What are the Portugal Study Visa Requirements?

Portugal is home to some of the oldest universities in Europe, like the University of Coimbra, and modern research hubs, such as the University of Lisbon and the University of Porto. These institutions are recognised for their significant contributions to various fields, including engineering, medicine, and social sciences​.

No wonder Portugal is becoming increasingly popular with Indian students. The number of Indian students choosing Portugal is steadily growing, including over 80,000 Indians studying in Europe in 2024. Did you know? This country also has 8 universities ranked in the QS World University Rankings 2025, all within the top 1,000.

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However, you will require a Portugal study visa to enter the country and study at these universities. 

The impressive 81.6% success rate for Portugal study visas is clear proof that the country welcomes international students. Interested in learning more details about the Portugal student visa? This guide is a goldmine of answers. 

It will walk you through the Portugal study visa types, costs, and requirements you need to fulfil for securing your student visa. Dive in for all details.  

Key Highlights

Here’s a sneak peek of everything you will learn in detail in this blog.

Why Study in Portugal?

Portugal boasts some of Europe’s finest universities. For instance, the University of Lisbon is ranked #225 in Best Global Universities and offers a diverse range of over 400 degree programs. 

Following closely are the University of Porto and the University of Coimbra, also known for their robust academic research and historical significance, respectively.

Need more reasons to study in Portugal? Here are two key reasons just for you. Have a look.

• Wide Range of Programs: From agriculture and business to technology and humanities, Portugal’s educational institutions offer extensive programs to cater to various academic interests. The University of Porto provides over 600 training courses across multiple levels, ensuring comprehensive education opportunities.
• Affordable Education: Portugal presents a more economical option for higher education than many Western countries. For example, studying in Portugal can be 54.5% cheaper than in the US, which is especially beneficial for international students seeking quality education on a budget. 

Types of Portugal Student Visa

Did you know studying in Portugal can be more affordable than in other developed countries? Don’t believe it? Here are a few eye-opening numbers for you.

Studying in Portugal is significantly cheaper than studying in the USA. The cost difference ranges from approximately 92.42% to 98.18%, depending on the specific programs and fee structures being compared.

The difference in costs is quite notable, isn’t it? Portugal’s affordability makes it an outstanding choice for students seeking an economical yet enriching international educational experience.

Now that you know studying in Portugal is economical, it’s time to look into the types of study visas available. Choosing the appropriate visa type is crucial for a seamless application process.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the two primary types of Portugal student visas, providing all the essential information you need to make an informed decision.

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Type C Visa (Short-stay Visa)

The Type C Visa, or the Schengen Visa, is a short-stay visa for international students or researchers who plan to visit Portugal for a course or research project lasting less than 90 days. 

This visa allows you to stay in Portugal for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days. The Type C Visa is commonly used for short-term courses, seminars, workshops, or other academic activities in Portugal.

Type D Visa (Long-stay Visa)

The Type D Visa is a long-stay visa intended for non-EEA nationals who plan to spend more than 90 days in Portugal. Students outside the European Union and European Economic Area (EEA) are considered non-EEA nationals. This Portugal study visa allows you to complete a degree program at a Portuguese university, undergo job training, or carry out academic research. 

The initial validity of the Type D Visa is typically one year, but it can be extended for up to 5 years as long as you continue your studies in Portugal.

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Portugal Study Visa Cost

The application process for obtaining a Portugal Student visa is generally straightforward, though it’s not uncommon to encounter some hurdles. Ensuring your application is thoroughly and accurately completed is crucial to minimise the risk of delays or rejections.

Incomplete documentation, inaccuracies on the application form, and insufficient proof of financial means to sustain your studies in Portugal are frequent errors that can impede your application. But before you can understand the process and requirements of visa approval in detail, it’s crucial that you also know the Portugal study visa cost.

Here is an overview of how much money it takes to secure your  Portugal Student visa.

How to Apply for Your Portugal Study Visa?

Are you dreaming of studying in Portugal, where the history runs as deep as the Atlantic waters along its coast? Well, before you pack your bags and set off on your academic adventure, you’ll need one crucial thing: a Portugal study visa. 

Also, did you know that Portugal is famous for its historic universities and ranks as one of the most welcoming countries for international students? How about making this scenic, sun-drenched country your new home? Let’s look at how you can quickly secure your student visa and get started on this exciting chapter!

Portugal Study Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Portugal is known for being a safe and welcoming place for international students. It is ranked as the 7th safest city in the world, according to the 2023 Global Peace Index. Also, do Portuguese universities have an acceptance rate of 50% for international students? Here’s what you need to secure your Portugal study visa.  

Here’s a list of critical documents you will require.

