Migrate to Portugal

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Why Apply for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

  • Allows you enter Portugal without a job offer.
  • Valid for 120 days, extendable by 60 days.
  • Enables legal stay while job hunting.
  • No sponsorship or job contract needed.
  • Access to growing sectors like tech and tourism

Why Apply for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa

Portugal Job Seeker Visa

The Portugal Job Seeker Visa grants single-entry access for up to 120 days to search for employment in Portugal. If needed, applicants may apply for a single 60‑day extension, reaching a maximum stay of 180 days. You are permitted to carry out subordinated (paid) work during this period, until you either secure a job or apply for a work/residence permit.

*Want to apply for a Portugal Job seeker visa? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the process. 

Benefits of settling in Portugal

Portugal provides a stable, EU-based environment with practical advantages for individuals and families looking to live long-term.

Some of the benefits of settling in Portugal are as follows:

  • Residents can access public healthcare through the National Health Service (SNS) at low cost.
  • Public and private education options are widely available, with several international schools in major cities.
  • Portugal ranks among the top 10 safest countries globally (Global Peace Index 2024).
  • The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime offers up to 10 years of tax benefits for eligible foreign residents.
  • Permanent residency is available after 5 years of legal stay, with citizenship possible after 6 years.
  • Portugal has one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe, particularly in housing and food.
  • The country offers visa-free travel across the Schengen Area as an EU resident.
  • Economic growth is strong in sectors like technology, tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy.

Benefits of settling in Portugal

Eligibility Criteria for a Portugal Job Seeker visa

The eligibility criteria for a Portugal Job seeker visa is as follows:

  • Be a non‑EU/EEA/Swiss national
  • Hold a valid passport (with at least 3–6 months’ validity)
  • Demonstrate a clean criminal record
  • Provide travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
  • Show sufficient financial means (≈ 3× Portugal’s minimum wage, about €2,610 or a sponsor declaration
  • Be registered with IEFP (Portuguese Public Employment Service)

Documents required for a Portugal Job Seeker visa

The list of documents required for a Portugal Job Seeker visa is as follows:

  • National visa application form
  • Passport (valid for 3–6 months)
  • Two passport-size photos
  • Financial proof or sponsor letter
  • Health insurance certificate
  • Return flight reservation
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Proof of accommodation
  • CV/résumé
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • IEFP registration confirmation

Documents required for a Portugal Job Seeker visa

Steps to Apply for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa

You can follow the below steps to apply for a Portugal Job Seeker visa:

Step 1: Prepare the required documents

Gather all necessary documents, including a valid passport, completed visa application form, proof of financial means, accommodation details, valid travel insurance, and a criminal record certificate.

Step 2: Schedule an appointment

Book an appointment at the nearest Portuguese consulate or VFS Global centre in your country of residence.

Step 3: Submit your application

Attend the appointment to submit your application, provide biometric data (photograph and fingerprints), and pay the applicable visa fee.

Step 4: Await the visa processing

The visa application is typically processed within 30 to 60 days. Processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Step 5: Receive your Job seeker Visa

Once approved, the visa will be affixed to your passport, allowing you to enter and stay in Portugal for up to 180 days.

Step 6: Register with SEF (if applicable)

Upon arrival in Portugal and after securing employment, schedule an appointment with SEF (Immigration and Borders Service) to apply for a residence permit.

Portugal Job Seeker Visa fees

The table below has details of the Portugal job seeker visa fees:

Type of application

Fee

Visa Application Fee (submitted at Portuguese consulate in the UK)

€ 90

Application Submission for Residence Permit (at SEF in Portugal)

€ 83

Issuance of Residence Permit Card (by SEF)

€ 72

Portugal Job Seeker Visa Processing Time

The processing time for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa generally ranges between 30 to 60 days from the date of application submission. This timeframe may vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence, the consulate’s workload, and the completeness of the submitted documents. In some cases, processing may take longer due to additional verification or seasonal demand.

Extension Rules

  • Job seekers may extend their stay from 120 to 180 days by registering with IEFP and demonstrating ongoing job search intent
  • Extension request must be submitted before the initial visa expires
  • Extensions are not guaranteed and are assessed on a case-by-case basis

Limitations

  • The visa is single-entry only
  • Work prior to obtaining a residence permit is limited to subordinated (paid) employment only
  • If no job is found or permit application commenced by the end of the visa period (including extension), you must leave Portugal and cannot reapply for the Job Seeker Visa for 12 months

Transition to a Work/Residence Permit

  • Upon receiving a job offer during your stay, you may apply directly from within Portugal for a temporary residence permit based on work
  • Must fulfill general conditions under Article 77 of Portuguese Immigration Law
  • Once employment is secured, process the change with AIMA (formerly SEF) to stay and work legally

Portugal Permanent Residency

Portugal Permanent Residency allows non-EU nationals to live, work, and study in Portugal indefinitely while enjoying many of the same rights as Portuguese citizens. Applicants become eligible after five years of legal and continuous residence in the country. The status grants access to public services, social security, and visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. It also serves as a pathway to Portuguese citizenship, subject to additional requirements.

Portugal Permanent Residency

How can Y-Axis help you?

Y-Axis is the leading immigration consultant for individuals looking for Portugal immigration. Our end-to-end support with the immigration process ensures that you make the right decision at every step. We guide you with:

  • Expert guidance for overseas Immigration
  • Coaching services to ace your language tests
  • Free career counselling
  • Comprehensive guidance with the Portugal visa application process
  • Job search services to secure a suitable job in Portugal
  • Expert assistance in working abroad

Contact us to enhance your chances and make an informed decision for overseas immigration.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I migrate to Portugal without a job in hand?

