D5 Visa (Long-term Student Visa)

If you want to come to Portugal to complete a degree at an academic institution, you might have to obtain the D5 Long-term Student Visa. Find out more about the requirements and the application process.

Call our immigration team on +44 (0)333 305 9375, or contact us online for immediate help and assistance with your visa application.

Call Us

Read our 1983 reviews

Request a call back from our immigration experts

Benefits of Choosing IAS‘ Portugal Immigration Advisers

When it comes to obtaining a Portugal visa or permit, IAS Portugal immigration lawyers, advisers and consultants are well-equipped to help you.

With IAS’ track record of successfully helping clients visit or immigrate to Portugal successfully, we can help you achieve your goal.

Our dedicated immigration experts provide our services through a comprehensive and personalised approach. With IAS, you enjoy:

Compassionate support from an experienced immigration lawyer dedicated to your success

Support in gathering supporting documents and completing a high-quality application.

Confidence that your case is being handled by an experienced team.

In-house document checks done by lawyers who are well-versed in Portugal immigration matters.

Services we Provide

What is the D5 Visa?

The D5 Visa is intended for foreign citizens who want to come to Portugal to complete a study course longer than 90 days.

The Long-term Student Visa to Portugal falls under the D Schengen Visa category which allows foreigners to live in a Schengen country for more than 90 days and up to 1 year.

Those who successfully apply for the D5 Visa to Portugal have the right to travel to Portugal and enter the country.

Then, within three months of arriving in Portugal, they need to apply for a Portuguese residence permit which is valid for one year.

If their studies last longer than that, they can renew their Portuguese residence permit. International studies who are in Portugal on the D5 Visa can renew their residence permit multiple times for up to five years.

Keep in mind that not all international students who want to come to Portugal need to apply for a visa. Citizens of countries that are EU member states have the right to study in Portugal visa-free.

What are the eligibility requirements for the D5 Visa?

Those who want to obtain the D5 Visa to Portugal have to meet a number of eligibility requirements. Applicants must:

Have a valid passport
Have been accepted into a study programme at a Portuguese educational institution
Have a letter of acceptance from a Portuguese university
Be able to cover any tuition fees or have a scholarship
Be able to cover the visa application fees
Have enough financial resources to sustain themselves during their studies in Portugal
Have adequate accommodation in Portugal
Be able to prove that they do not have a criminal record
Have private travel insurance
Have private medical insurance.

As part of the application process foreign citizens need to submit documents that prove that they meet these requirements.

If you are not sure what documents to prepare, get in touch with our team. They can help you put together a complete portfolio of evidence. Call us on +44 (0)333 305 9375, or contact us online.

What is the application process for the D5 Visa?

To be able to apply for the D5 Visa, foreign citizens need to first get accepted to study at an academic institution in Portugal and obtain the letter of acceptance that confirms their enrollment.

Once they have it, they can begin the application process by scheduling an appointment at a Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate in their home country.

While waiting for the appointment, they have to gather documents that prove their eligibility for the D5 Visa. Immigration officials will then review them and make a decision regarding their visa application.

The approval process of applications for the Portuguese Long-term Study Visa takes between one and three months depending on factors such as the nationality of the applicant, the workload of immigration officials, or the complexity of the applicant’s case.

Those who obtain the D5 Visa can travel to Portugal and, within three months from their arrival, they have to register with the Portuguese Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) which will issue them the Portuguese residency permit.

The permit will grant them the right to live and study in Portugal for an initial period of one year. After that, they can renew it provided that they are still studying.

Can I work in Portugal with the D5 Visa?

Those who come to Portugal on the D5 Long-term Study Visa are allowed to work part-time (for up to 20 hours per week) during semesters and full-time during holiday periods.

However, non-EU/EEA students who are in Portugal on the D5 Visa need to get authorisation from the SEF prior to engaging in employment.

Keep in mind, however, that the D5 Visa is issued to individuals whose primary goal is to complete a long-term study course in Portugal.

So, although you can work alongside your studies, your primary goal should be to study.

If you are an EU citizen, you have the right not only to study in Portugal without having to obtain a Portuguese Student Visa but also to work without having to apply for an employment permit. You also do not have the obligation to notify the SEF about your intention to start working.

