Cascais Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Cascais, a beautiful coastal town in Portugal, follows the entry requirements of Portugal as a member state of the European Union and the Schengen Area. Travelers visiting Cascais will typically arrive through Lisbon's Humberto Delgado Airport, located approximately 30 kilometers away, or other Portuguese entry points. Entry requirements depend on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. As part of the Schengen Agreement, Portugal maintains unified visa policies with 26 other European countries, allowing travelers to move freely within this zone once admitted. Citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for short stays, while others may need to obtain a Schengen visa in advance. The immigration process is generally straightforward for tourists, but it's essential to have all required documentation ready. Whether you're visiting Cascais for its stunning beaches, historic sites, or as a base to explore the Lisbon region, understanding entry requirements will ensure a smooth arrival. Processing times at immigration can vary depending on the season, with summer months typically busier. Always allow sufficient time for immigration and customs procedures, especially during peak travel periods.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Portugal's visa policy is governed by Schengen Area regulations. Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your stay. Most tourists visiting Cascais will be subject to short-stay (Type C) Schengen visa rules.

Visa-Free Entry

EU/EEA citizens: unlimited stay with right to reside. Other visa-exempt countries: up to 90 days within any 180-day period

Citizens of EU/EEA countries and many other nations can enter Portugal without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits

Includes

All EU member states United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Israel United Arab Emirates Brazil Argentina Chile Mexico Switzerland Norway Iceland

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure date from Schengen Area. The 90-day limit applies to the entire Schengen Area, not just Portugal. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens only need a valid national ID card.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETIAS)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period (same as current visa-free travel)

Starting in 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need ETIAS authorization before entering the Schengen Area

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore and other current visa-exempt countries

How to Apply: Apply online through official ETIAS website at least 96 hours before travel. Application involves providing personal information, passport details, and answering security questions. Most applications approved within minutes, but can take up to 30 days in some cases.
Cost: €7 for adults aged 18-70. Free for travelers under 18 or over 70.

ETIAS authorization valid for 3 years or until passport expires, whichever comes first. Allows multiple entries. Not yet implemented as of November 2024 - check official sources for launch date. EU/EEA citizens will NOT need ETIAS.

Visa Required

Typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourist visas. Longer stays require different visa types.

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry must obtain a Schengen visa before traveling to Portugal

How to Apply: Apply at Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country of residence, or at a visa application center. Submit application at least 15 days before travel, but no more than 6 months in advance. Required documents typically include completed application form, passport photos, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds (approximately €75 per day).

Countries requiring visas include China, India, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Egypt, and many others. Processing time typically 15 calendar days but can extend to 30-60 days. Visa fees generally €80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12, free for children under 6.

Arrival Process

Most travelers to Cascais arrive via Lisbon Airport (LIS), though some may enter through other Portuguese airports or land borders. The entry process follows standard Schengen procedures and is generally efficient, though wait times can vary.

Arrival and Disembarkation

After landing, follow signs for 'Arrivals' (Chegadas) and 'Passport Control' (Controlo de Passaportes). Signs are in Portuguese and English.

Immigration Control

Proceed to the appropriate immigration line: EU/EEA/Swiss nationals use designated EU gates (often e-gates available), while non-EU nationals use separate queues. Present your passport and any required documentation. Officers may ask about your visit purpose, accommodation, and return plans.

Passport Stamp

Non-EU travelers will receive an entry stamp in their passport. Verify the stamp is clear and legible - this proves your legal entry date and is important for calculating your 90-day allowance. EU citizens typically do not receive stamps.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the designated carousel. Report any missing or damaged baggage to your airline's desk in the baggage hall immediately.

Customs

Proceed through customs via the appropriate channel: Green (nothing to declare) or Red (goods to declare). Random checks may occur even in the green channel.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

Exit to the public arrivals area where you can access transportation to Cascais, including rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing services, and the train to Cascais station.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, and issued within the last 10 years. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can use valid national ID cards instead.

Visa or ETIAS (when applicable)

Required for nationals of countries not eligible for visa-free travel, or ETIAS authorization once implemented for visa-exempt travelers.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host. Immigration officers may request this, especially for longer stays.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from the Schengen Area within your authorized stay period. Can be flight, bus, or ferry booking.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can financially support yourself during your stay. This could be bank statements, credit cards, cash, or sponsorship letter. Minimum typically €75 per day.

