Services For Jobseekers "Portugal"
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WHAT WE DO FOR JOBSEEKRS?
Looking to advance your career in Portugal? Talent Bridge is here to help! We connect highly skilled professionals with top employers across the country, promoting cross-cultural exchange and addressing labor shortages
Do you need guidance on the job search?
From application to employment, we provide tailored support and expertise to help international professionals succeed in the Portuguese job market.
Do you want to work in Portugal?
We match your skills with the right employers in Portugal, helping you secure a position that aligns with your qualifications and career aspirations.
Do you need help with relocation?
We go beyond simply helping you find a job. Our services include guidance on navigating Portuguese regulations, ensuring a seamless transition.
Why Portugal?
What makes Portugal an attractive destination for Jobseekers?
Portugal is an attractive job destination due to its growing economy, especially in tech and renewable energy, alongside a high quality of life, lower cost of living, and friendly visa policies. Cities like Lisbon and Porto are emerging tech hubs, offering ample career opportunities talk to Susan…
Why is Portugal a great place to live and work?
Portugal offers a high quality of life with a pleasant climate, affordable living, rich culture, and strong healthcare. Its growing job market, safety, and vibrant expat community make it an ideal destination for both work and leisure talk to Susan…
Visa and Work Permits
What type of visa do I need to work in Portugal?
To work in Portugal for less than a year, you need to have a Seasonal Work Visa or Temporary Stay Visa for seasonal work exceeding 90 days. On the other hand, for longer stays, a Residence Visa is required, followed by a residence permit application upon arrival talk to Susan…
How do I apply for a work permit?
Once you secure a job in Portuguese company, your employer applies for your work permit. You apply for work visa at the Portuguese embassy which you will use to enter the country. Once you have arrived in Portugal, you must apply for your Residence Permit for Work at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) talk to Susan…
What should I do if I have lost my job in Portugal?
As a foreigner in Portugal if you have lost your job, follow these steps:
Immediate Actions (within 30 days)
1. Notify the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) of your job loss.
2. Report the change in your employment status to the relevant authorities.
Short-Term (within 60 days)
1. Register with the Portuguese Employment Office (IEFP) to receive unemployment benefits (if eligible).
2. Apply for a temporary extension of your residence permit (if necessary).
3. Start looking for a new job or consider entrepreneurship/self-employment.
Long-Term (within 90 days)
1. Demonstrate sufficient financial support to renew your residence permit.
2. Consider applying for a different type of residence permit (e.g., study, retirement).
3. Explore options for changing your residence status (e.g., self-employment) talk to Susan…
What happens if my employment ends?
In Portugal, specific regulations govern the termination of employment relationships, and it’s essential for employers to understand these laws to ensure compliance and protect their business interests talk to Susan…
Before Arriving in Portugal
What essential documents should you prepare?
To obtain a Portuguese work permit, employers must submit the following documents:
• The employment contract
• Company tax records
• Proof of Social Security registration
• Evidence that the position could not be filled by an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen
• Additional employee details, including passport number and recent passport photos talk to Susan…
Do EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens need a visa to travel to Portugal?
No, citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland do not require visas to travel to Portugal; they only need a valid ID or passport. However, if they plan to stay longer than three months, they must register with the local City Hall to obtain a Residence Certificate talk to Susan…
Is there a language requirement for obtaining a visa to work in Portugal?
No, there isn’t an official language requirement for the visa. However, being proficient in Portuguese can significantly enhance your chances of securing a job, especially in roles that involve interaction with local clients or customers talk to Susan…
What languages can you learn in programs offered in Portugal?
Language programs in Portugal primarily focus on developing Portuguese language skills, but options are also available for learning English, Spanish, and Italian talk to Susan…
What Happens When You Arrive in Portugal?
What steps should you take immediately after arriving?
Upon arriving in Portugal as a jobseeker, you should take the following steps:
1. Register with IEFP: Visit the local Instituto do Emprego e Formação Profissional (IEFP) office to register as a job seeker.
2. Obtain a NIF: Get a Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF), which is necessary for employment and other administrative processes.
3. Open a Bank Account: Set up a local bank account to manage your finances and receive salary payments.
4. Update Your CV: Tailor your CV to the Portuguese job market, highlighting relevant skills and experience.
5. Explore Job Portals: Use online job portals and networking platforms to search for job openings.
6. Learn the Language: Consider taking Portuguese language classes to enhance your employability.
7. Network: Connect with locals and other expatriates to learn about job opportunities and gain insights into the job market.
8. Research Work Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as a worker in Portugal, including labor laws and contracts talk to Susan…
What is a NIF?
- NIF is Número de Identificação Fiscal, but also Número de Contribuinte. The NIF consists of 9 digits, the combination of which is unique to each person. NIF is a Portuguese tax number that is essential for anyone planning to immigrate to Portugal, whether for studying, working, or starting a business. It is a universal identifier required for various documents and is often needed more frequently than your passport number.
- Obtaining your NIF varies based on whether you are an EU/EEA citizen or not, and whether you are applying in person or remotely. You can obtain a NIF for free while in Portugal, or you can apply online from another country, typically for a fee ranging from €100 to €120 talk to Susan…
Why is the NIF Needed?
NIF serves as an identifier in Portugal, often replacing your passport number for various transactions. You will need a NIF to sign rental agreements, open a bank account, apply for a social security number, and register your child for school, among other things talk to Susan…
Who Gets a NIF Tax Number in Portugal?
