Are you a tech professional eyeing a career move to Portugal? The Portugal Tech Visa provides non-EU tech experts with an expedited route to working in this vibrant European tech hotspot.
In this guide, we’ll unpack the application process, eligibility criteria, perks of the program, and what life as a tech expat in Portugal entails. Get ready to uncover how you can navigate the transition and kickstart your tech career in Portugal.
Key Takeaways
- The Portugal Tech Visa offers a fast-track route for non-EU tech professionals to work in Portugal, providing quick visa processing for certified companies and their employees.
- Applicants must be third-country nationals with either advanced degrees or five years of relevant experience, ensuring that only highly qualified professionals can apply.
- Tech Visa holders benefit from a favorable tax regime and access to Portugal’s healthcare and social security systems, making it an attractive destination for long-term residency.
Overview of the Portugal Tech Visa Program
Introduced in 2019, the Tech Visa Program is an initiative designed to attract top-tier tech professionals from non-EU countries. This visa addresses the growing demand for highly skilled workers in Portugal’s expanding technology and innovation sectors.
By offering a streamlined process for companies to hire global talent, the program strengthens the country's tech ecosystem and enhances the international reputation of its startup culture.
The Tech Visa isn’t just about filling vacancies—it’s a key strategy for fostering innovation and growth. Thousands of professionals have already taken advantage of this program, relocating to Portugal and playing a pivotal role in the success of both local startups and larger tech companies.
Key Benefits
The Portugal Tech Visa Program offers several compelling advantages for both professionals and companies:
- Fast-track application process: Reduces waiting times and simplifies the bureaucratic process.
- Family inclusivity: Applicants can bring their family members with them under the same visa program.
- Access to tech networks: Visa holders gain entry to Portugal’s thriving tech communities and startup ecosystem.
- Support services: Visa recipients receive assistance with housing, integration, and other relocation needs.
Beyond these benefits, the program helps Portugal address its skills gap by attracting highly qualified workers who contribute directly to its tech industry's growth.
It also offers more tailored processing compared to broader visas like the D3 visa, specifically targeting tech professionals for optimized integration into the country.
Targeted Industries
The Tech Visa Program is focused on key sectors of technology and innovation, as defined by the Portuguese National Qualifications Catalogue.
Companies certified to hire under the Tech Visa, known as tech visa program companies, must align with Portugal’s strategic areas of tech growth, ensuring that the professionals they bring in meet the country’s demand for specialized talent.
This focus ensures a meaningful impact on the national tech landscape, contributing to long-term industry development.
How to Become a Tech Visa-Certified Company
Becoming a Tech Visa-certified company allows Portuguese businesses to efficiently hire highly qualified non-EU professionals, benefiting from a fast-track visa process. Certification opens up the opportunity for companies to onboard specialized talent, helping to drive innovation and growth.
While Tech Visa certification provides numerous advantages, companies must meet specific criteria to qualify. These include:
Once certified, companies can recruit up to 50% of their workforce through the Tech Visa, with this limit increasing to 80% for companies based in less populated regions like Faro. Certification is valid for two years, during which companies can issue digital terms of responsibility that expedite the visa process for international hires.
By becoming certified, Portuguese companies position themselves as attractive employers on the global stage, fostering greater competitiveness and innovation in the tech sector.
Certification Criteria
To be eligible for Tech Visa certification, Portuguese companies must meet specific criteria. This certification allows businesses to fast-track the recruitment of highly qualified non-EU professionals, enabling growth in the competitive tech sector.
Here are the main requirements for certification:
- Legally constituted with a permanent establishment in Portugal.
- No outstanding debts with Social Security or tax authorities.
- Financial stability, meaning no delayed salary payments.
- Not undergoing restructuring.
- Positive shareholder equity if established for over three years.
- Engaged in international trade, with goods or services aimed at global markets.
- Market potential and orientation towards foreign markets.
Once certified, companies can recruit up to 50% of their workforce through the Tech Visa program, with this limit increased to 80% for businesses in less populated regions.
The minimum employment contract for recruited professionals must be 12 months, and their salary must be at least 2.5 times the social support index (IAS).
Application Process
The Tech Visa certification application is handled entirely online through the IAPMEI portal. The process is straightforward, and once all required documents are prepared, companies can submit their application for certification.
The Tech Visa Application Journey for Professionals
Once a company is Tech Visa certified, it opens up a world of opportunities for highly qualified tech professionals seeking employment in Portugal. The Tech Visa simplifies the visa procurement procedure, rendering it more seamless and quicker than other visa categories.
