Launch your career in Europe! The new Portugal Skilled Work-Seeking Visa is a specialized entry permit designed for qualified professionals to live in Portugal while searching for high-quality employment.

• World’s Safest Country: Ranked #4 in the Global Peace Index.

• Path to EU Citizenship: Qualify for a Passport/PR after 5 years of residency.

• Tax Savings: Attractive tax exemptions for new residents.

• High Demand: Massive shortage of talent in IT, Engineering, and Healthcare.

• Family Access: Convert to a residence permit and bring your family with you.

To apply under the Skilled Category, you must meet these criteria:

• Residency: Must be a Non-EU/EEA resident.

• Age: Minimum 18 years old.

• Education: Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree (Skilled category requirement).

• Financial Support: Must show proof of funds (Bank Balance) equal to at least 3 times the Portuguese Minimum Wage.

• Clean Record: Valid Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) with Hague Apostille.

• Embassy Visa Fee: ~€90 (₹8,100 approx.)

• AIMA (formerly SEF) Submission: ~€83 (₹7,500 approx.)

• Residence Permit Issuance: ~€72 (₹6,500 approx.)

• Standard Processing: 60 to 90 days.

• Priority Processing: In 2025, certain high-tech sectors may get decisions in 20 days.

• Validity: 120 days (4 months) initially.

• Extension: One-time extension of 60 days allowed (Total 180 days).

1. IEFP Registration: Declare your interest online on the IEFP website.

2. Document Prep: Get your degrees and PCC Apostilled.

3. VFS Appointment: Book your slot at VFS Global (Delhi, Mumbai, etc.)

4. Submission: Submit your biometric data and file.

5. Travel to Portugal: Once approved, fly to Portugal and start your job search.

6. Convert to Residency: Secure a job offer and apply for an AIMA Residence Permit.

• Incomplete Documentation: Missing the IEFP registration proof.

• Insufficient Funds: Bank balance lower than the 3-month minimum wage requirement.

• Invalid PCC: Using a local police station PCC instead of the Regional Passport Office (RPO) one.

• No Accommodation: Failing to show where you will stay for the first month.

Don't risk a rejection. Our team provides end-to-end support for your Portugal Skilled Visa.

• SOP & CV Optimization for the European market.

• Apostille Services and Documentation.

• Job Search Strategy inside Portugal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I still apply for the old Portugal Job Seeker Visa in 2025?

No. As of October 23, 2025, the previous general Job Seeker Visa has been replaced by the New Skilled Work-Seeking Visa (Law 61/2025). All old appointments were cancelled, and the new system now prioritizes skilled professionals with degrees or significant experience.

Q2: Do I need a job offer before I apply?

No. One of the best features of this visa is that you do not need a job offer to enter Portugal. It is specifically designed to let you stay in the country legally while you attend interviews and search for work.

Q3: How much money do I need to show in my bank account?

For 2025, you must prove you have at least 3 times the Portuguese monthly minimum wage.

• Minimum Requirement: Approximately €2,610 (₹2.4 Lakhs).

• Pro-Tip: Maintaining a balance of ₹4–5 Lakhs is recommended to strengthen your profile and cover initial flight/stay costs.

Q4: Can I bring my family with me on this visa?

Not initially. You must travel to Portugal alone on the Skilled Work-Seeking Visa. Once you secure a job and convert your visa into a Residence Permit, you can then apply for Family Reunification (D6 Visa) to bring your spouse and children.

Q5: What is the IEFP registration and is it mandatory?

Yes, it is mandatory. Before applying for your visa at the consulate, you must register your profile on the IEFP (Institute for Employment and Vocational Training) portal. This shows the Portuguese government that you are an active job seeker.

Q6: What happens if I don't find a job within 6 months?

If you do not secure a job within the 120-day period (plus the 60-day extension), you must leave Portugal. You can only re-apply for a new Work-Seeking Visa after one year has passed since your previous visa expired.

Q7: Do I need to know Portuguese or take the IELTS?

While there is no official English (IELTS) or Portuguese language requirement for the visa itself, knowing basic Portuguese will significantly improve your chances of getting hired. For PR or Citizenship later, an A2 level of Portuguese is required.

Q8: Is a degree mandatory for the "Skilled" category?

Yes. Under the 2025 "Skilled" rules, applicants are generally expected to have a Bachelor’s degree or higher, or at least 5+ years of specialized professional experience in a high-demand sector like IT, Engineering, or Healthcare.

Take the First Step to Europe

The 2025 rules are stricter but offer a faster 20-day priority processing for highly qualified Indians. Let our Delhi-based experts handle your IEFP registration and Apostille documentation.

WhatsApp for Free Eligibility Check: +91 9211866481 Visit Us: Delhi, India