Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals from visa-required countries who have a genuine business purpose, sufficient financial means, valid travel insurance, and intent to leave the Schengen Area before the visa expires are eligible. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need this visa due to free movement rights.
Apply at the Portuguese consulate in your country of residence or through a visa application center like VFS Global. If visiting multiple Schengen countries, apply where Portugal is the main destination or longest stay.
Processing typically takes 10-15 business days, but can extend to 4-6 weeks during peak seasons (e.g., summer, trade fairs) or if additional checks are needed. Apply 3-4 weeks in advance to avoid delays.
Apply 3-4 weeks before travel, but no earlier than 6 months prior. Avoid peak seasons (summer, trade fairs) for faster processing and appointment availability.
The Business Visa for Portugal is a Schengen Type C visa that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals to visit Portugal and other Schengen countries for business purposes, such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is not for employment or long-term stays.
The visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, with single, double, or multiple entries depending on your travel plans and consulate decision. Validity depends on prior Schengen travel and application strength.
Required documents include: a signed Schengen visa application form, valid passport, two biometric photos (35x45mm), invitation letter from a Portuguese company, employer letter or business registration, recent bank statements or sponsorship letter, travel insurance (min €30,000), flight itinerary, and accommodation proof (e.g., hotel booking). Non-English/Portuguese documents need certified translations.
Applicants need a valid passport (3+ months validity, 2 blank pages), completed Schengen visa application form, two recent 35x45mm photos, an invitation letter from a Portuguese company, employer letter (if employed), business documents (if self-employed), travel insurance (€30,000 coverage), proof of funds (e.g., 3-6 months bank statements), and accommodation proof.
No fixed salary threshold, but you must prove sufficient funds (~€50-€90/day, varying by consulate) via 3-6 months bank statements or a sponsorship letter. Employer-covered costs need corporate bank evidence.
Common rejection reasons include incomplete or inconsistent documents, outdated application forms, non-compliant photos, insufficient funds, vague business purpose, or late appointment booking. Ensure consistency in itinerary, invitation, and employer letters.
The standard visa fee is €90 for adults, €35 for children aged 6-12 (per Schengen rules), and free for children under 6. VFS Global may charge an additional service fee (~€44). Fees are non-refundable and vary by consulate.
An interview may be required at the consulate to verify the purpose of the visit and document authenticity, especially if the application raises questions. Check with the consulate for specifics.
Yes, travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid across all Schengen countries for the entire stay, is required.
Complete the Schengen visa application form, gather required documents, book an appointment via the Portuguese consulate or VFS Global, submit documents and biometrics in person, pay the visa fee, and await processing. Apply 15 days to 6 months before travel.
No, the Business Visa is individual-specific and does not allow family members to accompany unless they obtain their own Schengen visas for valid reasons (e.g., tourism).
Yes, biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are required during the visa appointment, unless valid Schengen biometrics from the last 5 years exist.
No, the Business Visa does not permit paid employment or providing services in Portugal. It is strictly for business activities like meetings, conferences, or negotiations.
Yes, the visa allows travel to all 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within 180 days, provided Portugal is the main destination or entry point.