Key points
- From late 2026, Saint Lucians must obtain ETIAS to travel to Portugal and the Schengen Area.
- ETIAS is not a visa, but a quick online authorisation linked to your passport with no printing required.
- The ETIAS is valid for 3 years, covering multiple short trips of up to 90 days.
Beginning in late 2026, travelers from Saint Lucia will need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before flying to Portugal or any other Schengen country.
Although Saint Lucian passport holders currently enjoy visa-free access, ETIAS will become a mandatory requirement for short stays.
Do Saint Lucians need a visa for Portugal?
Not for short stays. Saint Lucians can visit Portugal for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. However, ETIAS approval will be necessary before departure once the system launches in 2026.
What is ETIAS, and how does it work?
ETIAS is a new online travel authorisation created by the European Union to screen visa-exempt visitors entering the Schengen Zone, aiming to enhance border security while keeping travel accessible.
The system is electronically linked to your passport and provides access to all 30 ETIAS countries, including Portugal.
Key differences: ETIAS vs. a visa
| Feature | ETIAS | Schengen Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who needs it? | All Saint Lucians (from 2026) | Not required for short stays |
| Application method | Online only | Embassy visit required |
| Validity | 3 years or until passport expires | Varies |
| Time to get it | Minutes to 72 hours | 10–15 working days |
| Entry type | Multiple short trips | Depends on visa type |
What you’ll need to apply for ETIAS
To submit an ETIAS application, you must have:
- A Saint Lucian passport, valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure
- A credit or debit card to pay the €7 government fee
- A valid email address
- Details of your first destination and planned travel dates
Expert Tip: “Although most ETIAS approvals are instant, it’s smart to apply at least a week before departure in case the new system has teething problems.” — Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert
Step-by-step: How to apply for ETIAS for Portugal
- Visit the official ETIAS site, or use iVisa or the mobile app.
- Fill out your personal and passport information.
- Pay the fee securely online and upload your documents, with help from video guides.
You’ll receive your approval by email, typically within minutes or up to 3 days.
Once approved, your ETIAS is linked to your passport. No printing is necessary.
ETIAS validity and benefits
Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for:
- 3 years, or until your passport expires
- Multiple short stays, up to 90 days in any 180-day period
- Travel to Portugal plus 29 other Schengen countries
FAQs for Saint Lucian travelers
Do I need ETIAS every time I visit?
No. One ETIAS is valid for 3 years and covers multiple entries of up to 90 days.
Can I work or study in Portugal with ETIAS?
No. ETIAS is only for short stays. You’ll need a national visa for long-term work, study, or residence.
What if I get a new passport?
Your ETIAS will no longer be valid, so you’ll need to reapply with your new passport details.
Long-stay visas for Portugal
Planning to stay more than 90 days in Portugal? You’ll need to apply for one of the following:
- A student visa (for university or language courses)
- A work visa (for employment or freelance work)
- A family reunification visa (to join relatives legally residing in Portugal)
Check the Portuguese government’s visa portal for more information.
Need help applying?
Contact the iVisa team via WhatsApp or the contact page for assistance with your Portugal travel documentation. Note that the €7 amount above is the government ETIAS fee; iVisa charges a separate service fee when you apply through us.
