In 2026, Portugal updated its jobseeker visa, one of the easiest ways to legally enter the EU without a job offer. Learn about the new conditions, documents, benefits, and how to apply

Looking to work in Europe but don’t have a job offer yet? Portugal’s 2026 Job Seeker Visa is one of the easiest legal pathways to enter the EU, search for employment, and start working—all without needing a job contract in advance. With faster processing times, digital renewals, and a six-month legal stay, Portugal is opening its doors wide for skilled workers from around the world.

Choose a reliable health insurance policy from Visit World to travel abroad safely.

What Is the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?

Portugal’s Job Seeker Visa is a short-term national visa that allows non-EU citizens to enter Portugal for up to 120 days (extendable once by 60 days) to look for work. If you land a job, you can convert this visa into a residence permit without leaving the country.

Key feature: You are allowed to start working immediately upon arrival—even before receiving a residence permit.

What will change in the procedure for obtaining a Portuguese job seeker visa in 2026?

Portugal updated the Job Seeker Visa in 2026 to streamline access for professionals in demand. Here’s what changed:

- Faster Processing – 20 Days

Visa applications are now processed within 20 working days, cutting delays and helping candidates plan ahead.

- Focus on Skilled Workers

Applicants with qualifications or experience in high-demand fields—IT, engineering, and healthcare—are now prioritized.

- Digital Renewals Start January 2026

From early 2026, renewals and status tracking will move online, eliminating paperwork and long queues at SEF offices.

- Language Requirement for Residency

Planning to stay long-term? You’ll need A2-level Portuguese to apply for permanent residency later.

Who is eligible for a job seeker visa in 2026?

To apply for a Portuguese job seeker visa you must:

1. Be from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland

2. Have a recognized degree or experience in a shortage occupation

3. Show proof of funds (3× Portuguese minimum wage) or a sponsorship letter

4. Be registered (or willing to register) with IEFP – Portugal’s employment office

5. Provide clean criminal record, valid health insurance, and travel plans

Required documents for obtaining a Portuguese job seeker visa in 2026

Updated list of documents to apply for a Portuguese job seeker visa:

1. Completed national visa form.

2. Valid passport (3+ months beyond your stay).

3. Two passport photos.

4. Proof of legal residence (if applying from a third country).

5. Criminal background check (apostilled or legalized).

6. Travel insurance with emergency and repatriation coverage.

7. Proof of return travel reservation.

8. Proof of financial means: at least 3× minimum wage (~€2,640) or a sponsorship letter from a legal Portuguese resident. 

9. Statement of purpose: Why you're applying + job search plan.

10. Proof of registration or intent to register with IEFP.

When to Apply and How Long It Lasts

Apply early (January–March 2026) for best processing speed.

Visa valid for 120 days, extendable once for 60 more days.

You’ll have up to 180 days in total to find a job and start your career.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying is simple if you plan ahead. No job offer is needed.

Step 1: Prepare Documents

Gather your paperwork (passport, background check, proof of funds, etc.).

Step 2: Book an Appointment

Apply through your Portuguese consulate or VFS Global center.

Step 3: Attend Visa Interview

Submit documents, pay the fee, and explain your job search plan.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Expect results within 20 business days.

Step 5: Travel to Portugal

Arrive and start job hunting. You’re legally allowed to work during your stay.

Cost of a visa to Portugal for job seekers in 2026

- Visa application – €90.

- Residence permit (after job offer) – €170.

- Additional (translations, apostille, courier service, etc.).

Why This Visa Is a Great Option in 2026

- No job offer needed upfront

- Start working immediately after arrival

- Convert to residence permit from inside Portugal

- Ideal for tech, healthcare, and engineering professionals

- Up to 6 months to land a job legally

What If You Don’t Find a Job?

If you fail to secure a job or apply for a residence permit within 180 days, you’ll need to leave Portugal. You cannot reapply for another Job Seeker Visa until 12 months later, so use your time wisely.

Is the Portugal Job Seeker Visa Worth It?

Absolutely – especially for those looking for a legal, flexible route into Europe’s job market. With no job offer required, faster approvals, and a streamlined path to long-term residency, Portugal’s 2026 Job Seeker Visa is one of the most accessible European work visas right now.

Whether you're in IT, healthcare, or a high-demand trade, this visa is your bridge to working and living in Portugal – and potentially the entire EU.

When planning a trip abroad, be sure to take care of a travel insurance policy that will protect you from unforeseen situations during your trip and compensate for unplanned expenses - for medical treatment, in case of lost luggage, flight cancellation, etc.

Buy a reliable travel insurance policy from trusted insurance agents on the Visit World portal!

As a reminder, in June 2025, Portugal approved a bill to strengthen citizenship rules, increasing the residency requirement from 5 to 10 years and introducing stricter integration tests. We have already told you what changes will occur, who will be affected, and how to prepare for the new naturalization process in Portugal.

---

---

We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information. Therefore, if you see any error or discrepancy, please write to our hotline.