Get the United Kingdom visa for Portuguese citizens

Fast, secure, and expert-led visa processing for Portuguese citizens traveling to United Kingdom

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United Kingdom visa requirements for Portuguese citizens

Portuguese citizens do not currently need a visa to visit the UK for short stays of up to six months for tourism, business, or short-term study. However, all travelers from Portugal (who don't already hold a UK immigration status) must obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the country.

United Kingdom visa cost for Portuguese citizens

UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Prices starting from €54.95

Valid for 2 years after issued

Multiple entry

Stay up to 186 days per entry

Get it as fast as 15 minutes

Fast facts

Interview needed?

On a case-by-case basis (only for embassy visas)

When to apply?

At least a few weeks before travel

Documents required upon arrival?

Valid Portuguese passport (6+ months validity), UK ETA, confirmed return or onward flight ticket, accommodation details, proof of funds, supporting documents (if applicable)

How to apply for a United Kingdom visa with iVisa

Complete your online application

Answer a few simple questions, determine whether you need the UK ETA or another UK visa or document, pay securely, and upload your documents. You can save your progress and come back anytime. We'll guide you through any unclear questions during the application process.

We review your application

The United Kingdom visa system can be complicated for Portuguese citizens, but don't worry – we review your whole application to catch anything that might cause delays.

We submit it for government processing

We're not the British government, but we review your application for accuracy and submit it directly to them. If anything goes wrong, we're here 24/7 to help resolve it – no long wait times, no confusing forms, just expert support from start to finish.

Get your United Kingdom visa

We'll email your approved United Kingdom document and let you know how to use it for your trip from Portugal to the United Kingdom.

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Why Portuguese citizens choose iVisa

Benefit	Applying by yourself	iVisa
Simple, easy forms	Not included	Included
24x7 support from visa experts	Not included	Included
Error detection to prevent rejections	Not included	Included
World's easiest passport scan	Not included	Included
Multiple payment methods	Not included	Included

1.4M happy customers

24/7customer support

71,000+ reviews

10 years of experience

98% visa approval rate

Verified United Kingdom visa reviews

Rated 4.9 out of 5 by travelers to United Kingdom.

4.9 out of 5

Suraish Singh

May 5, 2026

"Luis is a super guy who will guide you through the process with ease. I could not get my laptop camers to take my picture and Luis chose another option via Whatsapp and walked me through the whole process without a problem."
Cheryl Hamilton

May 13, 2026

"IVisa provides such quick turn around in completion of necessary travel documents - even when you make a mistake - that I was actually able to complete a critical document in only a few hours! I was happily shocked!"
Robin Ingram

April 6, 2026

"Streamlined operation. Easy to fill out and quick turnaround on approval."
Julie Stufkens

June 28, 2026

"Easy to follow but additional costs added to actual visa"
Glenda Hamilton

June 29, 2026

"Great service. Almost unbelievable"
Carlos Malaga

July 11, 2026

"Very satisfied. Good service,"
Jennifer

June 28, 2026

"The application was so easy"
Hazel Jackman

May 13, 2026

"Keep up the good work"
Elena

June 18, 2026

"Very quick service"
Ion Balotescu

June 9, 2026

"Thanks so much"

See all 427 reviews

United Kingdom visa FAQs

What Portuguese travelers commonly ask about United Kingdom visas

Do Portuguese citizens need a visa for a holiday or business trip to the UK?

No. Portuguese citizens can visit the UK for up to six months without a visa for tourism, visiting family, business meetings, or short-term study. However, you must now hold a valid UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you travel. Your stay is strictly for non-work activities; if you intend to stay longer or perform paid work, you must apply for a specific visa in advance.

Is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mandatory for all Portuguese travelers?

Yes. Since February 25, 2026, the ETA has been a mandatory requirement for all Portuguese citizens (including children and infants) who don't already hold a UK immigration status (such as settled or pre-settled status). It is valid for two years and is electronically linked to your passport. You'll be denied boarding if you don't have an approved ETA.

Can I still enter the UK using my Portuguese Citizen Card (ID card)?

No. For the vast majority of Portuguese travelers, a valid biometric passport is now the only accepted travel document for entry. National ID cards are only accepted if you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) or hold a Frontier Worker permit. If you have EUSS status, ensure your ID card is digitally linked to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account before travel.

Am I allowed to work or provide services in the UK during my visit?

No. You cannot legally work in the UK while visiting on an ETA or under the visa-free visitor rules. This includes paid employment, self-employment, and unpaid internships. You can perform limited business-related activities, such as attending meetings or conferences, but for any actual employment, you must secure a Skilled Worker Visa or another relevant work route before arriving in the UK.

How do I stay in the UK for longer than six months?

To stay in the UK for more than six months—for example, to live, work, or study for a degree—you must apply for a long-term visa through the UK's points-based immigration system. You must submit your application and receive approval before you travel to the UK. You generally cannot switch from a visitor status to a residency visa while physically inside the UK; you must apply from Portugal or your country of residence.