You might be interested in Portugal Schengen visa costs if you are dreaming of exploring the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history of Portugal. The Schengen visa can make your dream a reality, especially when you are coming from a non-EU/EFTA country. A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which includes Portugal, for short stays. This means that this visa category gives you access to Portugal (and other Schengen destinations) for a maximum duration of 90 days in 180 days.
This blog post is your one-stop guide to understanding the costs involved in obtaining a Portugal Schengen visa. We’ll break down the different fees, payment methods, and important points to remember. That way, you can plan your Portuguese adventure with confidence.
Breakdown of Portugal Schengen Visa Costs
Here’s a breakdown of the different fees associated with obtaining a Portugal Schengen visa:
- €80 or EUR80. This is the standard fee for adults and children over the age of 12.
- €40 or EUR40. This discounted fee applies specifically to children between the ages of 6 and 12.
- €35 or EUR35.This discounted fee is for citizens of countries like Azerbaijan, Albania, Bosnia, Belarus, Moldova, Montenegro, Macedonia, Serbia, Ukraine, Armenia and Russia. And beyond that, children between 12- 18 from these countries pay €30 or EUR30. Children up to 12 years from these countries are exempt from paying fees.
Also, note that some categories of applicants can apply for the Portugal Schengen visa but won’t pay any fees. This includes:
- Children under 6 pay zero fees for traveling to Portugal
- Students and teachers for travel study purposes
- Researcher to do scientific investigation in the EU
- Representatives of non-profit organizations below 25 years of age. This must be participating in seminars, conferences, educational, cultural, or sports events organized by non-profit organizations.
- Also, note that certain countries don’t pay or require any visa to enter Portugal for short stays. Some such countries include the US, UK, Canada, and many more.
- Also, family members of EU member state nationals, EEA countries, Swiss nationals, and UK nationals do not pay any fees.
Additional Fees: It’s important to note that there might be additional fees depending on your location. Some application centers charge a service fee for processing your application, so be sure to check with the relevant authorities in your country for any additional costs.
Other important details you should consider
Remember, all visa fees for Portugal Schengen visas are charged in Euros (€). The specific method of payment may vary depending on where you submit your application. Often, although it’s charged in Euros, you might pay in your currency during application at the embassy or consulate near you.
Most applications happen in person. But it’s also possible to apply, again depending on your country. It’s crucial to check with the relevant authorities in your country or the application center you plan to use for the latest information on accepted payment methods. You can also always appeal your visa application decision (if it wasn’t approved). But the charge for such is €75 or 7EUR.
Other fees that influence your Portugal Schengen Visa Costs
Other fees can easily influence your Portugal Schengen visa and also increase your chances of getting approved. This includes:
Funds to support your trip
You need to show that you have at least €75 each time you enter Portugal as well as €40 per day for your trip. Pay attention that this is entirely separate from whatever you already paid for your accommodation and other fees. This fee only applies to one person. So, if you’re traveling as a couple or with kids. Your travel itinerary will be compared against this to show how much you have for your entire trip.
Travel Insurance
You’ll also need to confirm that you have the appropriate EU-oriented travel health insurance with a minimum of 30,000 € coverage of medical emergencies
Documentation
You might need to get some of your documents certified or notarized. This might include your ID, birth certificates (for minors), and more.
Flight tickets
If you’re getting the Short-stay Schengen visa to attend a culture, sports, or religious event in Portugal, you’ll also need to purchase and show your entry tickets beforehand.
Accommodation
It’s super important to sort out your vacation rental before going in for your visa. This involves researching and even booking your hotel or holiday rentals. Bear in mind that short-stay rentals in Portugal, cost on average $100 per night (or more).
Choosing to use an agency
Some people prefer to enlist an agency to handle their Portugal visa applications for them. This system enables you to increase your chances of success as you would receive expert guidance all the way. However, paying an agency also comes at additional costs.
Processing time for the Portugal Schengen Visa application
You should also factor in the processing time when considering the Portugal Schengen visa costs. Ideally, it takes anywhere from 15 to 60 business days. You can also apply for your visa for up to six months before your travel date.
Other required documents for the Schengen Visa
There are other documents you need to get to apply for the Portugal Schengen visa. One of the most important is your employment status
- Completed Portugal Schengen Visa application. You can download the form from the official Portuguese embassy or consulate website (Portuguese embassy/Consulate website)
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Portugal and have at least two blank pages for visa stamps
- Passport-size photos: You need passport-size photos meeting specific requirements. Your embassy/consulate will provide the details
- Travel medical insurance
- Proof of accommodation: through hotel reservations, rental agreement, or letter of invitation from the host
- If employed, you need to show your employment contract, current bank statement, no objection letter from your employer giving you leave to travel, and income tax return
- If self-employment, you need to show a copy of your business license, company bank statements, and income tax returns. Furthermore, you might need an invitation letter if you’re applying for a work visa or short-stay Schengen visa for business.
Additional Documents for Specific Cases:
Minors: May require birth certificates, parental consent letters, and proof of relationship to the accompanying adult.
Family of EU/EEA/Swiss/UK Nationals: Proof of relationship and sponsor’s residence status in the respective country.
Common reasons for rejection
Paying the visa fee does not guarantee your application will be successful. The final decision on your visa application rests solely with the Portuguese authorities, who will assess your eligibility based on various factors.
Furthermore, visa fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is ultimately rejected. Make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria and submit a complete and accurate application to avoid any unnecessary expenses.
Here are some other reasons why a Portugal Schengen visa application can be rejected:
- Not providing proof that you can accommodate efficiently during your stay in Portugal
- Not providing proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay
- Incomplete or inaccurate application. So, you must be careful when filling up your Schengen visa application.
- Failing to completely explain your reason for visiting Portugal
- Not able to demonstrate how willing you are to return to your country after your trip. People often explain using their job, or family
- Having overstayed a visa in the past can raise red flags.
Frequently asked questions about Portugal Schengen visa costs
Which country gives the quickest Schengen visa?
Lithuania, Finland, Latvia, and Iceland have some of the fastest Schengen visa approval processes.
How do I get a visa for Portugal?
First, you must determine the visa you want. Whether you want a Portugal tourist visa, student visa, or other kinds of visa. Then you have to find your Portuguese embassy or consulate where you can submit a completed Portugal visa application form.
Does Portugal give multiple-entry Schengen visas?
Schengen visa allows for single-entry or multiple-entry visas. A single-entry visa only allows you to enter the Schengen area just once. Such a visa has the “01” sticker. Beyond that, you can get a visa that allows two or more entries during the validity of the visa.
Is it hard to get a visa in Portugal?
Portugal visas are relatively easy to get. But you’ll need to apply for them in your country of origin or residence. There’s almost no Portugal visa you can get from Portugal itself.
Who can enter Portugal visa-free?
Citizens of countries with trade agreements alongside EU nationals can enter Portugal for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa.
How do I get a 5-year Schengen visa?
The 5-year Schengen visa is granted to people who have used a previous multiple-entry visa valid for at least two years over the past three years.
How long is the Schengen visa valid?
The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa. And the whole idea of short-stay is that you stay for 90 days in any 180 days. This means you can only stay for a maximum of 90 days in any period of 180 days.
Can I apply for a Schengen visa online?
At the moment there’s no direct way to apply for the Schengen visa online. But, there’s one upcoming that starts operating in 2028.
Is Schengen visa-free?
No, the Schengen visa isn’t free. However, some countries are exempted from paying.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Portugal Schengen visa involves several important considerations, such as knowing the costs. Here we’ve talked about the general costs of €80 for adults and children over 12, the reduced fee of €40 for children between 6 and 12, and the exemption for children under 6. But then, you also need to pay attention to other fees that inadvertently influence your Portugal Schengen visa costs. By being upfront about the costs it incurs, you can prepare ahead for your trip to Portugal. Safe travels and enjoy exploring Portugal!