Do I need the D5 Visa to do a short-term study course?

The D5 Visa is intended for foreign nationals who want to come to Portugal to complete a study course longer than 90 days.

Students who intend to study in Portugal for less than 90 days should apply for the D4 Short-term Student Visa instead. This visa belongs to the C Schengen Visa category, and it allows international students to complete a short-term study course at a Portuguese academic institution.

Citizens of certain countries that have agreements with Portugal are exempt from the visa requirement if their study course in Portugal is shorter than 90 days. Examples of such countries are Australia, Canada, or the US.

Just like with the D5 Visa, those who want to come to Portugal on the D4 Student Visa to complete a short-term study course have to have a letter of acceptance from a Portuguese educational institution.

Regardless of how long the study course is, citizens of EU/EEA countries can study in Portugal without having to get a visa.

Get in touch with our expert immigration specialists to receive assistance on D5 Visa (Long-term Student Visa).

How can IAS Help?

At IAS, we are committed to helping international students get the best education possible. We can explain to you in detail how you can relocate to Portugal to complete a long-term study course.

Our team can determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the D5 Visa and, if so, they can help you gather documents that prove it. They can also help you fill out the application form, making sure you included all the necessary information and did not make any mistakes.

Thanks to the help of our dedicated specialists the process of moving abroad to study is straightforward and stress-free.

Call us today on +44 (0)333 305 9375, or contact us online to find out more about how we can be of assistance. We are here to help you in person, via the phone, or online.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents will appear here.

Get clear, professional guidance for your immigration case.

Written by Immigration Advice Service

Editorial Team

This content was developed by a team of researchers, editors, and lawyers who provide valuable information to those with immigration queries.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Immigration Advice Service before making any decisions based on the content provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

The D5 Visa is granted to foreign nationals who want to come to Portugal to complete a long-term study course lasting longer than 90 days. After the successful applicant arrives in Portugal, they need to register with the SEF and get their Portuguese residence permit. The permit allows them to stay in Portugal for a period of one year at first. Then, it can be renewed provided that the international student is still enrolled at a Portuguese academic institution. This means that the validity of the D5 Visa can vary depending on the duration of the holder’s study course in Portugal.

To be able to obtain the D5 Visa to Portugal, you have to demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. In addition to having money to pay for living expenses, you also have to be able to cover tuition fees and pay for your accommodation.

There is no specific amount of funds you need to have so an immigration official will review your individual circumstances and decide whether or not what you have is enough.

As part of the application process, you have to submit bank statements that serve as proof of your finances.

If you come to Portugal on the D5 Visa, you can stay in the country for as long as you study at a Portuguese academic institution. Non-EU/EEA nationals who want to stay in Portugal after their study course finishes can do so only if they have a job offer. Then, you will be able to switch to a different residence permit.

Alternatively, you can come back to your home country, apply for a different visa, and come back to Portugal. Our specialists can assess your circumstances and tell you what visas to Portugal you might be eligible for.

Holders of the D5 Visa have the right to bring their spouses, children under the age of 18 (or older if they are dependent on them), or their spouse’s children younger than 18 years of age to Portugal. Unfortunately, other family members cannot join them in Portugal through the D5 Visa.

If you hold the D5 Visa and you want your loved ones to come to Portugal with you, get in touch with our immigration team. They will explain to you in detail how you can apply for relevant visas for them.

What our clients are saying

Immigration Advice Service4.7

Based on 1984 reviews

Nesrine Shalabi

1 day ago

My residency was renewed promptly and without glitches.

Stephanie Shoemaker

2 days ago

My experience with IAS has been fabulous so far Laura Christian was very helpful in taking the time to research what my options were based on my needs and wants can’t recommend her enough

Man Chung CHAU

3 days ago

Staff are nice, solicitors are reliable and helpful.

Tawanda Matonga

5 days ago

I spoke with Saima Jabeen about the areas where I needed assistance. She was very helpful and provided me with clear and useful information. I was satisfied with the support and guidance she provided.

