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Construction Worker Portrait

Services for Applicants

Pre-evaluation & eligibility check:

We assess your profile (qualification, work experience, criminal record) and job offer to confirm D1 visa feasibility.

 

Document preparation & review

We help you gather, translate, legalize, and format all required supporting documents (contract, police record, etc T&C apply.

 

Liaison with employer / IEFP & contract validation

We verify that your employment contract meets Portuguese labour law and IEFP endorsement.

 

Visa application submission

We support in filling forms, submitting to the consulate/VFS, and attending appointments/biometrics.

 

Follow-up & advocacy

We monitor and follow up with consulates / Portuguese authorities to check application status, handle queries or additional document requests.

 

Pre-departure briefing & orientation

Guidance on travel, language basics, cultural adaptation, and what to expect upon arrival.

 

Arrival & integration support

  • Assistance with residence permit application (AIMA / responsible body), opening bank accounts, registering for tax/SS, finding accommodation, etc.

  • Facilitate Portuguese Language course as per your needs (T&C apply)

Our process is designed to ensure security and success in FIVE key steps

We will guide and prepare you in every step.

Step 1: Receive & verify job offer/contract

Your prospective Portuguese employer must provide a signed employment contract (or promise of contract) for subordinate work with terms (salary, duration, responsibilities)

Step 2: Gather Required documents

Below is a typical checklist (this can be tailored per country/consulate). You can also use local Portuguese Embassy checklists as a base.

  • Typical Required Documents

  • National visa application form, completed & signed

  • Two recent passport-type photos

  • Passport/travel document, valid for at least 3 months beyond intended stay

  • Criminal record certificate (from country of origin and any residence >1 year) — often must be issued within the last 3-4 months, apostilled/legalized

  • Proof of means of subsistence / financial resources (recent bank statements, salary slips, or a “term of responsibility” by hosting or employing entity)

  • Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental agreement, property deeds, or host’s term of responsibility)

  • Signed declaration / personal statement explaining reason, duration, full address in Portugal, etc. (in Portuguese/English as required)

  • Work contract or promise of contract

  • Curriculum Vitae, diplomas or professional certificates (if applicable)

  • Health/travel medical insurance covering the duration (until enrolled in the Portuguese national system)

  • Additional documents for minors (birth certificate, parental consent, etc.)

 

NB: always check the local consulate’s checklist for your country for any additional or country-specific requirements.

Step 3: Submit the visa application (SSF will act on behalf of you)

  • Safe Steps Forward (SSF) will guide and assist you in every step.

  • Applications are submitted via the Portuguese embassy/consulate in your country of residence or in a designated country as per the Ministry of Foreign Affairs guidelines.

  • Pay visa fees (non-refundable)

  • Attend any appointment/interview, biometric data (fingerprints) if required

Step 4: Wait for the decision & travel to the Final Destination-PORTUGAL

  • The standard processing time is 60 calendar days (but may vary)

  • Upon approval, you get a D visa (entry visa) valid for 4 months (2 entries) to travel to Portugal

  • Travel to Portugal within the visa validity period

Step 5: In Portugal – apply for residence permit

  • Once in Portugal, you must make an appointment with the immigration authority (formerly SEF, now AIMA / migration agency) to apply for a residence permit for subordinate work.

  • During the “waiting” period, you may legally reside and work under certain conditions.

  • Keep track of deadlines, biometrics, and required follow-up documents

Tips for Applicants

  • Start early: translations, apostilles, criminal record checks can take weeks

  • Always keep originals and certified copies

  • Make sure documents in foreign languages are translated into Portuguese (by certified translator) and legalized

  • Maintain copies & electronic scans

  • Follow up on consulate / immigration authority processing

  • Be proactive in contacting the employer / legal partner if any document issues arise

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