Overview of the Portugal D3 Visa from the UAE
The Portugal D3 Visa, also known as the Highly Qualified Activity Permit, is designed for highly skilled professionals who wish to live and work in Portugal on a long-term basis. This visa is ideal for UAE citizens who have secured employment or a service contract with a Portuguese company.
With the D3 Visa, you can travel to Portugal and apply for either the EU Blue Card or a Residence Permit, allowing you to reside and work in the country. This permit is renewable for two consecutive periods of two years each, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
After five years of legal residency, you become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residency. However, it is essential to have confirmed employment opportunities or a self-employed contract to qualify for the Portuguese D3 Visa.
What is a Highly Qualified Activity for UAE Nationals?
Highly qualified activity refers to work that demands specialized technical skills or specific qualifications suitable for the job role. For UAE nationals, this typically includes:
- Leadership and Managerial Positions: Executives, officers, legislators, senior public administration officials, directors, and company managers.
- Intellectual and Scientific Professions: Engineers, scientists, healthcare professionals, educators, business and management experts, cultural specialists, legal professionals, and IT specialists.
In particular, IT specialists can apply under the general regime or through the Tech Visa program. If unsure about your eligibility, consult with an immigration expert at Republic Immigration Services at +971 55 708 0213.
Benefits of the Portugal D3 Visa for UAE Nationals
The D3 Visa provides several advantages, including:
- Visa-Free Travel: Unrestricted movement across 27 countries in the Schengen Area.
- EU Blue Card Eligibility: After 18 months of legal residence in Portugal, enabling you to live and work in 25 EU countries, excluding Ireland and Denmark.
- Family Reunification: The ability to bring dependents to Portugal.
- Access to Public Services: Including healthcare and education.
- Path to Citizenship: Eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.
- EU Citizenship for Children: If your child is born after 12 months of legal residence in Portugal.
- Tax Benefits: Eligibility for Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which offers a fixed 20% personal income tax rate for high-value employment and tax exemptions on foreign income.
Eligibility Requirements for the Portugal D3 Visa
To qualify for the D3 Visa, UAE nationals must meet the following requirements:
- Confirmed Employment or Service Contract with a Portuguese company.
- Engagement in a Highly Qualified Activity with appropriate qualifications or experience.
- Clean Criminal Record.
- Employment Contract Duration: Either indefinite or for at least one year.
- Minimum Salary Requirement: An annual salary at least 1.5 times the Portuguese national average gross salary or three times the Index of Social Support (€480.43).
- Professional Qualifications: Evidence of qualifications or a professional certificate relevant to the job role.
Documents Required for the Portugal D3 Visa
The following documents are required for a successful D3 Visa application:
- Valid passport (with at least three months’ validity beyond the intended stay)
- Two passport-sized photographs
- A valid employment contract or service contract with a Portuguese company
- Police clearance certificate from your country of residence
- Completed form authorizing SEF (Portuguese Immigration and Border Service) to access your criminal record
- Proof of travel arrangements and accommodation in Portugal
- Valid travel insurance covering health expenses
- Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay
- Documentation of professional qualifications or relevant experience
Application Process for the D3 Visa
UAE nationals can apply for the D3 Visa through:
- The E-Visa Portal managed by the Portuguese Consulate in the UAE
- VFS Global, a third-party appointment system
Key steps in the application process:
- Obtain a NIF (Portuguese Tax Identification Number) and open a Portuguese bank account.
- Designate a Tax Representative in Portugal.
- Submit the Application at the Portuguese Consulate or through VFS Global in the UAE.
- Attend an Interview at the Visa Application Centre or Portuguese Consulate.
- Receive the Visa, which is valid for 120 days with two entries into Portugal.
- Apply for a Residence Permit at SEF upon arrival in Portugal.
Processing Times and Fees
- Processing Time: Approximately 30 days.
- Application Fee: €90.
- Residence Permit Fee: €170, payable to SEF in Portugal.
D3 Visa Validity
- Initial Visa Validity: 120 days with two entries.
- Residence Permit: Valid for 12 months, renewable for two consecutive 2-year periods.
- Eligibility for Citizenship: After five years of legal residence.
D3 Visa Refusal Reasons for UAE Nationals
Common reasons for visa refusals include:
- Incomplete Application: Ensure all forms are accurately completed and required documents are provided.
- Insufficient Financial Means: Provide evidence of financial stability.
- False Information or Documentation: Submit accurate and truthful information.
- Criminal Record: A clean record is mandatory.
If your visa application is refused, Republic Immigration Services can assist in appealing the decision.
How Republic Immigration Services Can Help
With years of experience in immigration services, Republic Immigration Services provides expert guidance and support for obtaining Portugal’s D3 Visa. Our team manages the entire process, ensuring your application is complete, accurate, and processed efficiently.
Contact us today for more information or assistance:
Phone: +971 55 708 0213
Republic Immigration Services – Your Trusted Partner for Portugal D3 Visa Applications