International students are increasingly frustrated over prolonged delays in Portugal’s Schengen visa processing. Many claim these delays disrupt their academic plans and future opportunities. Despite Portugal’s popularity as an education hub, the visa issue has become a major roadblock.
Decline in applications
According to recent data, there has been a concerning drop in international students applying for Portuguese visas. Portuguese consulates have reported that there was a sharp decline in Brazilian applicants, in particular. In 2024, they only issued Brazilians 9.2% of visas for study purposes.
This figure shows a drastic decline from 35.48% in 2022. Brazil, which sends a large number of students to Portugal, now reflects hesitancy among applicants. Authorities have also observed the same trend for six-month temporary study visas for applicants with international scholarships.
In 2022, study visas for international students accounted for 14.34 percent of consulate-issued documents. Meanwhile, in 2024, they only accounted for 6.8 percent.
Contrasting trends for international students
Experts believe the delays have discouraged international students from choosing Portugal as a study destination. With no guaranteed timelines for visa approvals, students often turn to alternative countries. Universities and education agencies confirm this trend, calling it a serious problem for Portugal’s global reputation.
Vice-Rector of Universidade Nova de Lisboa, João Amaro de Matos, and CEO of Grupo Lusófona in Brazil, António Fiúza, has noted a contrasting trend. Whereas there are declining international students applying for Portugal Schengen visas, there are more Brazilian student enrollees.
“I believe there is tighter control over granting study visas, but the interest of Brazilians in studying in Portugal remains,” he said. “What we see is a significant presence of Brazilian students at all levels of education in Portugal.”
International students’ struggles
International students who have faced these delays express disappointment and stress. Many report waiting six months, with some cases stretching up to a year. This extended uncertainty disrupts not only their education plans but also their housing and financial commitments.
Some students even abandon plans to study in Portugal due to prolonged waiting periods. Hence, universities struggle to fill spots, especially in competitive programs that rely on international enrollment.
Portugal’s universities are aware of the crisis and have raised the issue with authorities. Paulo Jorge Ferreira, President of the Council of Rectors, admitted that visa delays remain a significant hurdle. He emphasized its impact on international students’ ability to enroll on time and institutional planning.
“It’s bad for them and the university,” he shared. “And the problem is not just the delay in issuing visas. If, eventually, these people need to return to their country of origin, for example, in the case of a family emergency, they cannot. There is too much bureaucracy that needs to be resolved.”
Broader Implications
While universities advocate for streamlined visa processes, the government has responded slowly. Students continue to wait, feeling caught between academic dreams and bureaucratic challenges.
Portugal risks losing its reputation as a welcoming destination for international education. Countries like Spain, Germany, and France already offer smoother visa procedures, attracting students who might have chosen Portugal.
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