With a Tech Visa, individuals in the technology sector can stay in Portugal for up to one year, with the possibility of extensions.
The duration of your stay in Portugal with a Tech Visa is tied to the terms of your employment and the validity of your residence permit. Here’s how it works:
1. Initial Visa and Residence Permit Duration
- Visa Validity: The Tech Visa itself is primarily an entry visa that allows you to enter Portugal to take up employment. Upon arrival, you must apply for a residence permit, which grants you the right to live and work in Portugal legally.
- Residence Permit: The initial residence permit issued under the Tech Visa program is typically valid for up to two years. This permit is renewable, and as long as you maintain your employment and meet the renewal requirements, you can continue to reside in Portugal.
2. Renewal of the Residence Permit
- Renewal Process: As the end of the initial residence permit period approaches, you must apply for renewal. The residence permit can be renewed for additional periods of up to three years each, depending on your employment status and compliance with the conditions of the Tech Visa program.
- Continuous Stay: As long as you continue to meet the criteria—such as maintaining employment with a certified company and adhering to Portuguese laws—you can renew your residence permit indefinitely, allowing for an extended stay in Portugal.
3. Path to Permanent Residency
- Permanent Residency Eligibility: After five consecutive years of legal residency in Portugal under the Tech Visa, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency. Permanent residency allows you to stay in Portugal indefinitely without needing to renew your residence permit.
4. Temporary Absences
- Permitted Absences: During your stay in Portugal, you are allowed to travel outside the country temporarily. However, to maintain your residency status, you should ensure that any absences do not exceed six consecutive months or eight months in total within the valid period of your residence permit.
Summary
With a Tech Visa, you can initially stay in Portugal for up to two years, which can be extended through the renewal of your residence permit. After five years of continuous legal residency, you may apply for permanent residency, allowing you to stay in Portugal indefinitely. Temporary absences are permitted, but they should be managed carefully to maintain your residency status.