In August of 2022, after a change in the Portuguese Foreigners’ Law, the visa to look for a job in Portugal was created, a measure that should make life much easier for those who want to live and work in the country.
If this is also your case, check out this article to find out more about how this visa works.

Who can apply for a visa to look for a job in Portugal?

The visa can be requested by foreign citizens who want to seek a subordinate job (with a contract) in Portugal, provided that the general conditions set out in the Foreigners’ Law are met.

These conditions are:

• Have a valid travel document (passport);
• Have travel insurance;
• Have proven means of subsistence during the period of stay – 3 minimum wages in Portugal, which in 2023 is €760 = a total of €2,280;
• Possess an air ticket to return to your country for the date scheduled for the end of the visa;
• Enroll at the Institute of Employment and Professional Training (IEFP), indicating academic qualifications and professional experience;
• Not be subject to a removal measure or a period of ban on entry into the country;
• Not be listed as a non-admitted citizen in the Schengen Area or in the SEF Information System.

It is important to note that the visa to look for a job in Portugal is valid only for those who intend to have a subordinate job, if you are, or want to be self-employed or a digital nomad, this is not your thing.

Can you bring your family with this visa?

No.

Despite being a residence visa (which normally accepts family reunification), in this visa modality is not possible.

Necessary documents:

• Completed and signed visa application form;
• 2 equal and current 3×4 photos (1 pasted on the form);
• Passport (valid for more than three months after the expected date of return);
• Copy of passport identification page;
• Travel insurance;
• Criminal Background Certificate (issued within the last 30 days and with the Hague Apostille);
• Request for consultation of the Portuguese criminal record by the SEF;
• Copy of return air ticket;
• Proof of financial resources equivalent to three minimum wages in Portugal (total value of €2,280 in 2023);
• Declaration with indications of the foreseen conditions of stay;
• Proof of presentation of the declaration of interest for enrollment in the IEFP.

Is it possible to renew this visa?

Yes. The initial validity of the visa is 120 days (4 months), and it is possible to request an extension for another 60 days (2 months).

Is it worth applying for a visa to look for a job in Portugal?

For those who intend to live or work in Portugal, applying for a job search visa can be an excellent choice. This is because, with it, the visa holder can travel to the country with the aim of finding a job in the Portuguese labor market.
If you succeed, you can apply for a residence permit to continue living legally in the country. In addition, you can also take your family members to live in Portugal, through family reunification.

After all, it is much easier to find a steady job with a visa in your hands!