The journey begins with searching for and securing a job opportunity with a Tech Visa-certified company. Once an offer is secured, the candidate can then apply for the Tech Visa, marking the start 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 expedites the visa process for foreign professionals, allowing them to quickly obtain the necessary residency permit and start contributing their skills and expertise to the Portuguese tech industry.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Tech Visa, applicants must meet specific requirements. They must:
- Be third country national not residing 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.
- The applicant must be up-to-date with tax and social security obligations.
For applicants without a tertiary-level education, the following requirements must be met to be considered a highly qualified worker:
- A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in specialized technical functions
- A job or service provider contract with a certified company that meets a minimum duration of twelve months
- A salary of at least two and a half times the social support index.
Required Documents
When applying for the Tech Visa, applicants need to ensure they have gathered all the necessary documentation for a smooth and successful process.
These documents are crucial to validate the applicant's eligibility and allow the Portuguese authorities to process the visa application efficiently.
Below is a list of the legally required documents:
- Valid passport
- Employment contract or service provider agreement with a certified company
- The certified company has issued a statement of responsibility
- Proof of professional qualifications (e.g., bachelor's degree or equivalent)
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of language proficiency in Portuguese, English, French, or Spanish
- Financial documentation serving as proof of means, signed by the hosting company
Application Timeline for the Portugal Tech Visa Process
The process of applying for the Portugal Tech Visa involves several key steps that applicants must follow.
Each phase is designed to ensure that both the applicant and the certified company meet the necessary legal and qualification requirements.
Residence Permits with the Tech Visa
Once Tech Visa holders arrive in Portugal, they need to understand the process for securing residence permits.
There are three types of permits:
Temporary permits are typically valid for one year and can be renewed for additional periods as long as the individual remains employed by a certified company. After five consecutive years of residency under temporary permits, individuals can apply for permanent residency, which grants greater stability.
Permanent residency allows the individual to live and work in Portugal indefinitely, enjoying many of the same benefits as Portuguese citizens, such as access to the healthcare and social security systems.
Applying for Permanent Residency
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 have continually lived in Portugal for at least five years
- Have a clean criminal record
- Have no pending tax obligations
- Demonstrate knowledge of the Portuguese language
Permanent residents of Portugal enjoy the same entitlements 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.
Following the acquisition of a permanent residency permit, which is initially issued for five years and renewable indefinitely every five years, the individual may have the option to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Cost of the Tech Visa Program
The cost of obtaining the Portugal Tech Visa includes various fees, and applicants should prepare for additional expenses beyond the visa application itself. Here’s a breakdown:
Tech Visa Costs
Additional Potential Costs
- Legal advice and assistance with the application
- Translation of documents into Portuguese (if needed)
- Travel health insurance for the duration of the visa
- Consular trips for document verification and visa processing
- Acquiring a Portuguese tax number and social security registration (once in Portugal)
These are the primary expenses involved in the Tech Visa process. Depending on the specific requirements of your application and country of origin, other personal or administrative costs may also apply.
Who is Considered a Highly Qualified Worker?
The Tech Visa program is designed to attract professionals with advanced expertise in tech and innovation sectors. Candidates must typically have a high level of education, such as a master’s degree or PhD, or several years of experience in specialized tech roles. These individuals are expected to bring substantial value to the Portuguese tech industry by contributing to technological advancement and innovation.
To qualify as a highly qualified worker, applicants must possess industry-specific skills and experience in handling complex projects. Employers may request additional documents, such as an employment contract and statement of responsibility to ensure eligibility.
The Tech Visa aims not only to fill roles but to bring in a caliber of talent that drives innovation and growth within Portugal’s tech ecosystem
Navigating Tax and Social Security Obligations
Life in Portugal isn’t solely about relishing the sun-drenched beaches, tasty cuisine, and energetic tech scene. It also comes with responsibilities, including understanding and fulfilling your tax and social security obligations.
Tech 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 daunting, as the Portuguese tax regime can also offer benefits for certain professionals.
As of January 2024, the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime is no longer available for new applicants. However, those who applied by December 31, 2023, can continue benefiting from the scheme.
For new Tech Visa holders, a new tax regime offers a flat 20% income tax rate on high-value activities with limited foreign income exemptions This can significantly lower the tax burden, making Portugal an even more attractive destination for tech professionals.
Tax Regime for Tech Visa Holders
The standard Personal Income Tax (PIT) rates in Portugal range from 14.5% to 48%, depending on the level of income, with additional surcharges for higher incomes. However, under the NHR regime, eligible tech professionals, such as IT specialists or engineers, can benefit from:
- A flat rate of 20% tax on income from high-value activities
- Pension income taxed at a flat rate of 10%
- Income from other categories such as royalties, dividends, and interests could be exempt if covered by Double Taxation Agreements.