Nicholas Peasgood

7 days ago

Very positive professional experience. My immigration advisor Mariam Adebayo helped my wife successfully obtain her Spouse visa extension. At the very start we had a face to face meeting at their Oldham office to discuss our needs, explain the process and what evidence we would need. We later received a written confirmation of advice laying out everything from timeframes, fees and documentation needed. Through out we had video calls and regular emails for updates and when our input was needed, Mariam even uploaded all of the extensive evidence as part of the application process which I was very happy with as I know from my own experience this can take a while. I would definitely use IAS again, don't be fooled in to opting for cheaper options, I came to IAS after a poor experience with a different company and so came back as I'd had a good experience with IAS way back in the 90's so know that they have been around for a years. Thank you IAS Oldham and Mariam Adebayo.

Fatima Babar

7 days ago

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Abdul Mutee for everything he has done throughout my visa process. The past year was incredibly stressful, especially after facing two Canada visa refusals. During this difficult time, Abdul Mutee did not simply provide guidance; he actively worked on my case and supported me every step of the way when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about my future. Thanks to his dedication, hard work, and continuous support, my UK visa has now been approved. This approval allows me to continue my education and pursue my dream of becoming a dentist. I truly believe that this achievement would not have been possible without his assistance and commitment. Abdul Mutee played a significant role in making this outcome possible, and I am deeply thankful for the relief, hope, and opportunity he has given me. His efforts have made a lasting impact on my life, and I will always be grateful for everything he has done. I will never forget the support, encouragement, and professionalism he showed throughout this journey. Abdul Mutee's help has made a real difference in my future, and I sincerely appreciate all of his hard work and dedication.

Elizabeth chuks

7 days ago

I had a great experience with Anna Claridge. She was professional, friendly and very helpful throughout our consultation. She explained everything clearly, answered all our questions and made sure we understood the options available to us. I really appreciate her support.

Sami Abdi

1 week ago

I would like to say a huge thank you to Lauren Blommel for all her help and support with my case. She has been absolutely amazing from start to finish. Lauren was very kind, professional and patient. She explained everything clearly and always made sure I understood what was happening. She worked very hard on my case and did everything she could to help me. I am extremely grateful for everything Lauren has done for me. I am very happy with the service I received and would definitely recommend Lauren to anyone who needs immigration advice and support. Thank you so much, Lauren, for everything. I truly appreciate all your hard work and support. I wish you all the best for the future!

Norrian

1 week ago

We like to express our deepest thanks to Saimah Razzap. She helped us through our immigration matter with total professionalism; she took the time to explain every step clearly, returned our calls and emails promptly when we contacted her, and, with this, we ultimately won our first case with a great outcome. We felt supported the entire time, and we highly recommend her services.

Anna Downie

1 week ago

I would highly recommend Jason Griffiths, he was incredibly understanding of our situation and had very constructive ideas.

Lee Mcpherson

1 week ago

Great service! efficient, quick and available to answer any queries! Our application went seamlessly.. I would highly recommend!

Claudia T

1 week ago

I used IAS for my first visa and I must say it wasn't a pleasant experience. We didn't receive all the information, we would find out about things along the way and it made it all very stressful even though the application was successful. We were a bit reluctant to do it again for the renewal but went for it anyway due to lack of time. Anne Liu was out caseworker and she was terrific! Super on top of the case! She would review the docs very quickly after we submitted it and would immediately tell us what would be missing. She made herself available when we needed her all the way up to the appointment. Definitely made the experience more stress free!

yu zheng

2 weeks ago

Alice Jackson

2 weeks ago

Anne has been nothing short of exceptional throughout mine and my husbands immigration query. From the very start, she was informative, diligent, understanding, compassionate and helpful. Any immigration matter is delicate and stressful for those involved and Anne met us with patience and kindness throughout, keeping us well informed and calm when everything felt tricky. We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better advisor and we are so grateful for everything that she did for us to get my husbands spousal visa approved. Her dedication and commitment proved enormously valuable and I will be welcoming my husband home tomorrow because of her. Without a doubt we will use her again in 2029 when required and we cannot recommend her enough for anyone going through a similar matter. Thank you Anne, from the bottom of our hearts, we will always appreciate you and remember your engagement fondly.

