Portugal Visa for Indians 2026: Fees, Process & Types

The Schengen visa is the most common visa type for Indian tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family or friends in Portugal. This visa allows you to stay in Portugal and travel freely within all 29 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Important: There is no visa on arrival and no e-visa for Schengen short-stay visits. You must apply and obtain your visa BEFORE traveling to Portugal.

Who Needs a Schengen Visa?

All Indian citizens traveling to Portugal for:

• Tourism and sightseeing
• Business meetings, conferences, or trade fairs
• Visiting family members or friends
• Medical treatment
• Short-term courses or training programs
• Cultural or sports events

Schengen Visa Fees (2026)

*Note: Exchange rates fluctuate. Check current rates before payment. VFS Global accepts payment in INR at their centers.*

Important: The Schengen visa fee increased from €80 to €90 for adults, representing a 12.5% increase. This affects all applications submitted after June 11, 2024. For visa rejection guidance, see our visa rejection guide.

Schengen Visa Processing Time

Peak Season Alert: During summer (June-September) and holiday periods, processing can take 45-60 days. Apply at least 6-8 weeks in advance during these periods. For more visa guides, see our visa guide index.

Schengen Visa Entry Types

Important Schengen Rules

The 90/180 Rule: You can stay a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries combined. This means if you spend 60 days in Portugal, you can only spend 30 more days in other Schengen countries within that 180-day window.

Main Destination Rule: Apply for your visa at the consulate of the country where you'll spend the most time. If you're spending equal time in multiple countries, apply at the consulate of your first entry point.

Example: If you're visiting Portugal (10 days), Spain (5 days), and France (5 days), you apply at the Portuguese consulate since Portugal is your main destination.

The National D-type visa is designed for Indian citizens planning to stay in Portugal for more than 90 days. This visa serves as your entry permit and allows you to apply for a residence permit once you arrive in Portugal.

National D Visa Types for Indians

National D Visa Fees (2026)

Important Change: The National D visa fee increased from €90 to €110 per applicant, effective early 2025. This affects all new applications.

National D Visa Processing Time

National D Visa Validity

• Initial validity: 4 months (allows 2 entries into Portugal)
• During this period, you must enter Portugal and schedule an appointment with AIMA
• Apply for your residence permit at AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo)

Residence Permit Timeline

Once you receive your National D visa and enter Portugal:

The D7 visa, officially known as the Passive Income Visa or Retirement Visa, is one of the most popular pathways for Indians seeking long-term residence in Portugal without needing employment or business investment.

What is the D7 Visa?

Launched in 2007, the D7 visa allows non-EU nationals with stable passive income to live in Portugal. It's ideal for:

• Retirees with pension income
• Remote workers earning from foreign employers
• Property owners with rental income
• Investors with dividend income
• Individuals with royalties or intellectual property income

D7 Visa Income Requirements (2026)

The minimum passive income requirement is tied to Portugal's national minimum wage, which is €920 per month in 2026.

Example: A family of four (couple + 2 children) needs:

• Main applicant: €11,040
• Spouse: €5,520
• Child 1: €3,312
• Child 2: €3,312
• Total annual income required: €23,184

Acceptable Sources of Passive Income

1. Pension income (government or private)
2. Rental income from properties
3. Dividends from stocks and investments
4. Interest income from savings and fixed deposits
5. Royalties from intellectual property
6. Remote work income (if employer is outside Portugal)
7. Investment fund distributions

D7 Visa Benefits

• No minimum investment required (unlike Golden Visa)
• Family inclusion — Spouse, children, and dependent parents can join
• Path to permanent residence after 5 years
• Schengen Area travel — Visa-free movement across 29 countries
• Work rights — Can seek employment in Portugal after registration
• Access to Portuguese healthcare and education systems
• Tax benefits — Potential Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime

D7 Visa Residency Requirements

Unlike the Golden Visa, the D7 requires more substantial physical presence:

• Minimum stay: 6+ months per year in Portugal
• Continuous residence: Must maintain primary residence in Portugal
• Tax residency: Typically become a Portuguese tax resident

The Portugal Golden Visa (officially called ARI — Autorização de Residência para Investimento) is a premium residency-by-investment program that has attracted over 12,000 investors since 2012, raising more than €7.5 billion for Portugal's economy.

