Work Permits and Visas in Portugal: A Guide for Employers

Work visas in Portugal include the Short-term Work Visa, Tech Visa and Digital Nomad Visa. Learn the differences and requirements for employers, and how you can support employees in the process of obtaining a visa.

Work Permits & Visas

Milani Notshe

November 13, 2024

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Key Takeaways

Whether you’re hiring locally in Portugal or relocating foreign talent, it’s essential to make sure any new hire has the required work visa or permit to legally work for you. The Portuguese professional landscape has become popular, making its work permit increasingly in demand over the past few years: in the first eight months of 2024, Portugal issued 9,262 work visas, marking a 15% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Navigating Portuguese work permits and visas can get complex, but it doesn’t have to be. Playroll is an EOR provider that does the groundwork for you when it comes to staying compliant with local employment laws and ensuring a smooth international hiring process, with additional visa support services in Portugal.

This guide addresses the key requirements, processes, and responsibilities for employers to ensure compliance when your new hire requires a work visa in Portugal.

Who Needs A Work Permit Or Visa in Portugal?

In Portugal, non-EU/EEA nationals generally require a Portugal work permit or visa to legally work and reside in the country. This requirement applies to most foreign employees, with exceptions for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens who do not need a work permit due to freedom of movement within the European Union. For non-EU/EEA nationals, specific permits are necessary depending on the type of employment.

Employers are responsible for verifying that all foreign employees possess the correct work authorization and hold a valid Portugal work permit. Unauthorized employment can lead to fines and restrictions for both the company and the employee.

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What Are The Types of Work Permits and Visas in Portugal?

There are a variety of work permits and visas that foreign nationals can apply for when seeking work in Portugal. Each of these is tailored to specific employment needs and has unique eligibility criteria, application steps, and duration limitations:

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Visa Type	Description
Short-Term Work Visa	Suitable for temporary work assignments lasting up to 90 days. Ideal for short projects, seasonal work, or short-term contracts.
Temporary Residence Permit for Work	Designed for those who plan to stay and work in Portugal for more than 90 days. This visa requires a valid employment contract with a Portuguese employer and can be renewed as needed. Commonly used for employees hired on a long-term or permanent basis.
Highly Qualified Activity (Tech Visa)	Intended for skilled professionals, especially in fields like tech, engineering, and sciences. Applicants must have a job offer from a certified employer in Portugal and meet qualification criteria.
EU Blue Card	Aimed at highly qualified non-EU/EEA professionals with specialized skills, typically in fields such as IT, engineering, or healthcare. Requires a high level of education or professional experience and a Portuguese employment contract with a salary above a certain threshold.
Digital Nomad Visa	Allows remote workers to reside and work from Portugal for an extended period without needing a traditional work contract in Portugal. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means and proof of remote employment or business ownership outside Portugal.

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Our team of experts can guide employers in selecting the right visa type based on your requirements, and handle the paperwork every step of the way – freeing you up to focus on scaling your business.

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What Are The Requirements for a Work Permit or Visa in Portugal?

Employees applying for a work permit or visa in Portugal must provide a range of documents that are outlined by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on its visa webpage. This includes documentation the employer should supply to support the visa applicants. Here’s a summary of the key documentation required, with a focus on the types of visa that require employer support:

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Visa Type	Documentation Required
Short-Term Work Visa	Valid passport. Completed visa application form. Employment contract or job offer from a Portuguese employer. Proof of sufficient financial means. Travel insurance covering the entire stay. Proof of accommodation in Portugal. Criminal record certificate from the home country.
Temporary Residence Visa for Work	Valid passport. Completed visa application form. Employment contract or job offer from a Portuguese employer. Proof of sufficient financial means. Proof of health insurance coverage. Proof of accommodation in Portugal. Criminal record certificate from the home country. Proof of registration with Portuguese Social Security by the employer.
Highly Qualified Activity (Tech Visa)	Valid passport. Completed visa application form. Employment contract or job offer from a certified Portuguese employer. Proof of qualifications (e.g., diplomas, certificates). Proof of sufficient financial means. Health insurance coverage. Proof of accommodation in Portugal. Criminal record certificate from the home country.
EU Blue Card	Valid passport. Completed visa application form. Employment contract or binding job offer in Portugal with a duration of at least one year. Proof of higher professional qualifications (e.g., university degree). A salary offer of at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Portugal. Proof of sufficient financial means. Health insurance coverage. Proof of accommodation in Portugal. Criminal record certificate from the home country.
Digital Nomad Visa	Valid passport. Completed visa application form. Proof of remote employment or business ownership outside Portugal. Proof of sufficient financial means. Health insurance coverage. Proof of accommodation in Portugal. Criminal record certificate from the home country

