How Brazilians Can Obtain a Work Visa in Portugal

Portugal has emerged as one of the most attractive European destinations for Brazilian workers. With shared language roots, cultural proximity, and increasing demand for labor in agriculture, construction, hospitality, and healthcare, Brazilians continue to pursue professional opportunities in Portugal through legal channels.

But navigating the work visa process requires clarity. This article breaks down how Brazilians can apply for and obtains a Portuguese work visa, outlines recent trends, and features insights from Jon Purizhansky, CEO of Joblio, and an impact-driven global recruitment platform focused on ethical labor mobility.

The Demand Landscape: Why Portugal Needs Brazilian Workers.

The Portuguese labor market is facing a persistent shortage in skilled and semi-skilled sectors. According to data from Instituto Nacional de Estatística (INE), the country had over 140,000 unfilled job vacancies in early 2025, particularly in tourism, agriculture, construction, and elder care.

Jon Purizhansky explains:“Portugal’s aging population and low birthrate mean there’s a sustained need for incoming workers. Brazilians often arrive with high adaptability and relevant skills, especially in service industries. The challenge lies in ensuring they enter through legal pathways that protect them and meet employer standards.”

This demand has prompted the government to streamline legal employment channels, particularly through the Temporary Stay Visa and Residence Visa for Work Purposes.

Legal Pathways to Employment.

1. Temporary Stay Visa (Visto de Estada Temporária).

This visa allows Brazilians to live and work in Portugal for up to 12 months. It is suitable for seasonal or project-based jobs, such as in tourism or construction. It requires a signed work contract or promise of employment and proof of accommodation.

Key Requirements:

• Valid passport.
• Employment contract from a Portuguese employer.
• Proof of accommodation.
• Health insurance.
• No criminal record.

Jon Purizhansky emphasizes the importance of employer transparency during this process: “Many applicants are unaware of their legal rights or end up in jobs that don’t match their qualifications. At Joblio, we require employers to disclose full employment terms before the migration process begins. This builds trust and prevents abuse.”

2. Residence Visa for Subordinate Work (Visto de Residência para Trabalho Subordinado).

This is a longer-term visa for individuals with a confirmed job offer in Portugal. It typically leads to a residence permit and can be renewed. After five years, workers may apply for permanent residency or citizenship under Portugal’s immigration law.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step for Brazilians.

1. Secure a Job Offer:

 The process begins with obtaining a written job contract from a Portuguese employer. The employer must also declare the job vacancy to the Portuguese Employment and Vocational Training Institute (IEFP).

2. Apply at the Portuguese Consulate in Brazil:

 The visa application must be submitted to the Portuguese consulate serving the applicant’s home region. It includes providing biometric data and attending an interview.

3. SEF Appointment (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras):

 Once in Portugal, the worker must schedule an appointment with SEF to finalize their residence permit.

4. Integration & Tax Registration:

 After arrival, workers must register with the tax authority (Autoridade Tributária), get a Social Security number, and enroll in the national health service.

Jon Purizhansky comments:“This process, while comprehensive, is navigable with the right support. That’s why we work with employers and municipalities to ensure every newcomer receives help with housing, documentation, and orientation. Integration doesn’t end at the border.”

Portuguese-Brazilian Agreements: Easing Mobility.

Portugal and Brazil have longstanding bilateral agreements that ease the mobility process. For example:

• Equal Rights Treaty (Estatuto de Igualdade): Brazilians legally residing in Portugal for more than one year may apply for equal rights, which grant access to public services and labor protections.
• CPLP Mobility Agreement: Signed in 2021, this Community of Portuguese Language Countries agreement simplifies migration procedures among member states.

The Ethical Dimension of Labor Migration.

Legal migration is about protecting human rights. Informal employment has left many Brazilian workers vulnerable to wage theft, unsafe housing, and human trafficking.

Jon Purizhansky concludes: “Ethical recruitment is a necessity. When employers invest in transparency and governments enforce legal channels, everyone benefits. Migrants thrive, businesses get committed talent, and communities stay strong.”

Joblio, under Jon’s leadership, operates recruitment and relocation programs for Brazilian workers across the EU, including in Portugal, pairing candidates with verified employers and ensuring legal compliance on both ends.

With Portugal’s economy growing and sectors like elder care, green energy, and hospitality expanding, the demand for Brazilian talent is expected to continue rising.

Brazilian workers who choose legal routes gain access to fair wages, health services, and long-term security. While Portugal benefits from a workforce that’s ready to contribute. In a world shaped by migration, building systems that empower workers rather than exploit them is the foundation of sustainable development.

Originally Posted: https://jonpurizhansky.medium.com/how-brazilians-can-obtain-a-work-visa-in-portugal-a-guide-to-legal-employment-and-integration-bc5f15d2ffab