Golden Visa Investment Options (2026)

Important Update: Real estate investment options were eliminated in 2024. Current options include:

Golden Visa Costs Breakdown (2026)

Golden Visa Residency Requirements

The Golden Visa has the lowest physical presence requirement of any European residency program:

• Year 1: 7 days minimum in Portugal
• Years 2-3: 14 days total (can be split across 2 years)
• Years 4-5: 14 days total
• Average: Just 7 days per year

This makes it ideal for:

• Business owners who can't relocate full-time
• Investors maintaining operations in India
• Families wanting European residence without disrupting children's education
• Professionals with international careers

The D8 visa is designed for remote workers and freelancers earning from foreign clients while living in Portugal.

D8 Visa Requirements

• Remote work income of at least 4 times the Portuguese minimum wage (€920/month in 2026)
• Minimum monthly income: €3,680 (approximately ₹3,31,200)
• Employment contract or freelance contracts with foreign clients
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal

D8 Visa Fees

• Consular fee: €110
• AIMA residence permit fee: €133 (in-person) / €99.80 (digital)
• Total: €243 (in-person) / €210 (digital)

Core Documents (All Visa Types)

• Original passport valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure date
• At least 2 blank pages in passport
• Duly completed and signed Schengen visa application form
• Two recent passport-sized photographs (Schengen specifications)
• Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
• Confirmed return flight itinerary
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter)
• Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds
• Income Tax Returns (ITR) for last 2 years

For Tourist/Schengen Visa

All core documents plus:

• Cover letter explaining purpose of travel, duration, and itinerary
• If employed: Leave sanctioned certificate from employer and last 3 months' salary slips
• If self-employed: Business registration proof / MOA
• If student: Institute ID card
• If sponsored: Notarized sponsorship letter on Rs. 100 Stamp Paper

For National D Visa (Long Stay)

All core documents plus:

• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
• Proof of purpose (employment contract, admission letter, etc.)
• Financial proof for 12 months (for D7: minimum €11,040/year)
• Portuguese NIF (Tax Identification Number)
• Portuguese bank account (some consulates require this)
• Accommodation proof in Portugal

Financial Documentation Requirements

Portuguese immigration officers assess financial capacity carefully. Your bank statements should show:

• Consistent balance history over 3 months
• No sudden large deposits before travel
• Minimum recommended balance: €75 entry amount + €40 per day of stay
• Salary credits showing regular income
• Sufficient funds for your planned stay
• ITR for last 2 years

Pro Tip: If your bank balance is low, include additional financial documents: credit card statements, fixed deposit certificates, or a sponsorship letter with sponsor's bank statements. See our travel insurance guide for more details.

Step 1: Determine Visa Type

Check which visa you need:

• Schengen (Type C): Stays up to 90 days for tourism, business, family visit
• National (Type D): Stays over 90 days for work, study, retirement, digital nomad

Step 2: Book Appointment

• Visit VFS Global website: visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/prt
• Select your nearest center: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Goa, or Pune
• Book appointment online
• Apply at least 15-30 days before travel for Schengen; 3-6 months ahead for National D

Step 3: Prepare Documents (1-2 weeks)

• Gather all required documents
• Get photographs taken (Schengen specifications)
• Obtain bank statements stamped by bank officer
• Get ITR for last 2 years
• Purchase travel insurance

Step 4: Submit Application (1 day)

• Visit VFS Global center on appointment date
• Submit complete documents
• Pay visa fees (cash or card)
• Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph)
• Receive acknowledgment receipt

Step 5: Processing Period

• Schengen: 15-25 working days (standard); up to 45 days (extended)
• National D: 60-90 days

Step 6: Collect Passport

• Visit VFS center or Embassy during release hours
• Bring acknowledgment receipt
• Collect passport with visa
• Verify visa details (type, validity, entries, name spelling)

Contact: VFS Global helpline: 022-67866070 (Monday-Friday, 08:00-17:00 hrs) | Website: visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/prt

Portugal's rejection rate for Indian applicants is approximately 16.2%, which is slightly above the Schengen average of 14.8%. Complete documentation and consistent financial records significantly improve your chances.

Financial Documentation (MOST CRITICAL)

Portugal immigration officers assess financial capacity carefully. Your bank statements should show:

• Consistent balance history over 3 months
• No sudden large deposits before travel
• Minimum recommended balance: €75 entry amount + €40 per day of stay
• Salary credits showing regular income
• Sufficient funds for your planned stay

Application Tips

• Apply Early: Submit at least 1 month before travel for Schengen; 3-6 months for National D
• Complete Documentation: Ensure all documents are complete — missing documents cause delays
• Accurate Information: Provide truthful information — inconsistencies lead to rejection
• Financial Proof: Show sufficient funds with consistent bank statements
• Clear Travel Plans: Have a detailed itinerary and book refundable tickets initially
• Professional Presentation: Organize documents neatly in folders

