Portugal Travel Guide

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Passports and Visas

All visitors, except EEA member states, must hold tickets and documents for their return or onward journey, and proof of paid accommodation (equivalent in convertible currency accepted). The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Americans

US nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport is required.

UK Nationals

Passport holders endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas), British Overseas Territories Citizen and British Subject, all with the right of abode in the UK, do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. In all other cases a visa is required.

Canadians

Canadians do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport is required.

Australians

Australian nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport is required.

South Africans

South African nationals require a passport and a Schengen visa.

Irish Nationals

Irish nationals do not require a visa to visit Portugal. A passport is required.

New Zealanders

New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport is required.

Healthcare

There are no health risks attached to travel to Portugal. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is necessary for entry for anyone traveling from an infected area and destined for the Azores or Madeira. Health facilities are good and reciprocal health agreements exist with most European countries, including the UK, whose citizens can receive low-cost emergency care at state hospitals. It is advisable that travelers obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travel. Dental care and repatriation costs are not covered under this agreement, and medical insurance is therefore advised.

Safety

Generally, safety is not a problem for travel in Portugal but there is a rising incidence of petty theft and pick pocketing in tourist areas, so reasonable care should be taken. Portugal has a very poor road safety record so exercise caution and drive defensively when exploring in a rented car.