In October 2026, Frontex (the EU border agency) and European travel-trade bodies warned of more than 150 unofficial websites offering ETIAS, some using EU symbols. Because no application is processed before launch, any fee paid today buys nothing. When ETIAS opens, apply only on the official EU website or app.
The Atlantic islands are Schengen
The Azores, Madeira and Porto Santo are Portuguese territory inside the Schengen area. A transatlantic flight landing first in the Azores means your EES registration, and ETIAS check once it starts, happen there, not in Lisbon.
Children travelling without a parent
Under-18s travelling alone or with an adult who is not their parent or guardian must carry a letter of authorisation signed by a parent, with the signature certified by a notary or solicitor and legalised, plus a copy of the parent's passport. Without it, entry can be delayed or refused.
The Travel to Europe app
Portuguese border control lets you fill in an entry questionnaire in advance in the EU's Travel to Europe app. It is optional, free and can speed up the check.
Extending your stay
Exceptional extensions, for example after a medical emergency, are requested from AIMA, Portugal's immigration agency, from inside Portugal.
The basics, in short
- Passport issued under 10 years ago, valid 3 months after you leave.
- 90 days in any 180, all Schengen countries together.
- ETIAS at launch: €20, valid 3 years or until the passport expires.
Rollout, decision times and the 30 countries: full ETIAS guide.
FAQ
Do I need ETIAS for the Azores or Madeira?
Yes, once it is operational. Both are part of Portugal's Schengen territory.
Do I need ETIAS for Portugal now?
No. ETIAS is not in operation (checked 21 October 2026).
My 16-year-old flies to Lisbon alone. What do they need?
Their passport and a certified, legalised authorisation letter from a parent, with a copy of the parent's passport. ETIAS, once live, is free for under-18s but still required.
Checked: 21 October 2026, against gov.uk, eur-lex.europa.eu, eur-lex.europa.eu, home-affairs.ec.europa.eu. Rules can change: official sites prevail. No ETIAS start date has been announced; we will not guess one.