· 1 min read
Portugal's Tech Visa Programme: Opening Doors for Highly Skilled Professionals
Portugal's Tech Visa programme, launched on 1 January 2019, allows certified innovation companies to hire highly qualified non-EU professionals through an expedited visa process.
On 1 January 2019, Portugal implemented the Tech Visa programme through Portaria no. 328/2018, published in the Diário da República. This certification scheme allows Portuguese technology and innovation companies to hire highly qualified non-EU professionals through an expedited visa and residence process.
Companies that meet strict innovation and financial criteria can become certified under the programme, enabling them to recruit skilled workers in areas such as software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence and biotechnology. Certified companies can then support foreign candidates in obtaining streamlined residence permits.
For foreign professionals—especially those from the US, Canada, the UK, Israel and Brazil—the Tech Visa creates a clear pathway to live and work in Portugal in cutting-edge sectors. The scheme bypasses quotas and speeds up administrative procedures, providing a competitive alternative to traditional work visas.
The Tech Visa also strengthens Portugal’s status as an emerging European technology hub, helping attract global talent and supporting the growth of Lisbon and Porto as innovation centres.
Official source: Diário da República, Portaria no. 328/2018, effective 1 January 2019 (https://dre.pt)