DE Skilled & work Temporary

Portugal D3 Highly Qualified Activity Visa

Portugal's work-and-residence visa for skilled professionals with a Portuguese job offer.

Who this route is for

Highly qualified non-EU workers with a job offer or contract in Portugal in a specialised role (also serves as Portugal's EU Blue Card vehicle).

Valid employment contract or binding job offer for a highly qualified role in Portugal
Salary of at least 1.5x the national average gross wage (roughly EUR 2,300/month in 2026), or 1.2x for occupations in particular need of foreign workers
A higher-education degree and relevant professional experience for the role
Proof of accommodation in Portugal and valid health insurance
Clean criminal record and Portuguese tax number (NIF)

Requirements reviewed June 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.

Recent changes & caveats

The D3 also functions as Portugal's EU Blue Card route, adding intra-EU mobility for qualifying holders.

Check your points first

Use the free Opportunity Card Points Calculator to see if you're likely to qualify before you start.

Points-based job-search visa — come to Germany with no job offer.

The EU's flagship permit for university graduates with a German job offer.

Work permit for graduates and vocationally trained workers with a job offer.

Get your foreign qualification fully recognised after you arrive in Germany.