Both residents and non-residents of Portugal can obtain a NIF. If you are moving with your family, your children will also need their own NIF talk to Susan…
What are the Required Documents to Obtain a NIF?
To get a NIF, you’ll need:
• A copy of your passport or ID.
• Proof of your address outside of Portugal (such as a bank statement) talk to Susan…
What are the steps to obtain a NIF in person?
• Locate Your Closest Finanças: Find your nearest office using Google Maps. If you’re in central Lisbon, consider visiting a smaller town to avoid long waits.
• Gather Proof of Address: Bring a document showing your non-Portuguese address, printed in English or Portuguese, with your name and full address.
• Visit Finanças: Take your proof of address and ID, such as a passport or national ID card.
• Request Your NIF: At the office, select “NIF” on the electronic queue board or ask a staff member. Most employees can communicate in basic English.
• Set Up Your Tax Office Account: Request a password to access your account on the tax office portal talk to Susan…
Can I obtain a NIF before arriving in Portugal?
Yes, you can obtain a NIF before arriving in Portugal, which can help expedite tasks like renting an apartment or opening a bank account. This process typically takes 3 to 10 business days talk to Susan…
What is the step-by-step process for applying for a NIF online?
• Order Online: Visit the ordering page and upload a copy of your passport or ID, proof of address, and a signed power of attorney document.
• Payment: Pay a fee of €89 or €120, depending on whether you want additional services.
• Complete the Form: Fill out a small online form and upload the first page of your international passport and proof of address.
• Receive Your NIF: A representative will obtain your NIF and act as your tax representative for one year, keeping you updated.
• Get Your Tax Office Password: You will receive your NIF and instructions for requesting a password from the tax office within ten days talk to Susan…
What integration programs are available for new arrivals?
An Action Plan has been introduced for Migrations aimed at transforming the country’s immigration framework. This plan involves increased oversight of migrants, improved application processes, and the discontinuation of existing mechanisms talk to Susan…
What are the four key areas addressed in Portugal’s Immigration Action Plan?
The Action Plan focuses on four key areas:
- Immigration Regulation
- Attraction of Foreign Talent
- Integration of Immigrants
- Institutional Reorganization talk to Susan…
Taxation and Applying for Social Security
What should you know about Portugal’s taxation system?
Foreigners in Portugal must register as taxpayers before they begin earning income. The country’s tax system comprises state (federal) taxes and local taxes (council taxes), which are assessed based on a combination of income and assets. The tax year in Portugal aligns with the calendar year, running from January 1 to December 31 talk to Susan…
What is NHR – Special Tax Regime for Non-Habitual Residents (NHR)?
To attract foreign income earners in high-value professions, Portugal has established a tax regime. New tax residents who have not been tax residents in Portugal in the past five years can register for this regime. If eligible for the NHR tax regime, you will benefit from special tax rates for up to ten years, with certain foreign-sourced income exempt from taxation and pension income generally taxed at a flat rate of 10% talk to Susan…
What is PAYE system?
Portugal employs a PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system for employed individuals, where taxes are automatically withheld. Personal Income Tax is referred to as Imposto sobre o rendimento das pessoas singulares (IRS) talk to Susan…
What is Corporate Income Tax (CIT) in Portugal?
CIT is imposed on profits earned by both resident and non-resident entities. Simply holding assets does not trigger CIT liability. Resident entities are taxed on their worldwide profits, while non-resident entities with a permanent establishment in Portugal are taxed on profits attributable to that establishment talk to Susan…
Does Portugal have measures to prevent tax abuse?
Yes, Portugal has a general anti-abuse clause, special rules on tax-driven restructurings, and specific regulations concerning payments made to blacklisted jurisdictions talk to Susan…
Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS)
What is the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS)?
The SNS is Portugal’s public healthcare system, offering a comprehensive network of medical care and services to citizens and residents, known for its quality and efficiency talk to Susan…
What types of services does the SNS provide?
The SNS offers a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, emergency services, specialized treatments, and vaccinations talk to Susan…
Who can access the SNS?
The SNS is accessible to citizens, legal residents, and expats in Portugal talk to Susan…
How do expats obtain a user number for the SNS?
Expats must visit their local health centre (Centro de Saúde) to obtain a user number, which is essential for accessing services talk to Susan…
How can EU citizens access healthcare in Portugal?
EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access the SNS at no cost for up to 90 days; beyond that, they must secure legal residency talk to Susan…
Cultural Integration and Living in Portugal
What should I know about Portuguese culture and customs?
Portuguese culture values warmth, hospitality, and respect for traditions. People are generally friendly, and social interactions often involve family and community gatherings. Understanding these norms will help you adapt and integrate smoothly into Portuguese society talk to Susan…
Are there resources for learning Portuguese?
Yes, you can find language courses at community centers, universities, or through online platforms. Many cities offer free or subsidized language classes for newcomers talk to Susan…
What recreational and social activities are available?
Portugal offers a variety of activities, from enjoying its beautiful beaches and historic sites to participating in local festivals, music events, and sports talk to Susan…
Finding a Job in Portugal
How can I apply for jobs in Portugal if I am currently outside the country?
Apply through Portuguese job portals like Net-Empregos, LinkedIn, and Indeed. Customize your CV and cover letter to Portuguese standards. You can also apply directly through company websites and network via LinkedIn or expat forums talk to Susan…
What steps should I take before applying for a job in Portugal?
Research the Portuguese job market and ensure your qualifications are recognized. Tailor your CV and cover letter to Portuguese standards. Consider obtaining any necessary certifications and familiarize yourself with Portuguese workplace culture and job expectations talk to Susan…