Many people globally are looking at ways to work and live in Europe. However, it’s not as straightforward as hopping on a plane and starting your new job. If you plan to work in the European Union and aren’t a citizen of an EU country, you’ll need a work visa to do it legally.
Portugal’s welcoming nature, affordability, and thriving business scene make it one of the most appealing European countries to work in, and there are plenty of sectors that can benefit from foreigners. So, if you want to work in Portugal legally, this article explains everything you need to know, from options like the Portugal job seeker Visa to how you can apply.
You’ll also find out more about:
Do I need a visa to work in Portugal?
You don’t need a work visa from Portugal if you’re an EU, EEA, or Switzerland citizen. However, non-EU citizens do need a visa to work in Portugal.
If you’re a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland and want to stay more than 90 days, you will need a Residence Certificate (Certificado de Registo) that will be filled out according to the Town Hall that is closest to your residence in Portugal. The cost of this Residence Certificate is around €15.
Non-EU citizens who receive a job offer and are accepted into their new job in Portugal can get a work visa.
When the relevant Portuguese authorities approve their work visa request, foreign nationals can obtain legal residence authorization to work in the country.
Students working in Portugal
Non-EU students will need a Portuguese student permit to work in Portugal while studying. They can conduct research, teach, or participate in highly qualified or professional training activities if they meet the necessary criteria.
Types of Portugal Work Visas
The type of Portuguese work visa that you will need depends on your nationality and the length of your employment contract. There are two main types of Portuguese work visas available for non-EU citizens.
Short–term Portuguese work visas: A short-term Portuguese Work Visa is a temporary stay visa that allows work in Portugal for up to one year. These visas are required for temporary contracts that last less than six months, such as seasonal or self-employed workers, subject to an evaluation by the labor authority (IEFP).
Long–term Portuguese work visas (Type D): These visas are for those who get a long-term employment contract and will live and work in Portugal for more than six months.
7 Best Portuguese Work Visas and Permits
Highly-Qualified Activities Visa (HQA)
The Portugal Highly Qualified Activities Visa is designed for individuals with advanced education and specialized expertise who want to secure employment opportunities with a residence permit in Portugal.
Highly skilled workers such as scientific researchers, medical professionals, professors, and Ph.D. students located in Portugal are examples of eligible candidates for the residence permit work visa.
Highly qualified workers from non-EU countries can also apply for the European Blue Card scheme, which gives you the same benefits as the work visa and Portuguese residency. You can apply for the EU Blue Card only if the following conditions apply to you:
- You have the required higher education for your position
- You are a paid employee with an employment contract or binding job offer in an EU country for at least one year
- You have a gross annual salary of at least 1.5 times the country’s national average.
EU Blue Cards are valid for one to four years and allow non-EU nationals to work in EU member states (excluding Denmark and Ireland). A Blue Card holder living in Portugal for 18 months can apply for a residence permit for researchers, medical professionals, or highly-skilled migrants.
D1 Visa
The D1 Visa, also called the Subordinate Worker Visa, is intended for individuals who have received a job offer in Portugal. This offer must have been publicly advertised and subjected to interviews but remained unfilled by a Portuguese or EU/EEA national.
This visa grants holders a temporary residency permit for an initial period of two years, with the option to renew for an additional three years. Upon obtaining the temporary residency permit, individuals can pursue family reunification and bring family members to Portugal.
After five years, they become eligible to apply for permanent residency and, subsequently, citizenship, entitling them to enjoy all the privileges associated with EU citizenship.
D2 Visa
The Portugal D2 Visa, also known as the Entrepreneur Visa, welcomes non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want to establish a business or make a significant investment in Portugal. This visa is perfect for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent service providers eager to nurture innovative projects or invest in Portuguese enterprises.
With the D2 visa, you’ll find a pathway to residency, granting you the opportunity to live and work in Portugal. Additionally, it opens the door to family reunification and the chance to apply for permanent residency and citizenship.
This visa has two categories:
- Independent professional activities – individuals who can prove their self-employment
- Entrepreneurs – those looking to start or purchase a business in Portugal
Seasonal Worker Visa
The Seasonal Work Visa, also known as the Portugal E8 Visa, allows the holder to obtain either a temporary stay visa or a residence permit. The latter allows a stay of up to 90 days and the option to extend. This extension possibility is especially advantageous for stays lasting less than a year, capped at a maximum of nine months.
It’s essential to be aware that the visa is exclusively applicable to specific sectors of employment approved by the Portuguese government, which include:
- Agriculture, stock farming, game, forestry, and fishery
- Accommodation, catering, and related fields
- Food, beverage, and tobacco industries
- Wholesale and retail trade
- Construction
- Inland transport
Individuals interested in this visa should inquire about eligibility by contacting the nearest Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate. Furthermore, it is essential to note that the Seasonal Work Visa applications must be submitted from within Portugal.
