Realizing there is considerable confusion regarding the recent revocation of the “Manifestation of Interest” procedure, I want to clarify the new scope for the Portugal Job Seeker Visa. Just letting you know, the option to enter as a tourist and regularize your status from inside the country is effectively closed. This ultimately will be the standard procedure moving forward: you must apply for and secure the visa at a Portuguese consulate in your country of residence before booking any travel.
Further, regarding the “highly qualified” requirement, be aware that authorities are strictly enforcing this definition. While previous iterations were more flexible, the current directive emphasizes higher education degrees and regulated professions. The CONSTRAINT is clear: applications submitted IN Portugal will likely be rejected without review. So FYI, ensure your academic credentials are apostilled and ready before you approach the consulate. This is a public service heads-up to prevent you from being stranded in Lisbon without legal recourse.