EU citizens are not required to have a work permit in order to be employed in Portugal. However, EU citizens may be asked for proof of residency in order to seek employment, obtain a local driver's license etc., therefore they should apply for a residence permit from the Immigration and Border Control Department. Residence permits for EU citizens are rarely denied unless there is a criminal history or contagious health issue.

Non-EU citizens are required to have a work permit and/or a residence permit in order to be employed in Portugal. The application should be made at a Portuguese Consular office abroad prior to arriving in Portugal. Foreigners with valid residence permits may be exempt from the need to obtain a separate work permit. In this case the residence permit will be issued for entry into Portugal for employment in a specific job.

Documentation required when applying for work permit/residence permit:

- Passport or identity card
- 2 current passport-type photographs
- Notarized letter from employer stating expected duration of employment
- Proof of health insurance
- Criminal background check
- Proof of housing

Work permits are generally issued for six months initially, renewable at six-month intervals. Work permits must be approved by the Portuguese Ministry of Labor. The process may take up to three months.

Note: Professionals (doctors, lawyers, dentists etc.) must validate their home-nation credentials with an authorized board of Portuguese professionals prior to setting up practice.