D8 Digital Nomad Visa
The D8, or the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, is designed for self-employed individuals who want to live and work in Portugal. It’s a sought-after work visa for US citizens who wish to work remotely from Europe. According to our Global Intelligence Unit’s Global Digital Nomad Report, Portugal ranked 7th.
To qualify, applicants must prove that they earn at least four times the minimum wage in Portugal, which is €3,480.00, and produce a contract of employment or statement that proves their employment relationship. It’s important to note that under this visa, individuals are prohibited from working for a company based in Portugal, and their income should originate from sources outside of Portugal.
- D8 Visa is issued within 60 days
- The initial residence permit is valid for one year but is renewable for up to five years
- Applicants are eligible for citizenship after living and meeting specific criteria for five years
D3 Portugal Tech Visa
The Portugal D3 Visa is a distinctive category aimed at drawing professionals to existing businesses in Portugal. Noteworthy advantages of this visa include expedited processing, a streamlined application procedure, and the privilege of working in Portugal for up to two years.
To apply for a D3 Tech Visa, the company you’re applying to must meet specific criteria and be accredited by the IAPMEI to qualify. While this visa is not specific to the tech industry, applicants must have a tertiary education, advanced technical skills, and experience in the field to be eligible. In addition, applicants must be proficient in either Portuguese, English, French, or Spanish to perform their duties.
Job Seeker Visa Portugal
The Portugal Job Seeker Visa allows you to live in the country while searching for a job. It is granted for 120 days and allows a single entry into Portugal. There is a 60-day extension period before the visa expires.
To apply for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa, you’ll need the relevant visa application form, two photographs, your passport, proof of status in a country other than Portugal, valid travel insurance, a criminal record certificate, an appointment with AIMA, and a return flight.
You must provide proof that you can support yourself financially. The recommended amount needs to equal three times the national minimum salary.
Before submitting your application, you must submit a declaration of interest to the Portuguese Institute of Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP), the Portuguese public employment service.
Take a Look at the full Global Digital Nomad Report
How do I get a work visa in Portugal?
Getting a work visa involves several steps, including finding a job vacancy and signing a work contract with a Portuguese employer. Once hired, your employer should apply for your work permit by contacting the Portuguese Labor Authorities (Autorização de Trabalho).
Step 1: Finding work in Portugal
Getting a job and working in Portugal as a foreigner is about understanding the local job market, navigating the application process, and meeting legal requirements. There are several job boards online, but a good starting point is some of the most well-known ones, such as Europe Language Jobs, Expatica, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Jobs In Lisbon.
Step 2: Work permit application
Once you have accepted and signed your employment contract, your employer should apply for your work permit online through the Portuguese Labor Authorities and AIMA.
Step 3: Portugal work visa application
After the authorities approve the Portugal work permit, you must submit the documents to the Portuguese Embassy in your home country as part of the work visa application. Once you obtain this work visa and prove that you have a guaranteed monthly minimum salary, you can legally enter the country and start working in less than six months. During this time, you will need to apply for a residence permit.
Step 4: Residence permit application
You have already landed the job, obtained the work permit, obtained your Portuguese work visa, and traveled to Portugal safely and soundly. If you’re considering staying longer in Portugal, it’s time to apply for a Residence Permit. Your first residence permit is valid for two years and renewable for three years.
If your employer has not done so, you must register for a Social Security Number (NISS) from the Portuguese Social Security Office. It is essential for accessing various social services, including health care, pensions, unemployment benefits, and other social security benefits. Your social security is ordinarily a percentage of your earnings automatically deducted.
Step 5: Renewing your work residency permit in Portugal
As an employee, you will be legally living and working in Portugal. The standard validation period for your residence permit is one year, and after that, it gets renewed as long as you’re still working in Portugal. Renewal can be done online through the AIMA website. After five years of residency, you can apply for Portuguese permanent residency and/or Portuguese citizenship and a Portuguese passport.
Portugal Work Visa Required Documents
Each work visa, such as the D8 or the D2, has its own set of requirements. However, in all cases, you must prepare the following documents for your visa application:
- A valid passport
- Passport-size pictures, following Schengen Visa picture guidelines
- Proof of sufficient funds to sustain yourself
- Clean criminal record certificate from your last country of residence of at least 1 year.
- A document permitting AIMA to check your Portuguese criminal records
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Your signed contract
If you’re already in Portugal, you must provide proof of legal entry into Portuguese territories, such as a valid work visa. Alternatively, if you’re applying from another country outside your country of origin, you must provide proof of legal stay – such as a residence permit or valid visa.
Take note of the additional requirements for Portuguese work visa application:
- All the documents you’re submitting need to be in English or Portuguese; if not, you must have them translated by an authorized translator.
- Certain documents, such as diplomas or civil documents, may have to be legalized. You can legalize documents through an Apostille Stamp or the Portuguese Embassy or consulate in your country.
