2025 Portugal Visa Policy for Chinese Residents: Schengen, D-Type, Family...
Disclaimer: The content of this article is for informational reference only and does not constitute investment advice, a solicitation, or a basis for major decision-making. Please make independent judgments and consult professional advisors when needed.
A systematic overview of main visa types for Chinese residents going to Portugal: Schengen short-term (tourism/business/family visits), long-term D-type (study/work/high-tech research/remote and passive income), family reunion D6, and the latest rules and considerations for residence permit renewals.
## 1. First, clarify the framework: Portuguese visas are divided into two main categories
### 1) Short-term: Schengen short-stay visa (Type C)
- **Applicable purposes**: Tourism, business visits, visiting family/friends, short-term training/conferences, cultural/sports activities, medical treatment, etc.
- **Core rule**: **Stay no more than 90 days in any 180-day period (90/180 rule)**.
- **Applicable groups**: Most Chinese residents who "go to Portugal for a trip/work for a few days/visit family for a few weeks".
### 2) Long-term: Portuguese national long-stay visa (Type D/Residence Visa)
- **Applicable purposes**: Study, work, research/high-skilled work, family reunification, long-term residence (e.g., passive income, remote work, etc.).
- **Core features**: Allows **stays exceeding 90 days** in Portugal, generally requiring further processing or connection to a **Residence Permit** after entry.
> **Important reminder**: Short-term Type C visas address "short stays", while long-term Type D visas address "long-term residence". Many misunderstandings arise from mixing the two (e.g., wanting to live long-term in Portugal but entering with a short-term tourist visa).
II. Quick Overview of Visa Types (Choose the Right Category by Purpose)
| Category |
Typical Uses |
Key Points |
Suitable For |
| Schengen Short-term C (Tourism) |
Sightseeing, short vacations |
90/180 rule; requires itinerary, accommodation, insurance, financial proof |
Pure tourism, short-term visits |
| Schengen Short-term C (Business/Conference) |
Business visits, exhibitions, conferences |
Invitation letter/dispatch proof is more critical; other materials same as short-term |
Corporate business trips, exhibitions |
| Schengen Short-term C (Visiting Family/Friends) |
Visiting relatives/friends in Portugal |
Invitation/guarantee, relationship proof, accommodation proof |
Family visits, short-term companionship |
| Type D (Study) |
Medium to long-term study/study abroad |
Admission/enrollment proof, funds, accommodation, insurance; apply for residence after entry |
International students, language schools |
| Type D (Work/High-Skilled) |
Employed work, research/high-skilled positions |
Employment contract/work offer; apply for residence after entry |
Expatriates, technical talents, researchers |
| D6 (Family Reunification) |
Reuniting with legal residents in Portugal |
Sponsor has legal residence; relationship proof, accommodation and income/security capability |
Spouses, minor children, dependent parents, etc. |
Disclaimer: The content of this article is for informational reference only and does not constitute investment advice, a solicitation, or a basis for major decision-making. Please make independent judgments and consult professional advisors when needed.