To visit Portugal, Indian travelers must first book a Schengen visa appointment online through VFS Global. The only way to avoid delays is to schedule early, upload the required documents correctly, and attend the appointment on time.
This guide shows you how to book the slot, prepare for the interview, and track your visa status.
How to Schedule a Portugal Visa Appointment?
Scheduling your Portugal visa appointment involves completing the online application, selecting a slot at the nearest visa center, and submitting your documents. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Online Steps to Book a Portugal Visa Appointment
Follow these steps to complete your visa application and book your Portugal visa appointment online:
Step 1: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Visit the official VFS Global Portugal Visa Application portal and fill out the online application form. Provide accurate personal, passport, and travel details.
Step 2: Book Your Appointment Slot
After submitting the form, you’ll be directed to book an appointment at your nearest Portugal Visa Application Center. Choose a suitable Croatia embassy appointment date and time slot based on the Portugal visa appointment availability.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
Complete the payment for your Portugal visa application fee using a credit/debit card or net banking. The fee is non-refundable.
Step 4: Schedule Biometric Appointment
As part of the Croatia visa appointment booking, schedule a slot for biometric data submission, including fingerprints and photograph. This must be done in person at the visa center.
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
Upload clear scans or photographs of the required documents, such as your passport, application form, and supporting papers. Ensure the files are in the specified format and size.
Must Read: Portugal Visa – Requirements, How To Apply, Types, Guidelines
Steps to Follow at the Visa Application Center (VAC):
On the day of your Portugal visa appointment, follow these steps at the Visa Application Center:
Step 1: Arrive on Time
Reach the visa center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Late arrivals may require rebooking the slot.
Step 2: Submit Biometric Data
Provide your fingerprints and have a digital photograph taken at the designated counters. Ensure your fingertips are free from cuts or henna/mehendi.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
If you haven’t uploaded documents online, submit them at the visa center. Carry originals and photocopies as specified.
Note: Children under 12 years and applicants who cannot provide fingerprints due to medical reasons are exempt from biometric submission. A doctor’s certificate is required for medical exemptions.
Must Read: Portugal Visa Appeal for Indian Tourists
Offline Process
There is no offline process for booking Portugal visa appointments in India. The entire Portugal visa appointment process in India must be completed online, including the application and appointment scheduling, which can be conveniently managed through OneVasco.
Must Read: Portugal Visa Photo Requirements for Indians
Portugal Visa Application Center Locations in India
Here are the major Indian cities with Portugal Visa Application Centers and their details:
New Delhi
Address: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Level Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Mumbai
Address: Urmi Axis Building, Behind Famous Studio, Opp. E. Moses Road, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai 400011
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Bengaluru
Address: Global Technology Park, Tower C, 1st Floor, Beninganahalli, Mahadevapura, Bengaluru 560048
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Chennai
Address: Fagun Cyber Park, Tower 2, 2nd Floor, No. 94, Jawaharlal Nehru Salai, Sholinganallur, Chennai 600119
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
For more Portugal Visa Application Center locations in India, visit the VFS Global website.
Must Read: Portugal Visa Extension for Indians
Documents Needed for a Portugal Visa Appointment
You need to present:
- A valid passport issued within the last 10 years, with at least 3 months’ validity beyond your intended departure from the Schengen area, and minimum two blank pages.
- The completed and signed visa application form, printed as required.
- Two recent colour passport-size photographs (35 × 45 mm), with white background, not older than six months.
- Travel medical insurance valid in all Schengen countries, covering at least €30,000 (for all risks: illness, repatriation, emergency evacuation).
- Flight reservation / travel itinerary (entry and exit), confirming your travel plan.
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal (hotel bookings, rental, or invitation from host).
- Proof of financial means, such as recent bank statements (last 3–6 months), income tax returns, salary slips, or sponsorship letter.
- A cover letter explaining purpose of visit, day-by-day itinerary, names of co-travellers (if any), and relation with sponsor (if applicable).
- Proof of civil status, e.g. marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, if applicable.
- Proof of employment or student status, where applicable: appointment letter, business registration, enrollment certificate, leave permission, etc.
- Copies of previous passports / visas (if any), refusal letters from prior visa applications (if any), and valid visa for USA/UK/Canada, if held.
- For minors (below 18) travelling alone or with one parent: parental consent (NOC) on stamp paper, notarised, along with copies of both parents’ passports / ID proofs.
