Highly qualified activity visa (D3)
Job offer neededProfessionals with a job offer in a highly qualified role.
Salary of about 1.5 times Portugal's average gross wage.
Official page →Country guides / Portugal
PTPortugal
Popular with South Africans, especially for remote work. Rules tightened in 2025 and 2026, so check the latest position before you plan.
Already made the move
Portugal granted 609 first residence permits to South Africans in 2024 (Eurostat).
Working in English
English is common in Lisbon and Porto tech companies and service centres. Portuguese is needed elsewhere.
Visiting for interviews
South Africans need a Schengen visa for short visits, including interviews.
Main routes for professionals
Digital nomad visa (D8)
Remote workPeople working remotely for employers or clients abroad.
Income of about four times Portugal's minimum wage.
Official page →These are the routes most relevant to mid-career professionals, not a complete list. Official source: Portuguese visa portal (Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
Worth knowing
- Portugal closed its job-seeker visa in October 2025. A replacement for highly qualified people has been announced but is not yet open.
- A new nationality law took effect on 19 May 2026, and family reunification rules are stricter.
Getting your qualifications recognised: DGES (Directorate-General for Higher Education). Verify your South African qualifications with SAQA first.
Some of the largest employers
EDPGalpJerónimo MartinsSonaeThe Navigator CompanyMillennium bcpNOSCTTRENMota-EngilCorticeira AmorimOutSystemsFeedzaiSword Health
Major listed companies and multinationals operating in Portugal. A listing does not mean a company is hiring or sponsors visas.
Does Portugal fit you?
Check your profile against these routes and seven other countries.
Other countries
Checked against official sources on 16 October 2026. General information, not immigration advice.