Portugal Schengen Visa for Ghanaian citizens: Complete application guide for 2023

Are you a Ghanaian citizen planning to visit Portugal? If so, you need a Portugal Schengen Visa to enter the country. This Portugal visa is your gateway to many incredible attractions, from the fantastic Porto's wine to the historic town of Sintra, from the surf beaches to the bustling Lisbon.

This comprehensive application guide will walk you through getting a Portugal Schengen Visa for Ghanaian citizens, explaining the eligibility, requirements, and fees. Rely on our guide services to get your travel document hassle-free and be prepared for the trip!

What is the Portugal Schengen Visa?

Portugal is a Schengen country. The Portugal Schengen Visa is a specialized visa that enables foreign nationals, including citizens of Ghana, to enter and travel within Portugal and other countries in the Schengen Area. But what's the Schengen Area?

This is a European zone comprising 27 countries that have established simplified travel arrangements to enhance border security while facilitating seamless tourism experiences.

The Portugal Schengen Visa application process involves certain paperwork and a mandatory visa appointment at the Portugal Embassy or Visa Application Center. However, we're here to assist you throughout the process, ensuring a smooth experience.

Do Ghanaian citizens need a visa for Portugal?

If you're a Ghanaian citizen planning a trip to Portugal, you need a Portugal Schengen Visa. Fortunately, we offer a convenient guided visa application service that can assist you in getting your travel document without any hassle. For citizens of other countries, we recommend using our Visa Checker Tool to explore the visa requirements specific to your nationality.

Types of Portugal Schengen Visas available for Ghanaian citizens

When completing the Portugal Schengen visa application, select the visa type that aligns with your travel plans in Portugal. The supporting documents required may vary depending on the chosen visa type. Here are the different types of Schengen visas available:

• Tourism: This works as a Portugal tourist visa for enjoying the beaches, exploring historical sites, and indulging in delicious Portuguese cuisine.

• Business activities: This visa type will cover your needs if you travel for business, such as attending meetings or conferences.

• Visiting friends or family members: Connect with your loved ones in Portugal and enjoy quality time and the beautiful Portuguese landscapes together.

• Attend cultural events: Artists seeking to participate in vibrant festivals can avail themselves of this visa, allowing them to showcase their talents and be part of Portugal's artistic scene.

• Attend sports events: For those traveling to Portugal to participate in exciting competitions, this visa will ensure a smooth entry into the country.

• Official visit: This visa is designed for travelers engaged in official business, enabling them to attend meetings with Portuguese authorities and foster international relations.

• Medical reasons: This Portuguese visa is for those seeking medical treatment or consultation in Portugal.

• Study: This is a Portuguese student visa to pursue your academic dreams in Portuguese institutions.

• Airport transit: If you're merely transiting through Portugal on your way to another destination, this visa allows you to do so.

Benefits of a Portugal Schengen Visa for Ghanaian Citizens

The primary benefit of the Portugal Schengen Visa is that it grants access to all 27 Schengen member countries with a single document. These countries include Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

You can embark on an unforgettable Euro trip with your passport and the Portugal Schengen Visa!

Benefits of getting your Portugal Schengen Visa with us

When applying for a Portugal Schengen Visa with us, you gain access to several fantastic benefits that simplify the entire process:

• 100% government compliant: Our team of iVisa Experts is well-versed in visa requirements and will meticulously review your application to ensure it fully complies with government standards.

• iVisa Experts' support: If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. We'll provide valuable assistance and ensure a seamless experience from start to finish.

• Simplified application form: Our application form is designed to be clear, concise, and user-friendly, eliminating any confusion often associated with embassy forms.

• Fill it out at your own pace: Take your time to fill out the form at your own pace. You can save your progress and resume whenever you're ready, making it convenient to make changes or take breaks as needed.

• Step-by-step guide: We provide a comprehensive handbook containing insider tips, a document checklist, and expert guidance on preparing for your interview. This resource will help you tackle any challenging questions or requirements.

Schengen Visa from Ghana: Portugal visa requirements

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of the visa requirements for Ghanaian citizens planning to visit Portugal with a Schengen visa. Remember that the requirements may vary depending on the purpose of your trip. When you apply through our reliable services, we'll provide you with a comprehensive list of supporting documents tailored to your situation.

