If you're planning to work in Portugal, understanding the costs and validity of a work visa is essential for smooth relocation and legal employment. 

Costs of a Work Visa in Portugal

Applying for a work visa in Portugal involves several fees, paid at different stages of the process:

1. Entry Visa Fee – When applying for an entry visa at a Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country, you’ll need to pay a fee of approximately €90. This amount may vary slightly depending on the country.

2. Residence Permit Application Fee – Once in Portugal, you must apply for a residence permit for work at the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF), the Portuguese immigration and border service. The application fee is €83.

3. Residence Permit Issuance Fee – After your application is approved, there is an additional fee of €72 to obtain the physical residence permit card.

In total, the cost of the complete process generally amounts to around €245, though this may vary depending on individual circumstances and changes in fee structures.

Validity of a Portuguese Work Visa

Once your work visa is approved, you’ll be issued a residence permit, which legally allows you to live and work in Portugal. This permit is typically valid for one to two years, depending on your employment contract and other conditions.

Before the permit expires, you can apply for a renewal at SEF, provided you continue to meet the requirements—most importantly, holding a valid job offer from your employer.

After five years of legal residency, you become eligible to apply for permanent residence, which grants you more stability and freedom in Portugal, including the right to work without employer sponsorship and easier access to social benefits.

While there are a few fees involved in securing a work visa in Portugal, the process is straightforward and leads to long-term opportunities for expats. With the ability to renew your permit and eventually apply for permanent residency, Portugal offers a welcoming and structured path for foreign workers looking to build their future in the country.