By Ana Paula Cascaro
Preparing a trip to Portugal involves more than confirming your flight and packing your bags. At border control, you may be required to demonstrate the conditions of your stay, including where you will be accommodated.
If staying at a hotel or tourist accommodation, it is advisable to have with you a reservation that identifies the guest, the address of the accommodation, and the dates of the stay.
If staying at the home of a family member, friend, or other host, it may be relevant to present a Termo de Responsabilidade (AIMA Form 4), depending on the circumstances of the trip and the documentation presented at border control.
The Termo de Responsabilidade may be signed by a Portuguese citizen or by a foreign national authorized to remain lawfully in Portugal, under the applicable legal terms.
By signing this document, the responsible party assumes certain obligations regarding the foreign national’s stay in Portugal, including with respect to the conditions of stay and removal expenses, should they become necessary.
The signature of the responsible party must be notarized by a notary, lawyer, or solicitor, except when the document is signed before an AIMA representative.
It is important to remember that the Termo de Responsabilidade is not automatically required in all situations of accommodation at a third party’s home, nor does it replace the other requirements applicable to entry into Portugal, such as a valid passport, visa when required, and documentation appropriate to the purpose and conditions of the trip.
Practical tip: keep relevant documents easily accessible during the trip, and not only in checked baggage, as they may be requested during border control.
Having documentation organized and up to date can facilitate border control and avoid additional requests for clarification upon arrival.
Planning to remain in Portugal for a longer period?
For stays exceeding 90 days, it may be necessary to obtain in advance a temporary stay visa, depending on the purpose of the stay. If the intention is to reside in Portugal for a period exceeding one year, it may be necessary to obtain a residence visa and subsequently apply for the corresponding residence permit. Requirements vary according to nationality, duration, and purpose of stay.
On this topic, you may consult further information in our informative article on D visas for Portugal.
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