The job seeker visa entitles its holder to enter and remain only in Portugal for the purpose of looking for job; authorizes him/her to carry out a subordinated work activity, until the visa expires or until the residence permit is granted.

This visa is granted for a period of 120 days, renewable for another 60 days and allows only one entry into Portugal. The issuance of this visa supposes the attribution of a date of scheduling in the competent services, within the period of validity of 120 days of the visa, and it allows the applicant, after the formalization of the employment contract throughout that period, the right to apply for a residence permit. To do so, you must fulfil the general conditions for granting a temporary residence permit, under the terms of article 77 of the Law.

Once the maximum validity limit of the visa for looking for work has expired, without an employment relationship having been established nor the process of requesting the granting of a residence permit having begun, the visa holder must leave the country. In these situations, you can only re-apply for a new visa application for this purpose, one year after the expiry of the previous visa’s validity.

The request for a visa extension by a job seeker visa holder must be accompanied by proof of registration with the IEFP, I.P., and a declaration by the applicant indicating that the conditions of the planned stay are maintained, which will be assessed considering the reasons that justified its issuance.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Nationality: You must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
• Purpose: The visa is intended for individuals who wish to come to Portugal to search for employment.

Application Documents:

• Completed Application Form: You need to fill out the visa application form accurately.
• Passport: A valid passport with at least two blank pages and validity extending beyond your planned stay.
• Passport Photos: Recent passport-sized photos that meet the specifications.
• Proof of Financial Means: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. This can be bank statements, proof of income, or a sponsorship letter.
• Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Portugal for the duration of your stay.
• Accommodation Proof: Documentation showing where you will be staying during your time in Portugal, such as a rental agreement or hotel booking.
• Travel Itinerary: Details of your travel plans, including flight reservations and intended entry and exit dates.

Additional Requirements:

• Educational and Professional Qualifications: Copies of your academic and professional qualifications might be required to demonstrate your suitability for the job market.
• Cover Letter: A cover letter explaining your intention to search for work in Portugal.
• Visa Fee: Payment of the visa application fee.

Application Process:

• Submit Application: You generally need to submit your application at the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your home country or country of residence.
• Interview: You may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.

Additional Notes:

• Visa Duration: Job seeker visas is granted for a period of 120 days, renewable for another 60 days and allows only one entry into Portugal. Visa is meant to allow you to enter Portugal to look for employment.
• Work Permit: If you find a job, you will need to apply for a work permit or a residence permit for employment purposes.