The Job Seeker Visa for Portugal allows its holder to enter and stay in the country for the sole purpose of searching for employment. During the visa’s validity, the holder is authorized to engage in subordinate work activities until either the visa expires or a residence permit is granted.
This visa is issued for an initial period of 120 days, which can be extended for an additional 60 days, allowing only a single entry into Portugal.
Upon receiving the visa, applicants must schedule an appointment with the relevant services within the 120-day validity period. If the applicant secures an employment contract during this time, they may then apply for a residence permit, provided they meet the general requirements for a temporary residence permit, as outlined in Article 77 of the Law.
If the applicant does not establish an employment relationship or initiate the process for a residence permit before the expiration of the visa, they must leave Portugal. In such cases, the applicant may only apply for a new Job Seeker Visa one year after the previous visa expires.
For those wishing to extend the Job Seeker Visa, the applicant must provide proof of registration with the IEFP (Instituto do Emprego e Formação Profissional) and a statement confirming that the conditions under which the visa was granted are still met. The authorities will review the reasons for the initial visa issuance before considering the extension.
General Documentation Requirements
- National Visa application: Completed and signed by the applicant.
- Passport or travel document: Valid for at least 3 months beyond the expected return date. A photocopy of the passport, including the biographical data page, is also required.
- Two passport-size photos: Recent and in good condition (one for the application form).
- Proof of legal status: For applicants who are nationals of a country other than the one in which they are applying, proof of legal residency for more than a year.
- Criminal record certificate: Issued by the competent authorities of the applicant’s home country or the country of residence for over a year. The certificate must have the Hague Apostille (if applicable) or be legalized.
- Valid travel insurance: Covering necessary medical expenses, including urgent assistance and potential repatriation.
- Proof of return transport: A copy of the return ticket.
- Financial resources: Evidence of having funds equivalent to at least three times the minimum guaranteed monthly salary in Portugal.
- This requirement may be waived if the applicant presents a term of responsibility from a Portuguese citizen or foreign national with legal residency in Portugal. The term should guarantee the applicant’s food, accommodation, and repatriation costs in case of irregular stay.
- The individual who signs the responsibility term must also prove financial capacity equivalent to at least three times the value of the guaranteed minimum monthly salary.
Specific Documentation Requirements
- Statement of intended stay: A letter outlining the applicant’s planned stay in Portugal.
- Proof of submission: A declaration of interest for enrollment in the IEFP (Instituto do Emprego e Formação Profissional). This declaration must be submitted in one of the following languages: English, Portuguese, French, or Spanish.
By fulfilling these requirements, applicants can successfully apply for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa, giving them the opportunity to search for employment while in the country.
