Portugal work Visa: Requirements, types & application guide (2025)

Many international professionals are drawn to Portugal for its growing opportunities in technology, healthcare, tourism, and education, while also enjoying its high quality of life and cultural richness.

For non-EU citizens, including Americans, a Portugal work visa and residence permit are required to work legally in the country. Several visa options exist depending on your profile.

This article explains each pathway in detail, outlines the requirements, and provides practical insights for US citizens and other non-EU nationals who want to begin their professional journey in Portugal.

Why work in Portugal?

Portugal’s labor market has stabilized in recent years. Unemployment dropped back to pre-pandemic levels at around 6 to 7 percent. Demand for workers is particularly strong in health and social care, education, arts and entertainment, public administration, and defense. 

Shortage occupations include health professionals, metal and machinery trades, and information and communications technology specialists.

The minimum wage was set at €956.67 per month at the start of 2024 and increased to €1,015 per month by mid-2025. While wages are lower than in the United States, the cost of living is also considerably lower, which balances the comparison for many foreign workers.

Portugal’s government is also introducing reforms to attract skilled professionals. A new rule requires consulates to process certain work visa applications within 20 days, helping sectors such as technology, healthcare, agriculture, and construction where labor shortages are most evident.

Types of Portugal work visas

If you are planning to work in Portugal, there are several types of visas that suit different professional and personal situations. 

Each option has its own requirements, and choosing the right one depends on whether you already have a job offer, want to search for work after arrival, or plan to work as a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote worker. 

You can also check your options with our free Eligibility Checker, which helps you understand which visa best fits your profile.

Portugal job seeker Visa

The Job Seeker Visa allows you to enter Portugal without a job offer and remain in the country for up to 120 days while you search for employment. It can be renewed once for an additional 60 days, but it is valid for single entry only. If you secure a job during this time, you may then apply for a residence permit and continue working legally in Portugal.

This visa is particularly useful if you want the flexibility to explore opportunities on the ground and connect with employers directly. For businesses, it also creates access to a motivated pool of candidates who are actively seeking work in Portugal.

Temporary stay Visa for short-term work

This visa is designed for professionals who plan to work in Portugal for less than one year. It covers seasonal jobs or fixed project work and can be used by both employees and self-employed workers. 

You must show proof of an employment or service contract, and in some cases the visa can be extended if your work continues.

D1 residence Visa for subordinate work

The D1 visa is the main route if you already have a confirmed job offer in Portugal and intend to relocate for long-term employment. To qualify, you must present a valid employment contract with a Portuguese company that lasts for at least 12 months. You also need to show proof of sufficient income, accommodation, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

As a residence visa, the D1 is issued for four months and allows two entries into Portugal. During this period, you are expected to attend your appointment with the immigration authorities (AIMA) to apply for your residence permit. Once granted, the residence permit can be renewed, giving you the right to continue living and working in Portugal.

D2 residence Visa for entrepreneurs and independent workers

The D2 visa is a residence visa designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and professionals who want to establish an independent activity in Portugal or provide services to Portuguese companies. It is often used by startup founders, consultants, and remote professionals seeking to build a business presence in the country.

Applicants must demonstrate the financial viability of their business or freelance activity, provide proof of sufficient income to support themselves, and show a clear plan for how their work will contribute to the Portuguese economy. 

The visa also covers service providers in liberal professions, which in EU terms are activities that require specific professional qualifications, a high degree of intellectual skill, and are typically subject to strict professional standards and regulation.

D8 Visa for remote workers

The D8 visa, often called the Digital Nomad Visa, is a long-stay residence visa created for non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens who earn their income from abroad. It is aimed at remote employees, freelancers with international clients, and entrepreneurs running online or location-independent businesses.

To qualify, you must prove a monthly income of at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage, have valid health insurance, provide proof of accommodation, and present a clean criminal record. You will also need a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF) and a local bank account. 