But here are some essential visa requirements to give you an idea of what you'll need for the Portugal Schengen Visa:

Portugal Schengen Visa: Eligibility criteria for Ghanaian citizens

Besides having Ghanaian nationality, you must meet at least one of the following criteria to be eligible:

• Enter the Schengen Zone through Portugal.

• Visit only Portugal in the Schengen Zone.

• If you intend to visit multiple countries within the Schengen Zone, Portugal must be your main destination, where you'll spend most of your time.

Do you meet the eligibility requirements? So go ahead and apply now for the Portugal Schengen Visa.

Required documents for Ghanaian citizens

On our platform, you only need a Ghanaian passport to complete the Schengen visa application form. However, when you attend an appointment at the Portuguese Embassy or Visa Application Center, you must submit documents proving your travel intentions.

We'll provide you with a tailored document list to bring to your appointment. Here are some items that may be included on the list:

• Ghanaian passport – Ensure you have a valid passport (with at least six months of validity remaining, two blank pages, and in good condition).

• Completed visa application form

• Proof of accommodation – This can include hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host in Portugal.

• Travel itinerary – Provide a detailed itinerary that includes flight bookings, planned activities, and the destinations you'll visit during your stay in Portugal.

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your trip – Provide bank account statements or other documents showing your financial means to support your travel.

• Individual travel insurance to cover medical expenses – Your travel medical insurance should have a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.

• Police certificate showing no criminal record

• 2 passport-sized photos – Use our [digital passport service] for an easy and quick way to get them.

Financial requirements for Ghanaian citizens

You must show proof of enough financial means in your Schengen visa application. The specific documents you need depend on your employment status. Here's a breakdown:

If employed:

• An employment contract and a certificate of annual leave from your employer.

If self-employed or freelancer:

• A business license (if applicable).

• Business bank statements.

If a student:

• A certificate of registration at your university, school, or college.

• Your student ID card.

• A copy of the registration certificate from the faculty, signed and stamped by the university.

• Your grades transcript.

• Evidence of financial stability of your parents.

• Proof of your employment contract or enough financial resources for your stay.

If retired:

• A bank statement showing the pension received for the last six months.

Additionally, you must provide original copies of your bank account statements. These statements should cover transactions from the last three to six months and show your current account balance or proof of regular income.

How long can Ghanaian citizens stay in Portugal?

A valid Portugal Schengen Visa allows Ghanaian citizens to stay in Portugal and the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days Per Entry. That means you can enter and travel between Schengen countries as many times as you want, as long as your stay within a 180-day period doesn't exceed 90 days.

Keep in mind that the final decision on whether to grant a single, double, or multiple-entry visa rests with the Portuguese authorities. Multiple Entry visas can be valid from 180 days to 5 years.

What are the prices and costs for the Portugal Schengen Visa in Ghana?

When you apply for a Schengen Visa with our services, the visa cost includes the following visa fees:

• iVisa application fee: USD $188.99. This fee covers our online guidance service and all its benefits.

• Government Schengen Visa fee: €80 (approximately US$84). This is the Portuguese government fee to process your visa request. You must pay in cash at your visa appointment. Minors aged between 6 and 12 have a reduced fee of €40, and children under 6 are fee-exempt.

Portugal Schengen Visa processing time in Ghana

When applying for a Portugal Schengen Guided Visa, there are two processing times to keep in mind:

• iVisa standard processing time for Ghanaian citizens: 30 days. This is the time it takes us to process your application, including completing the application form, reviewing your answers, and scheduling your visa appointment.

• Schengen Visa processing time: After your visa appointment, you'll need to wait for the Portugal government's processing time, which usually ranges from 15 to 45 days.

Schengen Visa: Portugal visa application process from Ghana

The Portugal Schengen Visa application process involves:

• Completing the visa form.

• Providing biometric data.

• Attending an interview at the Portuguese Embassy or one of the visa centers in Ghana.

We're here to make the process easier with our guided service. Use our iVisa App for your convenience and complete the form from your phone. Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for a Schengen Visa:

Step-by-step guide to applying for the Portugal Schengen Visa in Ghana

• Step 1: Provide your basic and travel details on our website or iVisa App. Double-check all the information and pay the iVisa service fee using a debit card, credit card, Amazon Pay, Venmo, or PayPal. Remember, during your visa appointment, you must pay the government fee at the Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Center (VAC).

