Immigrate to Portugal from Australia

1. Schengen Visa:

Australians typically do not require a visa due to the Schengen visa exemption policy. This applies to tourism, business trips, or family visits.

• The purpose of a short-term visit (up to 90 days within 180 days) is to travel or do business.
• The passport must be valid, the itinerary must be complete, and proof of finances must be provided.
• The standard processing timeframe for a Schengen visa is generally 15 calendar days. Portuguese authorities may extend this processing window, taking 15 to 45 days, to carefully evaluate and decide on your visa application.
• Australian citizens should be aware of the applicable fees. The cost for adults and children over 12 is €80, while children aged between 6 and 12 have a reduced fee of €40. Children under the age of 6 can apply for free.

2. Portuguese National Visa:

For those looking for a more extended stay in Portugal for work, study, or to reside there, the Portuguese National Visa is required.

• Those who Intend for stays exceeding 90 days are suitable for work, study, or residence.
• Applicants must have a valid passport, proof of income or means of support, a criminal record check, proof of housing, and health insurance.
• A Portuguese visa usually takes ten to fifteen days to process. However, the processing time can be extended up to thirty or sixty days.
• It varies depending on the visa type and duration, from €83 for study visas to €148 for work visas.

3. Family Reunification Visa:

Families looking to move together can explore the Family Reunification Visa, which allows family members to join those with a residence permit in Portugal.

• Members of the family of Portuguese citizens who are either Portuguese citizens themselves or residents.
• A valid passport, proof of relationship, and evidence that the resident can support the family member are required.
• The standard processing time for a Portugal Family Reunification Visa is 60 days, with the possibility of an additional 60 days for specific applications, as communicated by SEF (Immigration and Borders Service).
• The cost of a Portuguese family reunification visa is approximately €84.

4. Golden Visa:

The Portugal Golden Visa is another essential consideration, especially for investors. It’s particularly attractive due to the relatively low stay requirements and the potential for family inclusion in the application.

• Investors make qualifying investments in Portugal, such as creating jobs or transferring capital.
• The applicant must possess a valid passport, a criminal record certificate, proof of investment, and a health insurance policy.
• The processing duration for a Portugal Golden Visa application from an Australian investor ranges from 12 to 18 months.
• Application fee of €533, plus an additional €5330 upon approval.

Overview

Starting on a journey to Portugal requires Australians to navigate the visa application process, which can be efficiently managed by following a clear guide.

• Australians can visit Portugal and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days without a visa within six months. For more extended stays, a National visa application is necessary.
• For individuals aged 16 and over, the Australian Embassy in Portugal imposes a fee of €193 for a 10-year passport.
• When applying for a Portugal visa, you’ll need your passport, completed application form, passport-sized photos, travel health insurance, and itinerary. Additionally, provide proof of visa fee payment, financial means, and clean criminal record, and allow SEF to check Portuguese criminal records. Include previous visas, flight itinerary, and a cover letter explaining your purpose for the visit.
• Forward all documents, ensuring they are clear and accurate to avoid any potential delays in processing.
• An interview will need to be scheduled to verify your application and documents.
• The application process generally spans up to 30 days, so applying well before your intended travel date is recommended.
• Once approved, ensure to check your visa for any differences upon receipt.

Additional Tips:

• Portugal has an approximate visa refusal rate of 30%. Ensuring your application is thorough and accurate is crucial.
• For stays beyond 90 days, adhere to the additional requirements and apply for a National visa.

Document Submission and Requirements

A variety of documents must accompany your application. It is also necessary for seafarers to have a copy of the Seaman’s book and an original visa for their final destination.

Additionally, your passport must have a minimum validity period of 3 months following your trip to Portugal and contain at least two blank pages. Additional documentation includes travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR, a work certificate, proof of salary, and the last three bank transcripts to verify means of support.

Understanding the Fee Structure

• The application for an ATV comes with a specified fee: €80 for individuals aged over 12 and €40 for children between 6 and 12 years. This fee facilitates the processing of the application and the issuance of the ATV for eligible travellers.

Processing Time and Additional Considerations

While the general processing time for an ATV is typically 15 working days, certain circumstances can extend this period to 30 or even 60 calendar days. It’s vital to plan accordingly and ensure that all documentation and processes are meticulously adhered to, ensuring a smooth transit through Portuguese airports on your journey. Additionally, while an ATV is generally required for the Schengen area, there are instances where a transit visa may not be necessary, particularly if travellers remain within the airport’s transit area and do not pass through immigration control.

Application Process and Timing

The application process involves several key steps. An appointment must be scheduled with your country’s Portuguese embassy or consulate. The visa application form should be downloaded from the embassy’s website, completed with all relevant details, and submitted between 6 months and 15 days before the intended travel date. Seafarers can apply up to 9 months before their travel date.