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Portugal visas

Portugal work visa

EU single market citizens can work in Portugal without a visa. Other travellers need permission that covers their work; the ordinary visa-free short visit does not allow work.

Ways to get a Portugal work visa

  2. Temporary work under the Van Der Elst rule

    Other permit

    Workers from outside the EU single market who are employed within it and temporarily work in another member country for the same employer, subject to conditions.

    Stay
    Temporary work; no specific duration is given.

  3. Long-stay work permission

    Other permit

    Workers from outside the EU single market staying over 90 days generally need long-stay permission.

    Stay
    Generally a long-stay visa for less than a year, or a residence permit for longer periods.

Who needs it

Travellers from outside the EU single market need an appropriate route if they intend to work in Portugal.

Who doesn't

Citizens of EU countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland can work without a visa under freedom of movement.

Good to know

  • Do not use the ordinary short-stay visa exemption to work in Portugal.
  • Stays over 90 days generally require a long-stay visa or residence permit for travellers from outside the EU single market.
  • Detailed Portuguese work visa classes and application requirements are not specified.
  • Portugal also has a separate working holiday programme.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for Portugal?

Travellers from outside the EU single market need an appropriate route if they intend to work in Portugal. Citizens of EU countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland can work without a visa under freedom of movement.

What are the ways to get a work visa for Portugal?

There are 3 options: Work under freedom of movement (no visa at all); Temporary work under the Van Der Elst rule (a special permit); Long-stay work permission (a special permit).

Who can go to Portugal without a work visa?

Citizens of EU countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

What rules do I have to follow on a Portugal work visa?

Do not use the ordinary short-stay visa exemption to work in Portugal. Stays over 90 days generally require a long-stay visa or residence permit for travellers from outside the EU single market.

Does my passport change whether I need a work visa for Portugal?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Portugal visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a work visa for Portugal be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Portugal work visa rules?

On Portugal's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my work visa once I am in Portugal?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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