Realizing this is not about the standard tourist entry, I wanted to share some urgent regulatory updates regarding the Portugal Job Seeker Visa, specifically for those falling under the “highly qualified” bracket.
The Update: The Foreigners and Borders Service has clarified that effective next month, applicants must strictly demonstrate their qualifications prior to the consular appointment. While many assume a degree is enough, this ultimately will be the law: you must provide proof of a “promise of employment” or a regulating body’s recognition of your profession if it is regulated in Portugal.
The Constraint: The major hurdle is the definition of “highly qualified.” It is no longer enough to just have a degree; the position you are seeking IN Portugal must align typically with ISCO-08 Level 1 or 2 roles, and the expected salary must be at least 1.5 times the national average gross salary.
So FYI, if you are planning to apply without the degree recognition finalized, it is likely an automatic rejection. Just letting you know to save you the application fee.