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D1/D3 · Work Visa

Work Visa

Last verified: 2026-08-04

Overview

For non-EU citizens who intend to live and work in Portugal under an employment contract or job offer with a Portuguese employer.

Eligibility requirements

  • Have a valid employment contract or job offer with an employer in Portugal.
  • Hold, when required, the relevant prior authorisation/opinion to perform the work activity.
  • Have sufficient means of subsistence and accommodation in Portugal.
  • Meet the general entry and residence conditions, including no legal bar to entering/staying in Portugal.

Required documents

General documents6
  • Completed and signed national visa application form
  • Valid passport or other travel document
  • 2 recent passport-style photographs
  • Criminal record certificate from the country of origin/nationality or country of residence for more than one year
  • Valid travel insurance covering urgent medical assistance and possible repatriation
  • Proof of accommodation arrangements in Portugal
Professional documents — employee3
  • Employment contract or written job offer
  • Employer documentation and, when applicable, prior authorisation/opinion for hiring
  • Proof of professional qualifications when required for the role (Optional)

Full procedure

  1. 1
    PreparationOnline

    Confirm eligibility

    Confirm you meet the visa requirements and gather your core documents.

  2. 2
    PreparationIn person

    Secure accommodation

    Obtain proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental or ownership).

  3. 3
    ConsulateOnline

    Book Consulate / VFS

    Book your appointment at the Portuguese consulate or VFS centre in your country of residence.

    https://visa.vfsglobal.com
  4. 4
    ConsulateIn person

    Submit the application

    Attend and submit the national visa application with all required documents.

  5. 5
    ConsulateOnline

    Visa decision

    Await the decision. The legal visa processing period is typically 60 days.

  6. 6
    ArrivalIn person

    Enter Portugal

    Travel on the D visa and prepare the residence-permit stage with AIMA.

  7. 7
    AIMAOnline

    Check AIMA appointment

    Confirm or await your biometrics / attendance appointment with AIMA.

    https://aima.gov.pt
  8. 8
    AIMAIn person

    AIMA appointment

    Attend AIMA for biometrics and to complete the residence-permit application.

  9. 9
    AIMAOnline

    Receive residence permit

    Receive the residence card and confirm renewal timelines.

Summary and timelines

Prazo / Timeline

Variable — legal visa period: 60 days; then the residence-permit procedure with AIMA follows.

Custo / Cost

€110 visa + approx. €247.30 AIMA + documentary/VFS costs when applicable

Renovação / Renewal

Renewal aligned with the residence permit validity and continued employment

Perfil / Profile

Professionals with a job offer in Portugal

Taxas / Fees

  • Consular visa fee€110
  • Residence authorization fee (AIMA)approx. €247.30
  • Documentary / VFS costsWhen applicable