The easiest way to assess the feasibility of getting a residence visa for Portugal

Are you a technology professional eyeing a career move to Portugal? The Portugal Tech Visa provides tech experts from outside the EU with a fast-track route to work in this vibrant European tech hotspot. In this guide, we'll unpack the application process, the eligibility criteria, the advantages of the program and what life as a tech expat in Portugal entails. Get ready to discover how you can navigate the transition and start your tech career in Portugal.

Main conclusions

• The Portugal Tech Visa Program, launched in 2019, is designed to attract qualified tech professionals from non-EU countries by offering fast-track applications, family visas, integration support and a path to permanent residency, while enhancing the Portuguese tech industry.
• Tech Visa certification for Portuguese companies requires meeting criteria such as having a local commercial presence, engaging in international operations, being financially stable and aligning with Portugal's strategic technological areas, allowing them to hire global talent efficiently.
• Technical visa applicants must be non-EU residents with professional qualifications and clean criminal records, starting the visa process with a job offer from a certified company that issues Terms of Responsibility, leading to simplified visa acquisition and family reunification opportunities.
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Understanding the Portugal Tech Visa Program

The Portugal Tech Visa Program aims to attract qualified technology professionals, strengthen the Portuguese technology ecosystem and address the market gap for highly qualified talent.

Launched in 2019, the Portugal Tech Visa Program is a strategic initiative by the Portuguese government to attract highly qualified technology workers and fill market gaps in the technology and innovation sectors. This specialized work visa, aimed at non-EU talent, has seen thousands of foreigners make Portugal their new home, contributing significantly to the growth of the technology sector and the success of many Portuguese companies in the country.

In addition to attracting talent, the program also boosts the growth and international reputation of the Portuguese startup ecosystem. Through the transfer of knowledge and know-how from talents outside the EU, the Technology Visa Program contributes significantly to the development of local capacities and the technology industry in Portugal.

Objectives and benefits

The Portugal Tech Visa Program is tailored to meet the needs of the technology sector. It is not a single visa program, but a targeted solution designed to attract highly qualified professionals to certified technology companies in Portugal. The benefits of the program include:

• Fast application process
• Visas for the applicant's family members
• Access to a network of technology companies and startups
• Support in finding housing and integrating into the local community

The certification program addressed benefits that extend beyond the individual candidate.

The program offers the following benefits:

• Amplifies the global profile of the Portuguese technology sector
• Addresses the skills gap due to the shortage of qualified workers
• Offers faster processing and sector-specific adaptation compared to general routes such as the D3 visa
• Optimizes the relocation and integration of technology professionals in the Portuguese technological environment.

Target industries

The Tech Visa program casts a wide net, focusing on attracting highly qualified professionals in the areas of technology and innovation. With the objectives of the Tech Visa program centered on specialization in areas recognized by the Portuguese National Qualifications Catalogue, companies in the Tech Visa program must ensure that the talent brought in aligns with the strategic growth areas of the country's technological ecosystem, effectively meeting the market's need for highly qualified workers in these sectors.

Becoming a Tech Visa Certified Company

The journey to becoming part of the Portugal Tech Visa Program begins with certification. Becoming Tech Visa certified allows Portuguese companies to exploit the benefits of the program by recruiting top-notch non-EU professionals through an accelerated process. This facilitates the hiring process, allowing companies to fill positions with the best global talent quickly and efficiently.

Tech Visa certification is not granted freely; companies must meet certain criteria in order to become Tech Visa certified companies. To be eligible for Tech Visa certification, companies must:

• Have a registered office or permanent establishment in Portugal
• Getting involved in international operations
• No outstanding social security or tax debts
• Demonstrate financial stability
• Align yourself with Tech Visa's technical qualification areas

Applying for Tech Visa certification is free of charge and is done online via the IAPMEI portal. The processing time is usually between 20 and 23 working days.

Once granted, the certification is valid for two years, providing companies with ample opportunities to attract and integrate foreign talent.

Certification Criteria

Becoming a Tech Visa certified company requires more than just a desire to hire international talent. It requires a commitment to legal compliance, international operations and a focus on technology and innovation. Portuguese companies must be legally established in Portugal, have no outstanding debts with the social security or tax authorities and provide international goods or services. They must also demonstrate a positive assessment in terms of market potential or orientation towards foreign markets.