At Portuguese Immigration

1. Join the queue for "Non-EU/EEA Nationals"
2. Present passport, visa, and supporting documents
3. Answer immigration officer questions honestly and confidently
4. Receive passport stamp with entry date and allowed duration

Immigration Officer Questions

Be prepared to answer:

• "What is the purpose of your visit?" (Tourism/Business)
• "How long will you stay?" (X days, within your allowed period)
• "Where will you stay?" (Name of hotel/accommodation)
• "Do you have sufficient funds?" (Be ready to show bank statements)
• "What places will you visit?" (Mention your itinerary)

Emergency Contacts

• Police: 112 (European emergency number)
• Indian Embassy Lisbon: +351-213041090 / +351-213041091
• Emergency (medical, lost passport, death): +351-911991939
• Embassy address: Rua Pero da Covilhã, No. 16, Restelo, 1400-297, Lisbon, Portugal

For more travel tips, see our travel guide.

Planning more European travel? Check our guides for other Schengen countries: Schengen visa | France visa | Germany visa | Spain visa | Italy visa | Netherlands visa | Belgium visa

Is Portugal visa open for Indians?

Yes, Indian citizens can apply for Portugal visas. Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, so Indians need a Schengen visa (Type C) for short stays up to 90 days, or a National visa (Type D) for longer stays. Applications are processed through VFS Global centers across India.

Will I need a visa for Portugal in 2026?

Yes, Indian passport holders require a visa for Portugal in 2026. Indians are not eligible for visa-free entry or ETIAS (which is only for visa-exempt nationalities). You must apply for a Schengen visa (Type C) for short stays or a National visa (Type D) for long stays through VFS Global.

How long does a Portugal visa take from India?

Standard processing for a Schengen visa (Type C) is 15-25 working days after biometric submission. However, during peak travel seasons, processing can take up to 45-60 days. National D visas take 60-90 days. Apply at least 30-45 days before your trip for Schengen, and 3-6 months ahead for National D.

How much is the visa fee for Portugal for Indians?

The Schengen visa (Type C) costs €90 for adults (approximately ₹8,100), €45 for children aged 6-12, and is free for children under 6. Additionally, VFS Global charges a service fee of ₹2,000-₹3,000. National D visas cost €110 (increased from €90 in early 2025).

Which documents are required for a Portugal visa?

Core documents include: valid passport (3+ months validity beyond departure), two passport-size photos, completed application form, travel insurance (€30,000 coverage), confirmed return tickets, hotel booking, bank statements (3 months), and ITR (2 years). For National D visas, you also need a Police Clearance Certificate and proof of purpose.

What is the rejection rate for Portugal tourist visa for Indian citizens?

Portugal's visa rejection rate for Indian applicants is approximately 16.2%, which is slightly above the Schengen average of 14.8%. Most rejections occur due to insufficient bank balance, missing documents, or previous immigration violations. Complete documentation and consistent financial records significantly improve your chances.

Is a 3 month bank statement enough for a Schengen visa?

While some Schengen countries accept 3-month bank statements, Portugal generally requires 3 months of bank statements. Your statements should show consistent balance history with sufficient funds (€75 entry amount + €40 per day of stay) and regular income sources. Avoid sudden large deposits before applying.

Is a Portugal visa easy for Indians?

The Portugal visa process is straightforward for Indian applicants when documents are complete. Schengen visas are processed in 15-25 working days. However, Portugal's rejection rate is slightly above average (16.2%), so thorough documentation and strong financial proof are essential.

Which Schengen country is easy to get a visa in 2026 from India?

Portugal, Greece, Finland, and Iceland historically have higher approval rates for Indian applicants compared to countries like Slovenia (46.1%) or Malta (31.7%). However, approval depends more on your application quality than the country. Apply at the consulate of your main destination country for the best chances.

Can a Schengen visa be approved in 7 days?

While standard processing is 15-25 working days, some applicants report faster processing during off-peak seasons. However, there is no guaranteed expedited processing for Schengen visas. Apply early to avoid last-minute stress.

What is the new update for immigration in Portugal 2026?

Key updates for 2026: National D visa fee increased from €90 to €110. Portugal implemented the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2025, digitally recording all entries and exits. The Golden Visa real estate option was eliminated in 2024. AIMA fee increases took effect March 2026 (up to 25-33% for most services). Citizenship eligibility changed to 10 years for non-EU/non-CPLP nationals under Lei Orgânica n.º 1/2026 (effective May 2026).

For corporate travel requirements, see our corporate visa services.

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Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Portuguese government sources (vfrgo.mne.gov.pt, visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/prt) before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ visas.