Frequently asked questions about the 90 - 180 day rule for Portugal

To explain the 90 and 180 day rule for Portugal, we must first explain what Schengen is.

Schengen is the name given to the group of European EEA countries, that include the EU nations, plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Lichtenstein. The four countries are associate members of the Schengen zone, but are not members of the EU. 

Need more details? Check out: Portugal 90 day rule explained...

What countries do the 90 day rule apply to?

The 90 day rule applies to all the Schengen countries. If you are a non-EEA citizen you may only spend 90 days over a period of 180 days in a Schengen country.

Does the 90 day rule apply to Brits going to Portugal?

Yes. After the UK left the EU (Brexit) Brits going to Portugal may only stay for 90 days unless they apply for a Visa for Portugal.

Does the 90 day rule apply to Americans?

Yes. As America is not a member of the Schengen area, Americans visiting Portugal, may only stay for 90 days over a period of 180 days. If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you must meet the entry requirements for a Portugal visa.

Can I stay longer than 90 days in Portugal without a visa?

No. If you are a non-EEA citizen you may only stay in Portugal for 90 days over a period of 180 days without a visa.

Can I apply for a visa once in Portugal?

No. If you are a non-EEA citizen you may only stay in Portugal for 90 days. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days you must apply for a visa before travelling to Portugal. Once in Portugal you may not apply for a Portugal visa.

What is the 90 to 180 day rule for Portugal?

The 90 day rule applies to non-EEA citizens entering Portugal or another Schengen country. Citizens from a country that are not members of the Schengen may only stay for 90 days in any 180 day period. For longer stays, visitors must apply for a visa to enter Portugal.

Does the 90 day rule apply to Portugal?

Yes. The 90 to 180 day rule applies for the whole Schengen area, which Portugal is a part of. Citizens from outside the Schengen area may only spend 90 days in Portugal without applying for a Portugal Visa. 

How long can a US citizen live in Portugal?

Americans looking to go to Portugal may stay for up to 90 days without applying for a Portugal Visa. After spending 90 days in Portugal, American citizens must leave Portugal and may not return before 90 days have passed. For longer stays in Portugal Americans must apply for either a Portugal Golden Visa, D7 Visa or a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa.

How long can a UK citizen live in Portugal?

After Brexit UK citizens may only spend 90 days in Portugal over a period of 180 days. For longer stays in Portugal a British citizen must apply for either a D7 Visa, Portugal Digital Nomad Visa or the Portugal Golden Visa.

How does the 90 days in 180 work in Portugal?

If you enter Portugal under the 90 to 180 day rule, you may not work for the 90 days. If you wish to work in Portugal you must apply for a work visa, such as the Digital Nomad Visa, D7 Visa or D2 Visa.

How do they know I have stayed for 90 days in Portugal?

When you enter Portugal from a non-EEA country your passport will be stamped and a computer program will then keep track of how long you stay. If you overstay the 90 day limit, you will be deported and potentially be denied entry to Portugal at a later time.

What happens if I stay longer than 90 days in Portugal?

If you stay longer than 90 days in Portugal you will be deported, and you could potentially be denied entry at a later time. You may also be fined for overstaying your visit.

Can I work in Portugal under the 90 day rule?

No. If you enter Portugal under the 90 day rule you may not work for the 90 days. If you wish to work in Portugal long, or short term, you will have to apply for a work visa to Portugal

Can I enter Portugal more than one time during that period?

Yes. The 90 days you are allowed to stay in Portugal may be split over several visits. As long as you remember you can only stay a maximum of 90 days over a period of 180 days.

What travel documents are needed to travel for 90 days in Portugal

The entry requirements for Portugal under the 90 days include having medical insurance approved by Portugal. A valid passport less than 10 years old. You might also need to prove that you have the finances to support yourself for the 90 day period, as you are not allowed to work in Portugal under the 90 day rule.

Do I need insurance when going to Portugal for 90 days?

Yes. To enter Portugal under the 90 day rule, you must have proof of medical insurance that is approved by Portugal. Insurance can be purchased online from Europe Assistance or MondialCare.

Can I study in Portugal for 90 days?

No, If you enter Portugal under the 90 day rule you might not study in the country. If you intend to study in Portugal you must apply for a Portugal student Visa.