Can I work in Portugal with a tourist visa?
Explore the complexities of working in Portugal with a tourist visa and delve into the various visa options available for legal employment in the country
The Constraints of a Tourist Visa in Portugal
It's a common misconception that you can legally work in Portugal with a tourist visa. This type of visa is specifically crafted for individuals intending to experience Portugal as a tourist for a limited duration. Undertaking work while on a tourist visa is considered a breach of these conditions, and the Portuguese authorities may impose penalties, which could range from fines to imprisonment.
Transitioning from a Tourist Visa to a Working Visa
If your aspirations extend to working in Portugal, there are multiple visa options that you can explore. These include:
- D7 Visa: Designed for individuals with regular passive income who wish to reside in Portugal.
- D2 Startup Visa: Ideal for budding entrepreneurs planning to kick-start a startup in Portugal.
- Family Reunification Visa: If you have immediate family already legally residing in Portugal, this visa could be an option.
- Golden Visa: This visa facilitates residency through investment, allowing non-EU nationals to acquire a residence permit in Portugal through specified investment activities.
- Digital Nomad Visa: A perfect option for remote workers and freelancers who want to live in Portugal while continuing their digital work for an overseas employer.
Each of these visa types offers the legal pathway to live and work in Portugal.
Path to Legal Employment in Portugal
Remember, working in Portugal requires the appropriate visa. Don't jeopardize your stay by working on a tourist visa. Explore the right options, apply for the suitable visa, and embrace the personal and professional opportunities that Portugal has to offer.
At Movingto, we understand that navigating the work visa process can be complex. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out to our team for personalized guidance on your path to working in Portugal.
Want further advice?
Get in touch with our legal experts who can give you personalized advice.
How do we know this?
Hundreds of people ask Movingto for help every year. We talk to hundreds of local professionals, then we share the information with you.
Related questions
Join our Slack community
Share tips, news, insights with the Movingto community on Slack.
