About the Portugal Job Seeker Visa

Introduced on October 31, 2022, by the Government of Portugal, this visa allows foreign nationals to enter the country for up to 120 days to search for employment. It was launched to address the nation’s labor shortages and opens a legal path to residency.

Stay Duration: 120 days, extendable by 60 days
Work Authorization: Permitted during visa validity or until a residence permit is issued

Top Reasons to Settle in Portugal:

• Ranked #4 in the Global Peace Index
• Access to free public healthcare
• High salary growth potential
• English widely spoken
• Average salary: €30,000/year
• Progressive policies and a strong social system
• Tax exemptions for new residents

Visa Validity & Extension Rules:

• Valid for 120 days, renewable for 60 additional days
• Must secure a job offer and apply for a residence permit within this period
• If expired without employment or residence process, you must exit the country
• Re-application only allowed after one year

To extend your visa, you must:

• Be registered with IEFP (Portuguese Employment Office)
• Submit a statement of intent to stay
• Provide documentation proving your initial conditions remain valid

Eligibility Criteria:

• Bachelor’s Degree (minimum)
• Valid Health Insurance
• Sufficient Proof of Funds
• Accommodation Booking in Portugal
• Not points-based; no IELTS required
• Authenticated flight reservations

Required Documents:

• Completed National Visa Application Form
• Valid Passport (+3 months post-return) & Photocopy
• Two recent passport-sized photos
• Proof of legal residence (if applicable)
• SEF criminal background check request
• Criminal record certificate with Apostille (if required)
• Travel insurance covering emergencies
• Round-trip flight reservation
• Proof of financial means (or signed term of responsibility from a resident with required income)

Additional Documents:

• Statement of stay conditions
• Proof of registration/intent with IEFP (EN, PT, FR, ES)

Visa Fees:

• Embassy Visa Fee: €90 (varies by country)
• Application Submission Fee (SEF): €83
• Residence Permit Issuance Fee (SEF): €72

Processing Time

• Average Time: 2 months

Apply at least 1 month before your travel date, but not earlier than 3 months in advance.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

1. Eligibility Evaluation
2. Skill & Profile Assessment
3. Document Checklist Preparation
4. Visa Application Submission
5. Fly to Portugal & Begin Job Hunt

Pathway to Portugal Permanent Residency:

After residing in Portugal for 5 years with a temporary residence permit, you may become eligible for permanent residency. Benefits include:

• No work permit needed
• Easier renewals
• Equal rights as Portuguese citizens
• Access to healthcare, education & social benefits

How Can PassX Help You?

At PassX Immigration, we offer personalized, transparent, and professional immigration services tailored to your goals. With global expertise and a client-first approach, we ensure your Portugal journey is seamless from start to settlement.