The easiest way to become a resident of Portugal is by obtaining a residence permit. In this instance, foreign nationals don’t need to search for jobs or get admitted to the university. One can get a residence permit by investment in fewer than six months.

Is it easy to get a Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

Obtaining a Portugal Job Seeker Visa is a structured process. While it is accessible, approval depends on meeting all eligibility requirements, such as having sufficient financial means, valid travel insurance, clean criminal records, and proper documentation. Providing accurate and complete documents increases the chances of approval.

How much money is needed for migrating to Portugal?

To apply for the Job Seeker Visa, you must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency. The Portuguese authorities require proof of funds equivalent to at least three times the national minimum monthly wage, which is approximately €2,115 (based on €705/month as of 2024). If you're staying longer, you must show additional funds to cover your extended stay.

What exactly is a Portuguese Job Seeker Visa?

The Portugal Job Seeker Visa is a long-term national visa issued to non-EU citizens who wish to travel to Portugal to find employment. It permits a legal stay of 120 days, which can be extended by another 60 days, for a total of 180 days. During this time, you can attend job interviews and apply for positions. Once you receive a job offer, you can apply for a work-based residence permit.

How much can I expect to make in Portugal?

The average monthly salary in Portugal is about €2,750 or $2,676.42. Note that Portugal’s average pay is considerably lower than that of the United States, where people make about $7,892 per month.

What are the benefits of a Job Seeker Visa in Portugal?
  • No job offer required at the time of application
  • Enables you to legally stay in Portugal for up to 180 days while looking for work
  • No employer sponsorship is needed for the visa application
  • Offers a pathway to a residence permit upon securing a job
  • Provides access to Portugal’s growing job market, especially in tech, tourism, and services
  • Opportunity to eventually apply for permanent residency and citizenship
What are the requirements for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

To be eligible for the Job Seeker Visa, applicants must:

  • Have a valid passport
  • Provide proof of sufficient financial means (minimum of €2,115 or more)
  • Show proof of accommodation in Portugal
  • Submit a clean criminal record certificate (apostilled or legalized)
  • Hold valid travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation
  • Present a personal statement explaining the purpose of stay and intention to leave if no job is secured
  • Provide proof of a return flight reservation
What is the processing time for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

The average processing time is between 30 to 60 days after the application is submitted at a Portuguese consulate or VFS Global centre. However, delays may occur based on application volume, consulate workload, or additional document requests. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

How to apply for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

You can follow the below steps to apply for a Portugal Job seeker visa:

Step 1: Gather all required documents

Step 2: Register an expression of interest with IEFP

Step 3: Book an appointment at the Portuguese consulate or VFS Global

Step 4: Submit your application and biometrics

Step 5: Pay the visa application fee

Step 6: Wait for processing (30–60 days)

Step 7: Receive your visa and travel to Portugal

Step 8: Apply for a residence permit after securing a job

Can I apply for Portuguese citizenship with the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

Not directly. The Job Seeker Visa is a temporary visa and does not make you eligible for citizenship on its own. However, once you secure employment and obtain a valid residence permit, you may begin accumulating the required five years of legal residency in Portugal. After meeting this requirement along with language proficiency, integration criteria, and a clean legal record—you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

 

What documents are required for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

The documents required for a Portugal Job seeker visa are as follows:

  • Signed national visa application form
  • Valid passport
  • Two passport-size photographs
  • Proof of financial means (minimum €2,610 or sponsorship letter)
  • Travel health insurance (minimum coverage of €30,000)
  • Return flight reservation
  • Criminal record certificate (legalised/apostilled if applicable)
  • Proof of accommodation in Portugal
  • CV/resume
  • Statement of purpose
  • IEFP registration declaration
How long does it take to process?

Typical processing time ranges from 30 to 90 days depending on the consulate or visa centre’s workload. In some cases you may receive a decision within 4–6 weeks, but delays of up to three months are possible during high-volume periods. After arrival, applying for a residence permit may add another 4–8 weeks depending on local SEF/AIMA availability.

Can I work while on this Portugal Jobseeker Visa?

Yes. The visa allows you to perform subordinated work (legal paid employment) while looking for a long-term job or transitioning to a residence permit. This enables you to gain immediate income and professional exposure during the maximum 120-day stay, or up to 180 days with an approved extension.

How do I extend my stay with a Portugal Jobseeker Visa?

You can follow the below steps to extend your stay with a Portugal Jobseeker visa:

Step 1: Enter Portugal within the visa validity period (usually 120 days).
Step 2: Apply for a one-time visa extension of 60 days before the initial visa expires.
Step 3: Visit the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) website to book an appointment.
Step 4: Submit the required documents, including proof of job search or job interviews.
Step 5: Await approval while continuing your job search.
Step 6: If you secure employment, apply for a residence permit to switch from the Jobseeker Visa to a work-based residence status.

How do I extend my stay with a Portugal Jobseeker Visa?

You can follow the below steps to extend your stay with a Portugal Jobseeker visa:

Step 1: Enter Portugal within the visa validity period (usually 120 days).
Step 2: Apply for a one-time visa extension of 60 days before the initial visa expires.
Step 3: Visit the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) website to book an appointment.
Step 4: Submit the required documents, including proof of job search or job interviews.
Step 5: Await approval while continuing your job search.
Step 6: If you secure employment, apply for a residence permit to switch from the Jobseeker Visa to a work-based residence status.

How soon can I apply again after expiry of Portugal Jobseeker Visa?

If your Portugal Job Seeker Visa (including any extension) expires and you haven’t secured employment, you will need to wait one full calendar year before applying again. This mandatory cooling-off period is designed to ensure that applicants use their time in Portugal effectively to find a job or transition to another visa. It is important to plan your application and job search strategy carefully, as reapplying too soon will result in automatic rejection.