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Portugal – Work Permits and Working Legally

Work Permits for Expats in Portugal

Portugal is a country that attracts many expats from around the world due to its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and thriving economy. To work legally in Portugal, expats must obtain a work permit. In this article, we will provide information on the types of work permits available, the application process, and the required documents.

Do Expats Need a Work Permit to Work Legally in Portugal?

Yes, expats need a work permit to work legally in Portugal. The work permit is a legal requirement for all foreign nationals who wish to work in the country.

The employer is responsible for applying for the work permit on behalf of the expat employee. The employer must provide evidence of the expat’s qualifications and experience, as well as evidence that no qualified Portuguese or EU citizen is available to fill the position.

Types of Work Permits for Expats in Portugal

There are several types of work permits available for expats in Portugal. The type of work permit required will depend on the nature of the work to be performed. The most common types of work permits for expats in Portugal are:

  • Temporary Residence Permit: This type of work permit is for expats who will be working in Portugal for up to one year.
  • Residence Visa: This type of work permit is for expats who will be working in Portugal for more than one year.

Procedure to Apply for a Work Permit in Portugal

The procedure to apply for a work permit in Portugal involves several steps, including:

  1. The employer must submit an application for a work permit on behalf of the expat employee to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
  2. SEF will review the application and make a decision within 60 days.
  3. If the application is approved, the expat must visit the Portuguese consulate or embassy in their home country to obtain a visa.

Documents Required to Apply for a Work Permit in Portugal

The documents required to apply for a work permit in Portugal are:


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  • Completed application form
  • Copy of the expat’s passport
  • Proof of the employer’s registration with the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority
  • Proof of the expat’s qualifications and experience
  • Job description
  • Evidence that no qualified Portuguese or EU citizen is available to fill the position

All documents must be in Portuguese or officially translated into Portuguese.

Costs of Applying for a Work Permit in Portugal

The cost of applying for a work permit in Portugal depends on the type of permit and the duration of the permit. The fees can range from €50 (approximately $60 USD) for a Temporary Residence Permit to €120 (approximately $145 USD) for a Residence Visa.

Where to Find Reliable Information on Working Legally in Portugal

Expats can find reliable information on working legally in Portugal from the following sources:


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