• Step 2: Complete the simplified application form and upload the necessary documents. Please submit your application for our iVisa Expert's review. We'll also schedule your visa appointment.

• Step 3: Attend the visa appointment to submit your visa application, pay the government fee, provide your biometric data, and undergo the interview.

Then, wait for your Portugal Schengen Visa and prepare to explore this charming destination!

How can I apply for my family or friends in Ghana?

If you want to help your loved ones apply, you can complete the application forms for everyone online by clicking on "Add applicant" on our platform. However, each applicant must submit a separate application to the Visa Application Centre.

Tips for a successful Portugal Schengen Visa application in Ghana

Here are some helpful tips to ensure a successful Portugal Schengen Visa application in Ghana:

• Double-check all the details you provide in the visa application form and supporting documents to ensure everything is correct.

• Prepare and submit all the required documents, ensuring they're up-to-date, complete, and in the required format.

• Fulfill the Portuguese government requirements, including photo specifications, document requirements, and payment procedures.

• Start the application process at least three months before your intended travel dates to allow for unforeseen delays or additional document requests.

• Familiarize yourself with the purpose of your visit to Portugal, anticipate potential interview questions, and dress professionally and confidently for the interview.

What can I do if I make a mistake on my Portugal Schengen Visa application?

You must act promptly if you discover any mistakes on your Portugal Schengen Visa application form before your scheduled visa appointment in Ghana. Contact our customer service team as soon as possible so they can help you correct the errors and guide you through the process.

However, if you've already submitted your application with mistakes, you must wait for the visa outcome. If your application is rejected, you must reapply for the Portugal Schengen Visa. Ensure to correct any errors and strengthen your application with additional supporting documents to improve your chances of success.

Common reasons for Portugal Schengen Visa refusals in Ghana

When applying for a Portugal Schengen Visa in Ghana, be aware of the following common reasons for visa refusals:

• Insufficient or inconsistent documentation: Failure to provide all the necessary documents or submitting incomplete and inconsistent information can result in visa refusals. Carefully review the checklist and ensure all required supporting documents are included.

• Failure to demonstrate strong ties to your home country: You must prove strong ties to Ghana to establish your intention to return after you visit Portugal. This includes stable employment, property ownership, family relationships, or financial commitments.

• Inadequate financial means: Providing evidence of adequate financial resources to cover your travel expenses and stay in Portugal is crucial. Bank statements, employment contracts, or other financial documents should demonstrate your ability to fund your trip effectively.

• Failure to justify the purpose of the visit: If you fail to provide convincing reasons or supporting documentation, authorities may question the legitimacy of your application. So, demonstrate the purpose and intention of your visit to Portugal.

• Previous immigration or visa violations: Past violations, such as visa overstays, immigration violations, or fraudulent activities, can significantly impact your chances of obtaining a Portugal Schengen Visa.

Remember, our iVisa Experts will review your application and provide you with a detailed list of documents specific to your situation. Our guide will help you avoid these common reasons for visa refusal.

What to expect after submitting the Portugal Schengen Visa application in Ghana?

Here's an overview of what you can expect after submitting your Portugal Schengen Visa application at the Visa Application Centre or the Portuguese Embassy in Ghana:

• Acknowledgment receipt: You'll receive an acknowledgment receipt confirming that your application has been submitted and is being processed.

• Review by Portugal authorities: The Portugal government will review your application and supporting documents to ensure they meet all the requirements.

• Visa outcome notification: You'll receive a notification letter informing you of the outcome of your visa application.

Portugal Schengen Visa approval and denial for Ghanaian citizens

• Approved visa application: If your visa application is approved, you'll receive a notification letter confirming the approval. You'll then pick up your passport at the Embassy or Visa Application Centre.

• Denied visa application: If your visa application is denied, the embassy will inform you accordingly. In such cases, you can reapply for the Portugal Schengen Visa, providing additional documents to strengthen your application.

Where can I get more information?

Our customer service team is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns regarding the Portugal Schengen Visa or other travel documents. Contact our iVisa Experts through our online chat or [email protected].

Before your trip, check out our Portugal Travel Guide! It'll prepare you for your adventure with many travel tips and tricks to explore Portugal.