D3
Highly Qualified Activity Visa
Highly Qualified Activity Visa
The Highly Qualified Activity (HQA) Visa or D3 Visa is aimed at professionals specialized in their fields. It is aimed at those who carry out an activity with specialized technical skills, of an exceptional nature or an adequate qualification for the respective exercise.
Overview
The D3 Visa is designed for professionals with specialized skills who intend to work or conduct activities in Portugal. This visa targets individuals engaged in highly specialized fields, requiring advanced technical skills, exceptional qualifications, or specialized expertise.
The D3 Visa is particularly relevant for those who wish to work in Portugal in areas such as Information Technology, Engineering, Healthcare, Legal, Cultural, and Educational sectors. Additionally, the visa provides an option to apply for the European Union Blue Card, offering further mobility within the EU.
Elegibility
To be eligible for the D3 Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Highly Qualified Professionals: Individuals must be recognized as highly qualified in their respective fields. This includes, but is not limited to:
- IT and Communication professionals
- Doctoral students in higher education
- Professionals in teaching positions at Portuguese higher education institutions
- Management roles such as Directors and Heads
- Science, Engineering, and Health professionals
- Legal, Social, Cultural professionals
- Scientific researchers
- Employment Requirements: Applicants intending to engage in a highly qualified subordinate activity must have:
- A valid employment contract or a promise of employment with a duration of at least one year.
- The employment must offer an annual salary that is at least 1.5 times the average gross monthly salary or three times the social support index (IAS) in Portugal.
- Application Pathways: The visa application can be initiated in two ways:
- In Portugal: For those entering Portugal legally (e.g., with a Schengen visa), the visa application can be submitted directly to the immigration office (AIMA).
- In the country of residence: The process starts at the Portuguese Embassy in the applicant's country of residence, where a residence visa valid for four months is issued to allow the applicant to enter Portugal and complete the residency permit process.
Benefits
Benefits
- Residency and Renewal: Upon approval, the residence permit is initially granted for two years and can be renewed for successive periods of two years.
- Minimum stay requirement: holders may be out of Portugal for up to 6 consecutive or 8 non-consecutive months during each permit’s validity. Longer absences are allowed if they are due to professional, business, social, or cultural activities abroad.
- Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years of holding the D3 Visa, residents can apply for permanent residency and/or citizenship.
- Avail of Visa-free travel to any one of the Schengen countries.
- Apply for family reunification (spouse, dependent children and parents)
- Enjoy Portuguese residency rights including education and healthcare
Requirements
Requirements
- Highly Qualified Professional: You must be recognized as a highly qualified professional in fields like IT, science, engineering, teaching, research, or management.
Employment Contract: You need a valid employment contract or a job offer in Portugal for at least one year.
Salary: The job must offer a salary at least 1.5 times the average gross monthly salary in Portugal or three times the social support index (IAS).
Education/Experience: Proof of qualifications, such as higher education degrees or significant professional experience in your field.
Application Submission: You can apply either through the Portuguese Embassy in your home country or at the immigration office (AIMA) if you are already legally in Portugal.
Supporting Documents: A valid passport, health insurance, criminal background check, proof of accommodation, and financial stability may also be required.
Additional services
Tax advisement
Expert guidance on optimizing your tax obligations in Portugal.
Investment advisement
Expert guidance for your investment opportunities, in Funds and Arts.
Property search
Professional help in finding and securing your ideal property in Portugal.
Concierge services
Personalized support to ease your transition to Portugal.
Legal assistance
Comprehensive legal support for all your immigration and residency needs.
Frequently
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questions
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Why choose us?
At SjF Immigration & Investments, we stand out as your premier choice due to our unique blend of personalized, tailor-made solutions and comprehensive services. As a one-stop shop, we offer everything from immigration assistance to tax advice and concierge support. Our client-centric approach means we build personal relationships, providing expert guidance tailored to your specific needs. Our commitment to excellence guarantees that you receive the highest quality service. Choose SjF for expert assistance.