementation of international commitments
  • To accompany a family member for medical treatment

3. Portuguese residence Visa

This is a Portuguese visa for a four-month period in order to request a residence permit after arrival. This can be granted for any of the following reasons:

  • Employed work
  • Self-employment or entrepreneurial activities
  • Scientific research or teaching
  • Study, student exchange, internship or voluntary service
  • Higher education mobility programmes (for students already residing in Portugal who want to further their studies)
  • Family reunion
  • Pensioners and people with income.

The Portuguese residence visa can be obtained as a Schengen National 'Long-stay' visa (type D) granted to individuals who will be working, studying or permanently residing in a Schengen area country for a set time. This can be issued as a multi-entry visa that allows travel to other Schengen countries, provided the holder meets certain criteria. The Working (Employment) Schengen Visa is the most common type of long-stay visa. If you obtain any type of Portuguese residence visa, you are required to apply for a residence permit upon entering Portugal.