If you’re planning to move to Portugal and look for a job, the Job Seeker Visa is a great way to enter the country legally while you search for employment. This visa gives you up to 120 days (plus a possible extension) to live in Portugal and find a job. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, how to apply, and what happens after you arrive.
✅ What Is the Job Seeker Visa?
The Portugal Job Seeker Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who want to enter the country temporarily while looking for work. It does not allow you to start working immediately but provides the legal status needed to attend interviews, network, and apply for jobs.
🧾 Eligibility Requirements
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
- Valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay (approx. €2,280 minimum)
- Travel health insurance covering your stay in Portugal
- Flight reservation or travel plan
- No criminal record in your home country
- Accommodation proof (e.g., hotel, rental contract, or invitation letter)
📋 Required Documents
- Completed national visa application form
- Valid passport and two recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsorship)
- Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Motivation letter explaining your job search plans
🛫 How to Apply
- Schedule an appointment at the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your country.
- Gather all required documents and attend the visa interview.
- Pay the visa fee (approx. €90–€120).
- Wait for processing (usually 30–60 days).
- If approved, travel to Portugal within the visa validity period.
⏳ Visa Duration & Extensions
The initial visa allows you to stay for up to 120 days. You may request a one-time extension of 60 additional days from SEF (Portugal’s Immigration and Border Services).
If you secure a job during this time, you can apply to switch your visa to a residence permit for employment purposes.
🔄 What Happens If You Don’t Find a Job?
If you’re unable to find a job within the visa period, you must leave Portugal before your visa expires. Overstaying can affect future visa applications. However, you may reapply for the Job Seeker Visa again after one year.
📌 Practical Tips
- Start applying for jobs online before arriving in Portugal (use platforms like LinkedIn, NetEmpregos, Indeed.pt).
- Join expat groups and attend local job fairs or networking events once in Portugal.
- Improve your chances by learning some basic Portuguese—many employers favor bilingual candidates.
- Have both printed and digital copies of your CV ready in English and Portuguese.
💼 Final Thoughts
The Job Seeker Visa is a strategic option for those looking to break into the Portuguese job market without an existing work contract. With good planning, proper documentation, and persistence, it can be your gateway to a long-term career and life in Portugal.
📺 Watch a Video Guide on This Topic
Prefer a visual overview? Watch our YouTube video explaining how to apply for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa, what documents you’ll need, and insider tips to boost your chances of success.
🎬 Click here to watch and get prepared for your job-hunting journey: