The Ukrainian community in Portugal is becoming more numerous and active every year, making a significant contribution to the social and economic life of the country. According to Eurostat, more than 56,000 Ukrainians live in Portugal today, including both migrant workers and refugees looking for safety and new opportunities. Portugal attracts Ukrainians with its mild climate, rich culture, as well as the opportunity to find a job and build a new life. How is the employment process in this country and what documents are required for Ukrainian refugees?
Employment for Ukrainians in Portugal
Opportunities for those with temporary protection status
Ukrainians who have received temporary protection have the right to employment, study and even start their own business in Portugal. To do this, it is necessary to register with the Instituto de Emprego e Formação Profissional (IEFP), an organization that provides support for job hunting and professional development. This process includes submitting documents, determining the candidate’s skills and selecting suitable vacancies.
Employment under a work visa
Those who plan to work in Portugal without temporary protection status must obtain a work visa. The main stages of this process include:
- Job search. Employers are obliged to first consider candidates from among EU citizens. If a suitable specialist is not found for the position within 30 days, they can offer the job to a third-country national.
- Obtaining an employment contract. Before applying for a visa, it is necessary to receive an official offer from the employer, which contains information about the company, place of work and working conditions.
- Application submission by the employer. The employer applies for a work permit on behalf of the employee to the labor authorities in Portugal.
- Submission of visa documents. After obtaining a work permit, you must apply to the Portuguese consulate for a visa.
Types of work visas in Portugal
Ukrainians can use several types of work visas depending on the nature of their activities:
- Standard work visa — is valid for one year with the possibility of extension up to five years.
- Visa for self-employed persons – for those who plan to run their own business or work remotely.
- Highly qualified visa — for scientists, teachers, engineers, doctors.
- Cultural visa — for artists and performers.
- Technical visa — for specialists in the field of technologies and innovations.
- The EU Blue Card is for highly qualified workers in demand in the European Union.
- Digital Nomad Visa – allows remote workers from countries outside the EU to live and work in Portugal.
Documents required for employment
For legal employment in Portugal, it is necessary to prepare the following documents:
- Valid foreign passport.
- Passport-size photos, in accordance with the requirements for visa processing.
- Confirmation of financial capacity.
- SEF (Service for Aliens and Borders) consent to a criminal record check.
- Medical insurance policy.
- Document confirming the place of residence.
- Employment contract.
- Confirmation of legal entry into the territory of Portugal.
Useful resources for the job search
Ukrainians in Portugal can find various online platforms where vacancies are posted. The most popular of them:
- IEFP (Instituto de Emprego e Formação Profissional) is a government job portal.
- Jooble, Indeed, Glassdoor are international job search platforms.
- Visit World is a portal for informational support of migrants.
Portugal offers wide opportunities for Ukrainians looking for a new place to live and work. Knowledge of the basic procedures, correct preparation of documents and referral to specialized organizations greatly facilitate the process of integration into a new environment. Despite the challenges that may arise, the Ukrainian community in Portugal demonstrates great potential and ability to successfully adapt.
