Student visa for Portugal: A complete guide to applying for yours

Nowadays, studying in Portugal is a much-desired goal for many Brazilians looking for an academic and personal experience abroad. Portuguese universities, recognised for their quality, combined with the familiarity of the language, make Portugal an attractive destination for Brazilian students. If you too have the dream of studying in this European country, this article will provide you with all the essential information you need to apply for a student visa for Portugal.

Do you need a visa to study in Portugal?

Yes, if you do not have European citizenship or if the course you wish to take lasts more than 3 months, you will need to apply for a visa student.

How long does a student visa for Portugal take?

Once the application has been submitted, it takes approximately 60 days for the visa to be dispatched.

How much does a student visa to Portugal cost?

In January 2023, the residence visa a student visa costs R$661.97, while a temporary visa costs R$575.62.

Types of student visa in Portugal

There are two types of visas that can be applied for by students wishing to study in PortugalTemporary visas and residence visas.

Temporary study visa:

• Staying for longer than 3 months;
• Attendance at study programmes;
• Student exchanges;
• Unpaid professional internship;
• Volunteering;
• A course at an educational or vocational training institution.

Residence visa for study:

• Courses lasting 12 months or more, such as bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees;
• Study;
• Research;
• Exchange of secondary school students;
• Internship;
• Volunteering.

Documents needed to apply for a visa to study in Portugal

The main documents required to apply for a student visa are:

• Completed and signed visa application form;
• 2 x 3 photos;
• Passport valid for at least another 3 months beyond the expected date of return;
• Copy of passport (ID page and stamped pages);
• Travel insurance or PB4 (for CPLP students);

• Criminal record certificate issued by the Brazilian Federal Police within the last 30 days (with Hague Apostille to be valid in Portugal);
• Application for SEF to consult the Portuguese criminal record;
• Proof of means of subsistence in Portugal (not required for CPLP students);
• Proof of accommodation or housing (not required for a temporary stay visa);
• Copy of return ticket to Brazil (not required for CPLP students).

How to apply for a student visa in Portugal?

The process of obtaining a student visa for Portugal takes place in two stages: one in Brazil and one in Portugal.

1. In Brazil, visa applications are made through VFS Global, a Visa Application Centre. Check which type of visa is suitable for your situation and provide all the necessary documentation.
   2. Once you arrive in Portugal, you must apply for a residence permit from SEF, which is valid for studies lasting more than 12 months.

   When should I start the visa process to study in Portugal?

   You can apply for a student visa up to 6 months before you plan to travel.

   How long does it take to get a student visa for Portugal?

   The average time taken to analyse visa applications is approximately 60 days, once the application has been registered and forwarded to the consular post responsible.

   How long is the student visa valid for?

   The student residence visa stamped in your passport is valid for 4 months and allows you to enter Portugal. After arriving in the country, you need to go to SEF to apply for a residence permit on the same grounds as the studies on which the visa was granted. As for the temporary stay visa, the duration is calculated based on the length of the course.

   Can you work in Portugal on a student visa?

   Yes, those who have a residence permit for studies can work in Portugal, as long as they notify SEF beforehand.

   Can I change my visa from study to work?

   Yes, after completing the course, you can apply to change your visa to a work permit, as long as you can prove that you have an employment contract or are self-employed and are duly registered with Social Security.

What if I still don't have a job?

If you have already completed a master's or doctoral degree and don't yet have a job, you can apply for a special residence permit, which gives you one year to find a job that matches your qualifications.

Lawyer for obtaining a student visa for Portugal

Although it's not compulsory, hiring a specialised lawyer can bring more security and speed up the process, as well as providing correct guidance on the documentation to be submitted.

Is it worth applying for a student visa in Portugal?

Yes, applying for a student visa is the right and safest way to study in Portugal. The country offers excellent universities and an enriching multicultural experience for Brazilian students.

In short, studying in Portugal is a unique opportunity to broaden your academic and personal horizons. With the information provided in this article, you'll be ready to apply for a student visa and start an unforgettable journey in this beautiful European country. Good luck with your academic career in Portugal!