In addition, to be eligible for the Technology Visa, companies must meet the following criteria:

• They shouldn't be undergoing any restructuring
• Their activities must be aligned with the technical fields specified in the National Qualifications Catalog
• A company cannot exceed the limit of having more than 50% of its workforce on the Technology Visa, unless its main activities are in Portugal, where the limit is 80%.
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Registration process

Applying for Tech Visa certification is a simple online procedure. Companies wishing to apply need to gather and prepare all the necessary documentation, as described on the IAPMEI website. Once the documentation is in order, the complete application is submitted online via the IAPMEI portal.

Once submitted, the processing time is usually between 20 and 23 working days, making it a relatively quick process. This efficiency allows companies to quickly become certified and start hiring the global talent they need to boost their success.

The Technological Visa Application Journey for Professionals

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Once a company is certified by the Tech Visa, it opens up a world of opportunities for highly qualified technology professionals looking for work in Portugal. The Tech Visa simplifies the visa acquisition procedure, making it more seamless and faster than other visa categories. The journey begins with finding and securing a job opportunity with a Tech Visa certified company. Once an offer is secured, the candidate can apply for the Tech Visa, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their professional journey.

One of the significant advantages of the Tech Visa process is the role of certified companies in issuing terms of responsibility. This document streamlines the visa process for foreign professionals, allowing them to quickly obtain the necessary residence permit and start contributing their skills and knowledge to the Portuguese technology industry.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Technology Visa, applicants must meet specific requirements. They must:

• Be third-country nationals who do not reside in the Schengen area
• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a clean criminal record
• Have a bachelor's degree or equivalent
• Be proficient in English, Portuguese, French or Spanish.

For candidates without tertiary-level education, the following requirements must be met to be considered a highly qualified worker:

• A minimum of 5 years' professional experience in specialized technical functions
• An employment or service provider contract with a certified company that lasts at least twelve months
• A salary of at least two and a half times the social support index.

Application steps

The application process for the Tech Visa is largely digital, making it convenient for applicants. Applicants need to compile crucial documents, including:

• A valid passport
• Evidence of professional qualifications
• Certificate of proficiency in Portuguese, English, French or Spanish
• A criminal record certificate

With these documents in hand, the Technical Visa application is submitted online, requiring a statement of responsibility from a certified company and proof of financial means signed by the hosting company.

After submission, applicants usually receive a processing confirmation within 20 to 23 working days and need to attend a consular interview, which culminates in approval and issuance of a residence visa. After approval, applicants use their certified employer's digital term of responsibility to obtain a D3 visa and subsequent residence permit from Consular Posts, Embassies or Border Control Services.

Understanding Residence Permits and Permanent Residence

Once in Portugal, technical visa holders should familiarize themselves with the available residence permits and the process of transitioning from a temporary to a permanent residence permit. There are two main types of permits in Portugal: Residence Visas, which are short-term and usually valid for 3 or 4 months, and Residence Permits, which can be temporary or permanent.

Temporary permits are normally valid for one year and renewable for additional periods. After living in Portugal for at least five years using a temporary permit, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.

How to get your company certified for the Tech Visa program

Companies whose visa has become a requirement for a technology visa can easily grow by hiring qualified workers globally. Obtaining this certification will help technology companies expand. It aims to assess and grant certification to companies. All companies must meet a minimum requirement to register with IES if they are established within three years. The process is designed to be simple, ensuring that even smaller tech startups can navigate it with ease. By meeting the program's criteria, companies can tap into a vast pool of international tech talent, which can be key to scaling their operations and fostering innovation. Certification not only opens doors for hiring, but also signals to potential employees that the company is recognized as a player on the global technology scene. Every step towards certification is a step towards greater growth and international competitiveness.

How much does a Portuguese startup visa cost?

The cost of obtaining the Portugal Startup Visa is US$900 per adult. This amount covers the administrative fees for processing the application and is payable once the application has been submitted. It is important to note that this fee does not include other potential costs that applicants may incur during the process, such as legal advice, translation of documents or any necessary trips to consulates or embassies. In addition, should there be a need for a visa extension or renewal, other costs may apply. Applicants should budget for these additional expenses to ensure a smooth application process.

Who is considered a highly qualified worker?

