Portugal has experienced a sharp rise in visa demand from Brazil during the first four months of 2025, with consulates across the country receiving 11,497 visa applications from Brazilian nationals—marking a 56% increase compared to the same period in the previous year.
According to data released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MNE) and reported by News, this surge in visa applications has significantly contributed to longer processing times. Portuguese consulates in Brazil are currently handling an average of 95 visa requests per day, which has stretched operational capacity and created substantial delays.
Visa Approval Rate Stands at Over 75% Despite Backlogs
Between January and April 2025, the Portuguese consulates in Brazil issued a total of 8,721 national visas, equating to 75.8% of all visa applications submitted during this timeframe. This represents a 29% increase in approvals compared to early 2024, underscoring the growing interest among Brazilians in relocating to Portugal—whether for study, work, or family reunification.
However, while the approval rate remains relatively high, the backlog caused by increasing demand, coupled with administrative issues, has left thousands of applicants in limbo.
Delays Tied to Consular Strike and Limited Resources
The MNE attributes the prolonged processing times not only to the surge in applications but also to an ongoing strike by consular employees. The strike, which has lasted for over a month, has significantly hindered the ability of consular staff to process and review applications in a timely manner.
Applicants have reported waiting for up to nine months for a response—far beyond the legally mandated 60-day deadline for visa processing.
This delay has led to logistical and financial complications for many. In some cases, visa denials have resulted from expired or invalid airline tickets due to repeated rescheduling. Accommodations must also be rebooked multiple times, often incurring extra costs, particularly for those applying for student or family reunification visas.
Protests Erupt Across Major Brazilian Cities
Frustration with the consular delays has led to public protests across Brazil. Demonstrations have taken place outside Portuguese consulates in major cities including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Recife, and Belo Horizonte. Protesters have expressed anger over the lack of transparency and prolonged wait times, with some alleging that they have not received any updates or communication from consular staff for several months.
For many applicants, the uncertainty is more than a bureaucratic inconvenience—it affects job opportunities, educational plans, and family reunification efforts.
Portugal’s Connection With Brazil and the CPLP
However, while the approval rate remains relatively high, the backlog caused by increasing demand, coupled with administrative issues, has left thousands of applicants in limbo.
Delays Tied to Consular Strike and Limited Resources
The MNE attributes the prolonged processing times not only to the surge in applications but also to an ongoing strike by consular employees. The strike, which has lasted for over a month, has significantly hindered the ability of consular staff to process and review applications in a timely manner.
Applicants have reported waiting for up to nine months for a response—far beyond the legally mandated 60-day deadline for visa processing.
This delay has led to logistical and financial complications for many. In some cases, visa denials have resulted from expired or invalid airline tickets due to repeated rescheduling. Accommodations must also be rebooked multiple times, often incurring extra costs, particularly for those applying for student or family reunification visas.
Protests Erupt Across Major Brazilian Cities
Frustration with the consular delays has led to public protests across Brazil. Demonstrations have taken place outside Portuguese consulates in major cities including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Recife, and Belo Horizonte. Protesters have expressed anger over the lack of transparency and prolonged wait times, with some alleging that they have not received any updates or communication from consular staff for several months.
For many applicants, the uncertainty is more than a bureaucratic inconvenience—it affects job opportunities, educational plans, and family reunification efforts.
Portugal’s Connection With Brazil and the CPLP
Brazil is a member of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), a multilateral organization aimed at fostering cooperation among Lusophone nations. While Portugal has expressed interest in easing visa requirements for CPLP nationals, progress has been slow due to regulatory constraints under Schengen Area rules.
Still, the growing volume of Brazilian visa applications highlights the enduring cultural, linguistic, and historical ties between the two nations.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Policy Reform and Operational Efficiency
Still, the growing volume of Brazilian visa applications highlights the enduring cultural, linguistic, and historical ties between the two nations.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Policy Reform and Operational Efficiency
The current situation has prompted calls for Portugal to reform its visa processing procedures and increase staffing at its consulates in Brazil. Immigration lawyers and advocacy groups are urging the Portuguese government to implement more efficient workflows, adopt digital solutions, and improve communication with applicants.
Additionally, there is renewed debate about the potential for special visa pathways or streamlined procedures for citizens of CPLP countries, particularly in light of the increasing demand.
Additionally, there is renewed debate about the potential for special visa pathways or streamlined procedures for citizens of CPLP countries, particularly in light of the increasing demand.
.jpg)
