Portugal Visa RequirementsFor Saudi Arabia passport holders
Saudi nationals require a Schengen visa for Portugal. Applications are submitted at the Portuguese Embassy in Riyadh or via VFS Global. The fee is EUR 80. Portugal has emerged as a popular destination for Gulf tourists, offering mild climate, Atlantic coastline, rich history, and relative affordability compared to other Western European destinations.
Saudi Arabia passport holders require a visa to enter Portugal.
Apply at the Portuguese Embassy in Riyadh or VFS Global. Standard Schengen documentation required. Fee EUR 80. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks. If Portugal is not your primary Schengen destination, apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time.
Portugal is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Schengen Visa Application Form
Completed and signed form submitted to the Portuguese Embassy or VFS Global in Saudi Arabia.
Valid Saudi Passport
Valid for at least 3 months after intended departure from Schengen Zone, with at least 2 blank pages.
Passport Photos
Two recent biometric photos (35x45mm) on white background.
Bank Statements (3 months)
Showing adequate funds for your stay (guideline: EUR 50 per day).
Employment Letter
From Saudi employer confirming position, salary, and approved leave.
Travel Insurance
Minimum EUR 30,000 medical and repatriation coverage valid across the Schengen Area.
Hotel Bookings
Confirmed accommodation for all nights in the Schengen Zone.
Round-trip Flight Itinerary
Confirmed outbound and return flight reservations.
Current Travel Situation
Saudi Arabia to Portugal: What You Need to Know
Portugal offers a compelling European experience at lower cost than France, Italy, or the UK. Lisbon is recognized as one of Europe's most photogenic cities with its tram networks, hilltop viewpoints, and pasteis de nata. The Algarve coast offers excellent beaches. Porto is known for its historic riverside district and wine culture. The Alentejo region draws food and wine enthusiasts.
Portugal's Schengen visa applications for Saudi nationals are handled by the Portuguese Embassy in Riyadh and VFS Global centers.
How to Get There
Riyadh (RUH) to Lisbon (LIS) typically connects via Casablanca (RAM), Madrid, or London. TAP Air Portugal and Royal Air Maroc serve this route. Total travel is approximately 9 to 11 hours. No direct Riyadh-Lisbon service.
Money & Banking
Portugal uses the Euro (EUR). Portugal is one of the more affordable Western European destinations. Lisbon hotels run EUR 120 to EUR 280 per night. Excellent restaurants at moderate prices. Cards accepted widely.
Practical Tips
Lisbon (LIS) is the main entry airport. Porto (OPO) also receives some international flights. The Algarve (Faro, FAO) receives seasonal charters. Lisbon is well-connected to the Algarve by high-speed train (approximately 3 hours).
Halal food in Lisbon: The Mouraria neighborhood (historic Moorish quarter) and Martim Moniz have halal restaurants and Arabic groceries. The Muslim community in Portugal is growing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Saudi nationals need a Schengen visa for Portugal?
Yes. Saudi nationals require a standard Schengen visa for Portugal. Apply at the Portuguese Embassy in Riyadh or via VFS Global. Fee EUR 80. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks.
What is the best way to get from Lisbon to the Algarve coast?
The most comfortable option is the CP intercity train from Lisbon Oriente Station to Faro (2.5 to 3 hours, approximately EUR 30). From Faro, regional trains and buses connect to Albufeira, Lagos, and other Algarve towns. Renting a car is better for exploring the scenic clifftop areas west of Lagos (Ponta da Piedade, Sagres).
What are the highlights of the Algarve for Saudi tourists?
Ponta da Piedade near Lagos (dramatic orange sea cliffs and sea caves, kayak tours available), the Benagil Cave accessible by paddleboard or boat tour from Carvoeiro, Sagres Fortress at the southwest tip of Europe, and Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo for upscale golf and beach resort options.
Is Lisbon an affordable destination for Saudi tourists?
Portugal is one of Western Europe's most affordable destinations. Mid-range Lisbon hotels run EUR 120 to EUR 280 per night. Excellent pastelaria (bakeries) serve pasteis de nata (custard tarts) for EUR 1.50 each. Restaurant meals at good Lisbon restaurants range EUR 15 to EUR 35 per person. Portugal offers European quality at significantly lower prices than France or the UK.
Are there halal restaurants in Lisbon?
Yes. The Mouraria neighborhood (Lisbon's historic Moorish quarter, named for the Moors who stayed after the Christian reconquest) has halal restaurants and Arabic grocery stores. The Intendente area also has diverse international halal dining. Halal butchers and supermarkets are available for self-catering.
Does Portugal have any Islamic heritage of interest to Saudi tourists?
Yes. Portugal was part of Al-Andalus (Islamic Iberia) for several centuries. Silves in the Algarve was the former capital of the Islamic kingdom of Al-Gharb (origin of the name Algarve). Silves Castle and the archaeological museum contain significant Moorish artifacts. Mertola in the Alentejo has a mosque-church (formerly a mosque, with the original mihrab visible inside). The Islamic heritage is less prominent than in Spain but historically significant.