Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Portugal?
Yes. South Africa passport holders need a visa for Portugal and must get it before the trip, from an embassy or consulate.
- Entry rule
- Visa required
- Length of stay
- Set by the visa
- Where to get it
- Embassy or consulate
- Last checked
- Nov 9, 2026
Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel. Source: Passport Index dataset (MIT), refreshed Nov 9, 2026.
Portugal missions in South Africa
Consulate-General of Portugal, Johannesburg
- Applications
- 7,072
- Visas issued
- 6,433
- Refused
- 639
- Refusal rate
- 9%
How a Schengen visa application works
- A Schengen visa allows up to 90 days in any 180-day period and is valid in all 29 Schengen countries.
- Apply at the consulate of the country that is the main purpose of the trip. If the purposes are equal, apply to the country where you will stay longest.
- Applications are accepted from 6 months until 15 days before the trip. A decision usually takes 15 calendar days and can take up to 45.
- Fingerprints are taken at the first application and can be reused for 59 months.
Document checklist: South Africa → Portugal
General guidance for a short trip. Requirements change, so confirm with the official sources linked below.
- Passport valid for at least 3 months after you leave the Schengen area and issued within the last 10 years.
- Completed visa application form.
- Recent passport photos.
- Travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 coverage valid in all Schengen countries.
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements of the last 3–6 months).
- Employment letter or proof of business/studies.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation).
- Return or onward ticket.
Only use the official government portal. Many look-alike sites charge extra.
South Africa missions in Portugal
- embassy of South Africa in PortugalEmbassy · Lisbon · +351 21 319 22 00See all
- Consulado Honorário da África do SulHonorary Consulate · Porto · +351 917 716 070See all
Frequently asked questions
Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Portugal?
Yes. South Africa passport holders need a visa for Portugal and must get it before the trip, from an embassy or consulate. Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel.
How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Portugal?
The length of stay is set by the visa that is issued.
Where is the Portugal embassy in South Africa?
The Portugal embassy in South Africa is located at 599, Leyds Street, Muckleneuk, Pretoria.