Portugal has introduced a Skilled Job Seeker Visa, a forward-thinking initiative aimed at attracting qualified professionals from around the world. This new visa replaces the previous work-seeking visa, marking a major shift in the country’s immigration and labour policies.
A Strategic Update to Portugal’s Immigration Policy
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this change was enacted through Law No. 61/2025, published on October 22 in the Official Gazette. The reform aligns Portugal’s immigration processes with its labour market needs, giving preference to applicants with specialised skills and professional qualifications.
The visa will officially become available once regulations under the newly approved Foreigners Law are finalised. Meanwhile, work-seeking visa services at Portuguese consulates and partner centres are temporarily suspended until detailed application guidelines are released.
Once available, the information about Skilled Job Seeker Visa can be accessed on the official website of the ministry of foreign affairs here.
Purpose and Basic Eligibility
Portugal’s Skilled Job Seeker Visa is designed for citizens outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland who wish to look for qualified employment opportunities within Portugal. Applicants must demonstrate genuine intent to work in a role that matches their academic or professional background.
Key Requirements Include:
- Proof of higher education or professional certification suitable for highly skilled or technical positions.
- Evidence of sufficient financial means for the duration of stay.
- Valid health insurance covering medical and repatriation expenses.
- A clean criminal record and compliance with general visa requirements under Portuguese immigration law.
The list of professions considered “highly qualified” will be defined by upcoming government regulations, expected to align with the EU Blue Card framework and Portugal’s National Qualifications Catalogue.
Application Process and Duration
Applicants must submit their visa request through the Portuguese consulate in their country of residence. Before applying, candidates must also register an Expression of Intent with IEFP — Portugal’s Employment and Vocational Training Institute — confirming their plan to seek qualified employment.
Once all documents are submitted, consular authorities generally process applications within 60 days. If approved, the visa is issued for 120 days, allowing entry into Portugal and an appointment with AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) to start the residence regularisation process.
Skilled Job Seeker Visa to Residence Permit Conversion
During the 120-day validity period, visa holders can stay in Portugal and actively search for suitable employment. If they secure a job aligned with their qualifications, they can apply for a Residence Permit for Highly Qualified Activity under Article 77 of Law No. 23/2007.
This stage requires proof of:
- A valid job offer or employment contract.
- Adequate income and accommodation.
- Fulfilment of tax and social security obligations.
The visa may be extended by an additional 60 days under justified circumstances. However, if no employment is found and no residence application has begun by the end of this period, the visa expires, and the applicant must leave Portugal. A new application can only be made one year later.
Why This Visa Matters
The introduction of Portugal’s Skilled Job Seeker Visa represents a modern, flexible pathway into the country’s professional market. Previously, foreign professionals needed a job offer before arriving — a limitation that often hindered mobility. The new policy reverses that approach, allowing skilled individuals to enter Portugal first, explore opportunities, and connect directly with employers.
For Portuguese businesses, this creates easier access to international talent, particularly in sectors facing skill shortages. For applicants, it provides a structured and transparent route to establish a professional future in one of Europe’s most dynamic economies.