Working in Portugal: What Documents Are Required?

Portugal has become an increasingly attractive destination for workers worldwide, thanks to its quality of life and growing professional opportunities.

However, working in Portugal, you will need to understand the necessary documents and legal requirements that ensure a safe and regularized experience.

In this article, we will explain, in a simple and direct way, all the documents that different groups of workers —Portuguese citizens, European citizens, and non-European foreigners—need to work in Portugal.

Portuguese citizens have the simplest and most straightforward process:

A Valid Citizen Card (Cartão de Cidadão):
This document proves identity and residency, and it is sufficient to work anywhere in Portugal.

For job opportunities in Portugal and the islands, explore the Timing job portal.

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2. Documents Required for Citizens of the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA)

If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country, you can work in Portugal without needing a visa.

However, there are specific requirements:

• Identification Document: ID card or passport from the country of origin.
  
  
• NIF (Tax Identification Number): Mandatory for salary payments, tax obligations, and opening a bank account in Portugal. You can request it at the Portuguese Tax Authority.
  
  
• NISS (Social Security Identification Number): Required for Social Security contributions
  

For stays longer than three months:

Under Portuguese law, you must apply for a European Citizen Registration Certificate.

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3. Documents Required for Non-European Citizens

For citizens from outside the EU or EEA, the process is more complex and involves additional steps.

Here’s a detailed guide:

Before Coming to Portugal

• Valid Passport: Required for entry into the country.
  
  
• Job-Seeker Visa: Since June 2024, it is no longer possible to submit a “manifestation of interest” to regularize your status.
  
  • The Job-Seeker Visa is now the only legal way for non-European citizens to work in Portugal.
    This visa allows a stay of up to 120 days, extendable by an additional 60 days. During this period, the applicant must secure a job contract.
    
  • It can be obtained from the Portuguese consulate in your home country.
    
    

After Arriving in Portugal

Upon arrival, you must obtain the following documents:

• NIF (Tax Identification Number): Essential for any employment relationship and to open a bank account.
  
  
• NISS (Social Security Identification Number): Its issuance requires a valid work contract. Companies often assist their employees in this process.
  
  
  

If You Are Already in Portugal

If you are already in Portugal, you can work legally with one of the following documents:

Job-Seeker Visa: This visa allows a stay of up to 120 days, extendable by an additional 60 days. During this period, the applicant must secure a job contract.

Residence Permit:

• Temporary Residence: For stays longer than three months.
  
  
• Permanent Residence: For long-term stays.

CPLP Residence (Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries):

• Valid for citizens of countries such as Brazil, Cape Verde, Angola, and other CPLP members.
  

Manifestations of Interest Submitted Before June 4, 2024:

• Applications submitted before this date allow you to continue working in Portugal while awaiting regularization.
  
  

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Rights of Temporary Foreign Workers

Temporary foreign workers enjoy the same rights as permanent workers in Portugal, ensuring equality and legal protection:

• Work Contract: The contract must specify duration, salary, working hours, and workplace.
  
  
• Equal Treatment: Access to equivalent wages, allowances, training, and benefits offered to other employees.
  
  
• Working Hours and Rest: Compliance with the legal limits for working hours, breaks, and weekly rest days is mandatory.
  
  
• Holiday and Christmas Bonuses: Proportional to the period worked.
  
  
• Health and Safety at Work: The employer must ensure a safe work environment and implement all necessary preventive measures.
  
  
• Work Accident Insurance and Social Security: Mandatory to provide social protection in case of illness or accidents.
  
  

For detailed information on the rights of temporary workers, refer to the Portuguese Labor Code or the official page of AIMA – Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum.

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Tips for Quick Integration into Portugal’s Job Market

Starting a career in a new country can be challenging, but proper preparation facilitates professional and personal integration.

Here are some practical tips to help you settle in and start on the right foot in Portugal:

• Learn Portuguese: While English is widely spoken in professional settings, learning Portuguese can open more doors, especially in sectors like commerce, tourism, and services. Numerous in-person and online Portuguese courses are available
  
  
• Adapt Your CV to the Portuguese Format: In Portugal, CVs are concise and direct. Highlight your professional experience, skills, and include a brief cover letter tailored to the job.
  
  
• Understand Your Employment Rights: It’s crucial to be aware of your rights and obligations, whether working temporarily or permanently. Consult official sources like the Portuguese Labor Code to ensure a fair and legal working experience.
  
  
• Seek Local Support: Various agencies and services assist foreign workers in integrating. Timing, for instance, connects job seekers with opportunities and ensures a smooth transition compliant with Portuguese law.
  

These strategies not only expedite job hunting but also promote successful adaptation to the Portuguese way of life.

Explore the benefits of temporary work here.

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Benefits of Working in Portugal with Timing

At Timing, we understand the challenges faced by companies and employees in recruitment and integration processes.

We specialize in human resources solutions and temporary work, simplifying the hiring and regularization of both national and foreign workers.

• Solutions for Companies:
  
  We ensure compliance with all legal requirements during the hiring process, from the necessary documentation to tax and social security alignment.
  
  We provide skilled professionals ready to integrate into your team, tailored to your company’s specific needs. We handle the entire process, saving time and administrative resources.
  
  Discover all the advantages and services we offer to companies here.
  
  
  
• Solutions for Employees and Candidates:
  
  We help you find job opportunities suited to your profile, whether temporary or permanent.
  
  We assist with understanding the documents and procedures required to work legally in Portugal.
  
  We ensure your rights are respected, providing a secure and positive experience.
  
  Find out more about how we can assist you on our website or explore available job opportunities in Portugal, from north to south and the islands.
  
  

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