How to Apply for Portugal Schengen Visa from the UK
If you are a resident of the UK (non-EU) and plan to visit Portugal for tourism or family visit, you must apply for a Schengen visa via VFS Global.
📝 Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Portugal Schengen visa form (available on VFS)
- 2 recent passport-sized photos
- Valid passport (with 2 blank pages, issued in the last 10 years)
- UK residence permit (BRP or long-term visa)
- Flight reservation (verifiable)
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Travel insurance covering €30,000
- Bank statements (last 3 months)
- Employment/student letter
- Cover letter (explain your trip and ties)
📅 Step 2: Book VFS Appointment
- Visit: VFS Portugal UK
- Register an account and choose your location
- Available centers: London, Manchester, Edinburgh
- Select date and time for submission
👨💼 Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Arrive on time at VFS with complete documents
- Pay visa fee (~€80) + VFS service fee
- Biometric data will be collected
⏳ Step 4: Processing & Decision
- Processing takes 10–15 working days (can be longer)
- Track online with VFS reference number
- Option to collect passport or get it delivered
❌ Common Reasons for Rejection
- Dummy bookings – leads to rejection
- Insufficient finances or documentation
- Inconsistent travel plans or unclear purpose
- Fake insurance or invitation letters