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3 ways to enter

Portugal visas

Portugal family visa

Certain family members of EU single market citizens can enter Portugal without a visa using a qualifying residence card. Longer residence generally needs the appropriate residence permission.

Ways to get a Portugal family visa

  1. Visa-free entry with a family residence card

    No visa needed

    Family members of EU single market citizens who hold a qualifying residence card and meet the travel conditions.

    Stay
    Up to three months.

  2. Family member visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    In principle, family members of EU single market citizens who do not meet the residence-card exemption conditions can obtain a visa at the border by proving their family relationship.

  3. Long-stay residence permission

    Other permit

    Travellers from outside the EU single market who plan to stay over 90 days generally need long-stay permission, unless another right or exemption applies.

    Stay
    Generally a long-stay visa for less than a year, or a residence permit for longer periods.

Who needs it

Family members who do not qualify for an exemption may need a visa or residence permission.

Who doesn't

Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card can enter without a visa when accompanying or joining their EU single market family member. A card issued by a Schengen state also allows independent travel to another Schengen state.

What to bring

  • A valid travel document.
  • A residence card showing that you are a family member of an EU single market citizen.

Good to know

  • Accompany or join the EU single market family member, unless your qualifying card was issued by a Schengen state and allows independent travel.
  • Detailed Portuguese spouse, dependant and family residence application rules are not specified.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for Portugal?

Family members who do not qualify for an exemption may need a visa or residence permission. Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card can enter without a visa when accompanying or joining their EU single market family member. A card issued by a Schengen state also allows independent travel to another Schengen state.

What are the ways to get a family visa for Portugal?

There are 3 options: Visa-free entry with a family residence card (no visa at all); Family member visa at the border (a visa at the border); Long-stay residence permission (a special permit).

Who can go to Portugal without a family visa?

Family members of EU single market citizens who hold a qualifying residence card and meet the travel conditions.

How long can I stay on a Portugal family visa?

Up to three months under the stated family residence-card exemption.

What documents do I need for a Portugal family visa?

A valid travel document.; A residence card showing that you are a family member of an EU single market citizen..

What rules do I have to follow on a Portugal family visa?

Accompany or join the EU single market family member, unless your qualifying card was issued by a Schengen state and allows independent travel.

Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for Portugal?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Portugal visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a family visa for Portugal be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Portugal family visa rules?

On Portugal's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my family visa once I am in Portugal?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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