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Portugal Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghanistan citizens require a Schengen visa for Portugal — apply via VFS Global or the Portuguese Embassy; fees start from EUR 80, processing 15-45 days.

Guide last updated July 26, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay and have at least two blank pages.
  • Visa Application Form: Completed and signed. The standard Schengen visa application form is used. Download from the official portal or VFS Global website.
  • Financial Proof: Bank statements for the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds to cover your stay (minimum EUR 75 per entry plus EUR 40 per day of stay, but often a higher amount is recommended for stronger applications).
  • Accommodation Proof: Hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host in Portugal if applicable.
  • Return Ticket: Confirmed return flight booking.
  • Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5cm x 4.5cm) with a white background, neutral facial expression, and no headwear (unless for religious reasons).
  • Biometrics: Fingerprints and digital photographs (biometrics) are required. These are collected at the visa application centre (e.g., VFS Global) or the Embassy/Consulate during the application submission.
  • Travel Health Insurance: Mandatory. Must cover medical expenses and repatriation with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000, valid for the entire Schengen area for the duration of your stay.

Visa types

  • Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C): For tourism, business, visiting family/friends, or short-term study.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: 90 days.
  • Entry: Single or Multiple.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 80 (standard fee).
  • National Visa (Type D): For long-term stays, such as work, study, or family reunification.
  • Validity: Varies based on the purpose of stay, typically issued for 3 months to 1 year.
  • Max Stay: Exceeds 90 days.
  • Entry: Usually single entry, then a residence permit is required upon arrival.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 100-150 (may vary).

How to apply

  • Application Submission: Visa applications are typically submitted through VFS Global, the official visa application centre partner for Portuguese visa applications in many countries, or directly at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate if available and appointments can be secured.
  • Appointment Booking: Schedule an appointment online through the VFS Global website or the Embassy/Consulate website.
  • Document Submission: Attend your appointment and submit your completed application form along with all supporting documents. Your biometrics will be collected at this time.
  • Fee Payment: Pay the visa fee and VFS service fee at the designated payment centre or as instructed.
  • Processing: Your application will be processed by the Embassy or Consulate.
  • Collection: You will be notified when your passport is ready for collection or if it needs to be mailed back.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa Fee: EUR 80 for adults (Schengen visa). Children aged 6-12 pay EUR 40. Children under 6 are exempt.
  • VFS Global Service Fee: Varies by location, typically around EUR 30-40.
  • Total Estimated Cost: EUR 110-120 (for adult Schengen visa).
  • Standard Processing Time: Approximately 15 working days. However, it can take longer, up to 45 days, especially during peak seasons or if additional documentation is requested.
  • Express/Priority Option: Generally not available for Schengen visa applications from Afghanistan. It is advisable to apply well in advance.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Apply Well in Advance: It is highly recommended to apply at least 2-3 months before your intended travel date due to potential delays in appointment availability and processing times.
  • Common Rejection Reasons: Incomplete documentation, insufficient financial proof, unclear purpose of visit, lack of strong ties to Afghanistan (e.g., employment, family), and previous visa refusals can lead to rejection. Ensure all documents are genuine and correctly translated if required.
  • VFS Global vs. Embassy: Applying through VFS Global is usually more convenient due to their established network and appointment systems. Direct embassy applications may have limited appointment slots.
  • Travel Advisories: Always check the latest travel advisories from your government and the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs before planning your trip.
  • Extension Options: In exceptional circumstances, visa extensions within Portugal may be possible, but this is rare and requires a strong justification, typically handled by the immigration services (SEF - Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras).

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.