PORTUGAL FROM BANGLADESH : DOCUMENTS, CONSULTANT & FEES
Portugal – A Welcoming Destination with Rich Travel Experiences
Portugal is becoming an increasingly popular choice among Bangladeshi nationals due to its straightforward immigration policies. The country embraces immigrants from all over the world, offering a relatively uncomplicated process for entry.
All it takes is a valid Schengen visa to enter Portugal!
But Portugal isn’t just a top destination for immigrants – it’s also a favorite among travelers drawn to its historic architecture, stunning beaches, pleasant weather, affordable travel options, and of course, its passion for football.
With a total land area of 92,212 square kilometers and a population of around 10 million, Portugal is known for its vibrant festivals that attract millions of tourists every year to experience its renowned hospitality.
For Bangladeshi nationals looking to travel to Portugal, the biggest challenge has traditionally been visa approval. However, the situation is improving, as recent months have seen a higher success rate in obtaining visas, making it easier for more people to visit this beautiful country.
Portugal Visit Visa for Bangladeshi Nationals
As a member of the Schengen Area, Portugal allows visitors with a valid visa from any other Schengen country. However, if Portugal is your primary destination, you are required to apply for a visa directly through the Portuguese consulate.
The Challenge: Currently, the Portuguese Republic does not have a diplomatic consulate in Bangladesh. While there is an honorary consul general office, it does not accept visa applications.
What’s the Solution? For Bangladeshi nationals, long-term visa applications must be submitted to the Portuguese Embassy in New Delhi. For short-term Schengen visas, Portugal is represented by the French Embassy in Bangladesh.
If your travel plans involve staying in Portugal for less than 30 days within a 180-day period, you can apply for your tourist visa at the French Embassy in Dhaka. The application process and requirements will be the same as applying for a French visa.
Don’t worry – we’re here to guide you through the steps!
How to Apply Online for a Portugal Visa through the French Embassy in Dhaka
The French Embassy in Dhaka does not accept walk-in applications, so you must schedule an appointment and follow the proper procedures.
Unlike other Schengen countries, France operates its own visa application website. Applicants must fill out the online form, which collects the same information as the unified Schengen visa form used by all member states.
You will need to provide details such as your name, date of birth, marital status, passport information, professional background, and employment details.
Additionally, the form will ask for information about the purpose of your trip, the number of entries, financial details, any previous Schengen visas, and your accommodation address.
It’s crucial to complete this form accurately, as the quality of your visa application can significantly impact the final decision.
Quick Tip: The visa application plays a key role in the outcome!
Once you’ve filled in all the necessary details, the website will show you a preview of your application. Take time to review everything carefully, and if everything looks good, proceed to payment to complete the process.
Submit Your Documents In Person
After completing your visa application, the next step is to schedule an appointment with the French Embassy. The embassy has an online booking portal where you can enter your details to view available appointment slots. Once you’ve booked your slot, start preparing your documents.
Keep in mind that you can submit your visa application up to 6 months before your planned arrival, and no later than 15 days before. Appointment availability can vary, but typically, slots are available 2-8 weeks after you apply.
On the day of your appointment, head to the French Embassy in Dhaka to submit your documents in person. It’s a good idea to arrive early, as there are strict security protocols to follow.
At the embassy, consular staff will review your documents, collect your fingerprints, and provide you with a receipt for your application.
And that’s it – your Portugal visa application processing officially begins!
Portugal Visa Document Requirements for Bangladeshi Nationals
The required documents for a Portugal visa can vary depending on your individual circumstances. However, here is a general list of the common documents you will need to submit with your visa application:
Common Documents for Portugal Visa:
- Appointment Letter: The visa appointment confirmation letter for the French Embassy.
- Application Form: The completed, signed, and dated visa application form along with the payment receipt.
- Current Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area. It should also have at least 2 blank pages for the visa sticker and stamping.
- Passport Copies: Copies of all pages with visas, entry/exit stamps, or any other remarks.
- Schengen Visa Photo: Two recent color passport-sized photos (3.5 x 4.5 cm) in ICAO standard, with a white background showing your ears.
- Civil Documents: Any applicable civil documents, such as marriage, divorce, or death certificates. If you have a baby, a birth certificate should also be included.
- Cover Letter: A detailed letter explaining the purpose of your trip, who will cover your expenses, and outlining your professional and financial details.
- Bank Statement: Your personal bank statement for the last 6 months, along with an original solvency certificate (with bank seal and signature). The balance should reflect your income, expenses, and disposable income.
- Income Tax Documents: A copy of your TIN certificate, income tax certificate (for the last 3 years), and, if available, a copy of your income tax assessment for the previous year.
- Asset Valuation: If you own immovable property or other assets, include a certified valuation of these, including land, buildings, flats, etc.
- Investment Documents: Financial documents such as fixed deposit receipts (FDR), Sanchaypatro, share statements, etc.
- Invitation Letter: A personal invitation letter from your host in Portugal, along with a copy of their passport and proof of their status in Portugal (for tourist or family visits).
- Business Invitation: If your trip is for business, an original invitation letter from the company in Portugal is required.
- Proof of Family Relationship: If you are visiting family members, include proof of your relationship with them.
- Schengen Visa Insurance: You must have travel insurance that covers the Schengen Area. Submit both the original and a photocopy of your insurance document.
