Portuguese Republic · work sponsored
D3 visa (highly qualified activity)
Residence visa for highly qualified workers with a Portuguese employment contract.
Last reviewed:
Overview
The D3 visa covers foreign nationals coming to Portugal to exercise a highly qualified activity under a contract with a Portuguese employer. It works alongside the EU Blue Card route and is typically used for skilled migration outside the Blue Card salary threshold.
Government fees
€90 visa; €170 residence permit.
Typical duration
2+3 year pattern leading to permanent residence or citizenship.
Primary source
VistosMNE — Residence visa for highly qualified activity · Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Portugal)
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Employment contract with a Portuguese employer for a highly qualified role.
Salary at or above the D3 threshold (1.5× Portuguese average salary for the role).
Common blockers
Role not judged highly qualified.
Salary below the threshold.
Typical evidence
Employment contract.
Qualification evidence.
Application pathway
Step 1
Secure qualifying Portuguese employment
Employer offers role with salary meeting the D3 threshold.
Step 2
Apply at consulate
Submit D3 visa application.
Step 3
Attend AIMA appointment
Receive residence card after arrival.
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Frequently asked questions
How does D3 compare to the EU Blue Card?
Portugal implements both. The EU Blue Card has a higher salary threshold (typically 1.5× Portuguese average gross annual remuneration) and slightly different mobility benefits across the EU. The D3 is often used as a national alternative for workers who do not meet the Blue Card threshold but who qualify for highly qualified status.
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