Working In Portugal: Travel And Work Opportunities

If you're considering travelling to Portugal for work, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to determine whether you need a visa or work permit. Portugal is part of the Schengen area, which allows individuals to travel without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, as long as they meet passport validity requirements. This applies to business meetings, cultural or sports events, and short-term studies. However, if you plan to stay longer or engage in other types of work, you may need to obtain a visa or permit. It's always advisable to check with the Portuguese immigration authorities or embassy for their specific entry rules and requirements. Additionally, if you're a Canadian or US citizen, there are specific programmes and requirements you can explore for working and travelling in Portugal. Portugal offers a diverse range of job opportunities, from information and communication technologies to tourism and agriculture. So, whether you're looking for a temporary job or a long-term career move, Portugal has a lot to offer.

Do I need a visa to work in Portugal?

Whether or not you need a visa to work in Portugal depends on your nationality and the nature of your work. Here's a breakdown of the requirements:

EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens:

If you are a citizen of an EU country, EEA country, or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to work in Portugal. However, if you plan to stay in the country for more than three months, you are required to register with the local authorities and obtain a Residence Certificate (*Certificado de Registo*).* This certificate allows you to live and work in Portugal long-term.

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens:

If you are not a citizen of an EU country, EEA country, or Switzerland, you typically need a visa to work in Portugal. The type of visa you need depends on the nature of your employment:

• Temporary Stay Visa: This visa is ideal for short-term employment or assignments in Portugal, usually up to one year. To obtain this visa, you must have a specific job offer from a Portuguese employer.
• Highly Skilled Worker Visa: This visa is designed for professionals with specialized skills or qualifications in demand in Portugal. You will need to provide evidence of your expertise, as well as a job offer or employment contract from a Portuguese employer.
• Residence Visa for Employment Purposes: This visa is for longer-term employment contracts, allowing you to reside and work in Portugal for a specified period. The employer may need to demonstrate that they couldn't find a suitable EU candidate for the position.

Additional Requirements for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens:

When applying for a work visa in Portugal as a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you may also need to provide the following:

• Proof of Qualifications: Depending on the job, you may need to present educational certificates, professional licenses, or relevant work experience.
• Language Proficiency: Some roles may require proficiency in Portuguese or another language relevant to the job.
• Health Insurance: Ensure you have valid health insurance coverage for your stay in Portugal.
• Financial Stability: Demonstrate that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.
• Employer Sponsorship: Your visa application must be sponsored by a Portuguese employer who has offered you a job.

Application Process for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens:

To initiate the process, submit an application to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your home country. You may be required to attend an interview and provide additional documentation. Upon arrival in Portugal, register with the local authorities in your intended city or town of residence and obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIF) from the local tax office. If your stay exceeds three months, apply for a residence permit from the Foreigners' Office (SEF).

What are the requirements for a Portuguese work visa?

The requirements for a Portuguese work visa depend on whether you are an EU citizen or a non-EU citizen. Here are the requirements for each group:

Requirements for EU Citizens:

• No visa or work permit is needed to work in Portugal as an EU citizen.
• If staying in Portugal for more than three months, registration with the local authorities and obtaining a Residence Certificate are necessary.
• Obtaining a Portuguese Social Security number and tax identification number before starting work is essential.
• Registration with the local health center is required to access the public healthcare system.
• An EU driving license is valid in Portugal, but residents might consider exchanging it for a Portuguese one over time.

Requirements for Non-EU Citizens:

Types of Work Visas:

Non-EU citizens can apply for various work visas in Portugal, including:

• Temporary Stay Visa: Suitable for short-term employment or assignments, usually up to one year. A specific job offer from a Portuguese employer is mandatory.
• Highly Skilled Worker Visa: Designed for professionals with specialized skills or qualifications in demand in Portugal. Evidence of expertise and a job offer or employment contract is essential.
• Residence Visa for Employment Purposes: Catering to longer-term employment contracts, allowing residence and work in Portugal for a specified period. Employers may need to demonstrate that they couldn't find a suitable EU candidate before hiring a non-EU national.

Additional Criteria for Non-EU Citizens:

• Proof of Qualifications: Depending on the job, educational background, professional certifications, or work experience may be required.
• Language Proficiency: Some roles might mandate proficiency in Portuguese or a relevant language.
• Health Insurance: Valid health insurance coverage for the stay in Portugal is essential.
• Financial Stability: Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
• Employer Sponsorship: A job offer from a Portuguese employer willing to sponsor your visa application is crucial.