Portuguese Work Visa Processing Time and Fees
Processing time
AIMA can take up to 60 days to process the work permit application and two to three months for the Portuguese Embassy to issue an entry visa. However, depending on your specific circumstances, your visa could be processed quickly.
Fees
There is more than one fee you have to pay when applying for a Portuguese work visa.
- Cost of the entry visa issued by the Portuguese Embassy – €90
- To apply for a Portugal residence permit at AIMA – €83
- To receive the residence permit from AIMA – €72
Exploring Visa and Immigration Options for Portugal
If you're considering making the move to Portugal, it's essential to be informed about the various visa and residency options available. The Golden Visa Portugal program is an attractive option for many, offering residency to investors and their families. For those eyeing retirement in this beautiful country, the Portugal D7 Visa is tailored for you. Digital nomads can take advantage of both short and long-stay options with the Digital Nomad Visa (D8).
For the entrepreneurial spirit, Portugal offers the Entrepreneurship/startup Visa (D2) - Start-up Visa (open company) tailored for those looking to establish their businesses in the country. Those with specialized skills can explore the Work visa for highly qualified employees (D3). Additionally, if you have Portuguese ancestry, you might be eligible for Citizenship by descent.
However, moving to a new country isn't just about visas. If you're thinking of buying property, our guide on Buying Property in Portugal can offer invaluable insights. Dive deeper into the immigration process with our comprehensive Portugal immigration guide. For Americans specifically looking to relocate, we have curated information on Americans moving to Portugal. Lastly, one can't forget the importance of the NIF (Tax Identification Number), a crucial step in any relocation process.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Portugal Work Visa
How do I get a work visa for Portugal?
Firstly, you need to land a job in Portugal. Once you are accepted, your employer can start applying for a work permit on your behalf to the Portuguese Labor Authorities, after which you can apply for a work visa at the Portuguese Embassy in your country.
What are the general requirements for a Portugal work visa?
The requirements are:
- A completed work visa application form.
- A valid passport.
- 2 passport-sized photographs.
- Valid employment contract.
- Proof that you have sufficient means to support yourself during your stay in Portugal.
- Criminal record certificate.
- Proof of health insurance with coverage in Portugal.
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal.
Please keep in mind that each work visa has its own set of requirements. However, these documents are necessary for every work visa application in Portugal.
What is the duration of a work visa in Portugal?
When you apply for a Portuguese work visa, you will receive a temporary residence permit that allows you to live and work in Portugal for one to two years. After one to two years, you can renew this permit at AIMA before it expires, as long as you still have a job offer from your employer. After five years as a legal resident in Portugal, you can apply for permanent residency.
Does a work visa lead to permanent residency in Portugal?
Yes. After living and working in Portugal for five years with your temporary visa, you will be eligible for a permanent residency permit, provided you meet all the requirements of the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service.
Does a work visa lead to Portuguese citizenship?
When you obtain your Portuguese work visa, and once you enter the country, you will be able to apply for a temporary resident permit. After five years of your stay in Portugal, you can obtain a permanent resident permit. Alongside securing a permanent residence permit, you can start the process of applying for Portuguese citizenship.
Can I get a work permit for Portugal from India?
Yes, Indian citizens can get a work visa and, consequently, a residence permit, to live and work in Portugal.
Can you work in Portugal if you are from the UK?
Yes, Portugal allows UK citizens to work in the country. You will need to make sure that you can legally reside in Portugal as a UK citizen.
Can a US citizen work in Portugal?
Yes, any US citizen can work legally in Portugal. However, they need a valid work permit and meet specific criteria. This usually involves obtaining a job offer from a Portuguese employer who will assist with the work permit application process.
Can I work in Portugal as an international student?
Yes, international students are allowed to work in Portugal. The permitted hours of work depend on your nationality:
- If you have EU/EEA/Swiss nationality: You can work without any restrictions on a time limit.
- If you do not have EU/EEA/Swiss nationality: You can only work for up to 20 hours/week (part-time) during the semester. During semester breaks or holidays, you may work full-time.
Can I work in Portugal if I have a family visa?
Yes, if you are joining a family member who lives in Portugal, then you are allowed to work and study in the country. You may have to seek authorization for work, however, so you should contact AIMA.
Is it easy to get a job in Portugal?
Finding a job, in general, is always tricky and requires time and patience. Frequently visiting recruitment websites and online job boards may help you find a job in Portugal.
Do I need to have valid travel insurance to work in Portugal?
Valid travel insurance is not a necessary requirement for a visa, unlike proof of health insurance. However, it is always a good idea to have one covering necessary medical expenses, including urgent medical assistance and possible repatriation.
Is Portugal open for job seeker visa?
Yes, this visa allows individuals to stay for 120 days initially, with the possibility of an extension for an additional 60 days.
