Job-Seeking Visa
Non-EU nationals who want to enter Portugal to look for a job before securing an employment contract.
The Job-Seeking Visa is a Portuguese work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€110 (national visa)) and processing time (~60 days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Job-Seeking Visa is for
Non-EU nationals who want to enter Portugal to look for a job before securing an employment contract.
If you find work, request a residence permit from AIMA; the residence time then counts toward PR.
Job-Seeking Visa - eligibility criteria
- Expression of interest registered with IEFP
- Proof of savings ~€3,280 (3x minimum wage)
- Return ticket and accommodation proof
- Travel insurance
- Clean criminal record
Job-Seeking Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Job-Seeking Visa (Portugal) is ~€110 (national visa), with an indicative processing time of ~60 days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at AIMA (Portugal).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Portuguese consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | 120 days, renewable once for 60 more (single entry) |
| Work rights | May start work once a contract is signed, then switch to a residence permit |
| Study rights | No study purpose |
| Government fee | ~€110 (national visa) |
| Processing time | ~60 days |
| Route to PR | If you find work, request a residence permit from AIMA; the residence time then counts toward PR. |
Pathway & next steps
If you find work, request a residence permit from AIMA; the residence time then counts toward PR.
Many applicants also compare D1 · D1 Residence Visa for Subordinate Work, D3 · D3 Residence Visa for Highly Qualified Activity, Tech Visa · Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Portuguese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Job-Seeking Visa pitfalls we fix
Job-Seeking Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Job-Seeking Visa cost?
The Job-Seeking Visa government fee is ~€110 (national visa). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at AIMA (Portugal) before applying.
How long does the Job-Seeking Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~60 days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Job-Seeking Visa lead to permanent residence?
If you find work, request a residence permit from AIMA; the residence time then counts toward PR.
Can I work on the Job-Seeking Visa?
Work rights: May start work once a contract is signed, then switch to a residence permit.
Who can apply for the Job-Seeking Visa?
Non-EU nationals who want to enter Portugal to look for a job before securing an employment contract.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Portugal government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- AIMA (Portugal) - official Portugal immigration authority