Lisbon

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Work Permits and Visas

Sections

Work Permits and Visas in Lisbon, Portugal

Types of Work Permits and Visas

  1. EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

    • No work permit required.
    • Can reside and work freely in Portugal.

  2. Non-EU Citizens

    • Temporary Work Visa (Visto de Trabalho Temporário)
    • Residence Visa for Work (Visto de Residência para Trabalho)
    • Highly Qualified Activity Visa (Visto para Atividade de Elevada Qualificação)

Eligibility Criteria

  • Temporary Work Visa

    • Job offer from a Portuguese employer.
    • Employment contract for a specific period.

  • Residence Visa for Work

    • Job offer from a Portuguese employer.
    • Employment contract for a minimum of one year.

  • Highly Qualified Activity Visa

    • Employment in a highly skilled position (e.g., IT, engineering).
    • Minimum salary requirement (1.5 times the national average).

Application Procedures

  1. Obtain a Job Offer

    • Secure a job offer from a Portuguese employer.

  2. Gather Required Documents

    • Valid passport.
    • Job contract.
    • Proof of qualifications (degrees, diplomas).
    • Criminal record certificate.
    • Health insurance proof.
    • Passport-sized photos.

  3. Submit Application

    • Apply at the nearest Portuguese consulate or embassy in your home country.
    • For residence visa, apply at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) upon arrival.

Required Documents

  • Completed visa application form.
  • Valid passport (with at least six months validity).
  • Employment contract.
  • Proof of qualifications.
  • Criminal record certificate from your home country.
  • Health insurance documentation.
  • Two passport-sized photos.

Associated Costs

  • Visa Application Fee: Approximately €90-€150, depending on the visa type.
  • SEF Appointment Fee: Around €50 for residence permits.
  • Translation and Notarization: Costs vary based on document requirements.

Processing Times

  • Temporary Work Visa: 1-3 months.
  • Residence Visa for Work: 1-3 months.
  • Highly Qualified Activity Visa: 1-3 months.

Local Considerations

  • SEF Appointments: Schedule an appointment online as soon as you arrive in Portugal to avoid long waiting times.
  • Language: Knowledge of Portuguese can be beneficial for job applications and interactions with local authorities.
  • Networking: Utilize local job boards, LinkedIn, and expat groups to find job opportunities.
  • Tax Identification Number (NIF): Obtain an NIF from the local tax office, necessary for employment and opening a bank account.

Resources

This structured guide provides essential information for navigating work permits and visas in Lisbon, Portugal. Ensure to stay updated on any changes in immigration policies or procedures.