The job search visa for Portugal offers applicants the opportunity to travel to the country with the intention of seeking employment and settling permanently. Below, we will explain who this visa is intended for, the requirements necessary to obtain it and the application process.

Who it is intended for

The job search visa for Portugal is intended for adults of legal age, who wish to move to the country to explore job opportunities. The objective is to attract foreign talent that will contribute to the growth and development of the Portuguese labor market.

If you think this visa does not fit your objectives, check out our section on visas to immigrate to Portugal.

Work Search Visa Requirements for Portugal

In order to apply for a job search visa for Portugal, you must meet a number of specific requirements, which include:

• Valid passport: A valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of application is required.
• Proof of funds: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during the job search period. These resources must be equal to or greater than 3 times the Portuguese minimum wage, which is currently €820, giving a total of €2460. This value may change depending on the Embassy where you apply.
• Round trip ticket: You must present a one-way ticket from the country where you are applying to Portugal, returning after 120 days.
• Travel insurance: It is mandatory to have travel assistance insurance covering the visa period in Portugal, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros in case of accidents or emergencies. It must also cover funeral repatriation.
• Proof of accommodation: another requirement is proof of where you will be staying in Portugal for the duration of your visa. It can be a hotel, hostel or apartment reservation. Some Embassies usually accept reservations for a shorter period of time.
• Motivation letter: A personal letter explaining the reasons why you want to look for a job in Portugal, the type of job you want to find, reasons why you want to emigrate to Portugal, etc.
• Criminal Record: A criminal record certificate must be provided from the country of origin and from the countries where you have resided for more than one year.
• Expression of interest: this is a very simple form that can be completed on the IEFP website and downloaded as a PDF.

How is the process of the work search visa for Portugal?

The application process for any visa should be done with enough time to avoid setbacks. Hola Portugal recommends that you start your planning at least 6 months before your estimated travel date. The process to apply for the Portugal job search visa must be done from your country of origin or from the country where you legally reside. Like the other visas, this visa cannot be applied for while in Portugal or as a tourist in another country. These are the steps to follow to apply for the work search visa:

1. Prepare documentation: Gather all required documents, making sure they are complete and up to date.
2. Make an appointment: You must make an appointment at the Portuguese Embassy in your country to submit the application and the required documentation. In most Latin American countries, appointments are requested through the e-visa portal. In other countries, visa processes are outsourced to VSF Global. There are also Embassies where appointments are requested by e-mail.
3. Attend the appointment: You must show up on the day of the appointment with all the documentation according to the requirements. This is the most important point since the approval of your visa depends on the documents you present. If you need assistance to know if the documentation you are going to present is correct, contact us for our team to advise you.
4. Wait for the decision: After the interview, the Embassy will review the application, which usually takes 30 to 90 days.
5. Travel to Portugal: Once the visa is approved, you can travel to Portugal and start looking for a job within the period specified in the visa and then obtain residency.

The Portugal job search visa offers an excellent opportunity for those who wish to settle in the country and contribute to its economy. By meeting the requirements and following the proper application process, applicants can take an important step towards a new life and career in Portugal. If you need advice, we recommend contacting an immigration lawyer to help you through the entire process.

Formalities required to look for a job in Portugal

1. Obtaining the NIF (Tax Identification Number): This is the first step to be taken in order to be able to work. It is possible to do it online before arriving in Portugal, through a fiscal representative. Get your NIF with our services.
2. Obtaining the NISS (Social Security Identification Number): This number is necessary for enrollment in the social security system, which covers health, pensions and other benefits. To obtain it, it is necessary to have a visa and a promise of employment, employment contract, or start of activities. The application is made through the official Social Security website .
3. Turn with AIMA: After getting a job, you must apply for a residence permit, which will be valid for 2 years. The requirements are the same as those for the visa, but updated, and adding the most important: work contract and first salary receipt. This procedure is done at AIMA and the visa usually comes with the appointment already scheduled. In case it does not come with an appointment, you can go to www.sef.pt, register with your data and enter your visa number to see if you have an appointment scheduled. If this does not work either, you will have to call AIMA to schedule an appointment.

Emigrating to Portugal on a work search visa offers a great opportunity to explore new job opportunities and establish yourself in a country with a dynamic market.