If you’re seeking employment in Portugal, you may be eligible for a job seeker visa. This type of visa allows you to enter Portugal for a period of up to 120 days, which can be extended by another 60 days, with the purpose of searching for a job. The visa enables you to work in a dependent capacity while in Portugal, but only until the expiration of the visa or until you receive a residence authorization.
To be eligible for a job seeker visa, you must meet the requirements outlined in Article 57.º-A of Law n.º 23/2007, of July 4th. You’ll need to provide several documents, including a passport that’s valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from Portugal, a recent passport-sized photo, a cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit, proof of financial support, and a return ticket or proof of sufficient funds to purchase one.
Once you receive the job seeker visa, you’ll be required to schedule an appointment with the appropriate authorities to apply for a residence authorization within the 120-day timeframe. If you are able to secure employment within that period and meet the general conditions for a temporary residence authorization outlined in Article 77 of Portuguese law, you can apply for a residence authorization.
Please note that if you do not secure employment within the 120-day timeframe, you must leave the country and cannot apply for another job seeker visa until one year after the expiration of the previous visa. If you do secure employment within the 120-day timeframe, the rules applicable to temporary stay visas apply to you.
In addition to the requirements mentioned above, it’s important to note that in order to apply for a job seeker visa in Portugal, you must first submit an “Expression of Intent” to the Portuguese Employment and Career Service (IEFP). This expression of intent is an official declaration that you intend to search for employment in Portugal, and it can be submitted through the IEFP’s online platform.
The purpose of the expression of intent is to provide the Portuguese authorities with an overview of the job market and the type of jobs you’re interested in, as well as your qualifications, skills, and experience. This information helps the authorities determine if there is a demand for your type of work in Portugal, and if they believe you’ll be able to find employment there.
After submitting the expression of intent, you’ll receive a response from the IEFP indicating whether you’re eligible to apply for a job seeker visa. If your expression of intent is approved, you can proceed to apply for the visa at the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your home country.
I hope this information is helpful in your job search in Portugal. Good luck!
