Applying for a Jobseeker Visa in Portugal offers a unique and promising opportunity for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Portugal stands out among the six European countries—Austria, Denmark, Germany, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden—that offer jobseeker visas. This southern European gem is becoming a hotspot for English-speaking professionals.
Furthermore, the Portuguese people’s proficiency in English and their welcoming nature towards foreigners make Portugal a favorable destination for Filipinos. Despite the lower salaries compared to neighboring Spain, the cost of living in Portugal is also more affordable, making it an attractive option for job seekers. With only a small Filipino community in Portugal, OFWs might find a higher chance of standing out to potential employers.
Your Guide to Applying for a Jobseeker Visa in Portugal
The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from the channel named Recruiter Anywhere. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
The vlogger was in contact with the embassy of Portugal in Jakarta since July 2023, exchanging emails for inquiries and clarifications regarding the visa process. Fortunately, the embassy proved to be very responsive. It’s essential to note that the requirements may vary based on individual professions and nationalities. In this section, the vlogger provides an overview of the requirements and the application process.
Overview of Requirements and Application Process
- Profession-specific Requirements: Different professions may have specific requirements. For administrative, non-technical, and non-licensed professions like recruitment and accounting, the process may differ slightly.
- Duration and Entry Conditions: The Job Seeker Visa is typically granted for a period of 120 days, with an option for renewal for an additional 60 days. It allows only one entry into Portugal. During this period, visa holders are permitted to search for a job and may engage in employment until the visa expires or until they obtain a resident’s permit.
- Limitations of the Visa: One significant limitation of this visa is its single-entry nature. It is valid only within Portugal and cannot be used to enter other European countries. Therefore, individuals must return to their country of origin if they fail to secure employment before the visa’s expiration.
Requirements for the Job Seeker Visa
The following outlines the necessary documentation for the Job Seeker Visa, sourced from the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Portugal.
General Documentation
- National Visa Application Form: This form is utilized for visa applications related to residence and temporary stay. Before completing the form, applicants must secure roundtrip ticket bookings and accommodation. It’s crucial that the dates of accommodation and travel align to avoid any application complications or potential denials.
- Passport and Passport Photos: Applicants must submit their original passport along with a copy. Additionally, two passport-sized photos adhering to Schengen requirements (45mm x 35mm) are required, one to be attached to the application form and the other submitted separately.
- Criminal Record Inquiry and Certificate: An authorization letter in Portuguese allowing for a criminal background check must be provided. The criminal record certificate, equivalent to the NBI clearance, must be apostilled.
- Travel Insurance: A valid travel insurance policy, compliant with Schengen regulations, covering accidental death, repatriation, medical emergencies, and COVID-19 is mandatory. The insurance must match the travel dates, and only the COVID certificate and policy schedule need to be attached to the application.
- Return Transport Ticket: A confirmed roundtrip ticket must be attached to the application. “Confirmed” means the ticket has been purchased.
- Proof of Financial Resources: Also known as “show money,” applicants must demonstrate financial means equivalent to three times the minimum wage of Portugal (as of January 2024, €820). Bank certificates and statements covering six months are required, addressed to the Embassy of Portugal in Jakarta. While credit cards can supplement financial resources, they cannot replace cash as proof.
Specific Documents
Moving on to the second part of the requirements, which involves specific documents, there are only two items to address.
- Declaration with Indication of the Condition for the Estimated Stay in Portugal: This document must be submitted to SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) within three days from the arrival date in Portugal. It outlines the purpose and conditions of the applicant’s stay in the country.
- Proof of Presentation of a Declaration of Expression of Interest for Enrollment in the EFP: Applicants must provide evidence of having submitted a declaration expressing interest in enrolling in the EFP (Employment and Training Center). This document can be in English, Portuguese, French, or Spanish.
Additional Requirements and Documents
The third part of the requirements involves additional documents that can increase the chances of visa approval. The vlogger added these documents to their application for a higher likelihood of success.
Apostilled Education and Work Experience Documents:
- Education: For those with a bachelor’s degree, it’s essential to get your educational documents apostilled. This process involves coordination with your university, CHED, and the DFA, each with its own processing timelines.
- Work Experience: Similarly, work experience certificates or employment certificates must be apostilled. This involves creating an affidavit with a lawyer, then going to the RTC and finally the DFA. Each step has its own timeline.
Apostilled Marriage Certificate:
Married women are advised to include an apostilled marriage certificate, especially if they have documents with both single and married names. This serves as proof of identity consistency. The process involves going to the PSA first, then to the DFA, so it’s best to do this early.
Proof of Accommodation:
While not explicitly required, providing proof of accommodation can help complete the national visa application form, which requires an address in Portugal. Booking a place in advance, even if not sponsored, is essential. The vlogger secured an 8-page detailed lease contract through PLO without spending extra money by being in touch with the landlord.
Visa and Courier Fees:
- The visa fee is €90 per applicant.
- The courier fee is 900 Indonesian rupiahs for those residing outside Manila and 400,000 rupiahs for those within the Manila area.
- Payments should be sent to the Embassy of Portugal in Jakarta. It’s crucial to communicate with the embassy first to reconfirm the payment details and instructions
Final Steps: Submitting Your Application
After gathering all the necessary documents and making the payment, the next step is to send your application to the Embassy of Portugal in Jakarta. Here’s how to ensure your submission is complete and organized:
Package Your Documents:
- Include your original passport and the payment receipt.
- Create a checklist of all included documents and place it at the front.
- Securely bind the documents together.
- Attach a note requesting the return of all apostilled documents after evaluation, as these will be needed when applying for and securing a job in Portugal.
Label the Envelope:
Clearly indicate the type of visa being applied for on the back of the envelope. Include a return address to ensure the safe return of your original documents.
Notify the Embassy:
After sending your documents via courier, email the Embassy of Portugal with the tracking number, a scanned copy of your documents, and the receipts for the visa and courier fees.
Processing Time:
The processing time for the visa is typically 30 to 60 days. Given this duration, it is crucial to plan and prepare your application well in advance.
Applying for a Job Seeker Visa in Portugal is a detailed and thorough process, but with careful preparation and organization, it can be a rewarding endeavor. From securing the necessary general and specific documents to including additional materials that enhance your application, each step is crucial in increasing your chances of approval. Ensure that all documents are properly packaged, labeled, and sent to the Embassy of Portugal in Jakarta, and don’t forget to communicate and follow up with the embassy to confirm receipt and track the status of your application and become an OFW in Portugal in no time..