• Proof of Acceptance: You must provide an official letter from the Portuguese university where you have been accepted. This letter confirms your enrollment in a specific program and is crucial for your visa application.
• Financial Resources: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and tuition fees while studying in Portugal. You must show that you have at least INR 5.4L (€ 6000) or more, depending on your specific program and lifestyle. The Portuguese embassy will provide detailed guidelines on the required amount.
• Educational Background: Documents such as transcripts and diplomas are necessary to verify that you meet the academic qualifications required for your program level, whether undergraduate or graduate.

These documents are essential for ensuring your eligibility and readiness for studying in Portugal and should be prepared carefully to meet all specified requirements.

Required Documents for Portugal Student Visa

Alright, let’s get your application together! To ensure a smooth process, here are the documents you’ll typically need for a Portugal study visa.

1. Application form for your Portugal study visa
2. Passport

• Original and one copy of the passport ID page.
• Passports should be valid for at least three months after the planned departure from Portugal.
• You must have at least two blank pages.

3. Passport size photo 

• The photo dimension should be 3.5cm×4.5cm.
• The photo should have a white background.
• The photo must have been taken within the past six months.

4. Certificate of Admission

• Issued by the educational institution in Portugal.
• Must include the duration and nature of the course.

5. Application Fee

• The fee generally ranges from INR 6.8K to INR 13.6K (€ 75 to € 150), depending on the type of visa and the consulate’s pricing policy.

6. ID Card (personal ID in residing country)
7. Language Proficiency Certificate (if applicable)

• Proof of Portuguese language proficiency if the course is taught in Portuguese.
• Certificate of English language proficiency if the course is taught in English.

8. Tuberculosis Test Certificate
9. Academic Transcripts

• High school mark sheet, Bachelor’s degree transcripts, or relevant academic records.
• Must be translated into Portuguese or English and notarised.

10. Financial Proof: Bank statements showing a minimum of INR 5.4L (€ 6000) in your bank account or equivalent financial guarantee.
11. Tuition Fee Payment Receipt

Please note:

• Visa processing times can vary depending on the consulate and the time of year. You are advised to apply at least 3 months before departure to ensure adequate processing time, especially during peak travel seasons.
• You may be required to attend a visa interview at the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy. During this interview, you should be prepared to discuss your study plans, financial status, and ties to your home country to demonstrate your intention to return after your studies.

Portugal Student Visa Processing Time and Validity

Processing time for a Portugal study visa generally extends up to 60 days from the date the application is received at the Consular Section of the Embassy of Portugal, but it can also extend as long as 90 days.

For updates on the status of your visa application, regularly check the embassy’s official website or contact them directly. This proactive approach can help address any concerns or questions that might arise after you have submitted your application.

The validity of a Portugal student visa typically is at most one year. You may apply for an extension if your academic program extends beyond this duration. The extension depends on the length of your course. 

For shorter courses, the visa validity could range between three to six months, aligning with the course duration. Thus, understanding your course timeline’s specifics is crucial for effectively managing visa validity and extension requirements. 

Where to Apply for a Portugal Student Visa?

Did you know? Portugal’s resident foreign population now exceeds one million, marking a significant growth of 33% between 2022 and 2023. This vibrant international community reflects Portugal’s welcoming stance towards expatriates, including students worldwide. If you want to join this diverse group as a student, securing a student visa is your first step.

Once you receive your official acceptance letter from a Portuguese educational institution, you should start the visa application process immediately. Gathering and preparing the necessary documents early on can save you from much stress later.

Aim to submit your visa application at least 2-3 months before your planned departure to ensure everything goes smoothly. This timeline is crucial to align with the school’s registration deadlines and accommodate any unexpected delays in visa processing.

Applying within this timeframe allows the Portuguese embassy or consulate sufficient time to thoroughly process your application, ensuring you receive your visa well before your course begins. This careful planning will set you up for a successful start to your studies in Portugal.

But where do you apply for your Portugal study visa? Here are the details. 

Portuguese student visas are typically processed at your home country’s Portuguese embassy or consulate. The exact location where you should apply will depend on where you reside. These diplomatic missions provide detailed information on their websites about the visa application process, including how to book an appointment.

Here’s a list of cities in India where you can find a Portuguese consulate.

• New Delhi
• Chennai
• Kolkata
• Goa

You can contact the nearest consulate to start the visa application process if you’re in one of these cities. If you’re far from any of these cities, check with the Portuguese embassy in New Delhi for guidance on proceeding with your application.

Top 5 Universities in Portugal

Are you looking for top-notch education in Europe? Portugal offers an impressive array of universities that are recognised globally. Five institutions rank among the best in the world, giving students many opportunities to learn from distinguished professors and collaborate with talented peers.

