Portugal

Portugal Student Visa Requirements 

If you plan to study in Portugal for more than three months, a visa is usually required based on your nationality and the duration of your course:

For study courses over three months:

• Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A student visa and residence permit are necessary.
• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: No student visa is required, but you must register your stay locally.

For study courses under three months:

• Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A student visa is needed only for nationalities typically requiring a Portugal Schengen Visa.
• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: No student visa is necessary.

Student Visa Requirements

When applying for a student visa for Portugal, you’ll need to provide the following documents:

1. Valid passport or travel document.
2. Letter of Acceptance from your university.
3. Proof of paid tuition fees or scholarship.
4. Two recent passport-size photos meeting Portugal’s guidelines.
5. Completed Portugal student visa application form.
6. Proof of sufficient financial means, such as bank statements, scholarships, or sponsorship.
7. Proof of accommodation arrangement in Portugal.
8. Certificate of Criminal Records.
9. Proof of Schengen travel health insurance.

How to Apply for a Portugal Student Visa?

Here’s an overview of the application process:

1. Obtain a Letter of Acceptance from your university.
2. Find out where to submit your application, usually via the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
3. Schedule an appointment with the Embassy or Consulate.
4. Complete the Portugal Student Visa application form.
5. Gather required documents.
6. Pay the visa fee.
7. Submit your application in person or by mail.
8. Await processing and travel to Portugal.
9. After arrival, schedule an appointment with the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) for a residence permit.

Processing Time and Cost

The processing time for a Portugal student visa varies but can take weeks to months. Start the application process promptly upon receiving your acceptance letter. Visa fees include:

• Embassy fee: €90
• SEF application fee: €83
• SEF residence permit fee: €72 (approximate figures subject to change).

Bringing Family Members

You can bring dependents with you to Portugal if you can financially support them. Eligible family members include spouses, children, and dependent adult children.

Duration of Student Visa

The initial student visa is valid for three months, during which you must obtain a residence permit from SEF. The residence permit is typically issued for one year and can be renewed annually.

Staying in Portugal After Studies

After completing your studies, you can stay if you secure a job offer. Apply for a work visa before your student visa expires. Time spent as a student does not count toward permanent residency.

Working with a Portugal Student Visa

With a residence permit for studying, you can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks. EU/EEA/Swiss students have unrestricted work rights.

Studying with a Dependent Visa

If you’re in Portugal as a family member of a Portuguese citizen or resident, you can study and work.

Student Visa for Researchers

Researchers accepted into doctoral programs or research positions can apply for a researcher visa with appropriate documentation like employment contracts or research scholarships.