Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type Based on Your Travel Purpose
Reflection Questions:
- What is the primary purpose of my trip to Portugal? (Select one)
- Tourism/Sightseeing
- Business Meetings/Conferences
- Studying
- Employment
- Family Reunification
- Cultural/Sports Events
- Transit
- Other (Specify)
- Will my stay be short-term (up to 90 days) or long-term (over 90 days)?
Visa Type Selection Based on Purpose:
Purpose | Visa Type | Duration |
Tourism/Sightseeing | Schengen Visa | Up to 90 days |
Business Meetings | Schengen Visa | Up to 90 days |
Studying | National Visa | Over 90 days |
Employment | National Visa | Over 90 days |
Family Reunification | National Visa | Over 90 days |
Cultural/Sports Events | Schengen Visa | Up to 90 days |
Transit | Schengen Visa | Up to 90 days |
Other (Specify) | Check with Embassy | Varies |
Step 2: Gather All Required Documents
Common Documents for All Visa Types:
- Valid Indian Passport (at least 3 months beyond intended stay)
- Completed and Signed Visa Application Form (see Step 3)
- Recent Photos (as per Schengen specifications: 35x45mm, white background)
- Travel Health Insurance (covering at least €30,000, valid for the Schengen Area)
- Proof of Financial Means (e.g., bank statement, income certificate)
- Flight Itinerary or Travel Plans
Additional Documents by Visa Type:
- For Tourism/Business:
- Proof of Accommodation
- Invitation Letter (for Business)
- For Study:
- Admission Letter
- Proof of Language Proficiency
- For Work:
- Work Permit
- Job Offer
- Proof of Qualifications
- For Family Reunification:
- Proof of Family Relationship
- Residence Permit of Family Member
Check the Portuguese Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global Website for specific requirements.
Step 3: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Source:
- Download from the Portuguese Embassy/Consulate website.
- Download from VFS Global (if applying through them).
Form Requirements:
- Fill the form electronically and then print it, or print and fill it out by hand using capital letters.
- Sign the form in the designated area.
- Ensure all information matches your passport.
- Attach a recent photo to the form (if not uploading electronically).
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Option 1: In Person at the Portuguese Embassy in New Delhi or Consulate in Goa
Option 2: Through a Registered Agent
- Ensure the Agent is Authorized by the Portuguese Embassy/Consulate.
- Provide the Agent with All Required Documents.
Option 3: Via VFS Global (authorized service provider for visa applications).
- Website: www.vfsglobal.com/portugal/india/
- Centers in India: Check the VFS Global website for locations.
- Appointment Scheduling: Recommended to book an appointment in advance.
Step 5: Provide Biometric Data at the Submission Center
Who Needs to Provide Biometric Data:
- All first-time applicants.
- Applicants whose biometric data are not valid (i.e., data provided more than 59 months ago).
Biometric Data Collected:
- Fingerprints (all fingers).
- A digital photo.
Step 6: Pay the Visa Application Fee
Fees (subject to change, check for current rates):
- Schengen Visa for Adults: €80 (approximately INR 7,000, depending on the exchange rate).
- Children between 6-12 years: €40 (approximately INR 3,500).
- Children under 6 years, Family Members of EU/EEA Nationals, and Others: Exemptions may apply.
Payment Methods:
- Cash (at the Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global, if accepted).
- Credit/Debit Cards (check with the submission center for accepted cards).
- Bank Drafts (in some cases, check for acceptance).
Step 7: Wait for the Visa Decision
Processing Time:
- Typical: 15 calendar days.
- Maximum: Up to 30 or 60 days in exceptional cases.
Check Status:
- Online: Through the VFS Global website (if applied through them).
- Phone/Email: Contact the Portuguese Embassy/Consulate directly.
Step 8: Collect Your Passport with the Visa (if approved)
Collection Options:
- In Person: At the Portuguese Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global.
- Courier Service: If available, for an additional fee.
Ensure to Check:
- Visa Approval: Verify that your visa has been approved.
- Visa Details: Confirm the visa type, duration, and travel dates match your application.
