One of the biggest concerns for people moving to Portugal under a D1 Work Visa, D2 Entrepreneur Visa, D8 Digital Nomad Visa, or other residence visa categories is whether they can begin working immediately after arriving in Portugal.
This concern is understandable. With AIMA processing times often extending for several months, many applicants worry that they may have to wait until receiving their residence card before they can legally work, invoice clients, or earn an income.
Fortunately, this is generally not the case.
Can You Start Working After Arriving in Portugal?
Generally speaking, yes.
If you have entered Portugal with a valid residence visa, you are legally present in the country and may normally begin the activity for which your visa was granted, even if your residence permit has not yet been issued by AIMA.
For example:
- A D1 Work Visa holder may typically begin working for their Portuguese employer upon arrival.
- A D2 Visa holder may generally begin pursuing their business or self-employed activity.
- A D8 Digital Nomad Visa holder may continue providing remote services and earning income from their foreign clients or employer.
The key requirement is that the individual entered Portugal lawfully with a valid residence visa and is carrying out the activity that corresponds to that visa category.
Why Does This Confusion Exist?
Many people confuse the residence visa with the residence permit.
These are two separate stages of the immigration process.
The residence visa is issued by the Portuguese Consulate abroad and allows the holder to enter Portugal with the intention of establishing residence.
The residence permit is then issued by AIMA after arrival in Portugal.
While the residence permit formalises the individual's long-term residence status, the fact that it has not yet been issued does not generally prevent the holder of a valid residence visa from beginning their professional activity.
Practical Considerations
Although the legal position is generally straightforward, there can be practical considerations.
Many employers will request:
- A Portuguese NIF (Tax Number)
- A Portuguese Social Security Number (NISS), where applicable
- Proof of address
- Other employment-related documentation
For this reason, obtaining a NIF as early as possible is strongly recommended. It often simplifies hiring procedures and administrative formalities considerably.
What Happens If the Residence Visa Expires Before the AIMA Appointment?
This is another common concern.
Due to current processing delays, some applicants find themselves waiting for an AIMA appointment after their initial residence visa has already expired.
In these circumstances, the expiry of the residence visa does not automatically mean that the individual becomes irregular or loses the ability to work.
Where the applicant entered Portugal lawfully and their immigration process remains ongoing with AIMA, the visa is generally considered extended for administrative purposes while the application is pending and an appointment has been scheduled.
In practice, applicants should retain documentation demonstrating that their immigration process remains active.
This may include:
- The expired residence visa
- Proof of entry into Portugal
- Confirmation of an AIMA appointment
- Proof of an appointment request
- Any correspondence relating to the pending immigration process
These documents can be useful if an employer wishes to confirm that the applicant remains legally present in Portugal while awaiting their appointment.
The Importance of Maintaining Documentation
While waiting for AIMA, it is important to keep copies of all immigration-related documents.
This helps demonstrate:
- Lawful entry into Portugal
- Ongoing immigration proceedings
- Continued compliance with Portuguese immigration requirements
Employers, banks, and other institutions may occasionally request this information.
Final Thoughts
For most applicants arriving in Portugal on a valid residence visa, the fact that the residence permit has not yet been issued by AIMA does not, in itself, prevent them from working.
Whether you are relocating under a D1 Work Visa, D2 Entrepreneur Visa, or D8 Digital Nomad Visa, you can generally begin the activity for which your visa was granted once you have entered Portugal legally.
As every situation is unique, applicants should ensure that they maintain appropriate documentation and seek professional advice if they have concerns regarding their specific circumstances.
If you are planning to move to Portugal and would like assistance with your visa application, our team at Visas.pt would be happy to help.