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Long-stay visas (Type D)

Portuguese D1 Residence Visa for Subordinate Work

A residence visa for non-EU nationals who hold an employment contract or job offer from a Portuguese employer, allowing them to live and work in the country.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Portugal government website before you apply.
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Issued by
Portuguese consulate / VFS (visa); AIMA (residence permit)
Category
National long-stay (Type D) residence visa
Visa validity
4 months, 2 entries
You must apply to AIMA for the residence permit within this window
Core requirement
Employment contract or binding job offer in Portugal

Who it's for

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who have a confirmed job or employment contract with an employer established in Portugal and want to live and work there long term.

Requirements

  • Valid employment contract or a binding job offer / promise of a work contract in Portugal
  • Proof the role complies with Portuguese labour law
  • Proof of adequate accommodation in Portugal
  • Sufficient means of subsistence
  • Clean criminal record certificate
  • Valid passport and travel/health insurance
  • Portuguese tax number (NIF) and, typically, social security registration

What you can do

  • Live in Portugal and work legally for the sponsoring employer
  • Convert the visa into a renewable residence permit via AIMA
  • Bring family members through family reunification
  • Accumulate time toward permanent residence and citizenship

How to apply

Secure the job and employment contract first. Apply for the D1 residence visa at the Portuguese consulate or accredited visa centre (VFS) covering your place of residence, submitting the national visa application form and supporting documents.

On approval you receive a 4-month visa. Enter Portugal and attend your AIMA appointment (often pre-scheduled) to be issued the residence permit.

Documents

  • Completed national visa application form
  • Passport valid beyond the visa period plus photos
  • Employment contract / job offer
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Criminal record certificate and consent to Portuguese criminal-record check
  • Travel/health insurance
  • Proof of means of subsistence

Frequently asked questions

  • Yes. The D1 is contract-based, so you must already have an employment contract or binding job offer from a Portuguese employer.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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