In recent years, Portugal has become a popular place for Filipino workers to go to find better jobs and a better way of life. Filipinos are drawn to Portugal because it has a strong economy, a wide range of jobs, and a friendly culture. The close ties between the Philippines and Portugal, which go back to the Age of Exploration, make it easier for Filipinos to adjust to life in Portugal.
As more Filipinos move to Portugal to advance their careers and find personal happiness, they add to the country’s diverse culture and strengthen the ties between these two culturally rich countries. So, if you’re from the Philippines and want to work in Portugal, this is your chance to see what else is out there.
Table of Contents
Requirements
You can find the needed documents in this linkà Requirements. Moreover, an applicant must have a mobile phone and internet connection to search for jobs available in Portugal for Filipinos.
Qualifications
Depending on the type of job, the qualifications may vary. The common qualifications for Filipinos applying for a job in Portugal are he/she must be a high school/college graduate, physically and mentally healthy for work, and must be at least 18 years old.
Important Steps
If you want to start a new career in Portugal, you need to know as much as possible about the job market, local customs, and best practices as possible. Here are four important steps that will help you figure out how to find a job in Portugal.
Aside from the steps below, here are the processes an aspiring OFW must undergo to ensure employment in Portugal à Important Steps.
I. Job Search
If you’re thinking about making the move to Portugal, then here is a list of job search websites for Filipino workers which you might want to check out.
Net Empregos
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to search for jobs using Empregos Online:
1. Go to the Net Empregos website at https://www.net-empregos.com/ . Click ‘English’ and tick the box to ‘Always translate Portuguese’.
2. On the left side of the page, you will see a search from with various fields to fill in. Enter the job that you are searching for in the first search bar. Click ‘SEARCH OFFERS’ to proceed.
3. Finally, you will see the list of job offers that match your search criteria.
4. Click ‘View Offer’ to know the job description and other details about the job If you are interested in this job, click ‘save offer’. Then, click ‘Register’ to apply for the job.
Hays.pt
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to search for jobs in Portugal for Filipinos using the Hays Portugal website:
1. Go to the Hays Portugal website at https://www.hays.pt . Click ‘English’ and click the box to ‘Always translate Portuguese’.
2. Click on the ‘job search’ tab on the top menu bar.
3. In the search bar, type in keywords related to the job you are looking for, such as “Software Engineer” or “Maintenance and Engineering Manager”. I used ‘Translator’ as an example. Click ‘search opportunities’ to continue.
4. Browse through the list of job offers that match your search criteria. Click on a job offer to view more details, including the job description, requirements, and application instructions.
5. If you are interested in applying for a job, follow the application instructions provided in the job offer.
DMW Website
Here are the steps in searching for jobs in Portugal for Filipinos using the Department of Migrant Workers’ website.
1. Visit the DMW website by clicking this link: https://www.dmw.gov.ph/approved-job-orders .
2. Scroll down until you see a search bar. In the search bar, enter ‘ Portugal’.
3. A list of jobs will be shown. This includes the agency and the available job offers.
II. Getting a Work Permit and Work Visa
If you want to work in Portugal, you would need either a Temporary Stay National visa or the Long Stay National visa.
Requirements for Portugal Work Visa
Visa applicants must submit the following documents:
- You’ll need the following things to apply for a Temporary Stay visa or a Long Stay visa:
- Valid passport with two blank pages.
- A letter from the employer stating the trip’s purpose.
- Health and accident insurance proof
- Color passport photo
- Fingerprints and facial recognition photos are biometric data.
- Flight bookings Accommodation in Portugal, such as an address or hotel reservation
- Valid identification or passport
- Two photos for a passport Health insurance that is good
- Details of travel back (for Temporary Stay visa only)
- Proof that you can support yourself financially.
- Access to criminal records
Requirements for Portugal Work Permit
A visa allows entry to Portugal. Work permits require a separate process. Work permits, or Autorização de Trabalho, require the following documents:
- Portuguese residence visa
- Portugal accommodation proof
- Two color passport photos
- Tax-related documents
- Criminal history checks
- Employment contract
- Social Security registration.
You should also know that Residency visas are only good for 4 months and only let you enter the country twice. If you want to stay in Portugal longer, you will need to ask for a residency permit. On the other hand, temporary Stay visas are good for the whole time you are in the country and allow you to enter and leave the country more than once. Temporary stay visas can be gotten for less than a year for seasonal work, independent work, highly qualified activity, remote work/digital nomad, academic activity, amateur sports activity, transfer of workers/service providers, and investigation.
Steps in Getting a Work Visa
1. You must apply for a visa through the Portuguese Consulate located in Makati City.
2. The aforementioned records above must be provided.
Portuguese officials may need two to three months to process the application and issue a visa. Portugal entry is made possible by this visa.
3. The employee will have to apply for a work permit after receiving the visa. Specialized skills will increase the likelihood that non-EU workers will be granted a work permit.
4. The work permit application can be made by either the employer or the employee. In either case, it will go through the regional directorate or the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEAF) Delegation of the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
5. The application must be submitted with the aforementioned papers. A work permit may require up to 60 days to process. A visa and work permit must first be obtained before the employee can depart for Portugal and start working there.
