Can I work while looking for a job?

Yes and No. Officially, this visa is built specifically for searching and interviewing. Once you successfully secure an employment contract, you immediately invoke the right to transition to a formal Residency Title without exiting the country.

What happens after 120 days if I don't find a job?

The visa is initially valid for 120 days. If you fail to secure an employment contract, it can be extended for an additional 60 days if you can prove active searching. If you still fail after 180 total days, you are legally obligated to leave Portugal and cannot re-apply for this specific visa for one full year.

Is this easier than the German Opportunity Card?

Portugal's Job Seeker visa is vastly different conceptually. It entirely abolishes the rigid formal degree recognition metrics and points-based matrices used by Germany or Spain. It is an egalitarian 120-day window available to essentially anyone meeting the baseline €2,460 solvency capital requirement.

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Portugal

Job Seeker Visa

Procura de Trabalho (Art. 57.º-A)

EUR 90

Application Fee

30–90 days

Processing Time

4 Months

Maximum Stay

Up to 1x

Extensions

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply on the official government website

Last verified: 14 April 2026. Not legal advice.

Am I eligible?

Eligibility Status

🌍

Globally AccessibleAll nationalities may apply