The D8 is ideal for remote professionals who want to live in Portugal while working for foreign clients or companies, with the added benefit of residency rights, access to healthcare, Schengen travel, and a pathway to citizenship after five years.

Touchdown understands how relocation processes can quickly become overwhelming. Our D8 Visa Package is designed to simplify every step, covering visas, taxes, and banking so you can focus on building your new life in Portugal.

Intra-corporate transferee (ICT) Visa

The ICT visa is designed for employees of multinational companies who are transferred from a branch outside the EU to a subsidiary or affiliate in Portugal. It applies to managers, specialists, and trainees, allowing companies to relocate staff who already understand their operations, culture, and systems. 

This allows effective knowledge transfer and continuity when expanding or managing projects in Portugal. Senior staff and specialists can stay for up to three years, while trainees may remain for up to one year.

Non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss citizens are eligible to apply, provided they are already employed by the multinational company for at least six months (or 12 months in some cases depending on nationality). 

Applicants must also present a transfer agreement, proof of prior employment, and meet the standard requirements of health insurance, accommodation, and sufficient financial means.

Tech Visa

The Tech Visa is part of Portugal’s strategy to strengthen its position as a leading European hub for innovation and technology. It is aimed at highly qualified professionals from outside the EU who want to work in Portuguese companies certified as operating in the fields of technology and innovation.

The Tech Visa is great for professionals in areas such as software development, data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. To qualify, you need an employment contract with one of the certified companies and must also meet the general requirements of accommodation, health insurance, and proof of qualifications. 

The program not only opens opportunities for skilled workers to build their careers in Portugal but also helps local companies bring in global expertise to support growth and competitiveness.

EU blue card

The EU Blue Card is a residence permit designed for highly qualified non-EU nationals who want to work and live in Portugal. It is aimed at professionals with advanced skills or higher education who have a confirmed job offer in the country.

With an EU Blue Card, you gain favorable work conditions,. It can also offer mobility within EU member states, making it an attractive option if you want to establish your career in Portugal while keeping the door open to opportunities across Europe.

Portugal work Visa requirements

While the exact paperwork may vary depending on the type of visa you apply for, most Portugal work visa applications require the same core set of documents. 

Below are the standard requirements:

• A valid passport with at least three months of validity beyond your intended stay.

• Passport-size photos meeting Portuguese visa standards.

• Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay.

• Criminal record certificate from your country of residence. If you've lived elsewhere for over 12 months, you must also provide records from that country.

• A declaration authorizing AIMA (formerly SEF) to access your Portuguese criminal records.

• Health insurance coverage valid in Portugal for the duration of your stay.

• Documentation confirming your accommodation in Portugal, such as a rental agreement, invitation letter, or hotel reservation.

• Your employment contract or job offer letter, depending on the visa category.

• If applying from a country that is not your nationality: proof of legal stay in that country, such as a valid visa or residence permit.

Additional requirements for Portugal work visa for US citizens:

• An FBI background check (not state-level), apostilled by the U.S. Department of State.

• Birth or marriage certificates with an apostille from the issuing state, translated into Portuguese if not already.

• Bank statements from U.S. financial institutions as proof of funds.

How to get a work Visa in Portugal?

If you’ve received a job offer in Portugal, the next step is to go through the work visa process. This involves three main stages: first your employer applies for permission to hire you, then you apply for a work visa at the Portuguese embassy, and finally you apply for a residence permit once you arrive in Portugal.

1. You apply for the work Visa at the embassy

You will apply for your work visa at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country of residence. The process involves:

• Identifying and contacting the nearest Portuguese diplomatic mission

• Booking a visa application appointment

• Submitting the required documents (passport, photos, work permit approval, proof of funds, insurance, etc.)

• Possibly attending a short interview

If everything is in order, you will be granted a residence visa valid for a certain period, which serves as your entry document to Portugal and allows you to begin the residence permit process.

