Hi, Blanca. I've learned a lot from your blog and have a question I can't find the answer to anywhere.
My D7 visa application is taking longer than expected. If I get a tourist visa and come to Portugal while my D7 is processing, do I have to go back to my country of residence when my D7 is approved in order to arrive in Portugal with my D7 and have my Passport stamped? Or can I just mail my passport back and forth without physically leaving Portugal?
I'd love to hear any insights you can share.
Thanks!
Yuli
To apply for the D7 you must be in your home country and in your home countries local Portugese consulate or Embassy. You will have to phyiscally come in for an interview to the consulate. From application to approval/disapproval it will take a maximum of 30-days.
Once you recieve your approval you can have your stamped passport (you will have to leave your passport at the consulate) FedEX/UPS/DHL to your location. You will then have to do an entry into the EU (so maybe you can leave and comeback but very risky).
The customs agent will stamp your passport and you are now on a 4-month temporary D7 Visa which will be turned into a full D7 1-year visa once you go in for your appointment. You will call the SEF or go on their website and pick the earliest date for your appointment. Currently it's about 6-month wait. During those 6-months you are allowed to stay in EU and allowed usually 2 exits from the EU. More then 2 and you will forfit your D7 Visa.
Logistically it's a hassle to come and go etc but it's doable. Just would be costly and you will have to at least spend sometime in your home country.
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