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How To Sponsor A Permanent Worker For A Job In Portugal

Sponsoring a non-EU/EEA national for permanent employment in Portugal involves several key steps to ensure compliance with Portuguese immigration laws. Here's a structured guide for employers:

1. Verify Eligibility

Job Advertisement: Before hiring a non-EU/EEA national, employers must advertise the job position to EU/EEA citizens for at least 30 days. This is to demonstrate that no suitable candidate from these regions is available.
Employment Contract: Prepare a formal employment contract outlining the terms and conditions of the job offer.

2. Obtain a Work Permit on behalf of the prospective employee

Application Submission: After selecting a candidate, the employer applies for a work permit (Autorização de Trabalho) on behalf of the prospective employee through the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service known as Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF).
Required Documentation: This includes a Copy of the employment contract; Company tax statements; Proof of registration with Social Security;and Evidence that the job was advertised to EU/EEA citizens.

3. Assist the Employee with Visa Application

The employer should support the employee by providing necessary documents to the employee, such as the approved work permit and employment contract to support their visa application.

4. Facilitate Employee’s Residence Permit Acquisition

The employer should ensure that the employee has all required documents, including proof of accommodation, health insurance, and a clean criminal record certificate.

5. Ensure Compliance and Record-Keeping

Maintain Records: Keep copies of all applications, approvals, and correspondence related to the sponsorship process.
Monitor Compliance: Stay updated on any changes in immigration laws to ensure ongoing compliance.

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Portugal Work Permit and Visa Application Process

To work legally in Portugal, non-EU/EEA nationals must follow a structured process to obtain the appropriate work visa or permit. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Secure a Job Offer

Obtain a formal job offer or employment contract from a Portuguese employer. This is a prerequisite for most work visa applications.

2. Employer Applies for a Work Permit

The employer must apply for a work permit (Autorização de Trabalho) on behalf of the employee through the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service.

3. Apply for a Work Visa

With the approved work permit, the employee applies for a work visa at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in their home country by submitting all the required documents.

4. Attend Visa Interview

Attend an interview at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate, if required, to discuss the application and provide any additional information.

5. Await Visa Decision

The processing time can vary but typically takes between 2 to 3 months.

6. Travel to Portugal

Upon visa approval, travel to and enter Portugal within the visa's validity period.

7. Apply for a Residence Permit

After traveling to Portugal, schedule an appointment with SEF to apply for a residence permit.

The documents required for the SEF appointment include a valid passport with a visa, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient financial means, an employment contract, health insurance coverage, and a criminal record certificate.

8. Register with Social Security

Register with the Portuguese Social Security system to obtain a social security number, which is necessary for legal employment.

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What Are The Fees For A Portuguese Work Permit Or Visa?

The cost of a Portuguese work visa varies based on the visa type:

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Visa Type	Visa Application Fee
Short-Term Work Visa	€90 per applicant.
Temporary Residence Visa for Work	€90 per applicant.
Highly Qualified Activity (Tech Visa)	There is no application fee associated with the Tech Visa itself.
EU Blue Card	Application Fee: €116.69 Issuance of the Permit: €110.68 Renewal Fee: €110.68
Digital Nomad Visa	€90 per applicant.

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Note: These fees are subject to change and may vary based on the applicant's nationality and specific circumstances. It's advisable to consult the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in your home country for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Additionally, upon approval of the visa, there are fees associated with obtaining the residence permit:

Application for Residence Permit: €83
Issuance of Residence Permit: €72

These fees are payable to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) during the residence permit application process.

When budgeting, employers should also be aware of potential additional costs, such as translation and legalization of documents, which may be required during the application process.

