05/03/2025
Relocate to Portugal 🇵🇹 on a Study Visa – A Complete Guide!
🇵🇹 Portugal is fast becoming a top destination for international students, as it is affordable (€3000-€8000 per year), they offer post-study work visas that can open the door to permanent residency, with Low cost of living(€700-€1000 per year) and some of their programs are English taught. So why not Portugal?
In March 2023, I had a conversation with one of my relative who was saving to come to the UK, but the naira depreciation was jeopardizing his effort of saving money for his relocation. I called him and said “Ossy, leave the UK for now, you can go to Portugal or Demark to study. Then move later if you want”
He’s now living in Lisbon, working part-time, and on track to getting permanent residency!. On our last conversation he said “I am not going any where again. Portugal is good for me”.
Dear uncles and Anties of Lisa Agu ‘s congress if you’ve been thinking about relocating to Portugal through a study visa, this guide is for you!
I’ll walk you through:
Step 1: Choose a University & Course
To get a study visa, you must first gain admission into a recognized university in Portugal. Popular universities include:
University of Lisbon
University of Porto
University of Coimbra
Nova University Lisbon
University of Algarve
Some universities allow you to apply without IELTS if you studied in English before.
If you need the link of Where to Find Courses, type “send course link” in comment section. © Lisa Agu
Step 2: Secure Your Admission
Apply online directly through the university’s website.
Submit necessary documents (academic certificates, CV, motivation letter, etc.).
If accepted, you’ll receive a Conditional or Unconditional Offer Letter.
Some universities require a tuition deposit before issuing the Final Acceptance Letter ( this is important for your visa!).
Step 3: Prepare Your Study Visa Documents
Once admitted, you can apply for a Type D (Long-Term) Study Visa at the Portuguese Embassy or VFS center in Nigeria or your country of residence.
Documents required for the Visa application:
1. Acceptance Letter from the university
2. Valid Passport (6+ months validity)
3. Proof of Tuition Payment (if required)
4. Financial Proof (€8,460 per year in a bank account).
5. Accommodation Proof (rental agreement, hostel booking, or invitation letter)
6. Health Insurance (Mandatory for all students)
7. Criminal Record Certificate (Police clearance), Visa Application Form & Passport Photos.
Please and biko, if you intend to use sponsors (family/friends) to show financial proof, endeavour to provide their bank statement and sponsorship letter.
Step 4: Apply for Your Study Visa
Once your documents are ready, book an appointment at the Portuguese Embassy/VFS center in your country.
The Visa Processing Time: 1 - 3 months, so I advice that you apply early!.
Biko, remember to track your application online and respond quickly if the embassy requests additional documents.
Step 5: Travel to Portugal & Apply for Residency
Once you receive your visa approval, book your flight and travel to Portugal!
Upon arrival, you must:
1. Register at SEF (Immigration Office) within 90 days to get your Residence Permit.
2. Get an NIF (Tax Number), this is needed for renting an apartment, opening a bank account, etc.
3.Find Part-Time Work. You can work 20 hours per week during school and full-time during holidays.
Insider Tips:
Remember to apply for a Scholarship. Some universities offer tuition discounts to international students.
Try to secure Accommodation Before Applying for a Visa.Some embassies require it.
Absolutely YES! With affordable tuition, low cost of living, work opportunities, and a pathway to citizenship, Portugal is an excellent choice for relocation. If you plan well and follow the steps, you can make your dream of studying in Europe a reality!
Have questions about relocating to Portugal? Drop them in the comments!
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