Portuguese universities cover a broad spectrum of disciplines but particularly excel in areas like Engineering, Arts and Humanities, Sciences, and Business. Whether pursuing an undergraduate degree or a specialised master’s or PhD, Portugal provides a dynamic and supportive academic and professional growth environment.

Here are more details about the top universities in Portugal.

Main Study Intakes in Portugal

Did you know? The total number of students enrolled in higher education in Portugal reached a record high of 4,46,028 for 2023.

Let’s understand the main study intakes in Portugal, which is a crucial piece of the puzzle if you’re planning to pursue your education there. Portugal offers a bi-annual intake system at its universities, meaning there are two main opportunities each year to start your higher education journey.

Here are the intake details you must know to study in Portugal.

Please note: You must visit university websites for specific application deadlines and details.

The process is organised into three rounds, each catering to different needs and timelines:

• Round 1 (April to May): This is the initial and often most competitive round. If you’re aiming for the autumn semester, applying early, well before the deadline is wise.
• Round 2 (June to July): This offers another chance for those eyeing the autumn semester and is the main round for spring semester applicants.
• Round 3 (August to September): This final round typically has fewer options, so it’s good to have your choices sorted out by then.

How to Choose the Right Intake?

The Autumn and Spring intakes are solid choices, but deciding when to start your studies should depend on a few factors. Consider your available programs, your entrance exam results, acceptance rates at your chosen university, job prospects after graduation, and your readiness to start this new chapter.

Remember, each university might have specific deadlines and details, so always check their official websites for the most accurate information.

What is the Cost of Living in Portugal for Indian Students?

Did you know that living expenses in Portugal are 34.6% lower than in the USA and 29.5% lower than in the UK? By understanding these differences, you can carefully plan your finances, manage your costs effectively, and ensure a comfortable, fulfilling experience throughout your stay in Portugal.

Here is a breakdown of estimated monthly expenses for Indian Students in Portugal.

Top Part-Time Jobs for Students Available in Portugal

If you’re planning to study in Portugal and are looking for ways to manage your living expenses, consider picking up a part-time job. You can work part-time up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during holidays. Many students find that working part-time helps cover costs and enriches their living experience abroad. Luckily, Portugal offers a variety of high-paying part-time opportunities that fit well with student schedules.

The top companies offering these roles include well-known names like Hovione, Nestlé, Bosch, RTP, Hotéis Real, ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, and Banco de Portugal (BdP). These employers are recognised for their stability and the excellent work opportunities they provide, making them ideal for students seeking part-time jobs alongside their studies.

Below is a table detailing some of the most lucrative part-time jobs available in Portugal and their hourly rates. Whether you’re tech-savvy, linguistically gifted, or creatively inclined, there’s likely a perfect match for your skills!

Portuguese tax ID (NIF) in Portugal

If you plan to study or live in Portugal, learning about the Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF) is crucial. So, what is a NIF? The Portuguese tax authorities assign a unique nine-digit number to you. You’ll need it for almost everything necessary – from opening a bank account and signing contracts to paying taxes.

• Who needs a NIF in Portugal? Everyone, whether you’re a local citizen, a resident, a non-resident, or a student. Everyone in Portugal must have a Portuguese tax ID (NIF).

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• How do you get one of these? It’s pretty straightforward. You can swing by a local tax office or a Citizen Shop and get it done in about 30 minutes, or if you prefer cutting down on the legwork, email them your details and required documents – it takes around 3 to 5 business days. 

• What will you need to apply? Bring your passport or ID card, something that proves you live in Portugal, like a utility bill or a rental contract, and a power of attorney document if you’re applying through a representative.

Conclusion

Securing your student visa for Portugal marks the beginning of an incredible journey into a country rich in history, culture, and academic opportunities. Understanding the types of visas, their costs, and processing times is crucial to ensure a smooth transition to student life in one of Europe’s most enchanting countries.

You have two main options for study visas: The Type C (Short-stay Visa) is suitable for courses or activities lasting less than 90 days. It costs about INR 6.8K (€75) and permits a stay for up to 90 days within 180 days. The Type D (Long-stay Visa) is designed for more extended educational pursuits, allowing an initial stay of up to one year, which can be extended for the duration of the study program. This visa costs around INR 8.2K (€90).

The processing time for your Portugal study visa can extend to 60 days and sometimes up to 90 days, depending on the consulate’s workload and specific requirements. You should apply at least three months before departure to accommodate potential delays, especially during peak travel seasons.

Remember, the key to a successful application is your thorough preparation and timely submission of all necessary documents. Prepare to immerse yourself in all that Portugal offers and enjoy a fulfilling and transformative educational journey. Say goodbye to the ordinary and say “Olá” to your Portuguese adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions