Can I apply for a work permit or residency while I am in Portugal with a tourist visa, if I find a job offer there? Is this possible, and if not, what route should I follow instead?
There is no process to change from a tourist visa into a work permit. However, there is a regularization process called Manifestação de Interesse, done online through an official platform from the immigration office, for those from third countries, who started working in Portugal without the proper labor residence or visa.
There are different routes you can take to obtain residency in Portugal, without having to obtain a residence visa first. It all depends on your academic background or qualifications: if you want to apply for Portuguese residency, it is possible to be in Portugal on a valid tourist visa and apply for a residence permit to carry out a subordinate professional activity, without a residence visa. The process begins by submitting an expression of interest, provided that you have, among other requirements, an employment contract or a promise of an employment contract, criminal record, proof of means subsistence, etc. You can also apply for a residence permit for self-employed or entrepreneurs, and the process also begins by submitting the expression of interest, provided that you have, among others, set up a company, declared the beginning of your professional activity before the tax and social security authorities or by creating your own company in Portugal. If you are an highly qualified professional, it is also possible to apply for a residence permit in Portugal without obtaining a prior residence visa, but in this case, in simple terms, but you need to have an employment or service contract compatible with highly qualified activity and provide proof of professional certification or in the case of a non-regulated profession, provide proof of high professional qualifications in the activity or sector specified in the employment contract or in the promised employment contract.
Changing a tourist visa into a work visa while staying in Portugal is not an option. If you are currently in Portugal on a tourist visa and have found job opportunities, you must return to your home country to apply for a work visa at the embassy or consulate. To apply for a work visa, you will be required to gather the following documents: A valid passport; a completed application form specific to the work visa; an employment contract offered by an employer situated in Portugal; proof of adequate health insurance coverage; evidence of sufficient financial resources; a certificate of good conduct issued by the police. Depending on your individual circumstances, there may be additional documents that you will need to provide. Once you have prepared all the necessary documents, it is essential to submit your application at the embassy or consulate in your home country. It is important to note that processing times can vary, so it is advisable to initiate the application process as early as possible.
+1-800-347-9390
