EU Blue Card (D3 Highly Qualified Activity Visa)
Portugal
Last updated: December 27, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$131-$143
2-6 months
High
About this Visa
The EU Blue Card (also called D3 visa) lets highly skilled workers from outside the EU move to Portugal to work. You get a two-step process: First, you get a D3 entry visa from a Portuguese consulate in your home country. Then, once you arrive in Portugal, you apply for an EU Blue Card residence permit that lets you work and live there. This visa is perfect if you have a job offer from a Portuguese employer and have a college degree or 5+ years of professional experience. The salary requirement is low compared to other European countries. The EU Blue Card is special because after 18 months, you can work in 25 other EU countries without getting a new visa. You can also bring your family with you.
Key Benefits
- Work legally in Portugal without restrictions
- Bring spouse and children
- Travel freely throughout EU/Schengen area
- Access Portuguese healthcare and social services
- After 18 months: work in 25 other EU countries without new visa
- After 5 years: become permanent resident
- After 5-10 years: become Portuguese citizen
- Children have access to Portuguese schools
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- 18 years old or older
- College degree OR 5+ years professional work experience
- Minimum salary €21,030 per year
- Job contract for at least 1 year
- Clean criminal record
- Health insurance with €30,000+ coverage
- Proof of residence in Portugal
- Passport valid for 6+ months beyond stay
Financial Requirement
Minimum salary of €21,030 per year (about $23,000 USD). Employment contract must be for at least 1 year.
Documents
- Valid passport6+ months validity required
- Employment contractSigned, showing annual salary meeting minimum threshold
- College degree or professional qualificationWith official translation
- Criminal record certificateFrom your country, officially translated
- Health insurance proofMinimum €30,000 coverage
- Proof of residenceRental agreement or property deed
- Bank statementsShowing financial capacity
- Application formsCompleted and signed
- Passport photosRecent, per specification requirements
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.