Introduction: A New Visa Pathway
The Portuguese government has finally announced some welcome news: the introduction of a new Skilled Job Seeker Visa. This announcement marks a significant shift in Portugal’s immigration policy for foreign workers. While a job seeker visa category already existed, the government has now replaced it with this new, more specialized program.
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Replacing the Old System
This new visa comes after a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on October 22nd, which stated that appointments for all types of the old job seeker visas would end from October 23rd. In its place, the government is launching the new Skilled Job Seeker Visa, designed specifically to attract qualified talent to the country.
Key Eligibility Conditions
While the full set of official requirements is yet to be published, the government has indicated that several key conditions will be mandatory for this work visa program:
- Educational Background: Applicants must possess a higher education degree or a professional certification suitable for highly skilled or technical positions. The specific technical positions that qualify will be announced later by the Portuguese government.
- Financial Means: You must provide proof of sufficient funds to support your entire duration of stay. The exact amount required will also be announced at a later date.
- Health Insurance: You must have valid health insurance that covers your entire stay in Portugal.
- Criminal Record: You must have a clean criminal record with no scope for any type of criminal history.
List of Eligible Professions
The list of professions that will be considered “highly qualified” is still pending. It is possible that this list will be announced based on the EU Blue Card framework. The final announcement will be made through Portugal’s National Qualification Catalog, which will detail the selected highly skilled professions.
The Application Process
The application process is expected to be straightforward. Applicants will be able to submit their applications for the Skilled Job Seeker Visa at all Portuguese consulates and embassies worldwide.
However, one crucial step must be completed beforehand: candidates must first register an “Expression of Intent” with the IAFP (Portugal’s Employment and Vocational Training Institution). This registration confirms that the applicant is qualified to seek employment in Portugal.
Once this confirmation is received, the candidate can submit their visa application, along with all required documents, at a Portuguese Embassy or Consulate.
Processing, Validity, and Transition to Residency
- Processing Time: Most applications are expected to be processed within 60 days.
- Visa Validity: If approved, the visa will be valid for 120 days, allowing entry into Portugal.
- Transition to Residence: After arriving in Portugal, you must register with AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum). This begins a transition period. If you secure a job within the 120-day period, you can then apply for a Portuguese residence permit.
To transition to a residence permit, you will need:
- A valid job offer or employment contract.
- Proof of adequate income and accommodation in Portugal.
- Completed applications for tax and social security numbers.
What Happens If You Don’t Find a Job?
For individuals who are unable to acquire a job during this period, an extension of up to 60 days may be granted in some situations. Otherwise, they will have to return to their home country and can only apply for a new job seeker visa after waiting for one year.
We hope this clarifies the new Skilled Job Seeker Visa program. What are your expectations for this new visa? Please share your thoughts in the comment box below.
