Portugal to launch new visa for skilled workers seeking employment

Portugal will launch a new visa designed for individuals seeking work in the country. This new skilled work-seeking visa replaces the previous work-seeking visa. The change represents a significant policy shift for foreign nationals looking for employment opportunities in Portugal, as reported by The Portugal News.

The Ministry of State and Foreign Affairs confirmed that from October 23, all appointments for the old work-seeking visa will be cancelled. Portuguese consular offices and visa application centres managed by VFS Global, BLS International, and TLScontact will no longer accept applications under the previous category.

“Instead of the work-seeking visa, there will be a skilled work-seeking visa,” the Ministry stated. The new visa, however, will only be available once regulations under the recently approved Foreigners Law are finalised.

As per The Portugal News report, the policy update was enacted through Law No. 61/2025, published on October 22 in Portugal’s Official Gazette. The law aims to align immigration processes with the country’s labour market needs by giving priority to applicants with professional qualifications or specialised skills.

Work-seeking visa services are currently suspended at all consulates and partner centers. Further details regarding eligibility requirements and application timelines will be released after the government issues implementing guidelines.