Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
Certain nationals transiting through a Portuguese international airport without entering the Schengen Area.
The Airport Transit Visa (Type A) is a Portuguese visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€90) and processing time (~15 days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) is for
Certain nationals transiting through a Portuguese international airport without entering the Schengen Area.
No pathway to residence.
Airport Transit Visa (Type A) - eligibility criteria
- Holder of a nationality on the airport-transit list
- Onward ticket and visa for the final destination
- Valid passport
- Transit through the international zone only
Airport Transit Visa (Type A) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) (Portugal) is ~€90, with an indicative processing time of ~15 days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at AIMA (Portugal).
| Type | Transit |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Portuguese consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Transit only, no entry into Schengen territory |
| Work rights | No work allowed |
| Study rights | No study allowed |
| Government fee | ~€90 |
| Processing time | ~15 days |
| Route to PR | No pathway to residence. |
Pathway & next steps
No pathway to residence.
Many applicants also compare Schengen C · Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Portuguese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Airport Transit Visa (Type A) pitfalls we fix
Airport Transit Visa (Type A) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) cost?
The Airport Transit Visa (Type A) government fee is ~€90. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at AIMA (Portugal) before applying.
How long does the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~15 days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) lead to permanent residence?
No pathway to residence.
Can I work on the Airport Transit Visa (Type A)?
Work rights: No work allowed.
Who can apply for the Airport Transit Visa (Type A)?
Certain nationals transiting through a Portuguese international airport without entering the Schengen Area.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Portugal government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- AIMA (Portugal) - official Portugal immigration authority