Travel Insurance

Recommended for all travelers and required for visa applicants. Should cover medical expenses of at least €30,000 and medical repatriation throughout the Schengen Area.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents easily accessible in your carry-on, not packed in checked luggage. Consider keeping copies separate from originals.

Be honest and concise when answering immigration questions. Provide direct answers without volunteering unnecessary information.

Dress neatly and professionally when going through immigration - first impressions matter.

Keep your entry stamp visible and legible. If traveling to multiple Schengen countries, ensure you have blank passport pages for stamps.

Save digital and physical copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance, bookings) in case originals are lost.

If traveling from outside the Schengen Area, your first point of entry should ideally be your main destination country, though this is not strictly enforced for tourists.

Download offline maps and translation apps before arrival in case of limited internet access at the airport.

Exchange some currency before arrival or withdraw from ATMs after clearing immigration for immediate transportation needs.

Customs & Duty-Free

Portugal follows EU customs regulations. When arriving from outside the EU, you must clear customs and may bring certain goods duty-free within specified limits. Travelers arriving from other EU countries generally face no routine customs checks but must still comply with personal allowance limits.

Alcohol

From non-EU countries: 1 liter of spirits (over 22% alcohol) OR 2 liters of fortified wine, sparkling wine, or alcoholic beverages under 22% alcohol, PLUS 4 liters of still wine, PLUS 16 liters of beer. From EU countries for personal use: no specific limits but must be reasonable quantities.

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol must be for personal use, not for resale. Excessive quantities may be questioned.

Tobacco

From non-EU countries: 200 cigarettes OR 100 cigarillos OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco. From EU countries: 800 cigarettes OR 400 cigarillos OR 200 cigars OR 1kg of tobacco (for personal use).

Must be 18 years or older. Products must be for personal consumption. Mixing categories is allowed with proportional reduction.

Currency

No limit on amount you can bring, but amounts of €10,000 or more (or equivalent in other currencies) must be declared when entering or leaving the EU.

Declaration applies to cash, checks, traveler's checks, and certain other negotiable instruments. Failure to declare can result in fines and confiscation.

Gifts/Goods

From non-EU countries: goods up to €430 per person by air or sea (€300 if under 15 years old), or €300 by land. From EU countries: no limits if for personal use and duty already paid in EU country of purchase.

Value limits are total for all goods combined. Commercial quantities will be questioned regardless of value. Perfume limited to 50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette from non-EU countries.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - severe criminal penalties apply
Counterfeit goods and pirated products - subject to seizure and fines
Weapons and ammunition without proper authorization - strict licensing required
Endangered species products - protected under CITES including ivory, certain animal skins, and exotic plants
Offensive material - including child pornography and materials inciting violence or hatred
Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries - with few exceptions due to disease control
Certain plants and plant products - to prevent agricultural pests and diseases
Fireworks and explosives - without special permits

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring only what you need for your trip with original packaging and doctor's prescription. Quantities beyond personal use require authorization.
Cash over €10,000 - must be declared on entry/exit from EU
Pets - require EU pet passport or health certificate, microchip, rabies vaccination, and sometimes additional treatments. Must enter through designated points of entry.
Cultural artifacts and antiques - may require export permits from country of origin and import authorization
Drones and radio-controlled devices - subject to aviation regulations; registration may be required
Food products - restrictions on bringing in meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables from non-EU countries. Processed foods may be allowed in limited quantities.
Gold and precious metals - large quantities may require declaration
Alcohol above duty-free limits - subject to excise duty and VAT

Health Requirements

Portugal generally has minimal mandatory health requirements for entry, but recommendations vary based on your country of origin and recent travel history. Ensure you're up to date with routine vaccinations and consider travel insurance covering medical emergencies.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - required only if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission or having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with yellow fever risk. Certificate must be presented at immigration.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure you're current on MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, and annual flu vaccine
Hepatitis A - recommended for most travelers due to potential food and water exposure
Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Rabies - consider for travelers spending significant time outdoors or working with animals
Tick-borne encephalitis - only if planning extensive outdoor activities in rural areas during tick season

