How to Easily Relocate to Portugal With a Job Offer: Complete 2025 Step-by-Step Guide Edition)
Relocating to Portugal with a job offer is one of the smoothest and most reliable ways to begin a new life in Europe. Whether you’re moving to Lisbon, Porto, Braga, or the Algarve, a confirmed job offer allows you to apply for a work visa, obtain residency, and start working legally in Portugal as soon as you arrive. This step-by-step 2025 guide explains exactly what you need — from required documents to visa timelines, NIF, NISS, bank accounts, and how to settle in smoothly during your first months.
This guide breaks everything down in clear, actionable steps to make your relocation stress-free and organized.
Step 1: Secure a Valid Job Offer
To qualify for a work visa, you must have a signed employment contract or an offer letter from a Portuguese employer. The job offer must include:
- Job title
- Salary
- Working hours
- Contract duration
- Employer’s tax number (NIF empresarial)
Step 2: Collect the Required Documents
To apply for a Portuguese work visa, you’ll need a standard set of documents. Always check your local consulate for updates, but in 2025 the typical requirements include:
Core Documents
- Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months past your arrival date)
- Signed employment contract
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Criminal background check
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Proof of financial means (often satisfied by your job offer)
- Health insurance (until you receive Portuguese coverage)
- Completed visa application form
- NIF (Tax Number) — required in many consulates
Optional Documents
Some consulates request:
- CV or proof of qualifications
- Proof of previous work experience
- A signed statement of travel intent
Important: Document requirements vary depending on whether you’re applying under the D1 Visa (standard work visa) or D3 (highly qualified visa).
Step 3: Prepare for Arrival in Portugal
Before you land, make sure you have:
✔ Accommodation
You can use:
- Rental contract
- Hotel booking
- Airbnb reservation
- Letter of invitation from someone hosting you
✔ Temporary Health Insurance
You must have private health insurance valid until you get your SNS (Portuguese public healthcare) registration.
✔ Job Details
Bring:
- Contract
- HR contact information
- Work address
- Start date
This makes onboarding smoother once you arrive.
Step 4: Arrive in Portugal & Begin Mandatory Registrations
Once you arrive in Portugal with your visa, several tasks must be completed within the first few weeks.
Step 5: Get Your NIF (Tax Identification Number)
The NIF is required for:
- Opening a bank account
- Signing a lease
- Signing up for utilities
- Registering with social security
- Receiving your salary
Where to Get It
- Local Finanças office (tax authority)
- Citizen’s shop (Loja do Cidadão)
In 2025, the NIF is usually issued same day, free when done in person.
Step 6: Open a Portuguese Bank Account
Your employer will require a Portuguese IBAN for payroll.
Popular banks for expats
Requirements:
- Passport
- NIF
- Proof of Portuguese address (hotel booking sometimes accepted)
Step 7: Get Your NISS (Social Security Number)
Your NISS connects you to:
- Social security
- Healthcare system
- Employment benefits
Your employer may submit the request for you, but you can also apply at a Segurança Social office.
Processing usually takes 1–4 weeks depending on the region.
Step 8: Attend Your Residency Appointment at AIMA
AIMA (formerly SEF) is responsible for issuing your residency permit.
What to Bring
- Passport
- Visa
- Contract of employment
- NIF + NISS
- Bank account documents
- Proof of accommodation
- Printed appointment confirmation
At this appointment, your photo and fingerprints will be taken.
Your residence card usually arrives by mail within 2–8 weeks.
Step 9: Start Working & Settling In
Once you’ve completed these steps, you can officially begin your new job and life in Portugal.
Things to Set Up After Arrival
- Portuguese SIM card
- Public transport pass
- Health center registration (SNS)
- Local bank app
- Portuguese tax portal access
Step 10: Find Long-Term Accommodation
Once your NIF and bank account are ready, you can sign long-term contracts.
Best Websites to Search
- Idealista
- Imovirtual
- Casa Sapo
- CustoJusto
Tip: Long-term rentals require:
- 1–2 months deposit
- Proof of income
- Guarantor (fiador) — sometimes optional
Step 11: Bring Your Family (Optional)
If your work visa is approved, you may bring:
- Spouse or partner
- Children
- Dependent parents
They can apply for family reunification (Reagrupamento Familiar).
Processing time: 2–6 months.