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What Is The Processing Time for a Portugal Work Permit Or Visa?

The processing time for Portuguese work permits and visas varies based on the type of visa and individual circumstances. Here's an overview:

General Processing Times:

Work Permit Approval: The Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) typically processes work permit applications within 60 days.
Work Visa Issuance: Following work permit approval, the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in the applicant's home country may take an additional 2 to 3 months to issue the work visa.

These processing times should be taken into consideration when employers are estimating their timelines. Extended processing times may affect project timelines and resource allocation. This makes strategic planning even more crucial to accommodate potential delays. Nevertheless, employers should anticipate a total processing period of approximately 3 to 5 months from the initial application to the employee's arrival in Portugal.

Common Pitfalls and Potential Delays:

Incomplete Documentation: Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents can lead to significant delays. Ensuring all required paperwork is accurate and complete is crucial.
High Application Volumes and SEF Processing Backlogs: Periods of increased application submissions can strain processing capacities, resulting in longer wait times.
Legal and Policy Changes: Modifications in immigration laws or policies may introduce unforeseen delays. Staying informed about current regulations is essential.

Recommendations for Employers:

Early Initiation: Begin the visa application process well in advance of the intended employment start date to mitigate potential delays.
Regular Communication: Maintain consistent communication with the employee and relevant authorities to promptly address any issues that arise.
Professional Assistance: Consult immigration experts or visa support services, such as Playroll, to help effectively navigate the complexities of the application process.

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Renewal and Extensions of Work Permits in Portugal

The duration of a Portuguese work visa depends on the visa type but can often be extended.

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Visa Type	Validity	Extension process
Short-Term Work Visa	Typically valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.	Short-term work visas are generally non-renewable. If additional time is needed, the individual must leave Portugal and reapply, or apply for a longer-term visa if eligible.
Temporary Residence Visa for Work	Generally valid for one year, with the option to renew annually.	To extend the residence permit, employees need to apply for renewal through SEF at least 30 days before expiration. Renewals are typically granted if the employment and other eligibility criteria are still met.
Highly Qualified Activity (Tech Visa)	Usually valid for one to two years, depending on the employment contract.	The renewal process involves reapplying through SEF, showing continued employment with a certified tech employer, and providing updated documentation as required. Renewals can be done annually if eligibility conditions remain satisfied.
EU Blue Card	The EU Blue Card is typically issued for a period of up to four years. If the employment contract is shorter than this duration, the card's validity aligns with the contract length plus an additional three months.	Initiate the renewal process at least 60 days before the current Blue Card expires to ensure continuous legal residence and employment.
Digital Nomad Visa	Valid for one year, with the option to renew annually.	Renewal requires proof of continued remote employment or income from outside Portugal, proof of financial means, and updated health insurance. Applications should be submitted to SEF before the expiration of the initial permit.

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What Are The Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Portugal?

In October 2022, Portugal introduced its Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the D8 Visa, to attract remote workers and freelancers from non-EU/EEA countries. A Digital Nomad Visa allows individuals who work remotely to reside in a foreign country while performing their job duties for employers or clients located elsewhere. Digital nomad visas enable employers to hire top talent from anywhere in the world, widening the talent pool beyond local or national restrictions.

To qualify for this visa, applicants must show proof of employment or business ownership outside Portugal and meet the minimum income threshold of at least €3,040 (as of 2023).

Similar to other visa types, applicants are required to submit documents such as proof of remote employment or business ownership and bank statements showing income for the last three months at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

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Common Challenges and Tips for Hiring in Portugal

Hiring in Portugal presents unique challenges for employers, especially when managing foreign hires. Here are some of the main challenges and how to go about overcoming them or avoiding them altogether:

Complex Compliance Requirements: Portugal has strict employment regulations, including detailed requirements for work permits, social security registration, and payroll taxes. Partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR) like Playroll can help employers ensure compliance with Portuguese employment laws and streamline onboarding processes.
Strict Employment Contracts and Labor Laws: Portugal’s labor laws mandate clear terms in employment contracts, including salary, working hours, and termination clauses. Non-compliance with Portuguese labor laws can lead to avoidable fines and legal complications. Use resources like Playroll’s hiring guides, which provide country-specific information on employment, termination, payroll and taxes in Portugal.
Language Barriers: Portuguese is the official language, and although many Portuguese professionals speak English, legal documents and government communications are often in Portuguese. Work with local experts or a service provider who can assist with translations and help navigate language-related issues in legal and administrative processes.
Tax and Payroll Complexity: Portugal's tax system is complex, especially considering social security contributions, payroll taxes, and specific requirements for international employees. Playroll’s Cost Calculator helps employers understand and plan for the total cost of employment in Portugal, including taxes and social security contributions.

