Working Rights for International Students in Portugal
For international students residing in Portugal, the legal framework allows for professional activity alongside academic pursuits. However, the specific rules and procedures depend heavily on the student's nationality and the type of residence permit held. As of 2025/2026, Portugal continues to integrate international students into the local labor market to address various sector shortages.
EU vs. Non-EU Students
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: Students from these regions have the right to work in Portugal without a specific work permit. They only need to register their residency with the local municipality (Câmara Municipal) if staying longer than 90 days.
- Non-EU/EEA Citizens: Students holding a Residence Permit for Higher Education (issued under Article 91 or 92) are authorized to work. However, this is subject to a mandatory notification to the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA).
Non-EU students must ensure their employment contract or "green receipt" (independent work) does not interfere with their academic schedule. The primary purpose of their stay must remain education, as the residence permit is tied to university enrollment.
Labor Conditions and Administrative Requirements
To legally work in Portugal, students must obtain specific identification numbers and adhere to hourly restrictions. While the law allows for professional activity, it distinguishes between term-time and academic breaks.
Working Hours and Contracts
Non-EU students are generally permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester. During official university holidays (summer, Christmas, and Easter), students may work full-time. Research fellowship holders (bolseiros) must check their specific contract, as many "exclusivity" clauses prohibit additional paid work.
Mandatory Documentation
Before beginning any professional activity, students must secure the following:
- NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal): The tax identification number. This is required for all legal contracts. The issuance is generally free at a Finanças office, though professional representatives may charge fees ranging from 50 EUR to 150 EUR ($54 USD to $162 USD, Jan 2026).
- NISS (Número de Identificação da Segurança Social): The social security number. This allows both the employer and the employee to make mandatory social security contributions.
- Work Contract: A formal agreement signed by both parties.
Once a contract is signed, the student or the employer must notify AIMA. This is usually done through the AIMA Official Portal. Failure to notify the authorities can lead to complications during the renewal of the residence permit.
Transitioning from Study to Work Permits
Upon completion of a degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate) in Portugal, foreign nationals can apply for a change in their residency status to remain in the country for professional purposes.
The Job Seeker Visa and Residence Permit Change
Graduates may apply for a specific residence permit to look for work or start a business. This permit is typically valid for one year and is not renewable. Once a job is secured, the individual must apply for a standard Residence Permit for Employed Workers (Article 88) or Independent Workers (Article 89).
The administrative fee for processing a residence permit for work purposes is approximately 72 EUR ($78 USD, Jan 2026). These prices are subject to annual updates by the Portuguese government.
Useful Resources
For official information and appointment bookings, students should consult the following institutional platforms:
- Segurança Social (Social Security) - Information on NISS and contributions.
- ePortugal Portal - Centralized access to public services.
- IEFP (Institute for Employment and Vocational Training) - Assistance with job searching and professional training.
Note: Regulations regarding the transition from study to work can change based on new legislative updates. It is recommended to check the current status of the "Mais Habitação" or "Plan for Migration" updates on official government channels.
