Apply for your work visa for Portugal with JJ Gestoria

The visa de procura de trabalho allows third-country nationals to enter and stay in Portugal to seek employment. According to the Instituto de Emprego e Formação Profissional (IEFP), a declaration of interest to register with the IEFP must be submitted before applying for a visa. iefp.pt and only after receiving this declaration is it possible to schedule the application at the consulate. The visa is initially granted for 120 days and can be extended for another 60 days, allowing the applicant to stay legally for up to six months while finding a job in Portugal. At JJ Gestoria we offer you comprehensive advice so that you comply with all the requirements and prepare your application successfully, avoiding mistakes that may delay your process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the visto de procura de trabalho and how long does it last?

This is a visa that allows citizens from non-EU countries to stay in Portugal to look for work. The IEFP regulations state that the visa is granted for 120 days and may be extended once for 60 days.

What are the main requirements to apply for this visa?

According to official sources, applicants must have a valid passport, travel insurance, a return ticket, register with the IEFP and not be banned from entering the Schengen area. In addition, they need to demonstrate means of subsistence equivalent to €2,610 or have a

Who can apply and who is excluded?

This visa is intended for those seeking a subordinate employment contract in Portugal. It does not apply to self-employed workers, liberal professionals or digital nomads. It is also necessary not to be subject to measures of entry ban or expulsion from the country.

What happens if I do not find employment within the visa period?

If you do not find employment during the validity of the visa (120 days plus a possible extension of 60 days) you must leave the country. You will only be able to apply for a new visa of this type one year after the expiration of the previous one.

What is the visa de procura de trabalho?

This visa, created after the reform of the Law on Foreigners in 2022, is a temporary residence permit that grants up to 180 days (initial 120 plus a 60-day extension) to find employment.eurodicas.com.briefp.pt. It is aimed at those who wish to sign an employment contract in Portugal and is not valid for self-employed workers or digital nomads. Applicants must apply for it from the country of origin and, once the visa is obtained, they can enter Portugal to participate in selection processes. If at the end of the period a contract is not obtained, the person must leave the country and cannot apply for another visa of this type until one year later. Therefore, having professional support increases the chances of meeting the deadlines and requirements.

Requirements and necessary documents:

Basic conditions

  • Be a citizen of a country outside the European Union.
  • Valid passport, travel insurance and return ticket.
  • Register with the IEFP prior to application.
  • Not be subject to entry bans in the Schengen area.

Livelihoods and documents

In accordance with the regulation, it is necessary to demonstrate means of subsistence equivalent to
2.610 € (three times the minimum wage in Portugal).

  • If the applicant does not have such amount, a Portuguese or foreign citizen with
    legal residence can assume responsibility for covering food and lodging,
    signing a liability thermos with recognized signature.
  • Required documentation:
    • Application form.
    • Two photographs.
    • Copy of passport.
    • Certificate of criminal record with Hague Apostille.
    • Proof of enrollment in the IEFP.

How JJ Gestoria helps you?

Accompanying the application

  • We guide you step by step and prepare the declaration of interest before the IEFP.
  • We verify that you meet the passport, insurance and background requirements.
  • We help you gather all the necessary documentation.
  • We manage the registration procedures at the IEFP and organize your consular appointments.

Process optimization

  • Our team reduces errors and speeds up the process of obtaining your visa.
  • We evaluate your financial situation in order to credit your 2.610 € or we guide you on how to present a financially responsible person.
  • We monitor legal updates (e.g. possible changes restricting visas to skilled workers) to ensure that your application is always in compliance with current regulations.

If you are ready to look for job opportunities in Portugal, schedule a consultation with JJ Gestoria today. Our team will review your profile and explain each step of the process.