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Other Considerations for Visas in Portugal

When relocating employees to Portugal, employers should be aware of additional factors beyond the primary visa application, particularly regarding dependents and tax implications.

Visa Support Process for Dependents

Eligibility for Dependent Visas: In Portugal, employees with long-term residence permits, such as the Temporary Residence Visa for Work, EU Blue Card, or Digital Nomad Visa, can typically bring family members (spouse, children, and, in some cases, dependent parents) under a Family Reunification Visa.
Application Process for Dependents: Dependents apply for a Family Reunification Visa either simultaneously with the primary applicant’s visa or after the employee has received their residence permit in Portugal.
Additional Requirements: Dependents may need criminal record certificates from their home country, and certain documents must be translated into Portuguese and legalized.

Tax Implications

Sponsoring a foreign employee for a work visa in Portugal entails several tax implications for employers. As an employer, understanding these responsibilities is crucial for compliance and effective financial planning:

Firstly, employers must contribute approximately 23.75% of the employee's gross salary to the Portuguese social security system. Employers are responsible for withholding the appropriate amount of income tax from the employee's salary based on progressive tax rates, which range from 14.5% to 48%, depending on the income level. Other employer tax obligations include Work Accident Insurance, which is mandatory in certain sectors and varies depending on the industry and risk level.

For employers to avoid penalties and legal issues, they must register foreign employees with the Portuguese tax authorities and social security system. Additionally, employers must regularly report payroll, tax withholdings, and social security contributions to Portuguese tax authorities.

Navigating Visas and Work Permits in Portugal with Playroll

Playroll is an Employer Of Record (EOR)that simplifies the visa and work permit process in Portugal by managing compliance, documentation, and sponsorship. With expertise in Portuguese employment regulations, Playroll handles all necessary paperwork, provides real-time updates, and supports renewals to keep employees’ work status compliant. Here are some key benefits of using an Employer of Record (EOR) for visa processes:

Reduced Administrative Burden: By overseeing visa processes, the EOR takes on time-consuming administrative tasks, allowing employers to focus on core business activities.
Expert Guidance: EORs have specialized knowledge of local immigration laws and procedures, providing guidance on best practices and avoiding potential pitfalls.
Flexibility for Global Expansion: Using an EOR for visas enables employers to access talent in multiple countries without needing to set up legal entities, making global hiring more flexible and cost-effective.

By leveraging Playroll’s existing, wholly-owned infrastructure in Portugal, you can compliantly employ foreign workers without the red tape.

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FAQs About Portugal Work Permits/Visas

What is a Golden Visa?

Portugal’s Golden Visa program allows non-EU member state/EEA citizens to gain residency by making qualifying investments, such as real estate or capital transfers. This visa provides benefits like the right to live and work in Portugal, travel within the Schengen Area, and a pathway to citizenship after five years. The program also extends residency to family members, making it a popular option for investors seeking EU access and flexible residency requirements.

What is a D7 Visa?

The D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income or Retirement Visa, is a Portuguese residency permit designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who can demonstrate a stable passive income. This visa is ideal for retirees and individuals with income from sources such as pensions, real estate rentals, dividends, or intellectual property. Applicants must show a minimum passive income of €8,460 per year for the main applicant, with additional amounts required for dependents.

What are the employer's responsibilities in sponsoring a Portugal work visa?

Employers must provide a valid employment contract, support with documentation, and ensure employees comply with SEF requirements.

How long does it take to get a work permit in Portugal?

The processing time for obtaining a work permit in Portugal varies based on individual circumstances and the completeness of the application. The Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras - SEF) typically processes this application within 60 days.