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for visa-free travelers, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended and required for visa applicants. EU/EEA citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for access to state healthcare. Non-EU travelers should ensure coverage of at least €30,000 for medical expenses and repatriation. Portugal has good healthcare facilities, but private care can be expensive without insurance.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 entry requirements have been lifted as of 2023, but health protocols can be reinstated. Check the official Portugal health authority (DGS - Direção-Geral da Saúde) and your government's travel advisory before departure for current requirements regarding COVID-19 or other health emergencies. Some countries may still require proof of vaccination or testing for return travel.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Lisbon for citizen services, emergency assistance, and passport issues. Most embassies are located in Lisbon, approximately 30km from Cascais.

Register with your embassy's travel registration program before departure. Check your government's travel advisory website for Portugal-specific warnings and updates.

Portuguese Immigration Authority (SEF)

Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) - official immigration and borders service. Website: www.sef.pt (available in Portuguese and English)

For visa applications, extensions, residence permits, and official immigration information. SEF has offices in Lisbon and other major cities.

Emergency Services

Dial 112 for all emergencies in Portugal (police, ambulance, fire brigade)

Available 24/7, operators speak Portuguese and English. For non-emergency police matters, contact PSP (Public Security Police) at local stations.

Cascais Municipal Police

Polícia Municipal de Cascais for local issues and tourist assistance

Tourist police (Polícia de Turismo) available in main tourist areas during peak season to assist visitors with language support and minor issues.

Portuguese Tourism Office

Turismo de Portugal - official tourism website: www.visitportugal.com. Local tourist office in Cascais provides maps, information, and assistance.

Cascais Tourist Office located in the town center can help with accommodation, transportation, and local information.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (or be included on parent's passport if permitted by issuing country, though individual passports are recommended). Minors under 18 traveling alone or with only one parent should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) or legal guardian, including contact information. This is not always checked but may be requested by immigration. For divorced or separated parents, carry custody documents if applicable. EU citizens can use national ID cards for children. Unaccompanied minors may require special airline arrangements and additional documentation.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Portugal from EU countries must have an EU pet passport. From non-EU countries, pets need: valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel), ISO-compatible microchip, health certificate issued by official veterinarian within 10 days of travel, and for certain countries, rabies antibody titration test. Dogs must be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus) 1-5 days before entry. Maximum 5 pets per person for non-commercial travel. Certain breeds may face restrictions. Pets must enter through designated points of entry. Contact Portuguese veterinary authorities (DGAV) for current requirements. Airlines have separate pet travel policies.

Extended Stays

Tourist stays are limited to 90 days within any 180-day period for non-EU visitors. For longer stays, you must apply for appropriate visa/residence permit before the 90-day limit expires. Options include: student visa (for enrolled students), work visa (requires job offer and employer sponsorship), residence visa for passive income/retirement (requires proof of sufficient income and accommodation), or family reunification visa. Applications must typically be made from your country of residence before traveling. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can stay indefinitely but should register with local authorities if staying over 3 months. UK citizens post-Brexit are subject to 90-day limits. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and entry bans.

Digital Nomads

Portugal offers a Digital Nomad Visa (Type D6) for remote workers from non-EU countries who earn income from outside Portugal. Requirements include proof of remote work contract or business ownership, minimum income of approximately €2,800/month (4 times Portuguese minimum wage), proof of accommodation in Portugal, and travel insurance. Application made at Portuguese consulate in home country. Valid for one year, renewable. EU citizens can work remotely without special visa but may need to register for tax purposes if staying long-term.

Dual Nationals

If you hold both Portuguese/EU citizenship and another nationality, you must enter and exit Portugal/EU using your Portuguese/EU passport or ID card. Using a non-EU passport may cause confusion about visa requirements and length of stay. Some countries prohibit dual nationality, so check your obligations. Always carry both passports when traveling if legally permitted.

Travelers with Criminal Records

Portugal does not routinely conduct criminal background checks on tourists at entry, but immigration officers have discretion to deny entry to individuals deemed a threat to public order or security. Serious criminal convictions, especially for drug offenses, violent crimes, or human trafficking, may result in entry denial. Visa applicants may be required to submit police clearance certificates. If you have a criminal record, consult with Portuguese embassy before traveling. Some convictions may require special waiver applications.