Portugal Job Seeker Visa Requirements

Begin your career exploration in Portugal! Delve into the Portugal Job Seeker Visa Requirements, paving the way for a successful job search in this vibrant country.

In 2022, the Portuguese government introduced the job seeker visa to curb the shortage of skilled workers in the country. This permit allows non-EU nationals to move into the country without a valid job offer.

If you get this visa, you can stay in Portugal for up to 120 days while looking for a suitable job. Should get an offer within this period, you can apply for a work visa and residence permit. Otherwise, you can apply for a 60-day extension to continue your job search. This extension is only available once.

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Eligibility Requirements for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa

Here are the eligibility criteria that Portugal job seeker visa applicants must meet 

  • Be a non-EU national: this visa is exclusive to people from countries outside the European Union. EU residents don’t require visas to work in Portugal.
  •  A clean criminal record: the Portuguese Immigration and Border Services (SEF) conducts background checks on all visa applicants. If you have a record of past convictions, you have a lower chances of getting approval.
  • Proof of subsistence: you must have enough money to support yourself during your job search. The law requires you to have at least three months’ worth of the country’s minimum monthly wage. This means your account balance must be at least €2,280 at the time of applicants.
  • A valid insurance cover: you must have an insurance policy worth at least €30,000. This is because job seekers can’t benefit from the Social Security System.
  • A valid passport: lastly, your passport must be valid for at least three months after the expiry of your visa.

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Documents Needed for Portugal Job Seeker Visa Application

Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you will need to gather the following documents.

  1. A valid passport with an expiry date three months after your stay in Portugal ends.
  2. A completed and signed visa application form. Unsigned forms are rejected upon receipt. You can obtain this form from your nearest Portuguese embassy.
  3. A recent passport-size photograph.
  4. Proof of your legal status, especially if applying from a foreign country. This could be a residence permit or green card.
  5. A copy of your flight tickets and travel itinerary. This is proof you’ll leave Portugal when your visa expires.
  6. A valid copy of your health insurance certificate.
  7. A bank statement showing you have at least €2,280 to cover your 120-day stay in Portugal. Otherwise, you’ll need to provide a letter from friends and family willing to support your needs.
  8. A letter explaining why you want a job in Portugal.
  9. Proof of accommodation, be it a rental agreement, hotel reservation, or a commitment from a willing sponsor.
  10. A copy of your curriculum vitae.

What is the Fee for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

The Portuguese government hasn’t set specific fees for job seeker visa applications. The amount you pay largely depends on your country of residence.

However, it’s advisable to spare between €75 and €80 to be paid at your nearest Portuguese embassy. If your application is successful, you’ll pay an additional €170 for the processing of your residence permit.

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