Upon arrival in Portugal on a Job Seeker Visa, register with local authorities by obtaining a residence certificate from the town hall or SEF.
Yes, once you arrive in Portugal on a Job Seeker Visa, you are required to register with the local authorities. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Register with SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras)
- Initial Registration: Upon arrival in Portugal, you must register with SEF, the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service. This registration is crucial for maintaining your legal status in the country while you search for a job.
- Document Submission: During the registration, you will likely need to present your passport, visa, proof of health insurance, proof of accommodation, and any other documents that confirm your legal stay in Portugal.
2. Resident's Certificate (If applicable)
- EU/EEA Citizens: If you are from an EU/EEA country, you might not need a Job Seeker Visa, but you still need to register for a Resident's Certificate if you plan to stay longer than 90 days. This is not applicable to Job Seeker Visa holders but is relevant if you transition to a different visa type.
3. Local Municipality Registration
- Registering at the Local Junta de Freguesia: Depending on the local regulations, you might also be required to register your residence at the local town hall (Junta de Freguesia). This is generally to declare your residence in the local area and is often required for accessing certain public services.
Summary
When you arrive in Portugal on a Job Seeker Visa, you must register with SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) to maintain your legal status. Additionally, depending on your location, you may also need to register with the local municipality to declare your residence. These registrations are essential steps to ensure compliance with Portuguese immigration laws during your job search.