Portugal Job Seeker Visa

Portugal is a beautiful country in Europe, located next to Spain. It has a lot of history, amazing landscapes, and a lively culture. You can stroll through the charming streets of Lisbon or relax on the sunny beaches of the Algarve. The weather is usually warm, and the food is delicious. People are friendly and welcoming to visitors and those who want to live there. Portugal has different kinds of jobs in areas like tourism, technology, and farming, so there are many opportunities for work and fun. You can visit famous places like the Tower of Belém and try tasty Portuguese dishes. Portugal is a great place to explore and enjoy!

What is a Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

The Portugal Job Seeker Visa is tailored for talented professionals seeking career opportunities in Portugal. It differs from standard work visas as it allows entry solely for job search purposes. Initially valid for 120 days, with an option for a 60-day extension, it permits a single entry into Portugal. Applicants must meet general eligibility requirements and provide required documents to the Portuguese embassy for application. This visa provides a pathway for individuals to explore the Portuguese job market and potentially secure employment in their desired field.

Do you need a Job offer for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

No, a job offer letter is not required for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for this Visa an applicant must be:

•       You must be a non-EU national.
•         You must have a valid passport.
•         You must have a clean criminal record.
•         You must have a Bachelor’s degree.
•         You must have a sufficient amount so that you can support yourself in Portugal during Job seeking.
•         You must have health insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay in Portugal.

Documents Required for Job Seeker Visa

• Visa application form
• A valid passport
• Two recent passport-sized photos
• Criminal record check by the relevant Immigration and Border Services
• Criminal record certificate issued by the relevant authority where the applicant has stayed for the last year.
• Valid travel insurance
• Return flight ticket
• Proof of means of subsistence equivalent to three minimum monthly salaries
• Proof of accommodation for the whole minimum stay
• SOP (statement of purpose). A declaration with an indication of the conditions for the estimated stay, describing the plan of activities in Portugal, including where the applicant will stay and apply for jobs.
• Attested educational/technical/academic qualification documents.
• CV/resume
• IEFP registration: Declaration of expressions of interest.

How to Apply for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

To apply for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa, follow these steps:

1. Check Requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the visa.
2. Visit the Portuguese Embassy Website: Access the website of the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country for detailed information on the application process. You can also contact them directly via email or phone for guidance.
3. Application Handling by VFS Global: In many countries, VFS Global manages Portugal visa applications.

    – Locate the nearest Portuguese embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.

    – Go to the VFS Global website, select your home country and “Portugal” as the destination country.

    – Choose the visa type—select “Job Seeker Visa.”

    – You will be directed to a page that provides all the necessary details, including requirements, required documents, visa fees, and application forms.

Cost of the Job Seeker Visa Portugal

• €80 for your entry visa application at the Consulate in your home country
• €170 to submit and receive your resident permit from the SEF in Portugal

Processing Time Required

There is no specific duration for the Portuguese authorities to process and make a decision on your application. The time is dependent on where you applied and the workload of the application Centre at that time.

Typically, it takes anywhere from 30 to 90 days to get a decision on your application.

Please note that the Portugal Embassy has no influence on this process. The applicant is obliged to provide all information to the best of his/her knowledge and belief. If he/she knowingly furnishes false or incomplete information and/or provides false or falsified documents, the visa application will be refused.

What happens if I cannot find a job with a job seeker visa?

If you cannot find a job with the job seeker visa, you can extend it for an additional 60 days then after that, you must leave the country and can reapply for the job seeker visa after one year. Alternatively, some individuals may choose to register with SEF to extend their stay in Portugal.

Can I change my job seeker visa into a work visa?

Yes, if you are successful in finding employment, you can change your job seeker visa into a work visa and obtain a residence permit in Portugal.

Summary

In summary, the Portugal Job Seeker Visa stands as a remarkable opportunity for non-EU individuals to tap into Portugal’s job market. This visa provides the chance to actively explore job opportunities, attend interviews, and build connections with potential employers.

By attracting skilled professionals, this visa not only benefits individuals but also contributes to Portugal’s economic growth. Successful job seekers can seamlessly transition to a work visa, aligning with Portugal’s goal of inviting and retaining international talent. This process not only streamlines immigration but also facilitates mutual growth and development, fostering a brighter future for both the individual and the country.