Additional Documents Based on Your Occupation:
If You Are a Business Owner:
- Trade License: Your updated business trade license.
- Agreement Copy: A copy of your business agreement or partnership deed.
- Certificate of Incorporation: A copy of your company’s memorandum, articles of incorporation, and Form 12 for limited companies.
- Other Business Documents: Any relevant certificates, including VAT, IRC, and membership certificates.
- Business Bank Statement: Your business bank statement for the last 6 months, showing income and expenses.
If You Are Employed:
- NOC: A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer, stating the details of your leave of absence.
- Payslips: Payslips or a salary statement for the last 6 months.
If You Are a Student:
- Proof of Studentship: Proof of enrolment in your educational institution.
- School Leave Certificate: A leave of absence certificate from your school if you are traveling during the academic year.
By ensuring all of these documents are prepared accurately, you can help ensure a smoother visa application process.
Visa Processing Time & Passport Collection
The processing time for a Portugal visitor visa can vary based on when you apply and the complexity of your case.
Typically, the French Embassy in Dhaka processes short-term visa applications within 15 working days. However, during peak seasons, it can take up to 45 days. You can track the status of your visa application on the French Embassy’s website.
Once a decision is made, the embassy will notify you to collect your passport. You will need to visit the embassy in person with your visa application receipt and a copy of your passport. If you’re unable to go personally, you can send someone on your behalf with a signed authorization letter. For minors, passports can be collected by parents or a person with an authorization letter signed by the parents.
If your visa application is approved, you will receive your passport with the visa sticker. If your application is denied, the embassy will provide a refusal letter detailing the reasons for the rejection.
Portugal Visa Consultant in Bangladesh
If you’re seeking a trusted and reliable Portugal visa consultant in Bangladesh, look no further than Visa Processing Center. With years of experience and a proven track record, we are a leading visa consultancy in the country.
Our approach is expert-driven, focused on customer satisfaction, and dedicated to providing efficient visa processing services. We understand that the visa application process can be time-consuming and stressful, but we’re here to make it as smooth and straightforward as possible. Our team of skilled visa consultants is well-versed in Schengen visa regulations and ensures all documents comply with the requirements of local consulates.
At Visa Processing Center, we pride ourselves on our honesty and transparency. We’ll keep you informed at every step of the process. Our service fees are clear and upfront – we don’t engage in any shady contracts or hidden charges.
Avoid wasting time with unreliable visa services or unlicensed individuals. Contact us today and let us handle your Portugal visa application for the highest chance of success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to translate all my documents into Spanish?1. Do I need to translate all my documents into Spanish?
As part of the Schengen Area, Portugal follows unified visa fees. Since the French Embassy represents Portugal in Bangladesh, they collect the fees.
- The visa fee for adult applicants is 80 euros.
- For children aged 6-12 years, the fee is 40 euros.
- Children under 6 years old do not have to pay a visa fee.
The fee is collected in Bangladeshi Taka (BDT), and the amount may fluctuate based on the current exchange rate.
2. Can you help me get a Portugal visitor visa from Bangladesh?
Yes, we specialize in Schengen visa applications and have extensive experience in processing them. If you meet the eligibility criteria, we can assist you in obtaining your Portugal visa. Contact us today to consult with our team and evaluate your eligibility.
3. Do you provide invitation letters or other documents for Portugal visas?
As a visa consulting agency, we guide you through the visa application process using the documents you provide. If you need assistance with obtaining an invitation letter for business conferences or other legitimate purposes, we can help facilitate this in accordance with Schengen visa regulations. However, we do not provide unsolicited documents.
4. I want to attend a conference in Portugal. What type of visa should I apply for?
To attend a business conference in Portugal, you should apply for a Schengen short-term visa. You will need to submit an invitation letter for the conference along with the host’s details as part of your application.
5. Can I apply for admission to a Portuguese university with a tourist visa?
No, a tourist visa is intended for leisure, tourism, or visiting family and friends. If you wish to study at a Portuguese university, you should apply for a student visa. Student visas are long-term visas and can only be applied for at the Portuguese Embassy in New Delhi.
However, if you are already in the Schengen Area or face difficulties with a student visa, you may visit Portugal, enroll in a Portuguese university, and then apply for a student residence card with the Portuguese Immigration and Border Service (SEF) under Article 91.
6. Can I convert my Portugal tourist visa into a work visa?
If you are a skilled worker, you can directly apply for a Portugal work visa from Bangladesh.
If you already have a Schengen visa or are in the Schengen Area, you can go to Portugal and apply for residency under Article 88, Paragraph 2. To qualify, you need to have a valid employment contract and legal entry into the country.
Note that the process can take up to 2 years, but during this time, you are allowed to work legally in Portugal.
7. What is the address of the French Embassy where I can submit Portugal visa applications? Embassy of the Republic of France
Madani Avenue, Baridhara Diplomatic Enclave, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
Phone: +88 02 5566 8600, +88 02 5881 3811-14
Email: francevisadhaka@gmail.com
General Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
8. Where can I submit long-term Portugal visa applications?
Long-term Portugal visa applications (Type D) must be submitted in person at the Embassy of Portugal in New Delhi:
Embassy of Portugal in India
No. 4, Panchsheel Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021, India
Phone: (91) 11 4607 1001
Email: sconsular.novadeli@mne.pt (Consular Section)
Email: visas.novadeli@mne.pt (Visa)