Why Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

Looking to build your career in Europe? The Portugal Job Seeker Visa in 2025 offers a unique opportunity for skilled professionals to enter Portugal without a job offer and actively search for employment. With a growing economy, a high quality of life, and increasing demand in sectors like IT, healthcare, tourism, and construction, Portugal continues to be one of the most attractive European destinations for global talent.

This visa is ideal for non-EU nationals who want to explore job opportunities on the ground and convert their visa into a work permit once they secure a job.

 

Portugal Job Seeker Visa: 2025 Key Highlights:

• No job offer required to apply
• Valid for up to 180 days (with extension)
• High demand in 2025 across IT, tourism, healthcare & trades
• Ranked among the top 10 countries for expat quality of life
• Clear pathway to permanent residency and EU citizenship
• Ideal for professionals seeking jobs in Europe from the UAE or other non-EU countries

 

What is the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

Launched in 2022, the Portugal Job Seeker Visa allows foreign nationals to enter Portugal and stay for up to 180 days (120 days + a 60-day extension) while looking for a job. Unlike traditional work visas, you don’t need a job offer to apply.

Once employed, you can easily switch to a work residence permit without leaving the country. Over time, this path can lead to permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship, giving you access to live and work across the European Union.

*Want guidance to apply for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.

 

Benefits of settling in Portugal

The country of Portugal provides its residents with friendly people alongside low living costs and high safety standards. Skilled professionals and families see Portugal as one of their top choices for relocation. The benefits which Portugal provides include:

• Affordable living expenses
• Excellent public healthcare and education
• Access to the Schengen Zone for travel
• High demand for English-speaking professionals
• Welcoming immigration policies for non-EU nationals

 

*Want to work in Portugal in 2025? Y-Axis helps you every step of the way – from eligibility checks to documentation and embassy support. Book your free consultation today.

 

Living in Portugal allows you to enjoy a tranquil existence while starting a solid career base in Europe.
 

*Want assistance with Portugal immigration? Y-Axis is here to offer support with the process.
 

How long is the Portugal Job Seeker Visa valid in 2025?

Portugal Job Seeker Visa validity lasts for 120 days initially, which applicants can extend by 60 days to reach a total of 180 days to secure employment. The duration of this grant allows you to remain in Portugal legally while you attend job interviews. After getting hired you can obtain a work residence permit without exiting the country.
 

Visa extension The initial visa period of 120 days allows you to request a single 60-day extension if you cannot find a job. Your stay must follow legal residency requirements and you need to provide evidence of your ongoing job search. The extension application needs to be filed before the original visa term ends to prevent legal problems.
 

Who is eligible for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

The Portugal Job Seeker Visa requires the following criteria from its applicants:
 

• Non-EU/EEA/Swiss national
• Aging at 18 or above
• No history of criminal activities
• The applicant must provide documentation showing the possession of at least €2,280 to support themselves for 120 days.
• A passport which is valid for 6 months
• You must be willing to live and look for work in Portugal

Meeting these basic criteria improves your chance of visa approval.
 

What documents are required for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

To apply for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa, you’ll need to prepare two sets of documents - general and specific:

General Documents:

All visa application candidates need to submit the following general documents:

• Your current passport
• The complete visa application form
• Two photographs which are the same size as your passport
• Your travel insurance policy which will cover the entire visit
• You need to provide a criminal clearance certificate from UAE
• The proof required for financial stability includes either a bank statement or sponsor letter
• Your documents must be in Portuguese or officially translated.
   

Specific documents

The general document list needs to be supplemented with the following specific items:
 

• A written declaration which indicates your intention to look for work in Portugal
• You need to show proof of where you will stay in Portugal through a hotel booking or rental agreement
• SEF requires a consent document which allows them to view your criminal record in Portugal
• NIF (Portuguese tax ID) – optional but recommended for job applications
   

You should submit official documents which demonstrate your qualifications by including your degrees or diplomas. Documents must be recent and checkable to prevent any rejections.
 

*Looking for guidance with Portugal Job Seeker Visa? Sign up with Y-Axis for comprehensive support with the process.
 

Portugal Job Seeker Visa Cost

The Portugal Job Seeker Visa fee is around €90 (approx. AED 355). Additional costs may apply for:

• Translation & attestation
• Courier or postal services
• Visa application centre charges (VFS or embassy, depending on location)

It's best to confirm the total fee with your nearest Portuguese consulate or VFS centre before applying.

 

Processing Time

The duration for visa processing takes between 30 and 60 days, with the exact time determined by the embassy's workload and the completeness of submitted documents. People from the UAE should start applying at least 8 weeks before their planned travel date. The preparation process should start early because background checks and incomplete submissions can lead to delays.
 

Steps by step guide to Portugal Job Seeker Visa

The detailed procedure to apply for Portugal Job Seeker Visa is given below.
 

Step 1: Make sure you meet the requirements and collect your documents.

Step 2: Schedule an appointment with the Portuguese Embassy or VFS in the UAE.

Step 3: Complete the application process by submitting all necessary documents and paying the visa fee.

Step 4: Go for your biometric appointment to provide any needed additional documentation.

Step 5: You will need to wait for your application to be processed between 30 and 60 days.

Step 6: Use the obtained visa to travel to Portugal.

Step 7: Conduct your job search while attending interviews.

Step 8: After obtaining employment, you should convert your visa into a work residence permit.
 

Can I get Permanent Residency in Portugal after a Job Seeker Visa?

Yes, you can get permanent residency after working and living in Portugal for five consecutive years. You’ll need to meet the following criteria:

• Proof of stable income and legal accommodation
• No criminal record
• Basic Portuguese language skills
• Proof of integration (like paying taxes, social security, etc.)

After holding permanent residency, you can later apply for Portuguese citizenship, which grants full EU rights, including visa-free travel and the right to work across Europe.

 

After obtaining permanent residency status in Portugal, individuals can apply for Portuguese citizenship which gives them access to European Union rights such as freedom of movement and employment throughout the continent.
 

How can Y-Axis help you?

At Y-Axis, we bring over 25 years of global immigration expertise to guide you through every step of your Portugal Job Seeker Visa process. As a trusted name in the UAE, we’re here to make your journey smoother and stress-free. 

• Expert guidance to apply for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa
• Personalized profile evaluation and visa eligibility check
• Get assistance with document preparation and attestation
• Expert support for booking VFS or Embassy appointments
• End-to-end guidance through the visa application process
• Help with travel insurance, cover letter, and financial proof
• Stay informed with updates on visa rules and extensions
• Get job search tips and relocation advice from experts
• Access to resume writing and career coaching services