To qualify for a Tech Visa in Portugal, applicants must meet a minimum salary threshold of €1,200 per month or €14,400 per year to ensure financial stability while working in the tech industry in Portugal.
The Tech Visa program in Portugal does not specify a fixed salary requirement for eligibility. However, there are several important considerations regarding salary that play a role in qualifying for and maintaining the Tech Visa:
1. Adequate Income for Living in Portugal
- Sufficient Salary: The salary offered to a Tech Visa applicant must be sufficient to support their living expenses in Portugal. While there is no official minimum salary set specifically for the Tech Visa, the income must reflect the cost of living in Portugal and be appropriate for the role and industry in which the individual is employed. Employers typically offer competitive salaries that align with industry standards in the tech sector.
- Comparison to National Minimum Wage: The salary should be significantly higher than the national minimum wage, given the highly skilled nature of the roles typically associated with the Tech Visa. As of 2024, the minimum wage in Portugal is approximately €760 per month, but Tech Visa holders usually earn substantially more, reflecting their specialized skills and qualifications.
2. Industry and Role-Specific Considerations
- Market Rates for Tech Roles: The salary offered should be competitive within the tech industry in Portugal. This means it should be in line with or above the average salaries for similar positions in the market, taking into account factors such as experience, education, and the specific technical skills required for the job.
- Employer’s Financial Capacity: The company providing the job offer must demonstrate its ability to pay the agreed salary consistently. This is part of the certification process through IAPMEI, where the financial stability of the employer is evaluated to ensure they can meet their obligations to employees.
3. Impact on Visa Approval
- Salary as a Factor in Visa Approval: While the exact salary amount is not the only factor considered, it is an important aspect of the overall visa approval process. Immigration authorities will review the job offer, including the salary, to ensure it meets the necessary standards for supporting the applicant and justifying their stay in Portugal.
Summary
While there is no specific salary threshold defined for the Tech Visa in Portugal, the offered salary must be sufficient to cover living expenses, competitive within the tech industry, and reflective of the role's requirements. The salary should be well above the national minimum wage, considering the high skill level of Tech Visa applicants. The employer must also demonstrate financial stability to pay the agreed salary, which is a key factor in the visa approval process.