- For foreign nationals residing in India: proof of legal residence (residence permit).
Note:
- Applications are liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear or as per the given specification.
- Visa Appointments are subject to availability.
- Any applicant may be asked to provide additional documents as per Embassy’s discretion.
- Processing days will be calculated once all documents have been submitted in accordance with embassy requirements.
What is the Waiting Time for the Portugal Visa Appointment?
The wait time for securing a visa appointment for Lebanon depends heavily on local demand and the specific visa center. Once your appointment is scheduled, processing time usually ranges from 5 to 7 business days in Delhi, and about 11 to 12 business days in other cities. In certain cases, if further verifications are required, it may take up to 15 business days or even longer.
Always check the official embassy or VFS website for the latest information, as processing durations may change with workload, holidays, or procedural updates.
Must Read: How To Check Portugal Visa Status Using Passport Number?
Preparing for the Interview
Now that you’ve booked your Portugal visa appointment, let’s look at how to ace the visa interview:
What questions can I expect during my Portugal visa interview?
Be prepared to answer the following questions during your Portugal visa interview:
- What is the purpose of your visit to Portugal?
- How long do you intend to stay in Portugal?
- Where will you be staying during your visit?
- How will you fund your trip and stay in Portugal?
- Have you visited any Schengen countries before? If yes, provide details.
- Do you have a valid travel medical insurance policy for your trip?
- Who is accompanying you on this trip to Portugal?
- What is your profession and monthly income?
What is the Dress Code for Portugal Visa Appointment?
Although there is no formal dress code for your Portugal visa appointment, it’s advisable to wear neat, clean, and presentable clothing. Business casual or semi-formal attire is ideal.
It’s best to avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or overly revealing clothes. If you choose to wear religious or traditional clothing, make sure your face is clearly visible for the photograph. To streamline the process, consider using OneVasco to book your appointment and track your Portugal visa application.
What are the Tips for a Successful Portugal Visa Appointment?
Here are some key tips to ensure a smooth and successful Portugal visa appointment:
- Double-check all details in your online application for Portugal visa appointment form before submission
- Upload clear and complete scans of the required documents for Portugal visa appointment in the correct format
- If submitting documents at the VAC, arrange them in a logical order for easy verification
- Reach the visa center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled slot
- Dress in a neat, presentable manner that is appropriate for an official appointment
- Be honest and clear in your responses during the visa interview
- Carry the visa fee receipt and appointment confirmation printout with you
- Check the VAC rules for items like electronic devices or food/drink that may not be allowed inside
Post-Interview: What are the Next Steps?
- Track your Portugal visa application status online by logging into your VFS account
- You’ll receive email/SMS updates when your passport is ready for collection or delivery
- If the visa officer needs additional documents, promptly respond to the request to avoid delays
- Once your passport is returned, verify the visa sticker details carefully
- If you find any errors on the visa sticker, contact the VAC immediately for rectification
- If your visa is approved, start planning your trip to Portugal!
FAQs
1. Is it mandatory to visit the center personally? Can I send a representative to the application center on my behalf?
Yes, it is compulsory to visit the Portugal Visa Application Center in person for biometric submission. You cannot send a representative on your behalf, as your fingerprints and digital photograph must be captured.
2. How early should I apply for a Portugal visa appointment?
It’s advisable to book your Portugal visa appointment at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date through OneVasco. This allows sufficient time for application processing and any unexpected delays.
3. What is the waiting time for a Portugal visa appointment?
Currently, the waiting time for a Portugal visa appointment slot is approximately 1-2 weeks from the booking date. However, this may vary depending on the season and demand.
4. What questions can I expect during my Portugal visa interview?
During your Portugal visa interview, expect questions about your:
- Purpose of visit
- Duration of stay
- Accommodation arrangements
- Financial means
- Travel Insurance
- Personal background
5. Is there any dress code for the Portugal visa appointment?
While there’s no official dress code, dress neatly and appropriately for your Portugal visa appointment. Business casuals or semi-formals are recommended. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing outfits.
6. Can I reschedule my Portugal visa appointment?
Yes, you can reschedule your Portugal visa appointment by logging into your VFS account and selecting a new slot. However, ensure you do this well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
7. What happens if I miss my Portugal visa appointment?
If you miss your scheduled Portugal visa appointment, you’ll need to know how to book a Portugal visa appointment again online. This may result in further delays in your application processing, so it’s best to arrive on time for your original appointment to avoid any setbacks.
