Overview
Are you a highly skilled professional with a job offer in Portugal or already working for an international company expanding here? The Portugal D3 Visa offers a fast and direct pathway to residency for qualified professionals, researchers, tech experts, engineers, doctors, academics, and more.
In this complete 2025 guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the D3 Visa — who it’s for, eligibility criteria, benefits, documents, step-by-step application process, and how to bring your family with you.
What is the D3 Visa?
The D3 Visa, officially called the Visa for Highly Qualified Activity, is a Portuguese residency visa granted to third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens) who hold a job offer or work contract for a highly qualified role in Portugal.
It provides a direct route to Portuguese residency and eventually permanent residency or citizenship, with priority processing and easier family reunification.
Why Apply for the D3 Visa?
- Live and work legally in Portugal
- Fast-track processing (compared to other visas)
- Access to healthcare, education, and social security
- Bring your spouse, children, and dependents
- Path to permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years
- Apply for the EU Blue Card later if desired
- Work for a Portuguese company or transfer from abroad (ICT model)
- No business plan or investment required
Eligbility Criteria
To qualify for the D3 Visa, applicants must prove the following:
- Have a recognized higher education degree (Bachelor’s or higher)
- Have a binding employment contract or job offer from a Portuguese employer or institution
- Will work in a highly qualified position, such as:
- IT/tech specialists
- Scientists or researchers
- Engineers
- University lecturers or professors
- Medical professionals
- Senior executives or managers
- Meet the minimum salary threshold (typically 1.5x the Portuguese gross monthly salary — ~€1,470 or more in 2025)
Target Candidates
There are two paths designed for D3 visa candidates:
Validition Period
120Days
1Year
2Years
Required Documentation
When preparing your D3 Visa application, you’ll need to gather and submit several documents. While exact requirements may vary slightly by consulate, you can expect to provide:
The Application Process
Step 1: Document Preparation
Gather all the required documents and ensure they meet the consulate’s standards. It’s a good idea to have official translations (if needed) and notarizations for key documents.
Step 2: Consulate Appointment
Schedule an appointment with the nearest Portuguese consulate or embassy in your country of residence. Many consulates require you to book in advance.
Step 3: Submission and Interview
Attend your appointment and submit your application, along with all supporting documents. Some consulates might conduct an interview to clarify details regarding your application.
Step 4: Application Processing
Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. The processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months, so plan accordingly.
Step 5: Visa Approval and Travel
Upon approval, you will receive a visa that allows you to enter Portugal. You may be granted a D3 entry visa (valid for 120 days). You must then travel to Portugal within the visa’s validity period.
Step 6: Residence Permit Application (AIMA / SEF Process)
After arriving in Portugal, schedule an appointment with the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (AIMA / SEF) to convert your visa into a residence permit. The initial permit is typically granted for one year and can be renewed thereafter.
Once approved, your biometric card will be issued and posted to your Portuguese address.
Taxes and Employment Rules
Once you become a resident in Portugal:
- You are subject to Portuguese income tax
- Social security contributions will be deducted from your salary
- You may be eligible for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime (check 2024–2025 updates)
Note: You must live in Portugal at least 183 days per year to maintain residency status.
How Can We Help You
- Visa document preparation
- Legal assistance and translations
- NIF and health insurance registration
- Accommodation search
- SEF appointment booking
- Family reunification process
- Corporate relocation packages (for employers)
Let us simplify your move and take care of the bureaucracy, so you can focus on your career. Ready to Start?