Tech Visas is a new program that will attract specialists working in Portugal in a variety of technologies. The criteria are considerably higher, as it is not aimed at recent graduates or professionals who are just starting out in their careers. For a Technical Visa application, an employer may require additional documents, including the employment contract, as well as a statement of responsibility for the certification. You must ensure that the applicant's documents are available to them when applying for residence.

The definition of a highly qualified worker under the Tech Visa program covers individuals with an advanced level of specialization, usually demonstrated through substantial professional experience in the technology industry or a significant academic background in a relevant field. These professionals are expected to contribute to the Portuguese technology sector with their specialized knowledge and skills, driving innovation and growth within the sector.

To qualify as a highly skilled worker, candidates generally need to possess a high level of education, such as a master's degree or doctorate in a technology-related discipline, or have several years of professional experience in a specialized technology role. In addition, they must display a strong command of industry-specific tools and technologies and be able to work on complex projects that could have a significant impact on the market or technological advancement.

The Tech Visa program, therefore, is not just about filling vacancies, but about bringing in a caliber of talent that can catalyze the development of cutting-edge solutions and promote a culture of excellence within Portugal's growing tech scene. By ensuring that these workers have all the necessary documents and meet the strict criteria, companies can facilitate a smoother transition for these individuals into the Portuguese workforce, benefiting the country's tech ecosystem as a whole.

Types of Residence Permits

Portugal offers a variety of residence permits, each catering to different needs. These include permits for work, study, family reunification and special purposes. Work residence permits are categorized based on the type of employment, covering permits for skilled and highly skilled workers, self-employed individuals, technology professionals, cultural activities and educators.

The Tech Visa Program specifically simplifies the acquisition of a residence permit for highly qualified professionals outside the EU by allowing certified companies to issue Terms of Responsibility.

Applying for Permanent Residence

After living in Portugal for at least five years, Tech Visa holders can apply for a permanent residence permit. To be eligible, applicants must:

• I've lived in Portugal continuously for at least five years
• Have a clean criminal record
• No outstanding tax obligations
• Demonstrate knowledge of the Portuguese language

Permanent residents of Portugal enjoy the same rights as Portuguese citizens, including access to the national health service, social security benefits and educational services. However, they are not eligible to vote in national elections.

After acquiring a permanent residence permit, which is initially issued for five years and renewable indefinitely every five years, the individual may have the option of applying for Portuguese citizenship.

Navigating Tax and Social Security Obligations

Life in Portugal isn't just about enjoying the sunny beaches, tasty cuisine and energetic tech scene. It also comes with responsibilities, including understanding and fulfilling your tax and social security obligations. Technical visa holders are required to register with the Portuguese tax authorities and secure a tax identification number (NIF). They are expected to pay income tax on their worldwide income if they are tax residents in the country. But it's not all scary, as the Portuguese tax regime can also offer benefits to certain professionals.

For example, non-habitual residents (NHR), which can include technical visa holders and professionals who are third-country nationals, can benefit from a special tax regime that offers a flat income tax rate of 20% for certain professions and exemption from taxes on foreign-sourced income, under certain conditions. This can significantly reduce the tax burden, making Portugal an even more attractive destination for technology professionals.

Tax Regime for Technology Visa Holders

Standard Personal Income Tax (PIT) rates in Portugal range from 14.5% to 48%, depending on income level, with additional surcharges for higher incomes. However, under the NHR regime, eligible technology professionals, such as IT specialists or engineers, can benefit from:

• A flat 20% tax rate on income from high-value activities
• Pension income taxed at a flat rate of 10%
• Income from other categories, such as royalties, dividends and interest, may be exempt if covered by Double Taxation Agreements.

Technological visa holders must ensure that they have no outstanding tax obligations in Portugal in order to remain compliant with tax regulations. Acquiring a visa in Portugal requires compliance with these rules.

Social security contributions

Social security contributions in Portugal are a shared responsibility between the employer and the employee. Technological visa holders are obliged to make social security contributions, with the general social security contribution rate for employees in Portugal being 11% of their gross salary, while employers contribute a further 23.75%.

Employees, including Tech Visa holders, are entitled to social security benefits in Portugal, such as healthcare, unemployment benefits and pensions, as long as they meet the contribution and eligibility criteria.

Family Reunification and Technical Visas

The advantages of the Tech Visa don't stop at the individual holder. The program also caters for family life, allowing Tech Visa holders with a valid residence permit in Portugal to apply for family reunification for family members living outside Portugal. This means that if you are a Tech Visa holder, your family can also make Portugal their home. But before family members can apply for a residence permit, the Tech Visa holder must first apply for a concession for family reunification from the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) in Portugal.

