Important Visa Information
Plan your Journey to Lisbon
As we prepare to welcome the global microbiology community to Lisbon for IUMS 2026, we want to ensure your travel experience is as smooth as possible. Because Portugal is a member of the Schengen Area, visa requirements can be detailed and processing times may vary significantly depending on your country of origin.
We strongly recommend that you check your visa requirements and begin the application process at least 3 to 6 months prior to the Congress.
General Entry Requirements
Regardless of whether you need a visa, all international delegates must meet the following criteria to enter Portugal:
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Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of departure from the Schengen Area.
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Blank Pages: Your passport must have at least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
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Evidence of Stay: You may be asked to provide proof of your IUMS 2026 registration, hotel confirmation, and a return flight ticket.
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Sufficient Funds: Proof that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.
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Travel Insurance: For those requiring a visa, proof of travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 (valid for all Schengen countries) is mandatory.
Do you Need a Visa?
Whether you require a visa to enter Portugal depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Generally, travelers fall into three categories:
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EU / EEA / Swiss Citizens: Citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland do not require a visa. You may enter with a valid National ID card or Passport.
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Visa-Exempt Nationals (Short Stay): Citizens of countries such as the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, and Brazil (among others) do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days for “scientific or business purposes.”
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Note: Starting in late 2026, visa-exempt travelers will be required to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before departure. This is a quick online authorization linked to your passport. Check ETIAS requirements here.
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Visa-Required Nationals: If your country is not on the exempt list, you must apply for a Schengen Visa Type C. This visa allows you to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for scientific and professional purposes.
As of 2026, the standard fee for a Schengen Visa is €90.
This is the official Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs list of countries whose citizens require a visa.
A general guide from the European Commission on short-stay visas.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa
If you require a visa, applications must be submitted to the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. In many regions, this is handled by VFS Global, the official external service provider for Portugal.
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Identify your location: Locate the nearest Portuguese diplomatic mission.
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Book an Appointment: Slots fill up quickly; book your appointment as soon as you register for the Congress.
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Prepare Documentation: You will typically need your completed application form, passport photos, flight/accommodation proof, and your Official IUMS 2026 Letter of Invitation.
Disclaimer
The IUMS 2026 Organizing Committee and the Congress Secretariat (Kenes Group) serve as the hosts of the scientific event. We do not have the authority to intervene with the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Embassies on behalf of any delegate. The decision to grant a visa rests solely with the Portuguese authorities.
Registration fees will be refunded as per the Congress Cancellation Policy if a visa is denied, provided that the visa application was submitted at least two months prior to the event and official proof of denial is provided.
Contact for Visa Support
f you have specific questions regarding your registration or your Letter of Invitation,
please contact our Registration Team.