1. What is a Portugal Work Visa?
A Portugal work visa allows non-EU nationals to live and work in Portugal legally. Portugal offers various types of work visas depending on the job category, including visas for highly qualified professionals, skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and researchers.
Non-EU nationals must obtain a work visa and a residence permit before starting employment in Portugal. The work visa application involves several steps and fees, which vary based on the type of visa and the applicant’s specific situation.
2. Portugal Work Visa Fees for 2024
The work visa fee for Portugal varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and where you apply (inside or outside of Portugal). As of 2024, the typical work visa application fee for Portugal is €90 to €100.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Short-stay work visa (less than 90 days): Approximately €80 to €100.
- Long-stay work visa (over 90 days): €90 to €100.
- Work residence permit: For non-EU nationals applying for a work visa in Portugal, the residence permit application fee is around €90 to €100.
This fee covers the cost of processing your visa application and is payable at the time of submission.
3. Additional Costs for Portugal Work Visa Applicants
In addition to the work visa application fee, there are other costs associated with obtaining a Portugal work visa. These include:
- Biometric fee: When applying for a work visa, you will need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photos). This service typically costs around €20 to €30, depending on the consulate or visa center where you apply.
- Residence permit fee: Once in Portugal, non-EU nationals must apply for a residence permit after their work visa is approved. The residence permit application fee ranges from €83 to €90.
- Document translation and notarization: Some documents, such as employment contracts or academic qualifications, may need to be translated into Portuguese and officially notarized. Translation fees can range from €20 to €100 per document, depending on the complexity.
- Health insurance: Having health insurance is often a requirement for obtaining a Portuguese work visa. Costs for private health insurance vary but can start at around €300 to €600 annually for basic coverage.
These additional costs should be factored into your budget when preparing to apply for a Portugal work visa.
4. Total Costs of Obtaining a Work Visa in Portugal
When calculating the total cost of obtaining a Portugal work visa, it’s important to include the visa application fee, biometric fee, residence permit costs, and other associated expenses. Here’s a typical breakdown:
- Work visa application fee: €90.
- Biometric fee: €20.
- Residence permit fee: €90.
- Document translation/notarization: €50–€200 (depends on your documents).
- Health insurance: €300–€600 annually.
For most applicants, the total cost for a Portugal work visa will range from approximately €550 to €1,000, depending on the specific requirements of your visa type and personal circumstances.
5. Types of Portugal Work Visas and Their Fees
Portugal offers various work visa categories, each with specific requirements and fees. The main types include:
- Highly Qualified Professional Visa (EU Blue Card): This visa is designed for individuals with high qualifications or specialized skills. The visa application fee for the EU Blue Card is approximately €90.
- Work Visa for Skilled Workers: For those who have secured employment in Portugal in fields such as healthcare, engineering, or IT. The application fee is €90.
- Entrepreneur Visa (D2 Visa): This visa is for individuals who plan to start a business or make a significant investment in Portugal. The visa fee for entrepreneurs is also around €90.
- Researcher Visa (D1 Visa): This visa is for individuals engaged in scientific research or academic work in Portugal. The application fee is approximately €90.
Regardless of the visa type, applicants will also need to pay the residence permit fee once their work visa is approved, adding to the total cost.
6. How to Pay Portugal Work Visa Fees
When applying for a Portugal work visa, the fees must be paid as part of the application process. Applicants can usually pay the visa fees via the following methods:
- Credit or debit card: Most consulates and visa application centers accept major credit or debit cards (Visa, Mastercard).
- Bank transfer: Some visa application centers may allow bank transfers, but you should confirm this option with the consulate.
- Cash payment: For in-person applications, cash payments may be accepted, depending on the specific consulate or visa center.
It’s essential to confirm the payment options available at your chosen visa center to avoid any delays in the application process.
7. Can Work Visa Fees Be Refunded?
The Portugal work visa fees are non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected. Once the application is submitted and the fees are paid, you cannot get a refund. This is why it’s critical to ensure your application is complete and accurate before submitting it to avoid unnecessary costs.
If your visa application is rejected, you have the option to appeal the decision or reapply, but this will require paying the fees again.
8. How to Apply for a Portugal Work Visa
The Portugal work visa application process includes several steps. Here’s a general guide:
- Secure a job offer: Before applying for a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Portuguese employer.
- Gather required documents: Documents include:
- A valid passport.
- Employment contract from your Portuguese employer.
- Proof of qualifications and work experience.
- Proof of financial means.
- Health insurance.
- Submit the visa application: Apply at the nearest Portuguese consulate or visa application center. You will need to submit your documents and pay the work visa fee (around €90).
- Attend a biometric appointment: Provide your fingerprints and photo for biometric verification.
- Wait for approval: Visa processing can take several weeks or months. Once approved, you will receive your work visa.
- Apply for a residence permit: After arriving in Portugal, apply for your residence permit at the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) office.
9. Work Visa Processing Time in Portugal
The processing time for a Portugal work visa typically takes between 2 to 3 months, depending on the complexity of your case and the workload at the consulate or visa application center where you apply. It is advisable to apply as early as possible to avoid delays.
During peak times, such as the summer months, visa processing times may be longer, so applicants should plan accordingly.
10. What Happens After Your Work Visa is Approved?
Once your Portugal work visa is approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport, allowing you to enter Portugal. Upon arrival, you must apply for a residence permit within 90 days to extend your stay and begin working legally in Portugal.
The residence permit will be valid for one or two years and can be renewed as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. After five years of continuous legal residency, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
Conclusion
The Portugal work visa fees are an essential part of the process for non-EU nationals seeking employment in Portugal. With visa fees typically ranging from €90 to €100 and additional costs for biometrics, residence permits, and document translations, it’s important to plan your budget carefully. By understanding the various fees and requirements involved in the Portugal work visa process, you can ensure a smooth application and transition to living and working in Portugal.