Roger Hall

2 weeks ago

Everybody at IAS has been professional and helpful. In particular my case worker, Elena Ampova simply could not have been more patient, friendly and approachable and knowledgeable. Nina and I found it difficult to supply information in the file formats required and Elena spent hours helping us. And the end result has been that my fiancée, Nina's visa application has been approved. Perfect service and a perfect result.

Julian Everett

2 weeks ago

Dina's explanations were clear and she took time to make sure we understood. The only small worry we now have is that there may be hidden fees which were not specified. However, I'm just checking that through an email.

Chaimae Dr

2 weeks ago

I received excellent advice from Safa Ali. She was patient, thorough, and took the time to make sure I understood everything. Highly recommended for anyone going through the asylum process.

Siraw KEBEDE

3 weeks ago

I have had amazing results in a short period of time with Lauren Blommel at Immigration Advice Services. She was very professional and supportive every step of the way, always answering my questions and addressing my concerns quickly. I am very happy with the service I received and would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for immigration assistance.

Lili Ayele

3 weeks ago

I am extremely grateful for the excellent support and professional service I received from Immigration Advice Service, especially from my caseworker, Lauren Blommel. Lauren supported me throughout my asylum case and kept me informed and reassured during what was a very difficult and stressful process. Thanks to her professionalism, dedication, patience, and hard work, my case was handled with great care and I successfully received my refugee status. I truly appreciate everything Lauren has done for me and all the support she provided from beginning to end. I highly recommend Immigration Advice Service to anyone who needs immigration support. Thank you so much, Lauren, for your outstanding service and for helping me through such an important journey in my life. I will always be grateful.

Othman Khunji

3 weeks ago

I cannot recommend Mariam Adebayo at IAS highly enough. She supported me thoroughly from A–Z throughout my UK Global Talent Visa journey, ultimately helping me successfully obtain my visa through the Exceptional Talent route. From the very beginning, Mariam was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, patient, and attentive. She guided me through every stage of the process with clarity and reassurance, always making sure that my application was as strong and comprehensive as possible. What stood out most was how consistently she went above and beyond her dedication, responsiveness, and genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me were evident throughout the entire journey. Thanks to Mariam’s exceptional support and hard work, I now have the incredible opportunity to continue developing and practicing my talent in the UK. This is a truly significant milestone in my professional and creative journey, and I am extremely grateful for the role she played in making it possible. Mariam is an outstanding caseworker and a true asset to IAS. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking immigration support, particularly those applying through the UK Global Talent route. Thank you, Mariam, for your dedication, guidance, and for helping turn this opportunity into a reality.

Roy Williams

3 weeks ago

Re: Kurshida Begum My wife and I cannot thank our immigration lawyer, Kurshida Begum enough for the professional help and support she gave us to obtain a successful outcome to my wife’s application for her extension visa. I would have no hesitation in recommending her services to anyone seeking help on immigration matters.

Scott Graham

3 weeks ago

Daniel Lugo Pino

3 weeks ago

Saima Maqsood was super helpful in my father's visitor visa application. Very communicative and supportive - we had low odds of a favourable outcome and yet with her guidance we were able to succeed.

Virginie

4 weeks ago

I had a good exchange with Saima Jabeen, she helped me and it was useful.

Peter Welch

1 month ago

My case worker Mariam Adebayo guided my fiancee, a Belarusian national and me on what documentation and translations were required and checked through everything at every stage. She then made the application on our behalf for a fiancee visa. The application was 100% successful with no other documentation required or any queries raised by UKVI. Mariam further assisted in getting our spouse visa after our marriage in May 2026. Again 100% successful. Mariam has been extremely thorough in every part of our fiancee and spouse visa. Everything went through without a hitch! I have no hesitation in recommending her. Peter and Teresa Welch.

We are the UK’s leading immigration specialists

IAA Accredited UK Immigration lawyers

We’ve had over 25,000 applications approved

We are open Mon–Fri, 8:30am–8pm & Sat–Sun, 10am–4pm.

How our UK Immigration Lawyers can help

At the Immigration Advice Service our lawyers specialise in a wide range of UK visas, nationality and asylum applications and have represented clients in various successful complex and high-profile cases.