2. Apply for a residence permit in Portugal

Once in Portugal, you must apply for a residence permit for work within the visa’s validity period. 

Here’s what’s involved:

• Scheduling an appointment with AIMA through their official online portal

• Submitting documents like passport, visa, work permit approval, housing, health insurance, and proof of finances

• Completing biometric data collection

After approval, you receive a residence permit that enables you to live and work in Portugal for a longer term. You’ll also need to register for social security and obtain a tax identification number (NIF). Over time, you can renew your permit and become eligible for permanent residency.

Many expats prefer professional support during this stage to avoid delays or errors. Consult with Touchdown's expert immigration lawyers who guide you through each step, help coordinate appointments, prepare documents, and ensure all requirements are met.

Portugal Work Visa Processing Time

• Work Visa at the embassy: Usually 2 to 3 months, though a new rule introduced in April 2025 requires consulates to decide on complete applications within 20 days in certain priority sectors. The visa is valid for four months.

• Residence permit in Portugal: Up to 90 working days.

Portugal work Visa fees

When applying for a Portugal work visa, you should plan for several fees throughout the process.

• Work Visa at the embassy: The entry visa issued by the Portuguese embassy or consulate costs around €90. This amount can vary depending on where you apply.

• Residence permit application: Once in Portugal, you must apply for a residence permit for work through AIMA (formerly SEF). The application fee is about €83.

• Residence permit issuance: After approval, there is an issuance fee of roughly €72, bringing the total for the permit to about €162.

Note: Fees may vary depending on location or exchange rates, and some VFS Global centers may also charge a small additional service fee.

A residence permit is generally valid for one to two years, and it can be renewed as long as you maintain a valid job contract. Each renewal also requires paying the same application and issuance fees.

After five years of legal residence, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship, which involves a separate application and fee.

How Touchdown supports your Portugal work Visa journey

At Touchdown, our mission is to make your move to Portugal simple and stress free. As the country’s leading relocation platform, we combine expert legal guidance with smart technology to give you clarity and confidence throughout the visa process.

Every move is unique. You may be relocating for a new job, starting a business, or moving with your family. Our free Eligibility Checker helps you understand which visa is right for you, and our legal team provides full support from preparing documents to securing your residence permit once you arrive.

With Touchdown, you can manage everything in one place: visa applications, NIF and banking setup, accommodation support, and tax planning.

Begin your professional journey in Portugal. Use our Eligibility Checker or book a 1:1 consultation with our team to get started.

Portugal work Visa FAQs

Can Americans work in Portugal?

Yes, Americans can work in Portugal, but you must hold the appropriate visa and residence permit. This means entering visa-free for 90 days only covers tourism or business visits. You cannot legally work without a work visa such as the D1, D2, D8, or Job Seeker Visa.

How can a foreigner get a job in Portugal?

Foreigners can apply for jobs in Portugal through official job portals like IEFP (the public employment service) and EURES, as well as private platforms such as NetEmpregos and JobsinLisbon. Having a job offer is often a requirement for a work visa. 

How much money is required for a Portugal work visa?

The financial requirement depends on the type of visa. For most work visas, you must show sufficient funds to support yourself, usually at least the equivalent of the Portuguese minimum wage (€1,015 per month in 2025). The Job Seeker Visa specifically requires proof of funds equal to three times the minimum wage. You should also plan for application fees and housing costs.

Is it hard for an American to get a job in Portugal?

It depends on your profession and language skills. Americans with experience in healthcare, IT, engineering, or tourism may find opportunities more accessible, as these are shortage areas. However, competition can be strong, especially if you do not speak Portuguese. Networking and applying through official channels can improve your chances.

Can you work in Portugal on a D7 visa?

The D7 visa is primarily for non-EU citizens with passive income (pensions, dividends, rental income). While it does not grant work rights on its own, once you receive your residence permit in Portugal, you are legally allowed to work. Many D7 holders use it to settle in Portugal first, then take on employment or freelance opportunities.