Application Process and Legal Obligations:

• Submit an application to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your home country. Interviews or additional documentation may be required.
• Upon arrival, register with the local authorities in your intended city or town of residence and work.
• Obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIF) from the local tax office.
• If your stay exceeds three months, apply for a residence permit from the Foreigners' Office (SEF).

Specific Requirements for Work Visas:

• A job offer or employment contract from a Portuguese employer.
• Proof of qualifications and skills related to the job, such as diplomas, certificates, or work experience.
• Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements or a letter from your employer.
• A criminal record certificate from your country of origin or residence for the past year.
• A health certificate proving you are free from infectious diseases or conditions that could endanger public health.
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal, such as a lease agreement.
• A completed visa application form and fee payment.

What are the types of work visas available?

There are several types of work visas available for those seeking to travel to Portugal for employment purposes. The type of visa one needs depends on their nationality, the intended duration of their stay, and the purpose of their visit. Here is a list of some of the work visas available:

• Short-term work visa: This visa is for foreign nationals seeking short-term employment or a contract of less than a year in Portugal. It is valid for the duration of the contract but can be extended for up to one year if necessary.
• Long-term residency visa: This visa is for non-EU nationals taking up long-term employment in Portugal or transferring to a Portuguese branch of a multinational company. It is valid for four months and allows for two entries, giving sufficient time to obtain a residence permit.
• Temporary stay visa: This visa is for those seeking to work in Portugal for a year or less in specific areas such as amateur sports, performing arts, professional training, or religious training. It can also be obtained for medical treatment, research work, or digital nomad status.
• Residence visa for employees: This visa is for foreign nationals seeking to work in Portugal as employees, including those engaged in sports activities.
• Residence visa for independent work: This visa is for foreign nationals who want to be self-employed or work as freelancers in Portugal.
• Residence visa for entrepreneurs: This visa is for foreign nationals who want to start a business or invest in an existing one in Portugal.
• Residence visa for highly skilled workers, teachers, or artistic performers: This visa is for highly qualified professionals in fields such as scientific research, medicine, IT, engineering, performing arts, etc.
• EU Blue Card: This is an EU residency visa for highly qualified non-EU professionals with sought-after skills and qualifications. It is valid for one to four years and allows the holder to work in Portugal and 22 other EU countries.
• Training and volunteer work visa: This visa is for non-EU nationals engaging in unpaid volunteer work or training placements in Portugal for up to one year.
• Job Seeker visa: This is a single-entry visa granted for 120 days, extendable for another 60 days, to foreigners seeking employment in Portugal but who have not yet secured a job.

What is the application process for a work visa?

The application process for a work visa in Portugal can be divided into three parts:

• Work Permit Application: Your employer must apply for a Work Permit on your behalf from the Portuguese Labor Authorities or the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) after they have offered you the job. They will need to submit several documents, including the employment contract, company tax statements, proof of registration with Social Security, and proof that the position could not be filled by an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
• Work Visa Application: Once the Work Permit is approved, you can apply for a Work Visa from the Portuguese Embassy in your country. This visa will allow you to enter Portugal for work purposes and apply for a residence permit. The application process typically involves locating the nearest Portuguese Embassy or Consulate, making an appointment, collecting the required documents, and submitting them on the appointment date.
• Residence Permit Application: Upon arriving in Portugal, you must apply for a Residence Permit for Work at the SEF. This step includes registering for social security and obtaining a tax number.

It's important to note that the timing and fees associated with each step may vary. Additionally, specific document requirements may differ, so it's recommended to consult the Portuguese immigration authorities or embassy for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What are the costs and processing times?

The costs and processing times for a Portuguese work visa depend on several factors, including your nationality, the type of work visa, and the specific circumstances of your application. Here is an overview of the costs and processing times associated with obtaining a work visa for Portugal:

Costs:

• The cost of the entry visa issued by the Portuguese Embassy is €90, but this may vary slightly depending on your country of origin.
• Submitting the application for a residence permit for work to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) costs €83.
• Receiving the residence permit for work from SEF costs €72.
• Obtaining the necessary translations and legalizations for your documents may also incur additional costs.

Processing Times:

• It can take up to 60 days for the SEF to process the Work Permit application.
• The Portuguese Embassy typically takes two to three months to issue an entry visa after receiving the Work Permit.
• The entire process may take several months to finalize, but it can be faster depending on your specific circumstances.

It is important to note that the costs and processing times provided are subject to change and may not be exhaustive. For the most up-to-date and comprehensive information, it is recommended to consult the official websites of the Portuguese Embassy and the SEF, as well as seek guidance from immigration specialists.

Frequently asked questions