Portugal has updated its visa rules for Pakistanis in 2026, changing how people can legally move and work in the country.
Learn the new legal route, required job offer, documents, and step-by-step process to move to Portugal successfully. Moving to Portugal is a bit difficult, but here are the easy steps mentioned below that can help you reach your destination.
With Portugal facing serious labor shortages and an aging population, the country is actively welcoming foreign workers. However, one major change has reshaped the pathway: the Job Seeker Visa is no longer available for Pakistanis as of late 2025. This means you must now secure a job offer first before applying.
Below is a clear, human-friendly guide to assist you in understanding the whole updated process.
Why Portugal Is Actively Hiring in 2026
Portugal is anticipated to need over 200,000 foreign workers every year by 2026. The biggest gaps are in:
• IT & Technology: Software developers, cloud engineers, data scientists
• Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, physiotherapists (degree recognition required)
• Construction & Trades: Electricians, plumbers, welders, civil engineers
• Tourism & Hospitality: Chefs, hotel staff, receptionists (especially in Lisbon and Algarve)
• Logistics: Truck drivers and warehouse supervisors
These sectors offer the fastest visa approvals due to genuine labor shortages.
What is the Process to Move to Portugal?
Step 1: You need to get a Job Offer
Since walk-in job hunting is no longer allowed, you must get an employment contract first. Reliable platforms include
- Indeed Portugal
- IEFP (Portugal’s official job portal).
Your contract must offer at least €920 per month (gross), which is Portugal’s 2026 minimum wage.
Read more: From Europe to Asia, these are best countries offering digital nomad visas to Pakistanis
Step 2: You need to Prepare Your Documents
Once hired, gather your documents and get them verified by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
• Valid passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond stay)
• Police Character Certificate (issued within 6 months)
• Travel health insurance
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal
Step 3: You have to apply for the Correct Visa
Choose the visa that matches your job type:
• D1 Visa: Standard employment contract
• D2 Visa: Freelancers or entrepreneurs
• D8 Visa: Digital Nomads (monthly income around €3,680 required)
Step 4: Submit at VFS Global
Apply through VFS Global (Gerry’s) in Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi.
• Visa Fee: €75–€90 (in PKR)
• Processing Time: 30–60 days
Step 5: Arrive & Get Residency
After arrival, book an appointment with AIMA for converting your visa into a 2-year residence permit, which you can renew later.
Read more: Australian Immi App launches in Pakistan for smoother visa biometrics
Minimum Financial Requirements for Moving to Portugal in 2026
• Single applicant: €920/month or €11,040 yearly savings
• Spouse: +50% (€460/month)
• Each child: +30% (€276/month)
These prices can be changed as the inflation rate of the whole world is going up, so you need to constantly check the fees.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Landing in Portugal
• Learn basic Portuguese (A2 level) for smoother integration
• Get your NIF (tax number) before moving
• Double-check apostille stamps — missing this can delay your case
With the right job offer and preparation, Portugal is still considered to be one of the easiest and most welcoming EU destinations for Pakistanis in 2026.