After completing your studies on a Student Visa, you can switch to another visa type based on your circumstances. Options include applying for a work visa with a job offer.
Switching from a student visa to another type of visa after completing your studies in Portugal is possible, but the process depends on the type of visa you wish to obtain. Here’s a guide on how to make this transition:
1. Switching to a Work Visa
- Job Offer Requirement: To switch from a student visa to a work visa, you typically need to secure a job offer from a Portuguese employer. The job must be in line with your qualifications and the skills you acquired during your studies.
- Application Process: Once you have a job offer, your employer will need to submit a work contract or offer letter as part of your application for a work visa. You’ll also need to provide proof of your qualifications, your current residence permit, and other supporting documents.
- Residence Permit for Work: After obtaining a work visa, you can apply for a residence permit based on employment. This permit allows you to legally work and live in Portugal and must be renewed periodically, usually every one or two years.
2. Switching to a Job-Seeking Visa
- Job-Seeking Visa: If you have completed a higher education degree in Portugal and need time to find a job, you can apply for a job-seeking visa. This visa allows you to stay in Portugal for up to 12 months while you search for employment.
- Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for this visa, you must have completed at least a Bachelor’s degree in Portugal. You’ll need to provide proof of your degree, financial means to support yourself during the job search, and health insurance coverage.
3. Switching to a Research or PhD Visa
- Continuing Education or Research: If you plan to continue your studies at a doctoral level or engage in a research project, you can apply for a visa based on research or PhD studies. You will need to provide proof of acceptance into a research program or doctoral program, along with evidence of financial support and health insurance.
- Residence Permit for Research: Similar to the work visa, after obtaining the appropriate visa, you can apply for a residence permit that allows you to live and conduct research in Portugal.
4. Switching to a Start-Up Visa
- Entrepreneurship and Start-Up Visa: If you are interested in starting your own business in Portugal, you can apply for a start-up visa. This visa is designed for entrepreneurs who wish to establish a business that contributes to the Portuguese economy. You will need to present a viable business plan, proof of sufficient funds, and a clear demonstration of the business’s potential.
- Application Process: The application process involves submitting your business plan to a designated Portuguese incubator or relevant authority for evaluation. Once approved, you can apply for a residence permit as an entrepreneur.
5. Switching to a Family Reunification Visa
- Family Reunification: If you have family members who are legal residents or citizens of Portugal, you may be eligible for a family reunification visa. This allows you to remain in Portugal based on your family ties. You’ll need to provide documentation proving your relationship to the family member and evidence of their legal status in Portugal.
6. Application Submission and SEF Approval
- SEF Submission: Regardless of the type of visa you are switching to, you will need to submit your application to the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF). SEF will review your application, and if all requirements are met, they will issue the appropriate visa or residence permit.
- Timely Application: It’s crucial to start the application process before your student visa expires to avoid any gaps in your legal residency status. SEF may provide temporary documentation if your new visa application is still being processed when your student visa expires.
Summary
To switch from a student visa to another type of visa in Portugal, you must first determine which visa category suits your post-study plans, such as a work visa, job-seeking visa, research visa, start-up visa, or family reunification visa. The process involves securing the necessary documentation, applying to SEF, and ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria. Starting the process early is essential to maintaining your legal residency in Portugal.