Portugal has emerged as an attractive destination for migrants in recent years, offering various visa options for relocation, including the Job Seeker Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, retirement visa, and employment visa. The Portugal Work Visa Process encompasses obtaining a work permit, visa, and residence permit for non-EU nationals seeking employment in the country. EU/EEA or Swiss nationals can work without a visa but require a Residence permit for stays longer than three months. Below, we outline the types of Portugal work visas, their requirements, and the application process.
About Portugal Work Visas:
The Portuguese government issues Residency Visas and Temporary Stay National Visas for long stays.
- Temporary Stay National Visa: These long-term visas are valid for the entire stay and allow for multiple entries.
- Residency Visas: These visas allow for two entries and are valid for 4 months.
Types of Portugal Work Visas:
Various visas cater to different employment situations:
- Seasonal Work: Temporary stay visa for seasonal work exceeding 90 days.
- Temporary Work (D2 Visa): For individuals with secured employment in Portugal and a valid work contract.
- Highly Qualified Activity (D3 Visa): Temporary stay visa for scientific research, higher education, or other highly qualified activities for less than a year.
- Remote Work / Digital Nomad: For digital nomads who work remotely.
- Amateur Sports Activity: Temporary stay visa for amateur sports purposes.
- Intra-Company Transfer: For employees transferring between branches of multinational companies.
Cost of Portugal Work Visa:
The processing fee for a national visa application is 90€ (subject to change).
Portugal Work Visa Requirements:
- Job offer from a Portuguese employer (for seasonal work or other temporary visas).
- Work permit obtained by the employer from the Portuguese Labor Authorities.
- Employment contract.
- Clean criminal record.
(Note: Not all visas require a job offer, such as Digital Nomad, Job Seeker, and Retirement Visa.)
Processing Time:
Approximately 30 days to process a Temporary Stay Visa application.
How to Apply for the Portugal Work Visa?
- Obtain a Work Permit from the employer.
- Complete the national visa application form and submit required documents to the Portugal embassy or VFS Global.
- Wait for the visa decision.
- Upon arrival in Portugal, apply for a Residence Permit for Work at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
Duration of a Work Visa:
Typically valid for 1-2 years, with the residence permit also valid for 2 years. Renewable as long as the applicant holds a valid job in Portugal.
Helpful Links:
