European Travel Information and Authorization System

Important Information for American Citizens Traveling to Portugal

The ETIAS visa waiver will allow US citizens to travel internationally to Portugal, and other Schengen nations (plus Vatican City, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and San Marino). This will apply to all visa-exempt nations, starting in 2025.

 

ETIAS Process Step - 1
STEP 1

Get notified when ETIAS is mandatory

ETIAS Process Step - 2
STEP 2

Start ETIAS Application online

ETIAS Process Step - 3
STEP 3

Receive ETIAS confirmation

ETIAS Process Step - 4
STEP 4

Welcome to Europe


How do I travel to Portugal from the US?

The new ETIAS travel authorization system will be required for all foreigners who are traveling to Schengen from any of the 60 countries that are exempted from visa requirements. Visit our homepage to see a complete list. Portugal is one of the most visited countries in the world. This is due to many factors. Portugal welcomes close to 30,000,000 tourists each year due to its rich history and vibrant culture. Portugal is a top European country to visit thanks to its beautiful coastline and many diverse cities. There is so much to enjoy on a Portugal trip. Portugal’s many attractions include the stunning cities of Lisbon, Oporto and Braga as well as the breathtaking landscapes of Lagoa. Lisbon is the most popular vacation spot in Portugal, attracting more than 6,000,000 tourists each year from all over the globe. It is also Europe’s oldest city and ranks high in the top ten most beautiful cities. Tourists love to visit Torre de Belem, the MAAT museum with its new design. Tourists also love to shop at Mercado da Ribeira, and take in the breathtaking views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. You can also visit Sintra or Cabo de Roca, two of the most scenic places in Europe. Portugal has been a popular holiday spot for both American tourists and foreign tourists from around the world for many years. To obtain visa-free entry to Portugal, American citizens needed only a valid passport biometric. All foreign citizens and American citizens must submit online an ETIAS visa waiver request and receive confirmation before they travel to Portugal.

The ongoing global COVID-19 crisis may force Portugal to impose additional travel restrictions and border restrictions. These changes to Portugal’s border security policy won’t affect the ETIAS travel authorization program. You can rest assured that we will continue to support all international travelers who have trusted us. We will continue to make every effort to ensure that our website has the most up-to-date information.
Get notified when ETIAS becomes mandatory! Check the latest news about travel requirements in Europe

Why should you travel to Portugal?

Portugal is a popular destination for international tourists to Europe. The country’s culture and atmosphere are loved by Spaniards and Brazilians as well as Americans. Portugal ranks among the best countries for quality of life. This means that Portugal offers great outdoor activities and a healthy lifestyle for both locals and tourists. Portugal is also much more affordable than other countries in the Southern European region like Spain, France, and Italy. Portugal is known for its sunny beaches and warm weather. Algarve is a well-known vacation spot on the continent. Cities like Faro and Albufeira are known for their picturesque coastlines and stunning views. Portugal is a country rich in history. Portugal was once a vast, seafaring kingdom. It still displays the pride and wealth of a former superpower. Lisbon and Porto are two cities that offer beautiful urban environments and architectural gems. Numerous museums in Portugal are among the best in the world. Portugal has a rich artistic heritage in literature, painting, technology, and architecture. American citizens who are planning to visit Portugal in the future will be able to enjoy the sun and the sightseeing at the main attractions. It is a wonderful place to eat, blending different styles and influences from both local and foreign cultures. Seafood is everywhere, and the famous Pasteis de Nata delicacies will delight your taste buds.

ETIAS FAQ

These are quick answers for many commonly asked questions about the ETIAS Visa Waiver Program, which will be available in 2025. Are you having difficulty finding the information you need? Reach out to us! Our Customer Support team is available 24/7 to help you.

Yes. Before traveling to Portugal or other ETIAS countries, all American citizens must submit an online application through the ETIAS website. When the new visa waiver program is made mandatory in 2025, this will be required. International travelers and border officials will have a six-month grace period to learn about the Schengen policy changes. After the initial grace period expires, international travelers who do not have valid ETIAS authorization may be refused entry to Portugal or other ETIAS countries.

Yes. To enter the Schengen country, minors and children must have an ETIAS. Minors and children can also use the ETIAS travel authorization process. Only the difference is that parents or guardians of children traveling abroad must also submit an ETIAS form.

To travel to Portugal from the US, you will need a passport and internet access. You will also need a valid email address to receive an ETIAS after submitting your application. The processing fee for ETIAS requests must be paid with a debit or credit card. Minors and people aged over 70 will be exempted from the cost of the ETIAS fee but will still need to submit an application. For minors or children, the parent or guardian should fill out the ETIAS form on their behalf.
During the ETIAS visa waiver application online, you will be asked to give your full legal name, address, as well as any other personal information. You will be asked a few questions about your criminal and travel history. For a complete listing and description of all documents required for your ETIAS application and of the ETIAS application form questions, please visit our Requirements Page.
Most applicants will be able to complete the online ETIAS application in less than 10 minutes. Within 24 hours of their submission, most applicants will receive an email notification containing their ETIAS. Only in rare cases, border officials might flag a new application as suspicious. In rare cases, border officials may ask for additional information, supporting documents, or even face-to-face interviews. To ensure safety, please allow at most 96 hours (4 days) for your ETIAS visa waiver processing. This will allow you to resolve any problems that may arise during the application process.

No. If you intend to work in Portugal, or any other ETIAS country, you must apply to your local consulate for a traditional work visa. The same applies to those who are looking to study in Portugal. They will require traditional student visas through the embassy or consulate.