Portugal passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Portugal

Embassy / VFSB-2 Tourist Visa

Citizens of Portugal need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · B-2 Tourist Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	3–21 days
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Evidence of sufficient funds to cover stay

How to apply

1
Complete the DS-160 Form
Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application (DS-160) on the CEAC website.
2
Pay the Visa Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable MRV fee (currently $185) through the designated payment system.
3
Schedule the Visa Interview
Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Portugal for a visa interview.
4
Attend the Visa Interview
Appear in person at the embassy on the scheduled date with all required documents.
5
Provide Biometrics
Have your fingerprints and photograph taken during the interview.
6
Wait for Processing
Your application will be processed; this may take a few days to several weeks.
7
Collect Your Passport
If approved, your passport with the visa will be returned via courier or pickup.
8
Check Visa Details
Verify the visa validity, entry type, and any annotations on the visa sticker.
9
Prepare for Travel
Ensure you have all necessary documents for entry, including ESTA if transiting.
10
Enter the United States
Present your passport with visa to the CBP officer upon arrival.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
DS-160 Confirmation Page
Online nonimmigrant visa application confirmation
Passport-Style Photo
Must meet U.S. visa photo requirements
Previous U.S. Visas (if any)
Optional
Copies of any previous U.S. visas

Travel

Travel Itinerary
Optional
Details of planned travel to the U.S.

Financial

Visa Application Fee Receipt
Proof of payment of the MRV fee
Bank Statements
Optional
Recent statements showing sufficient funds
SEVIS Fee Receipt (if applicable)
Optional
Only for certain visa categories

Employment

Proof of Employment or Studies
Optional
Letter from employer or school confirming status

Supporting

Interview Appointment Letter
Confirmation of scheduled visa interview
Proof of Ties to Home Country
Optional
Evidence of strong ties to Portugal (e.g., property, family)
Criminal Record Certificate (if applicable)
Optional
May be requested for certain applicants
Medical Insurance (recommended)
Optional
Proof of health insurance for the stay
Cover Letter
Optional
Optional letter explaining purpose of visit

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient funds to cover stay (no fixed amount)

Bank statements
Pay stubs
Tax returns
Sponsor letter

You must demonstrate ability to pay for your trip without working in the U.S.

Good to know

ESTA is not applicable for this visa type; you must apply for a B-2 visa.
The visa interview is mandatory for all applicants aged 14-79.
Processing times can vary significantly; apply well in advance of travel.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country

Provide strong evidence of employment, property, or family in Portugal.

Incomplete or incorrect application

Double-check all DS-160 entries and supporting documents.

Previous visa violations

Be honest about any past overstays or denials.

Inadequate financial proof

Submit recent bank statements and proof of income.

FAQ

Do citizens of Portugal need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Portugal need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B-2 Tourist Visa.

How long can citizens of Portugal stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of Portugal?

Government fee: $185.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 3–21 days.

What documents do citizens of Portugal need for the United States?

Valid Passport; DS-160 Confirmation Page; Visa Application Fee Receipt; Passport-Style Photo; Interview Appointment Letter; Travel Itinerary; and 8 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/b2.html

Sources

travel.state.gov

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