Who is eligible to apply for a Job Seeker Visa in Portugal?

Eligible applicants for a Job Seeker Visa in Portugal are non-EU/EEA nationals actively seeking employment. They must possess in-demand skills, have financial means to support themselves, no criminal record, and health insurance coverage.

The Job Seeker Visa in Portugal is designed to allow foreign nationals to enter the country for the purpose of finding employment. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet several key criteria:

  1. Nationality:

    • The Job Seeker Visa is primarily intended for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals. Citizens from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland do not need a visa to seek employment in Portugal due to the freedom of movement within the EU​.
  2. Age Requirement:

    • Applicants must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit, but the applicant should be of working age and actively seeking employment​.
  3. Educational Qualifications:

    • While specific educational requirements may vary, applicants typically need to have at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Higher qualifications may increase the chances of finding employment in Portugal, particularly in specialized fields​.
  4. Proof of Financial Means:

    • Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay in Portugal while searching for a job. This can include bank statements, savings, or proof of sponsorship. The exact amount required varies, but it generally needs to cover living expenses for the duration of the visa.
  5. Health Insurance:

    • Health insurance coverage is mandatory for the duration of the applicant's stay in Portugal. The insurance must cover medical expenses and be valid in Portugal​.
  6. No Criminal Record:

    • Applicants must provide a clean criminal record from their home country, demonstrating that they have no history of serious criminal activity.
  7. Application Process:

    • The application must be submitted to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in the applicant's country of residence. The process involves completing the required forms, paying the visa fee, and providing the necessary documentation.

Summary

To be eligible for a Job Seeker Visa in Portugal, you must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, at least 18 years old, and have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your job search. You should have at least a bachelor's degree and no criminal record, and you must obtain health insurance coverage valid in Portugal. The application must be made through the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your home country.