Portugal•Europe1–2 months
EUR €302
Varies by filing options
2 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required
Pathway to Portuguese residency for highly qualified professionals earning €21,030+ annually, requiring a €302.40 fee and offering EU mobility after 12 months.
The EU Blue Card is Portugal's pathway for highly qualified non-EU professionals. It requires a binding 12-month contract, a recognized degree or 5 years of professional experience, and a gross annual salary of EUR 21,030+. The permit offers EU mobility after 12 months and family reunification.
Applications process in 30–60 days for a fee of EUR 302.40 (application €155.20 plus permit issuance €147.20). The initial 2-year residence permit is renewable for 3-year periods, with permanent residency qualification after 5 years. Spouses can work without restriction, and holders access healthcare.
This visa is ideal for international specialists in technology, engineering, medicine, or academia who hold advanced qualifications and have secured employment in Portugal at the salary threshold.
| Initial grant | 2 years |
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
PortugalNon-EU/EEA/Swiss citizenship
Valid employment contract or binding job offer in Portugal for at least 12 months
Highly qualified professional status (higher education degree of at least 3 years or 5+ years of relevant professional experience)
Salary at least 1.5 times the national average gross annual salary (or 1.2 times for shortage occupations)
Comprehensive health insurance or coverage by the Portuguese National Health Service
Clean criminal record
Education
bachelor or higher
Min. Income
21,030 EUR/yr
Valid passport (at least 15 months validity)
Signed employment contract (minimum 12 months)
Academic transcripts/diplomas or proof of 5+ years of professional experience
Proof of professional qualifications (for regulated professions)
Criminal record certificate
Proof of health insurance or National Health Service coverage
Completed application form
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