Letter of Invitation for Portugal: How to Write One

If you’re planning to travel to Portugal and intend to stay at a friend’s or relative’s home, the Letter of Invitation for Portugal may be the document that facilitates your entry into the country. Commonly referred to as the invitation letter, the official name of the document is Termo de Responsabilidade (Statement of Responsibility), and it holds legal validity with AIMA – the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum.

In this article, we explain in detail what the invitation letter is, how to write it, who can issue it, the most up-to-date official template, and which documents should be attached.

What is the Invitation Letter for Portugal?

The invitation letter is a document in which a Portuguese citizen or a legally resident foreigner in Portugal declares to the immigration authorities that they will be hosting a visitor at their residence. In doing so, the host takes legal responsibility for ensuring that the visitor will not remain in an irregular situation and affirms they have sufficient financial means to support the guest during their stay – and even repatriate them, if necessary.

⚠️ Attention: This is not just an informal invitation, but a legal commitment regarding the guest’s accommodation and stay. The official name of the document is Termo de Responsabilidade, as established in Law no. 23/2007, Article 12.

🔗 Also read: How to write an invitation letter for Spain!

Is a Letter of Invitation mandatory to enter Portugal?

No, the invitation letter is not mandatory, but it may be essential depending on your situation. This is because proving your accommodation in Portugal is a mandatory requirement for all foreigners entering the country, whether as tourists or with a visa.

If you’re traveling as a tourist, the most common proof is a valid hotel, hostel, or Airbnb reservation for the duration of your stay. Likewise, those arriving in Portugal with a residence visa usually present a rental contract or property deed with a minimum duration of three months.

But what if you’re staying with friends or relatives? In that case, the invitation letter is a perfectly acceptable option for Portuguese authorities – provided it is written correctly and includes all the required information.

Who can write an Invitation Letter for Portugal?

The invitation letter can only be issued by:

• Portuguese citizens of legal age;
• Foreign nationals with legal residence in Portugal (authorized by AIMA);

The host must reside in Portugal, be able to accommodate the guest, and provide proof of sufficient financial means.

How to write a Letter of Invitation for Portugal?

The safest and most recommended way is to use AIMA’s official Termo de Responsabilidade template. This document is available on the agency’s website and includes all the mandatory fields.

Step-by-step:

1. Download the official PDF template from AIMA’s website;
2. Fill in the host’s and guest’s personal details (name, identification, dates, purpose of the visit);
3. Sign the document and, preferably, have the signature notarized (authenticated);
4. Send the scanned document to the guest, so they can present it at immigration or when applying for a visa.

How much does an Invitation Letter cost?

Issuing the invitation letter itself is free of charge. However, it is necessary to have the host’s signature authenticated by a notary, solicitor, or lawyer in Portugal. The authentication fee generally ranges from €10 to €20.

Which documents should be attached?

To ensure the legal validity of the Termo de Responsabilidade, it is recommended to include:

• A certified copy (by a lawyer, notary, or solicitor) of the host’s Citizen Card or residence permit;
• Proof of residence in Portugal, such as a rental contract, property deed, or official residence certificate;
• Proof of financial means, such as a recent bank statement or income certificate.

Updated Template of the Invitation Letter for Portugal

The latest version of the Termo de Responsabilidade (2024) is available on AIMA’s website (formerly SEF). It is a PDF document that can be printed and filled out either by hand or digitally.

What to include in the AIMA Statement of Responsibility?

In theory, the letter can be written freely, but in practice, it is crucial to include certain basic information. For security and convenience, it’s best to fill out the official form to ensure nothing is missing. Use a computer to make it easier to read.

Required information:

Host’s details:

• Full name;
• Nationality;
• Type and number of identification document (passport, ID, or residence permit);
• Date of birth;
• Full address in Portugal;
• Phone number and email address;

Guest’s details:

• Full name;
• Nationality and passport number;
• Arrival and departure dates;
• Purpose of the visit;
• Family or personal relationship to the host;

Responsibility declaration:
The host must declare that they take full responsibility for the guest’s stay, including any expenses and potential repatriation, for the period specified.

🔎 Important: Be sure to state the nature of the relationship between the host and guest and the specific reason for the trip.

Final Considerations

If you plan to visit friends or family in Portugal, the invitation letter is an excellent way to prove accommodation and avoid issues at immigration. Make sure your host resides legally in the country, that the form is up to date, and that all information is accurate.

And if you’re considering to relocate to Portugal, whether temporarily or permanently, learn about all types of visas for Portugal, as well as the ways to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
If you’d like help from specialized professionals to plan your move, contact us through this form and receive a free initial consultation.