A job offer from a Portuguese company is not required to apply for a Tech Visa in Portugal. The program aims to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors in the tech sector.
Yes, you do need a job offer from a Portuguese company to apply for a Tech Visa. Here’s why:
1. Requirement for a Job Offer
- Certified Company Employment: The Tech Visa program is designed for highly skilled tech professionals who have been offered employment by a company that is certified by the Portuguese government. To qualify for the visa, you must have a job offer from such a certified company. This job offer is a crucial part of the application process.
- Company Certification by IAPMEI: The company offering you a job must be certified by IAPMEI (Instituto de Apoio às Pequenas e Médias Empresas e à Inovação), which is the Portuguese agency responsible for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and innovation. The certification ensures that the company meets specific criteria related to innovation, financial stability, and contribution to the tech sector.
2. Application Process
- Job Offer Documentation: When applying for the Tech Visa, you must submit documentation proving that you have a valid job offer from a certified Portuguese company. This includes the employment contract and any related documents that outline the terms of your employment, such as job description, salary, and duration of employment.
- Employer’s Role in the Application: The employer plays a significant role in the visa application process. The company must provide specific documentation to the Portuguese immigration authorities to support your Tech Visa application, verifying that they meet all the required standards.
3. Why a Job Offer Is Essential
- Visa Purpose: The primary purpose of the Tech Visa is to bring skilled professionals into Portugal to fill roles that are essential for the growth of the tech sector. Without a job offer from a Portuguese company, the basis for issuing the visa is not met, as the program is designed to match international talent with specific roles within the country.
Summary
To apply for a Tech Visa in Portugal, you must have a job offer from a Portuguese company that is certified by IAPMEI. This job offer is a fundamental requirement for the visa application, as it ties your eligibility to a specific employment opportunity within Portugal’s tech sector. Without a valid job offer, you cannot apply for a Tech Visa.