Tech Visa holders must ensure that they have no pending tax obligations in Portugal to remain compliant with tax regulations. Acquiring a visa in Portugal requires adherence to these rules.
Social Security Contributions
Social security contributions in Portugal are a shared responsibility between the employer and the employee. Tech Visa holders are required 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 an additional 23.75%.
Employees, including Tech Visa holders, are entitled to social security benefits in Portugal, such as healthcare, unemployment benefits, and pensions, provided they meet the contribution and eligibility criteria.
Family Reunification and Tech Visa
The perks of the Tech Visa don’t stop at the individual holder. The program also caters to family life, allowing Tech Visa holders with a valid residency permit in Portugal to apply for family reunification for family members residing outside of Portugal.
This means that if you’re a Tech Visa holder, your family can also make Portugal their home. But before the family members can apply for a residency permit, the Tech Visa holder must first request 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 minimal hassle.
Eligible Family Members
Family reunification under the Tech Visa Program isn’t limited to your spouse or children. Eligible family members typically encompass:
- The spouse or registered partner
- Minor or dependent children
- Dependent first-degree 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.
Application Process
The family reunification process commences with the Tech Visa holder in Portugal petitioning a concession from SEF and providing necessary documents like proof of accommodation, means of subsistence, and proof of the 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:
- Identity pictures
- Passport
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of relationship to the Tech Visa holder
- SEF approval letter
After arriving in Portugal with the appropriate visa, family members must schedule an appointment with SEF to register and obtain a residence permit, enabling them to live, work, and access education and healthcare within the country.
Comparing Tech Visa with Other Portuguese Visa Programs
While the Tech Visa is an excellent option for tech professionals, it’s not the only visa program available in Portugal. The country offers a range of visa programs, including the Golden Visa and 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 several types of visas available for individuals looking to live and work in Portugal:
- The Golden Visa: This is a residency-by-investment program that offers residency in exchange for a significant financial investment in the country.
- The StartUP Visa: This visa is targeted at entrepreneurs who wish to establish or move their startups to Portugal.
- The Tech Visa: This visa is specifically designed for highly skilled professionals in the tech sector, offering a fast-track process for securing a job and obtaining a visa through a certified company.
Understanding these nuanced 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.
Key Differences
The Tech Visa, Golden Visa, and Start UP Visa are all designed to meet differing professional and personal objectives. The Tech Visa is ideal for highly skilled professionals in the tech sector, requiring a job offer from a certified Portuguese tech 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 Tech Visa, which mandates residency and potential tax obligations in Portugal.
Choosing the Right Visa Program
Choosing the right visa program is a crucial decision and depends on several factors. Your intent to reside in Portugal, tax residency implications, and readiness to invest in the Portuguese economy are all factors to consider.
For instance, if you’re a tech professional planning to live and work in Portugal, the Tech Visa might 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 might be your best bet.
Summary
The Portugal Tech Visa Program is a pioneering initiative that addresses the market need for highly qualified tech professionals by making it easier for them to relocate and integrate into the Portuguese tech environment.
With its faster processing, industry-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 tech professional seeking employment in Portugal or a Portuguese company looking to attract global talent, the Tech Visa Program offers a streamlined and effective solution. So, ready to make your mark in the Portuguese tech scene? With the Tech Visa, the world of opportunity is just an application away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a tech visa for Portugal?
To get a tech visa for Portugal, tech professionals need to meet requirements such as a clean criminal record, proving highly qualified activity, and having an indefinite or at least one-year contract with a company. Once the individual secures a job at a certified company, they can apply for the visa online with the necessary documentation.
What are the advantages of getting a tech visa in Portugal?
The tech visa certification in Portugal offers benefits such as simplified procedures for companies, fast-track work visa issuance for employees, and visa-free travel throughout the Schengen area. Additionally, it provides options for employees to apply for Portugal's non-EU family reunification and exceptional treatment for dependent family members.
Does Portugal have a Digital Nomad visa?
Yes, Portugal offers a digital nomad visa for non-EU/EEA citizens based on monthly income criteria.
What is the Portugal Tech Visa Program?
The Tech Visa Program is a specialized work visa aimed at bringing highly qualified professionals in the technology sector to Portugal, making it easier for Portuguese companies to hire foreign talent in technology and innovation.
Who can apply for the Tech Visa?
Individuals who are at least 18 years old, have a clean criminal record, a bachelor's degree or equivalent, proficiency in certain languages, and a job or service provider contract with a certified company can apply for the Tech Visa.
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