Portugal Approves Over 75% of Brazilian Visa Requests Amid Rising Demand and Processing Delays

Between January and April 2025, Portuguese consulates in Brazil received 11,497 national visa applications, approving 8,721—representing an approval rate of 75.8%, according to data from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MNE). This also marks a 29% increase in approvals compared to the same period last year, highlighting growing interest among Brazilians in relocating to Portugal.

Employee Strikes and Rising Demand Contribute to Delays

The MNE acknowledged that while efforts have been made to streamline the visa process, a month-long employee strike has contributed to significant delays. Despite structural improvements by the Portuguese consular network in Brazil, long wait times and communication gaps continue to affect applicants.

Protests Emerge Across Brazilian Cities

The delays have sparked frustration, leading to public protests in front of Portuguese consulates in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Recife, and Belo Horizonte. Protesters, some of whom have waited up to nine months for a visa decision, voiced concerns over the lack of updates and denied applications due to expired airline tickets or repeated accommodation rescheduling.

This not only causes emotional stress for applicants but also leads to financial losses, as they face penalties and rescheduling fees. Under Portuguese law, visa applications are supposed to be processed within 60 days, a timeline that has often been exceeded in recent months.

CPLP Agreements Face Schengen Limitations

While Brazil is a member of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP)—alongside eight other nations—progress on simplified visa procedures has been limited due to Schengen Area regulations. Despite ongoing discussions, Portugal has been unable to implement substantial changes in visa facilitation for CPLP nationals.

The situation underscores the urgent need for administrative reform and increased staffing to keep up with demand, especially as visa interest from Brazil continues to grow year-over-year.