FAQ
Common questions.
What do I need for the Portugal student visa?
The official page asks for: acceptance or enrolment at a higher education institution, proof of paid tuition fees, health insurance or national health service cover, travel insurance for the visa, criminal record certificate and proof of address in Portugal, as well as the money to live on.
How much money do I need for the Portugal student visa?
The visa portal bases means of subsistence on the monthly minimum wage, EUR 920 in 2026. Students at approved institutions, scholarship holders and nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries admitted to higher education do not need to show it.
Do I need to pay tuition before I apply?
AIMA asks for proof that the tuition fees the institution requires have been paid, unless the institution is an approved one.
Can I work while I study in Portugal?
Holders of a study residence permit can work for an employer or for themselves alongside their studies. The AIMA page gives no weekly hour limit.
Can I stay in Portugal after I graduate?
Master's and PhD graduates can stay up to one year to look for work that fits their qualifications. Bachelor's graduates can get a work permit if they have a job contract or offer.
How long can I stay on the Portugal student visa?
The residence permit lasts three years, or the length of the course if that is shorter. Yes, for further periods of three years.
How much does the Portugal student visa cost?
EUR 110 for the national visa. People with a study scholarship from Portugal do not pay it.
Who can apply for the Portugal student visa?
Open to people from outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland. People from outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland who have been accepted by a higher education institution in Portugal and can pay for their studies.
How do I apply?
Apply for the residence visa at the Portuguese consulate for where you live, then for the residence permit at an AIMA office in Portugal. The consulate has 60 days to decide on a residence visa.
Sources
- Portugal: Residence visa for study, then residence permit for higher education students (article 91) (aima.gov.pt)
- Portugal: how to apply (vistos.mne.gov.pt)
- Portugal: Residence visa for study, then residence permit for higher education students (article 91) (vistos.mne.gov.pt)
- Portugal: Residence visa for study, then residence permit for higher education students (article 91) (aima.gov.pt)
- Portugal: Residence visa for study, then residence permit for higher education students (article 91) (vistos.mne.gov.pt)
- Portugal: Residence visa for study, then residence permit for higher education students (article 91) (vistos.mne.gov.pt)
- Portugal: Visa portal: temporary stay visa (study under one year) (vistos.mne.gov.pt)
- Portugal: AIMA: permit for bachelor's graduates with a job (aima.gov.pt)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.