6. They must register with Social Security, obtain a tax code from their local Director-General of Taxes (Direcça-Geral dos Impostos) branch, and obtain their residency card from the SEF.
III. Preparation for Going to Portugal
Here are some tips to help you prepare for your move to Portugal.
1. Firstly, it’s essential to research the country’s culture, customs, and language. Portuguese is the official language, and while many people speak English, it’s advisable to learn basic Portuguese phrases to make your daily life more comfortable. Portugal has a rich cultural heritage, so learning about the country’s traditions, festivals, and customs can help you to assimilate quickly.
2. Another critical aspect of preparation is financial planning. Portugal is generally an affordable country to live in, but it’s essential to research the cost of living in the area you plan to move to. It’s also important to factor in expenses such as housing, utilities, transportation, and healthcare.
3. Before moving to Portugal, it’s advisable to secure a job or source of income. The unemployment rate in Portugal has been decreasing over the past few years, and the country’s economy is growing. Nevertheless, job opportunities can be competitive, so it’s advisable to start your job search early.
4. If you plan to move to Portugal with your family, it’s important to research the education system and enrol your children in school before moving. Portuguese schools offer a high-quality education system, but the language of instruction is Portuguese. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure your children are proficient in the language before they start school.
5. When it comes to visas, there are different types of visas available for those who plan to move to Portugal. Tourist visas are for those who plan to stay in Portugal for a short period, while residency visas are for those who plan to stay long-term. It’s advisable to research the visa requirements and apply for the appropriate visa as early as possible.
6. Lastly, it’s important to stay safe while in Portugal. The crime rate in Portugal is relatively low, but it’s always best to take precautions. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables, especially in crowded areas.
In conclusion, moving to Portugal requires careful planning and preparation. Researching the country’s culture, customs, and language, financial planning, securing a job or source of income, enrolling your children in school, and applying for the appropriate visa are all essential steps to make the transition smoother. By following these tips and staying safe, you’ll be able to enjoy all that Portugal has to offer.
IV. Arrival in Portugal
Arrival in Portugal: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re planning a trip or work to Portugal, you’re in for a real treat. This beautiful country has a lot to offer, from stunning beaches to delicious food and wine. But before you pack your bags, it’s important to know what to expect when you arrive.
Entry Requirements
To enter Portugal, you’ll need a valid passport. If you’re a citizen of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein, you can also use a national ID card. If you’re from a non-EU country, you’ll need a visa. However, citizens of some countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, can enter Portugal without a visa for up to 90 days.
It’s also important to note that Portugal has specific entry requirements in response to COVID-19. You may need to present a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination upon arrival. Be sure to check the latest requirements before you travel.
Getting There
Portugal is well-connected to the rest of Europe and beyond, with several international airports and good road and rail networks. The main airports are Lisbon Portela Airport, Porto Airport, and Faro Airport in the Algarve region. If you’re arriving from within Europe, you may also be able to take a train or bus.
Customs and Immigration
When you arrive in Portugal, you’ll need to go through customs and immigration. If you’re arriving from another EU country, there are no customs checks, but you may still be subject to immigration controls. If you’re arriving from a non-EU country, you’ll need to go through both customs and immigration.
When going through customs, you’ll need to declare any goods you’re bringing into the country that exceed the duty-free allowance. This includes things like alcohol, tobacco, and perfume. You may also need to declare any cash you’re carrying if it exceeds a certain amount.
Safety and Security
Portugal is generally a safe country to travel to, with low levels of crime. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. This includes being aware of your surroundings, avoiding unlit areas at night, and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.
Video: How to apply work in Portugal from Philippines
In the video, their friend who works as a family helper in Portugal is interviewed by the vlogger. During their conversation on the train, the friend tells them that her boss hired her directly and paid for everything, which made the situation seem easy. The contract says she will work 40 hours a week, but she works more than that. Even though there is a difference, she feels lucky to have a job that lets her help her family back in the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section will answer some questions frequently asked by Filipino jobseekers on searching for a job in Portugal.
1. What is the minimum salary for a Portugal work permit?
Your employment contract’s minimum gross salary must be at least 1.5 times the average gross salary for your profession in Portugal. The minimum salary for 2022 is set at 822 EUR per month.
2. What is the age limit to work in Portugal?
The minimum age to work is 16, but you can’t get a job without finishing school until you’re 18.
3. How long do I need to work in Portugal to become a citizen?
To be able to apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, you need to have a valid residence permit in Portugal for at least five years.
4. What is the most common job in Portugal?
Jobs in tourism and hospitality are among the most common in Portugal. There are a lot of jobs in retail, restaurants, customer service, hotels, and resorts. IT jobs are also on the rise in Portugal, and there is almost always work at a call center.
5. How long does a work permit last in Portugal?
Employees with work-related residence permits can live and work in Portugal for up to two years. After that, they can get a new permit if they still have a job or a job offer that is still good. After five years, they can apply to live there permanently.
Summary
Portugal is a beautiful country with a lot to offer to foreign workers, especially Filipinos seeking employment in the country. By knowing what to expect when you arrive, you can make your stay as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Be sure to check the latest entry requirements and travel advice before you leave, and don’t forget to enjoy all that Portugal has to offer!