Portugal’s serene landscapes, affordable living, and welcoming immigration policies have made it a hot spot for job seekers and expats. If you’re in the country on a Job Seeker Visa, your next goal is likely to convert it into a Work Visa—a step that secures your long-term stay and employment in Portugal.
This blog walks you through everything you need to know about how to convert a Portugal Job Seeker Visa into a Work Visa, including requirements, procedures, and practical advice to make the transition smooth and legal.
The Portugal Job Seeker Visa allows non-EU citizens to enter Portugal and search for a job for a period of up to 180 days (initial 120 days plus a 60-day extension). However, it’s a temporary visa and does not permit actual employment. Once you secure a job, the visa needs to be converted into a proper Residence Visa for Employment Purposes (Work Visa).
To convert your Job Seeker Visa into a Work Visa, you must:
Have a valid Job Seeker Visa
Secure a job offer or employment contract
Meet minimum salary thresholds (if applicable to your field)
Have a clean criminal record
Be registered with Portuguese Social Security (Segurança Social)
Submit an application before your Job Seeker Visa expires
Make sure to gather these essential documents before applying:
Valid Passport
Job Seeker Visa (and entry stamp)
Employment contract or binding job offer
Tax Identification Number (NIF)
Portuguese Social Security registration
Criminal record certificate from your home country and Portugal
Proof of accommodation in Portugal
Proof of health insurance (if not enrolled in public healthcare yet)
Recent passport-sized photos
Application form (from SEF – Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras)
You need a formal employment contract or binding job offer from a Portuguese employer. The employer may need to justify hiring a non-EU candidate unless the job falls under the “shortage occupations” list.
Once you get the contract, your employer should register you with Segurança Social. You’ll receive a social security number, which is a key requirement for legal employment and visa conversion.
Schedule an appointment with SEF (the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service) for a residence permit application under Article 88 (Work Visa category). You can do this online via SEF’s website.
On the day of your appointment, submit all documents, attend biometric data collection, and pay the application fee. You’ll receive a proof of application document which acts as your temporary legal stay permit until the residence card is issued.
After SEF processes your application, you’ll be notified to collect your residence card (valid for up to 2 years and renewable). This officially converts your Job Seeker Visa into a Work Visa.
Yes—but cautiously. Once you submit your application and receive the proof of legal stay, you are technically allowed to start working. However, most employers prefer the residence card for HR and payroll reasons.
Don’t wait until the last minute—start the conversion process as soon as you receive a job offer.
Double-check all documents before your SEF appointment.
Learn some Portuguese; it helps with job searching and interviews.
If possible, get legal help or a visa consultant—especially for regulated professions.
Starting a job before official registration with SEF
Missing SEF appointments or documentation deadlines
Not translating non-Portuguese documents into Portuguese
Not registering for health insurance (mandatory)
Once approved, your Portugal Work Visa (residence card) is typically valid for 1 or 2 years, and it can be renewed as long as you continue to meet the conditions—like ongoing employment and clean legal record. After 5 years, you may be eligible for Permanent Residency or even Portuguese Citizenship.
Depending on your location and SEF’s workload, the conversion process can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 3 months. It’s important to keep all receipts and proof of submission to show authorities if needed.
No. One of the major benefits of the Job Seeker Visa is that you can apply for the Work Visa without leaving Portugal. This is known as in-country visa conversion.
Not necessarily. If your case is straightforward and you have all your documents, you can do it yourself. However, hiring an immigration lawyer or consultant can help navigate bureaucracy, especially if your case is complex.
In-demand sectors include:
Tech (developers, engineers, IT support)
Tourism & Hospitality
Healthcare
Construction & Skilled Trades
Renewable Energy
Make sure your CV and LinkedIn profile align with Portuguese standards.
Once you have your residence permit, you can:
Work full-time legally
Access public healthcare
Travel visa-free across Schengen
Enroll in social security and tax benefits
Apply for family reunification
To convert Portugal Job Seeker Visa to Work Visa, start by securing a legitimate job offer. Immediately register with Portuguese social security and book a SEF appointment to apply for a residence permit under the employment category. Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your employment contract, social security number, and criminal records. Submit everything during your SEF appointment, and wait for your residence card to be issued. This process allows you to stay in Portugal legally and start working full-time without needing to leave the country.
What is the Portugal Job Seeker Visa?
It’s a temporary visa allowing non-EU citizens to enter Portugal and search for a job for up to 180 days.
Can I convert my Job Seeker Visa into a Work Visa in Portugal?
Yes, you can apply for a residence permit after securing a job without leaving Portugal.
Do I need to leave Portugal to convert my visa?
No, the conversion is done in-country at SEF.
How long does the Work Visa take to be processed?
Usually between 1 to 3 months depending on SEF’s workload.
Can I work immediately after applying for the Work Visa?
Yes, but you must have submitted your application and received proof of legal stay.
Do I need a lawyer for this process?
It’s optional. You can handle the process yourself if your case is simple.
Converting your Portugal Job Seeker Visa to a Work Visa is a logical and rewarding step once you’ve secured employment. With proper documentation and a clear understanding of the process, you can smoothly transition to becoming a legal worker in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries.
If you’re serious about living and working in Portugal long-term, this conversion is not just a necessity—it’s your gateway to a stable, prosperous life in the EU.
