How to apply for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa: An In-Depth Guide
If you are looking to move to Portugal and search for a job opportunity, you might be interested in obtaining a job seeker visa. This type of visa allows you to enter and stay in Portugal for a limited period of time with the purpose of looking for employment. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about the Portugal job seeker visa, including eligibility, application costs, required documents, processing time, and more.
Eligibility for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa To be eligible for the Portugal job seeker visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be a non-European citizen and not a resident of Portugal.
- You must have a valid passport or travel document that is valid for at least three months after the estimated date of return.
- You must have proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay in Portugal.
- You must have a declaration of expression of interest for enrolment in the IEFP (Institute for Employment and Professional Training).
Validity and Extension of the Portugal Job Seeker Visa The initial validity of the Portugal job seeker visa is 120 days, which can be renewed for another 60 days. The visa allows only one entry into Portugal and, once the maximum validity limit has expired, you must leave the country. If you do not establish an employment relationship or start the process of requesting a residence permit during the validity period of your job seeker visa, you will not be able to re-apply for a new job seeker visa for one year after the expiry of the previous visa.
To request an extension of the job seeker visa, you must provide proof of your registration with the IEFP and a declaration indicating that the conditions for your planned stay are still maintained. This will be assessed by the competent services, who will determine whether or not to grant the extension.
Costs and Processing Time for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa The cost of a job seeker visa for Portugal may vary, and it is advisable to check with the Portuguese embassy in your country for the most up-to-date information. The processing time for a job seeker visa can take several weeks, and it is recommended that you submit your application well in advance of your planned trip.
Documents Required for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa To apply for a job seeker visa, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A national visa application form, filled out and signed by you
- Your passport or travel document, and a photocopy of your passport
- Two passport-style photographs that are recent, in good condition, and of good quality
- Proof of your financial resources, equivalent to at least three times the minimum monthly salary in Portugal
- Proof of a term of responsibility with a recognized signature from a Portuguese citizen or a foreign citizen with a legal residence authorization in Portugal, which guarantees food, accommodation, and repatriation costs in case of an irregular stay
- A criminal record certificate issued by the competent authority of your country of nationality or a country where you have lived for over a year, with the Hague Apostille or legalized
- A valid travel insurance policy covering necessary medical expenses, including urgent medical assistance and possible repatriation
- Proof of your return transport
- Declaration with indication of the conditions for your estimated stay
- Proof of presentation of a declaration of expression of interest for enrolment in the IEFP
In summary, the Portugal job seeker visa is a valuable option for those who are looking to move to Portugal and search for employment. To make sure your application is successful, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria, required documents, processing time, and other