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Portugal is a sought-after destination for global employees, offering a vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and a thriving economy. Whether you're a Portuguese business looking to hire foreign employees or an expat eager to work in Portugal, it's essential to navigate the work visa and residence permit requirements compliantly. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the types of work visas, residence permits, and the application process in Portugal.
Citizens from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland do not need a visa to live and work in Portugal. They can move freely throughout the EU, requiring only an A1 certificate for business trips, not a visa. However, EU nationals staying in Portugal for longer than six months still need a residence permit.
Non-EU citizens must obtain a work permit before starting work in Portugal. These permits are generally issued to individuals with a job offer or those married to a Portuguese citizen. Remote employees working for Portuguese employers do not need a visa or permit if they work from another country.
Seasonal Work Visas: For temporary work lasting longer than 90 days.
Highly-Qualified Activity Visas: For highly qualified work like research or teaching for less than a year.
Amateur Sports Visas: For temporary stays related to amateur sports activities.
Subordinate Work Visas: For individuals performing subordinate work.
Entrepreneur Visas: For entrepreneurs moving to Portugal.
Show Business or Performing Arts Visas: For those entering Portugal for show business purposes.
Residence permits in Portugal can be categorized into visas and permits. A residency visa is short-term, lasting three to four months, allowing entry into Portugal while obtaining proper documentation. EU nationals do not need a visa to enter Portugal but will need a residence permit for stays longer than the visa period.
Work Visa for Skilled Workers
Work Visa for Highly Skilled Workers
Work Visa for Self-Employment
Work Visa for Cultural Activities
“Tech” Visa
Work Visa for Teaching
D7 Passive Income Visa: Suitable for digital nomads, allowing stay in Portugal if income is generated from outside Portugal.
After five years on a residence permit, individuals can apply for a permanent residence permit.
Employer's Role: The employer files for a work permit with the Portuguese Labor Authorities once the employee accepts a job offer.
Employee's Role: The employee applies for a visa at their local embassy.
Upon Arrival: The employee applies for a residence permit with the Immigration and Borders Service in Portugal.
Valid passport
Two recent photos
Completed application form
Valid residence visa
Evidence of sufficient financial means
Proof of accommodation
Health insurance
Family certificate
Criminal certificate
Employment contract
All documents must be in English or Portuguese.
Visa processing fees vary based on age:
Adults (13 or older): €80
Children (ages 6-12): €40
Children (ages 0-5): Free
Certain categories, such as EU nationals, researchers on scientific visits, and students or teachers on educational trips, are exempt from these fees.
Typically, it takes about two weeks to receive a Portuguese visa. However, unforeseen circumstances can extend this period, so it's advisable to apply at least a month in advance.
While Portugal is an attractive place to work, there are several considerations for foreign employees:
Priority to EU Citizens: Non-EU nationals may face challenges finding jobs due to prioritization of EU citizens.
Visa Renewal: The length of long-term visas varies based on job and need, requiring timely renewals.
Self-Employment: Individuals wishing to do contract work need a residence permit for self-employment.
Prepared on the information from velocityglobal.com