The Portuguese market offers businesses access to a stable and expanding economy within the European Union, along with relatively low operating expenses compared to other Western European nations.

The country is home to a skilled, multilingual workforce, especially in fields such as technology, tourism, renewable energy, and customer support.

The government actively promotes foreign investment through various incentives, tax advantages, and simplified licensing procedures.

Types of Portuguese Work Visas

1. Temporary stay visa (for short-term work)

This visa is perfect for professionals intending to work in Portugal for less than one year, including seasonal workers or short-term project personnel. It is applicable to both employed and self-employed individuals and can be extended under certain conditions.

2. D1 residence visa for subordinate work

This is the standard visa for individuals with a job offer in Portugal who wish to reside and work in the country on a long-term basis. To qualify, applicants must submit an employment contract and fulfill income, housing, and health criteria.

3. D2 residence visa for independent work or entrepreneurs

This visa targets freelancers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs seeking to legally provide services or establish a business in Portugal. It is frequently utilized by remote workers and startup founders.

4. Intra-corporate transferee (ICT) visa

Portugal provides an ICT visa for non-EU employees transferred within multinational corporations to a Portuguese branch or subsidiary. It is applicable to managers, specialists, and trainees, allowing a stay of up to 3 years (or 1 year for trainees). 

5. Highly qualified activity visa (tech and specialist roles)

This visa facilitates the recruitment of exceptional talent and is designed for individuals in scientific, academic, or highly skilled technical positions. Applicants are required to present an invitation letter from a recognized institution. It is frequently utilized for technology roles, researchers, and senior executives.

6. Tech visa (for startup and innovation talent)

The Tech Visa serves as an expedited residence pathway for highly skilled technology professionals recruited by certified Portuguese companies. It is particularly for startups and innovation-oriented enterprises. The employer must be officially acknowledged under the Tech Visa program.

7. Digital nomad visa

Introduced in 2022, this visa caters to remote workers earning a minimum of four times the Portuguese minimum wage (approximately €3,280/month as of 2024). In contrast to the D7, it is specifically tailored for remote professionals.

8. EU blue card (for highly qualified non-EU nationals)

This visa provides highly skilled non-EU professionals with the right to work and reside in Portugal under advantageous conditions. It necessitates a valid employment contract with a salary that is at least 1.5 times the national average.

9. Job seeker visa (introduced in 2022)

This newly established visa permits individuals to enter Portugal for a duration of up to 6 months to seek employment. There is no requirement for a job offer prior to entry, but applicants must fulfill financial and accommodation criteria. Upon securing employment, individuals can apply to transition to a standard residence permit linked to their job.

How to apply for a Portugal work visa?

1. Obtain employment or prepare necessary work documentation

Secure a job offer or a signed contract from a Portuguese employer (or a business plan if you are a freelancer or entrepreneur). Ensure that the employer registers the position with the Portuguese labor authorities if necessary.

2. Collect required documentation

Make sure to compile all essential documents, including the visa application form, a valid passport, two recent passport photographs, the job contract, proof of financial means, a health insurance certificate, a police clearance certificate, and so forth.

3. Submit your application at the Portuguese consulate or VFS

Arrange an appointment at the Portuguese consulate in your home country. Present all your documents, pay the visa fee, and complete the biometrics process (fingerprints and photograph).

4. Await approval

Processing times can range from 30 to 90 days, depending on the type of visa and the consulate involved. If approved, you will receive a four-month entry visa, which permits you to enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit.

5. Apply for a residence permit

Upon arrival in Portugal, schedule an appointment with SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras). Submit your application for a residence permit along with the necessary supporting documents.

Once approved, you will receive your residence card, which is valid for up to two years (depending on the type of visa).

Cost to apply

Multiple fees must be paid when applying for a work visa.

• The cost of the entry visa issued by the Portuguese Embassy is €90 (this may vary from country to country).

• The fee to submit the application for a residence permit for work at the SEF is €83.

• The fee to obtain the residence permit for work from the SEF is €72.

Portugal work visa processing time

The SEF may take up to 60 days to process the work permit application, while the embassy may take two to three months to issue an entry visa.

Summary

To work in Portugal, you must apply for a work visa. The specific type of work visa you will apply for depends on your qualifications and the length of your stay in Portugal.

If you are uncertain about which type to apply for, contact Izago Immigration to assist you with the process.

Our immigration professionals will assist you every step of the way and will make sure to clear all queries without any hesitation. Connect today to start your journey.