Portugal Job Seeker Visa 2024 full process
The Portuguese government recently introduced the Portugal Job Seeker Visa, offering a unique opportunity for individuals aspiring to work there. Unlike conventional visas, this program eliminates the need for a prior job offer. Successful applicants worldwide can obtain the Portugal Job Seeker Visa, allowing them to visit Portugal and actively pursue employment opportunities. This visa provides the flexibility to explore various career prospects firsthand and engage with the job market in Portugal. It serves as a valuable avenue for international candidates to immerse themselves in the local job-seeking process and potentially secure employment during their stay.
The Portugal Job Seeker Visa permits a 120-day stay for applicants. Subsequently, it can be extended for an additional 60 days, allowing for a single entry into Portugal. To apply for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa, applicants must meet general eligibility criteria and submit the required documents to the Portuguese embassy. Below is an outline of the application process for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa.
Information Regarding the Portugal Job Seeker Visa
Work permit Country: Portugal
Type of visa: Job Seeker Visa
Who can Apply: Anyone
Validity: 120 Days and then renewable for 60 days
Is a Job Offer Required for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?
No, obtaining a job offer is not a prerequisite for applying for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa. This temporary visa grants entry to Portugal without the need for a pre-existing job offer, allowing individuals to actively search for employment within 120 days.
Should you secure employment during this duration, you can proceed to apply for a residence permit. However, if job search efforts prove unsuccessful, visa holders are required to leave the country.
Portugal Job Seeker Visa price
Check out the official website
Documents Required for Job Seeker Visa
To apply for the Job Seeker Visa, you need to submit the following essential documents to the Portuguese embassy, along with the application fee:
- Fully completed and signed National Visa application by the applicant.
- A passport with a validity of at least 3 months.
- Two recent, identical, and passport-sized photos in good condition.
- Request for a criminal record inquiry by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF) (Not applicable to minors under sixteen).
- Criminal record certificate issued by the applicant’s nationality or the country of residence.
- Valid travel insurance covering necessary medical expenses.
- Copy of the return ticket.
- Proof of financial resources equivalent to at least three guaranteed monthly minimum salaries.
Processing Time and Document Procurement
The application decision process may take up to 45 days, and the processing duration varies across different countries.
Where to Obtain Necessary Documents:
- National Visa Application: The National Visa application form is accessible on the official Portuguese website.
- Passport: Ensure you possess a valid passport or obtain a new one.
- Request for Criminal Record: This can be obtained through the Portuguese official website.
- Criminal Record Certificate: Obtain this clearance certificate from your country.
- Travel Insurance: Acquire travel insurance, inclusive of medical coverage for Portugal, through a travel agent.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for this visa, an applicant must:
- Be a non-EU national.
- Hold a valid passport.
- Possess a clean criminal record.
- Demonstrate sufficient funds to support oneself during the job-seeking period in Portugal.
- Have health insurance covering the entire stay in Portugal.
Applicants Eligible for Job Seeker Visa:
This visa is open to all non-European individuals seeking employment opportunities in Portugal and does not necessitate a pre-existing employment offer.
How to Apply for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?
If you fulfil all the stipulated requirements, you can initiate the application process for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa through the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Follow these steps:
Visit the Portuguese Embassy website of your home country to gather comprehensive information. Alternatively, you can contact the Portuguese embassy via email or phone to inquire about the Portugal Job Seeker Visa application process.
In many countries, VFS Global manages Portugal visa applications. Locate the most convenient Portuguese embassy, consulate, or visa application facility, often handled by VFS Global.
On the VFS Global website:
a. Select your country and the destination country (Portugal).
b. Choose the visa type, which, in this case, is “Job Seeker.”
c. Access a dedicated page containing information on requirements, necessary documents, visa fees, and application forms for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa.
How to Enter Portugal Without a Job:
Upon receiving the Job Seeker Visa for Portugal, you can enter the country to commence your job search. Once employment is secured, you can proceed to apply for a residence permit from within Portugal.
Official Website for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa:
For detailed information and the application process, visit the official website dedicated to the Portugal Job Seeker Visa.
Advantages of the Portugal Job Seeker Visa:
- No requirement for a Job offer before entering Portugal.
- Direct application for the visa from your home country.
- Exploration of job opportunities in the Portuguese job market.
- Low cost associated with obtaining the visa.
- Disadvantages of the Portuguese Job Seeker Visa:
- Mandatory departure from Portugal if a job is not secured within 120 days.
- Obligation to provide a return ticket as evidence of planned departure if employment is not obtained.
- The incurrence of visa fees.
- Additional financial responsibility for covering various expenses.
Job listing website in Portugal to find Job seeker visa 2024
Several job listing websites are commonly used in Portugal to search for employment opportunities. However, keep in mind that the popularity and effectiveness of these platforms may change over time. Here are some job listing websites in Portugal:
- NetEmprego: Official job portal of the Portuguese government.
- Website: NetEmprego
- Expresso Emprego:
- Website: Expresso Emprego
- Indeed Portugal:
- Website: Indeed Portugal
- Sapo Emprego:
- Website: Sapo Emprego
- Carga de Trabalhos:
- Website: Carga de Trabalhos
- Alerta Emprego:
- Website: Alerta Emprego
- Empregos Online:
- Website: Empregos Online
- Trabalhar:
- Website: Trabalhar
When job searching, it’s also beneficial to explore industry-specific websites, company career pages, and professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Remember to check the latest reviews and updates about these websites for the most current information on job listings in Portugal.
Salary package in Portugal
The salary package in Portugal can vary significantly depending on factors such as the industry, job role, level of experience, and location. Here are some general insights into salary ranges in Portugal:
- Minimum Wage: The minimum wage in Portugal is reviewed annually. As of 2024, it was set at €750 per month for a full-time job.
- Average Salary: The average gross salary in Portugal varies, but it’s typically higher than the minimum wage. In major cities and certain industries, the average gross salary for professionals with a few years of experience can range from €1,000 to €2,500 per month.
- Highly Skilled Professions: Professionals in highly skilled fields such as IT, finance, and engineering may earn higher salaries, with some experienced professionals earning salaries well above the national average.
- Cost of Living: It’s essential to consider the cost of living in Portugal, especially in major cities like Lisbon and Porto, which may have higher living expenses compared to rural areas.
- Benefits: Salary packages may include additional benefits such as health insurance, transportation allowances, and bonuses, depending on the employer and industry.
Conclusion
The Portugal Job Seeker Visa offers notable advantages, including the flexibility to enter the country without a prior job offer and the opportunity to explore the Portuguese job market. The straightforward application process, allowing candidates to apply directly from their home country, and the relatively low visa cost further enhance its appeal.
However, it comes with certain drawbacks. The mandatory departure requirement if a job is not secured within 120 days, the necessity to book a return ticket as proof of planned departure, and the financial obligations associated with visa fees and other expenses should be considered.
Prospective applicants should carefully weigh these factors to determine if the Portugal Job Seeker Visa aligns with their goals and circumstances. As with any immigration process, staying informed and adhering to the visa requirements is crucial for a successful and positive experience.