Portuguese Phrase
A que horas tenho que chegar?
Meaning
The speaker is asking for the exact time they are required to be somewhere. It conveys a polite request for schedule information, often in a professional or academic context.
When to use
Use this question when you need to confirm the start time of a meeting, class, appointment, or any event where punctuality matters. It works both in formal settings (e.g., with a professor) and informal ones (e.g., with friends).
✦Grammar Breakdown
Aquehorastenhoquechegar?
A que horas
Phrase used to ask about a specific time; 'horas' is plural when you expect a range or exact hour.
tenho que + infinitive
Expresses obligation. The verb 'ter' is conjugated to match the subject (eu) and is followed by 'que' + infinitive.
chegar
Infinitive verb meaning 'to arrive'. In this construction it indicates the action you must perform.
🗨In Conversation
A que horas tenho que chegar?
At what time do I have to arrive?
Você deve chegar às oito e meia para a reunião.
You should arrive at 8:30 for the meeting.
✕Common Mistakes
A que horas tem que chegar?
The verb must agree with the subject. "Tem que" is third‑person singular; for "eu" you need "tenho que".
A que hora tenho que chegar?
Both singular and plural are correct, but "horas" is more common when you expect a specific hour rather than a general time of day.
A que horas tenho que chego?
After "tenho que" you need the infinitive, not a conjugated form.
↔Alternatives
A que horas devo chegar?
At what time should I arrive?
A que hora preciso chegar?
At what time do I need to arrive?
Quando devo chegar?
When should I arrive?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, punctuality is valued in business and academic environments, but social gatherings often start later than the stated time. When you ask "A que horas tenho que chegar?" in a formal context, you’ll be seen as respectful and organized. In casual settings, you might hear the shorter "Que horas é?" which is more relaxed.