How long is the seasonal work visa valid for in Portugal?

The Short-term Seasonal Work Visa is valid for up to nine months, depending on the duration specified in your employment contract.

Can I extend my Short-term Seasonal Work Visa?

Usually, this visa cannot be extended beyond nine months. You would need to leave Portugal and reapply if you wish to return for another season.

Do I need a job offer before applying for this visa?

Yes, a formal job offer from a Portuguese employer is a mandatory requirement for applying for the Short-term Seasonal Work Visa.

How long does it take to process this visa?

Processing time can vary, but typically it takes a few weeks to a couple of months. It's advisable to apply well in advance.

What sectors are considered for seasonal work?

Common sectors include agriculture, hospitality, tourism, and other industries that experience seasonal peaks requiring extra labor.

Can my family accompany me on this visa?

This visa is primarily intended for individual seasonal workers, and it typically does not allow for family accompaniment.

Is it possible to switch to a different visa type while in Portugal?

Switching visa types while in Portugal is generally not straightforward and usually requires you to return to your home country and apply for a new visa.

Do I need to speak Portuguese to get this visa?

While speaking Portuguese is not a strict requirement, it could be beneficial and may be preferred by employers.

What happens if my visa application is denied?

If your application is denied, you will receive a notification explaining the reasons. You may be able to reapply or appeal the decision.

Can I travel to other Schengen countries with this visa?

Yes, as a holder of a Portuguese seasonal work visa, you may travel to other Schengen countries for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa?

The Short-term Seasonal Work Visa for Portugal allows individuals to work in Portugal for up to nine months in industries reliant on seasonal labor, such as agriculture, hospitality, and tourism. This visa is an excellent opportunity for those looking to experience life in Portugal while earning an income. It is primarily aimed at non-EU nationals who wish to undertake temporary work in sectors experiencing labor shortages. The main benefit of this visa is the ease it provides to seasonal workers and the Portuguese businesses that depend on them, facilitating a steady flow of necessary labor during peak seasons.

Short-term Seasonal Work Visa Requirements for Portugal

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Short-term Seasonal Work Visa for Portugal. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Portugal and have at least two blank pages.
Job Offer from Portuguese Employer
A formal job offer or employment contract from a Portuguese employer in a seasonal sector is required.
Proof of Accommodation
Provide evidence of where you will be staying in Portugal, whether it's rental accommodation, a hotel booking, or employer-provided housing.
Health Insurance
You must have valid health insurance that covers you during your stay in Portugal.
Completed Visa Application Form
Fill out the visa application form accurately. This can often be done online or obtained from a Portuguese consulate or embassy.
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to support yourself during your stay in Portugal.
Visa Application Fee
Pay the applicable visa processing fee. The amount and payment methods will be specified by the consulate or embassy.
Biometric Data
You may be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, during your visa appointment.

How to Apply for Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa

Understand the process of applying for an Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Find a Seasonal Job in Portugal
Before applying for the visa, secure a job offer from a Portuguese employer in a sector that requires seasonal labor. This is an essential first step since you'll need to provide proof of employment.
Prepare Required Documents
Gather all the necessary documents, including your passport, job offer letter, proof of accommodation, and health insurance. Verify that all documents are current and meet the requirements set forth by the Portuguese authorities.
Submit Visa Application
Complete the visa application form and submit it either online or at your nearest Portuguese consulate or embassy. Include all necessary documents and pay any applicable fees.
Attend Visa Appointment
If required, attend an in-person appointment where you may need to provide biometric data and answer questions regarding your employment and stay in Portugal.
Await Decision
Wait for the decision on your visa application. You can often track the status of your application online. Processing times can vary, so be patient.
Travel to Portugal
Once your visa is approved, make travel arrangements to Portugal. Ensure you carry all necessary documentation with you, as you may need to present them at the border.

Useful Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa Resources

Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF)

Portugal e-Visa Portal

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Portugal

Consulate of Portugal in the USA

Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa Advice

Make sure to start the application process well in advance of your desired start date, as obtaining the necessary paperwork and approvals can take some time. It's also a good idea to line up a job offer before applying since this is a requirement for the visa. When submitting documents, ensure they are complete and accurate to avoid delays or rejections. Finally, consider consulting a migration expert to help navigate the process smoothly.

Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa Guide

What Is the Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa?

Short-term Seasonal Work Visa Requirements for Portugal

Valid Passport

Job Offer from Portuguese Employer

Proof of Accommodation

Health Insurance

Completed Visa Application Form

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Visa Application Fee

Biometric Data

How to Apply for Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa

Find a Seasonal Job in Portugal

Prepare Required Documents

Submit Visa Application

Attend Visa Appointment

Await Decision

Travel to Portugal

Useful Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa Resources

Portugal Short-term Seasonal Work Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Portugal Passport Details and Ranking 2024