Portugal, with its warm climate, cultural richness, and growing economy, is becoming an attractive destination for professionals worldwide. To make moving easier, Portugal offers both a Job Seeker Visa (for those who want to explore opportunities) and several types of Work Visas (for those with confirmed job offers).
This guide covers how the Job Seeker Visa works, Portugal’s work visa requirements, and the step-by-step application process.
Portugal Job Seeker Visa 2025
The Job Seeker Visa allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to enter and stay in Portugal exclusively to search for a job.
- Validity: 120 days (renewable for another 60 days)
- Entry: Single-entry only
- Work Rights: You can work temporarily until the visa expires or until a residence permit is issued
- Next Step: Once you secure a job, you may apply for a residence permit during the visa validity
⚠️ If you cannot find a job or apply for a residence permit before the visa expires, you must leave Portugal. A new Job Seeker Visa can only be applied for one year after the previous one expires.
Can You Work in Portugal Without a Visa?
- EU/EEA & Swiss Citizens: Yes, you can work in Portugal without a visa. However, if you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you must apply for a Residence Certificate (Certificado de Registo).
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: No, you need a valid work visa or Job Seeker Visa to work legally.
Portugal Work Visa Requirements 2025
When applying for a Portugal work visa, you must submit:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos (meeting Portugal’s photo rules)
- Proof of financial means to support yourself
- Criminal record certificate from your country of residence (and from any country you’ve lived in for over a year)
- SEF authorization form allowing background checks in Portugal
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Employment contract or job offer letter
- Proof of legal stay in your current country if applying from outside your home country
📌 Important: All documents must be in Portuguese or English. If not, you’ll need certified translations and notarization.
Related: Factory Jobs in Europe with Visa Sponsorship
How to Get a Portugal Work Visa
The process has three main steps:
1. Work Permit (by Employer)
- After offering you a job, your employer applies for a Work Permit in Portugal.
- This is mandatory before you can apply for your visa.
2. Work Visa (by Applicant)
- Once the permit is approved, you apply for a Work Visa at the Portuguese Embassy/Consulate in your country.
- This visa allows you to enter Portugal legally.
3. Residence Permit (in Portugal)
- Upon arrival, apply for a Residence Permit for Work through SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras).
- You will also need to:
- Get a Tax Identification Number (NIF)
- Register with Social Security
- Attend your SEF appointment (the embassy may help schedule this if you share your travel plans).
Types of Portugal Work Visas 2025
Portugal offers different visas depending on your job or employment type:
- Work Visa for Skilled Workers – for professionals like doctors, scientists, engineers, IT specialists, and managers.
- Self-Employment Visa – for freelancers, entrepreneurs, or business owners providing services in Portugal.
- Job Seeker Visa – for those who want to explore job opportunities before securing an employment contract.
Expected Processing Time & Duration
- Job Seeker Visa: 120 days (renewable for 60 days)
- Work Visa: Processing usually takes 2–3 months, depending on embassy workload.
- Residence Permit: Valid for 1–2 years, renewable as long as employment continues.
Final Thoughts
The Portugal Job Seeker Visa 2025 is a fantastic pathway for non-EU citizens to explore work opportunities and transition into a residence permit. If you already have a confirmed job, applying directly for a Work Visa is quicker.
Portugal’s welcoming culture, low cost of living compared to Western Europe, and growing demand for skilled workers make it an excellent destination for professionals, caregivers, IT experts, and entrepreneurs.