Venturing into the Portuguese business environment necessitates a solid understanding of local regulations, particularly concerning visas and work permits. These are crucial elements for global teams aiming to expand. As a specialised Employer of Record in Portugal, we possess in-depth knowledge of Portuguese work permits and local regulations. Understanding these details is essential for legal compliance and successful business operations when bringing in new talent or expanding your business.

This article highlights the key points you need to know to smoothly integrate your workforce within Portugal’s legal framework. We will explain the difference between visas and work permits, who needs a work permit, which types of work permits might interest you and the steps to get them.

Difference between visas and a work permit

Visas and work permits intertwine but are two different things. Visas typically grant temporary entry into a country for a specific purpose, such as tourism, business, or study. They also allow for short-term employment or training. On the other hand, work permits are designed specifically for individuals working in a foreign country for an extended period. They are typically required in addition to a visa and are necessary for legal employment in a foreign country.

The requirements for obtaining a work permit vary depending on the country you are entering and the type of work you will be doing. In specific areas or fields, there’s also a need for proven experience, previous job reports, and even diploma validation. Your country of origin determines if a visa or work permit is necessary and what type of permit is required.

Who Needs a Visa and/or Work Permit to Work in Portugal?

Depending on your country of origin, different visa and work permit rules apply. The requirements for obtaining a work permit vary depending on the country you are entering and the type of work you will be doing. In specific areas or fields, there’s also a need for proven experience, previous job reports, and even diploma validation. Here’s an overview by region.

EU/EEA/Switzerland:

Citizens from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland can live and work in Portugal without a visa. However, for stays exceeding three months, they must secure a Residence Certificate (Certificado de Registo) in Portugal.

Non-EU/EEA:

For non-EU/EEA aiming to work in Portugal, obtaining a Portugal Work Visa is essential. The first step is to be eligible. If your employment is short-term (less than six months), your employer must apply for a Portuguese work permit (Autorização de Trabalho) through the Portuguese Labor Authorities. Once the work permit or job contract is approved, you can apply for a Portuguese work visa.

For those planning to work in Portugal on a long-term basis, a residence permit is necessary. The type of residence permit required will depend on the nature of your employment.

Additionally, before a non-EU citizen can be hired, job vacancies must be advertised to Portuguese and EU/EFTA citizens for at least 30 days. This means that the job vacancy for 30 days is only available to locals and EU/EFTA. After 30 days, if the position is not yet filled, the non-EU can apply for the job. The Institute for Employment and Vocational Training in Portugal (IEFP) oversees this requirement.

Schengen Area:

For candidates or employees from Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, part of the Schengen area, a Schengen visa allows them to work in Portugal without additional visas or work permits for up to 90 days. For longer stays, a residency visa is required.

Types of Visas and Work Permits for Non-EU Members

Citizens not from the EU/EEA countries and Switzerland need a visa and work permit if they want to stay in Portugal longer than 90 days. There are different types of visas and work permits; some fall into the D(1-9) category, and others are other permits. We’ve provided an overview of those that may interest you. 

Temporary Stay Visa:

With this permit, you can enter and stay in Portugal for less than a year, typically for temporary employment. It requires proof of a temporary work contract, a declaration issued by the IEFP that the actual or promised contract is for a job offer available to non-EU nationals, sufficient means of subsistence, travel insurance, and a return ticket.

Residency Visa (Long Stay Visa):

Non-EU nationals planning to work in Portugal for at least six months must obtain a long-term Portuguese work visa, also known as a residency visa. This visa is classified as a long-term Schengen Visa (type D1), which permits travel across the 26 countries within the Schengen area. Once the D1 work visa is secured, applicants must apply for a Portuguese residence permit immediately upon arrival in Portugal.

Citizens from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Israel benefit from bilateral agreements, allowing them to apply for this visa within 90 days of arriving in Portugal. However, all other non-EU nationals must apply for the visa before their trip to Portugal.

Job Seeker Visa:

This visa allows entry to look for a job in Portugal and work until the visa expires or a residence permit is granted. It is granted for 120 days, renewable for another 60 days, and allows only one entry into Portugal.

Blue Card:

This permit is for highly qualified employment. It requires a valid work contract of at least one year, meeting salary thresholds, and proof of qualifications.

Golden Visa:

Also named the D9 visa, it is a five-year residence by investment program for non-EU nationals. It allows them to live, work, and study in Portugal with minimal stay requirements, potentially leading to citizenship.

Digital Nomad Visa:

Remote work requires proof of employment, sufficient income, and tax residence documentation. This visa is valid for multiple entries and can include family members. There are two options for this visa.

Option 1: The 12-month visa. This visa is valid for up to 12 months, with an option to renew the visa for up to 6 months. 

Option 2: The 2-year digital nomad visa (residency visa). This visa is initially valid for four months and allows up to 2 entries into Portuguese territory. Visa holders can convert it into a temporary residency permit valid for up to 2 years. This permit can be renewed for three years if specific requirements are met.

How do you obtain a visa and/or work permit?

Obtaining a work visa for Portugal involves several steps, with both the employer and employee having specific responsibilities.

The first step is applying for a work permit. As the employer, you are responsible for filing for a work permit on behalf of your employee. This is the initial step in securing the necessary documentation for your employee to work in Portugal.

The second step is applying for a work visa. Once the work permit is granted, the employee can apply for a work visa. This application must be submitted at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in the employee’s home country before they travel to Portugal. Some countries have agreements with Portugal that allow workers to apply for a visa within 90 days of arriving there.

The application process typically takes 2 to 3 months. The visa issued will be valid for the entire employment duration or long enough to apply for a Portuguese residence visa. Upon arriving in Portugal, the employee must register for a social security number and a Portuguese tax number. Both can be obtained from the Portuguese Social Security Office.

Why use an employer of record to hire in Portugal?

Expanding your team in Portugal is thrilling, but navigating work permits can be challenging. The process is complex and varies by situation. This is where the Portuguese Employer of Record can assist. As specialists in facilitating companies’ international expansion into Portugal, we take all the stress and hassle out of the process, ensuring all necessary steps are handled smoothly.

We will set up payroll and benefits for your employees in Portugal and handle all the paperwork involved in hiring. Let’s get started! Reach out to us today to begin your successful business expansion into Portugal.