The family reunification process requires coordination between the Tech Visa holder, the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) and the Portuguese consulates or embassies. This ensures a smooth process, allowing your family to join you in Portugal with the minimum of problems.

Eligible Family Members

Family reunification under the Tech Visa Program is not limited to your spouse or children. Eligible family members usually include:

• spouse or registered partner
• minor or dependent children
• first-degree dependent relatives
• minor siblings (if they are under the legal custody of the Tech Visa holder)

The specific criteria for eligible family members are defined by the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF), ensuring a clear and straightforward process.

Registration process

The family reunification process begins with the Tech Visa holder in Portugal requesting a grant from SEF and providing the necessary documents, such as proof of accommodation, means of subsistence and proof of family relationship. Once SEF grants approval for family reunification, the family members must apply for a Type D visa at the nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate. They will need to provide the following documents:

• Images of identity
• Passport
• Criminal record certificate
• Proof of relationship with the holder of the Technology Visa
• SEF approval letter

After arriving in Portugal with the appropriate visa, family members must make an appointment with SEF to register and obtain a residence permit, allowing them to live, work and access education and healthcare within the country.

Comparing the Technology Visa with Other Portuguese Visa Programs

Comparing the Technology Visa with Other Portuguese Visa Programs

Although the Tech Visa is an excellent option for technology professionals, it is not the only visa program available in Portugal. The country offers a variety of visa programs, including the Golden Visa and the StartUP Visa, all designed with the aim of attracting foreign talent and investment. Each of these programs has its own unique features and benefits, and understanding them can help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

There are various types of visas available for individuals looking to live and work in Portugal:

1. The Golden Visa: This is an investment residency program that offers residency in exchange for a significant financial investment in the country.
2. The StartUP Visa: This visa is aimed at entrepreneurs who want to establish or move their startups to Portugal.
3. The Technology Visa: This visa is designed specifically for highly qualified professionals in the technology sector, offering an accelerated process for securing a job and obtaining a visa through a certified company.

Understanding these distinct differences can help you navigate the visa landscape and make an informed decision about the most suitable visa for your personal and professional goals in Portugal.

Main Differences

The Tech Visa, Golden Visa and Start UP Visa are all designed to meet different professional and personal objectives. The Tech Visa is ideal for highly qualified professionals in the technology sector, requiring a job offer from a certified Portuguese technology company. In contrast, the Start UP Visa seeks entrepreneurs with a scalable business plan and the potential to create jobs and achieve a specific turnover.

The Golden Visa, on the other hand, requires a financial investment in real estate, capital transfers or job creation without the need to reside in Portugal, unlike the Technology Visa, which requires residence and possible tax obligations in Portugal.

Choosing the Right Visa Program

Choosing the right visa program is a crucial decision and depends on several factors. Your intention to reside in Portugal, tax residency implications and readiness to invest in the Portuguese economy are all factors to consider.

For example, if you are a technology professional planning to live and work in Portugal, the Technology Visa may be a suitable choice. If you're an entrepreneur looking to establish or move your startup to Portugal, the Start UP Visa could be the right option. And if you're looking to make a significant financial investment in the country, the Golden Visa could be your best bet.

Summary

The Portugal Tech Visa Program is a pioneering initiative that meets the market's need for highly qualified technology professionals, making it easier for them to move and integrate into the Portuguese technology environment. With its faster processing, sector-specific tailoring and benefits that extend beyond the individual applicant, the Tech Visa is a game changer in the Portuguese tech ecosystem.

Whether you're a technology professional looking for a job in Portugal or a Portuguese company looking to attract global talent, the Tech Visa Program offers a simplified and effective solution. So, are you ready to make your mark on the Portuguese tech scene? With Tech Visa, the world of opportunities is just an app away.

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About Via Portugal

Via Portugal is a leading immigration law firm that specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the complex process of moving to Portugal. With a team of experienced lawyers and immigration experts, Via Portugal provides customized solutions to meet each client's unique needs.

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• Knowledge and Experience: Our lawyers have extensive knowledge of Portuguese immigration law and years of experience assisting clients with various visa applications, including the D7 visa, Golden Visa, Startup Visa and Family Reunion Visa.
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