An airport transit visa is a type of visa that allows people to connect their flight from one or more airports in the Schengen area or beyond. In this article we will take you through who needs a Portugal Airport transit visa, its exemptions and more.
Citizens of these countries are required to have an airport transit visa:
- Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka.
- You might also need more details from the consular office or specific requirements based on your nationality.
Exemptions for airport transit visa:
Below are those exempted from getting a visa:
People holding a uniform visa, long-stay national visas, or residency permits issued by a Schengen Area Member State are exempt.
Third-country nationals holding a valid residence permit from a Member State that does not fully participate in Schengen regulations, or from countries such as Andorra, Canada, Japan, San Marino, or the USA, which guarantee unconditional readmission, or from overseas territories of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba) are exempt.
Those with a valid visa for a non-Schengen Member State, a country under the European Economic Area agreement, Canada, Japan, the USA, or the overseas territories of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, do not need a visa when travelling to or from the issuing country or any third country.
- Family members of EU citizens enjoying freedom of movement rights are exempt.
- Holders of diplomatic passports are excluded.
- Flight crew members from countries that are party to the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation also do not need to obtain a visa.
Application Process
To apply for an Airport Transit Visa, applicants need to provide several documents, including:
- A completed visa application form.
- A valid passport with at least two blank pages and valid for at least three months beyond the planned exit date.
- Proof of onward travel (e.g., flight tickets).
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- A visa for the final destination country if required.
It is advisable to apply for the visa at least 15 days before travel to ensure processing time.
Can I work while holding a Portugal Airport Transit Visa
Holders of a Portugal Airport Transit Visa are not permitted to work while in the international transit area of the airport. This visa specifically allows travelers to pass through the airport to reach another country without leaving the transit zone.
Key Points:
- Purpose of the Visa: The Airport Transit Visa is strictly for transiting through Portugal to another destination and does not grant permission to enter Portugal or engage in any work activities.
- Restrictions: Travelers must remain within the international transit area and cannot leave it, which includes engaging in any work-related activities.
- Work Authorization: If an individual wishes to work in Portugal, they would need to apply for a different type of visa that permits employment, such as a work visa or residence permit.
In summary, while holding a Portugal Airport Transit Visa, working is not allowed under any circumstances.
Work Restrictions with an Airport Transit Visa
No Employment Allowed:
The Airport Transit Visa does not permit holders to engage in any form of employment or work activities while in the international transit area of the airport. This visa is specifically designed for travelers who are merely passing through Portugal to reach another country and does not grant the right to enter Portugal or seek employment.
International Transit Area:
Travelers must remain within the international transit zone of the airport. Leaving this area, even for overnight stays, requires a different type of visa, such as a Schengen short-stay visa, which would allow for entry into Portugal and potentially work authorization.
Duration of Stay:
The Airport Transit Visa is valid only for the duration necessary for transit, typically not exceeding 24 hours. This limitation reinforces that the visa is not intended for any activities beyond transit, such as work.
In summary, individuals holding a Portugal Airport Transit Visa cannot work and must strictly follow transit regulations.
Visiting Family or Friends in the Transit Area
No Entry into Transit Area for Non-Travelers:
Individuals who do not have a boarding pass for a departing flight are prohibited from entering the transit area. This means that friends or family members who are not traveling cannot meet you in the transit zone of the airport.
Restrictions on Transit Passengers:
If you are transiting through Portugal, you must remain within the international transit area and cannot leave it to meet anyone, including family or friends. This restriction is in place to maintain security and order within the airport.
Implications of Leaving Transit Area:
If a transit passenger wishes to meet someone, they would need to exit the transit area, which typically requires a different visa that allows entry into Portugal. This would mean they can no longer be considered a transit passenger.
In summary, while holding a Portugal Airport Transit Visa, you cannot visit family or friends in the transit area of the airport.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to Portugal through transit straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Schengen Visa or an Airport Tranit Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit Portugal. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
