How to get a work visa in Portugal as a South Korean citizen
Complete guide to all available work permit pathways, requirements, costs, and processing times.
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Portugal offers South Korean workers 3 distinct visa pathways to live and work legally. South Koreans are valued for one of the world's strongest passports and a highly skilled, tech-literate workforce. Applications are made at the Portugal diplomatic mission serving Seoul.
Phù hợp nhất cho ai
- ✓Remote workers and freelancers (Digital Nomad and D7 visas)
- ✓Tech professionals hired via the Tech Visa
- ✓Entrepreneurs and startup founders
- ✓Renewable energy and tourism specialists
- ✓Professionals seeking an affordable EU base
Available visa pathways
Work Visa
Visto de Trabalho
Portugal's work visa is the standard pathway for non-EU nationals who have a job offer from a Portuguese employer. It covers all employment categories and has become increasingly popular as Portugal positions itself as a tech hub, with Lisbon and Porto attracting significant investment from startups and multinational companies. Web Summit's permanent relocation to Lisbon has amplified this trend, creating a growing English-speaking professional ecosystem.
Portugal's Tech Visa is a specialized program that streamlines the work visa process for technology companies and their employees. Certified tech companies — those recognized by IAPMEI (Portugal's SME agency) as innovative or technology-focused — can sponsor foreign workers through an expedited process with reduced bureaucracy. The certification is company-level, meaning once a company is certified, it can bring in multiple tech workers more efficiently.
D7 Passive Income Visa
Visto D7
The D7 visa is Portugal's residence permit for individuals with sufficient passive income to support themselves without local employment. Originally designed for retirees, it has become popular with remote workers, freelancers, and anyone with regular income from sources outside Portugal — including rental income, dividends, pensions, and freelance contracts with foreign clients. You do not need a job offer in Portugal, making it one of the most flexible residence options available.
💡 route.tipFor: Have your Seoul police clearance certificate ready, and check whether your degree and supporting documents need to be apostilled or legalised for use in Portugal.
Application timeline for Portugal
Get job offer from Portuguese employer
Secure a job offer. Your employer may need to conduct a labour market test depending on the visa type.
VariesApply for work visa at Portuguese consulate
Submit your visa application with the job offer, qualifications, criminal record certificate, and health insurance proof.
1 weekProcessing
The consulate processes your application, consulting with SEF (immigration) and IEFP (employment) as needed.
2-4 monthsTravel to Portugal
Enter Portugal on your work visa.
VariesApply for residence permit at AIMA
Within 4 months of arrival, apply for your residence permit at AIMA (formerly SEF). Bring all originals.
2-4 weeksCommon required documents
Documents commonly required for a Portugal work visa for South Koreans:
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| Item | Amount | In KRW |
|---|---|---|
| route.cost.visaFee | €173 | ₩257,620 |
| route.cost.minSalary | €10,440 | ₩15,546,522/yr |
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Apply at the Portugal diplomatic mission serving Seoul. Check the official embassy or visa application centre website for appointment booking, fees and current document requirements.
Hướng dẫn liên quan
Làm việc và sinh sống tại Portugal
Các ngành tuyển dụng chính
Portugal's growth sectors for international workers are technology and startups (Lisbon and Porto), tourism and hospitality, renewable energy, and shared-service centres run by multinationals. The Tech Visa streamlines hiring for certified companies.
Chi phí sinh hoạt và chất lượng cuộc sống
Portugal is more affordable than most of Western Europe, with Lisbon one-bedroom rents near €1,000 a month and lower costs outside the capital. The mild climate, safety, healthcare and relaxed lifestyle have made it a magnet for remote workers and retirees alike.
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Frequently asked questions
What salary is needed for a Work Visa in Portugal?
The minimum salary is €10,440 per year.
How long does it take to get a work visa in Portugal?
Processing times range from 4 to 16 weeks.
Do I need a job offer for a Portugal work visa?
Not always. D7 Passive Income Visa does not require one.
Can I bring my family on a Portugal work visa?
Yes. 3 of 3 visa types allow dependants.
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