Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers)
Skilled non-EU workers hired by a Portuguese tech/innovation company certified under the government Tech Visa programme.
The Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) is a Portuguese work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit (company certification free)) and processing time (~30 days once company is certified), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) is for
Skilled non-EU workers hired by a Portuguese tech/innovation company certified under the government Tech Visa programme.
After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence and then citizenship.
Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) - eligibility criteria
- Job offer from an IAPMEI-certified Tech Visa company
- Degree or proven specialised technical experience
- Contract of at least 12 months
- Salary meeting the highly qualified threshold
- Clean criminal record
Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) (Portugal) is ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit (company certification free), with an indicative processing time of ~30 days once company is certified. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at AIMA (Portugal).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Employer-certified online, then consulate and AIMA |
| Length of stay | Residence permit 2 years, renewable for 3 |
| Work rights | Employment with the certified sponsoring company |
| Study rights | Study permitted alongside work |
| Government fee | ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit (company certification free) |
| Processing time | ~30 days once company is certified |
| Route to PR | After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence and then citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence and then citizenship.
Many applicants also compare D3 · D3 Residence Visa for Highly Qualified Activity, EU Blue Card · EU Blue Card (Portugal), StartUP · StartUP Visa (Residence for Innovative Entrepreneurs). 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 Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) pitfalls we fix
Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) cost?
The Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) government fee is ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit (company certification free). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at AIMA (Portugal) before applying.
How long does the Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~30 days once company is certified. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers) lead to permanent residence?
After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for permanent residence and then citizenship.
Can I work on the Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers)?
Work rights: Employment with the certified sponsoring company.
Who can apply for the Tech Visa (Certification for Highly Qualified Workers)?
Skilled non-EU workers hired by a Portuguese tech/innovation company certified under the government Tech Visa programme.
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