Portugal introduced the Portuguese Job Seeker Visa for individuals who wish to enter and stay in Portugal while searching for a job. This visa allows employment during its validity period and can be extended under certain conditions.
Once a candidate secures employment, they can transition to a residence permit for continued work in Portugal.
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Key Features:
- Entry Type: Single-entry
- Validity: 120 days (renewable for an additional 60 days)
- Requirement: A job offer from a Portuguese employer is essential to extend the stay or apply for a residence permit
Types:
Portugal offers various work visas tailored to different qualifications and professions:
- Work Visa for Experienced Professionals
- Requires a job offer in fields like engineering, IT, medical, science, or administrative sectors.
- Self-Employed Work Visa
- For individuals offering services or running their own business in Portugal.
- Highly-Skilled Workers Visa
- Designed for professionals with high expertise and earning an annual salary exceeding 1.5 times the national average gross wage.
- Cultural Activities Work Visa
- For individuals participating in Portuguese cultural projects recognized by Portuguese authorities.
- Teaching Work Visa
- For educators with a job offer from a Portuguese educational institution or research center.
- Tech Visa
- Reserved for skilled professionals hired by Portuguese technology-based companies.
Eligibility and Requirements:
To apply for a Portuguese work visa, you must provide the following documents:
- Completed National Visa Application (signed by the applicant)
- Valid Passport
- Professionally Written Resume (CV)
- Passport-Sized Photographs (as per Portuguese visa guidelines)
- Proof of Financial Means (showing sufficient funds for self-support)
- Criminal Record Certificate (from your country of residence and any other country where you’ve lived for over a year)
- Authorization for SEF (Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service) to check Portuguese criminal records
- Health Insurance Proof
- Proof of Accommodation in Portugal
- Employment Contract (for work visas)
- Proof of Legal Stay (if applying from a country other than your nationality)
- Proof of Lawful Entry into Portugal (if already in the country)
Important: All documents must be in English or Portuguese. If your documents are in another language, they must be professionally translated and legalized with an Apostille Stamp or verified by the Portuguese Embassy.
How to Apply for Portugal Job Seekers VISA 2025?
Step 1: Work Permit Application
- If you receive a job offer, your employer must apply for a Work Permit (Autorização de Trabalho) at:
- Portuguese Labor Authorities
- Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF)
- Employers must submit supporting documents, including:
- Employment Contract
- Company’s Tax Statements
- Proof of Social Security Registration
- Confirmation that the position was not filled by an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen
Step 2: Applying for a Portugal Work Visa
- Once the work permit is approved, apply for a Portugal Work Visa at the Portuguese Embassy in your home country.
- The embassy will schedule an appointment with SEF for visa processing.
- After visa approval, enter Portugal, start working, and apply for a residence permit.
For details on the residence permit, visit the official Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) website.
Cost of a Portugal Work Visa
The total cost includes multiple fees:
- Portuguese Embassy Visa Fee: €90 (varies by country)
- SEF Work Residence Permit Application Fee: €83
- Residence Permit Issuance Fee: €72
Conclusion:
Portugal provides multiple visa options to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and professionals. The Job Seeker Visa offers a unique opportunity to explore employment prospects, while the work visas cater to different professional fields. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the application process, applicants can take advantage of Portugal’s thriving job market and work towards long-term residency.
For the latest updates and visa regulations, refer to the official Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) website or contact the Portuguese Embassy in your country.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?
The Portugal Job Seeker Visa allows non-EU/EEA nationals to enter Portugal for up to 9 months to search for a job. Once employed, they can transition to a work visa.
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How long can I stay in Portugal with a job seeker visa?
The visa allows you to stay in Portugal for up to 9 months while you search for a job. If you find employment, you can apply for a work permit and extend your stay.
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What are the requirements for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay in Portugal, have valid travel documents, and prove that they meet the general conditions for entry and stay in the country.
