PortugalPassport · 2026

About Portuguese Passports 

The Portuguese passport is among the world's most powerful, ranking 4th globally in 2025. It offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 countries and territories, including all EU nations, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan. This extensive global mobility makes it a highly sought-after travel document. 

Types of Portuguese Passports

Portugal issues several types of passports through the Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado (IRN)

• Ordinary Passport (Passaporte Comum): Issued to regular citizens for personal travel.

• Diplomatic Passport (Passaporte Diplomático): For diplomats and high-ranking officials.

• Special Passport (Passaporte Especial): For individuals on official missions abroad.

• Temporary Passport (Passaporte Temporário): Issued in urgent situations when standard processing isn't feasible.

• Passport for Foreign Nationals (Passaporte para Cidadão Estrangeiro): Available to stateless individuals or those without diplomatic representation in Portugal.

How to Apply for a Portuguese Passport

To apply for a Portuguese passport, follow these steps:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment at a local IRN office or Portuguese consulate.
   Prepare Required Documents:

   • Valid Citizen Card (Cartão de Cidadão).

   • Previous passport (if renewing).

   • Two recent passport-sized photos.

2. Attend the Appointment: Provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a digital signature.

3. Pay the Fee: Fees range from €65 to €100, depending on processing speed and urgency.

For those residing abroad, applications can be submitted at the nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate.

Validity Period

As of 2025, Portuguese passports are valid for five years. However, starting in early 2026, the validity period will be extended to ten years for adults, aligning with EU standards. Passports issued to children under four years old are valid for two years. 

Inside the Portuguese Passport

The identity page of a Portuguese passport includes the following information:

• Photograph of the bearer

• Passport Type (P)

• Country Code (PRT)

• Passport Number

• Surname (Apellido)

• Given Name(s) (Nome próprio)

• Nationality ("Português/Portuguesa", Portuguese)

• Sex

• Date of Birth

• Place of Birth

• Date of Issue

• Issuing Authority (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras or SEF)

• Date of Expiry

• Scanned Signature of the Bearer

• Machine Readable Zone (MRZ)

• Biometric e-passport chip (embedded in the cover)

Tips for Portuguese Travellers

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.

• Documentation: Carry copies of accommodation bookings, return tickets, and proof of sufficient funds.

• Biometric Data: Utilise eGates at airports for faster processing using biometric passports.

• Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on travel advisories and entry requirements for your destination.

The Portuguese passport, with its robust security features and extensive visa-free access, facilitates seamless international travel for its holders.