Portugal · work · guide
Portugal Job Search Residence Permit: Requirements
This guide explains how to get a Portuguese residence permit after entering the country on a job search visa.
MIGRAGENT wrote this from 13 requirements on the official page, each checked against the government's own wording. Updated 2026-10-02. Source: https://aima.gov.pt/pt/trabalhar/autorizacao-de-residencia-para-exercicio-de-atividade-profissional-subordinada-com-visto-para-procura-de-trabalho-art-88-o-n-o7
Who can apply
You can apply for this residence permit if you entered Portugal with a valid job search visa. You must not be in a period where you are banned from entering or staying in Portugal.[1][2]
You must not have an active alert in the SII UCFE database that refuses your entry, stay, or return. You also must not have a conviction for any crime that carries a prison sentence of more than one year in Portugal.[3][4]
Documents you need to show
You must present a valid passport and a valid job search visa. You also need to show proof that you are registered with the tax administration and with social security.[5][1][6][7]
You must provide a declaration under oath from your employer. This document must confirm your employment relationship.[8]
You must submit a declaration under oath stating your home address. If you rent your home, you must also provide a declaration from your landlord or the accommodation provider. If you own the property, you must provide a land registry certificate or its access code.[9][10][11]
How to submit your application
You must book an appointment to submit your application. You must deliver the application in person along with the signed proper form. You are required to fill out the Model 1 form.[12][13]
Checklist
- A valid passport[5]
- A valid job search visa[1]
- Proof of registration with the tax administration[6]
- Proof of registration with social security[7]
- An employer declaration under oath confirming your job[8]
- A declaration under oath stating your address[9]
- A completed and signed Model 1 form[13]
Questions people ask
Can I apply if I have a criminal record?
You cannot get this permit if you have been convicted of a crime that is punished in Portugal with a prison sentence of more than one year.[4]
What housing document do I need if I rent my home?
You must present a declaration from your landlord or the entity providing your accommodation.[10]
What housing document do I need if I own my home?
You must present a land registry certificate or provide the access code for it.[11]
Do I need to apply in person?
Yes. You must book an appointment and deliver your application in person with the signed proper form.[12]
Which application form do I need to fill out?
You must fill out the mandatory Model 1 form.[13]
What proof of employment do I need to show?
You must show a declaration under oath from your employer that confirms your employment relationship.[8]
This explains what one official page says. It is not legal advice, and the page itself is the authority. Rules change; the wire reports it when they do.