Imagine building a life where your workday is followed by evenings exploring historic cobblestone streets, enjoying world-renowned cuisine, and soaking in the vibrant culture of one of Europe’s most welcoming countries. For many, the dream of moving to Europe seems out of reach, reserved for those with university degrees or specialized skills. But what if your ticket to this beautiful life was your willingness to work hard in an essential job?
Portugal’s growing economy has created a high demand for motivated workers in its hospitality, agricultural, and construction sectors. We connect individuals with employers who are actively offering visa sponsorship for unskilled roles, providing a legal and structured pathway to live and work in Portugal. With no experience required and competitive hourly wages (€6-10), this is your chance to gain a foothold in Europe, immerse yourself in a new culture, and build a future filled with sunshine and opportunity. Your adventure begins with a single step.
Details of Unskilled Jobs In Portugal With Visa Sponsorship
Key Points
- Country Name: Portugal
- Job type: Unskilled
- Experience Required: No
- Knowledge Required: No
- Age Limit: Minimum 19 Years
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes
- Salary: 6-10 EUR/Hour
Job Opportunities:
Foreigners looking for unskilled jobs in Portugal can find opportunities in various industries, including:
- Hospitality—Jobs in restaurants, cafés, and hotels, such as:
- Waitstaff
- Kitchen assistants
- Housekeeping
- Agriculture—Seasonal farm work, including:
- Fruit picking
- Vineyard work
- General agricultural labor
- Construction—Entry-level roles like:
- Laborers
- Construction assistants
- Retail—Positions in stores and supermarkets, such as:
- Cashiers
- Stock clerks
- Sales associates
Jobs Benefits of Unskilled In Portugal
There are a number of benefits to working in unskilled jobs in Portugal, including:
- Cultural Experience Take in Portugal’s diverse customs, food, and way of life for a cultural experience.
- Competitive Compensation Depending on the industry and region, hourly rates normally vary from €6 to €10.
- Accommodation Assistance Some companies assist international employees in locating acceptable housing.
- Networking Opportunities Make connections with individuals from a variety of backgrounds to increase your chances of landing a job.
Eligibility Criteria:
Candidates must fulfill the following conditions in order to work in Portugal in unskilled positions:
- Work Authorization To lawfully work in Portugal, you must get a work visa or residency permit.
- Language Proficiency: Although not always necessary, having a basic understanding of Portuguese or English can help you get a better job.
- Compliance with Immigration Regulations Comply with Portugal’s immigration laws, which include obtaining a valid passport and a work visa.
Expected Wages:
In Portugal, wages for unskilled labor might differ depending on the industry, position, and region. Hourly wages may vary, but they often fall between EUR 6 and EUR 1
Visa Requirements
The Primary Pathway: The Expression of Interest (Manifestação de Interesse)
This is the most relevant route for jobs often considered “unskilled.” The process is unique:
- Find a Job Offer: A Portuguese employer must want to hire you and be unable to find a Portuguese or EU citizen for the role.
- Employer Applies for Authorization: The employer must apply to the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF—soon to be replaced by APMA, Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum) on your behalf. They must prove they advertised the job and found no suitable candidate in the local market.
- Pre-Approval: If SEF (or APMA) approves the request, they issue an authorization.
- You Apply for a National (D) Visa: With this pre-approval, you apply for a long-stay D Visa at the Portuguese consulate in your home country.
- Enter Portugal & Get Your Residence Permit: Once you enter Portugal with the D Visa, you schedule an appointment with SEF/APMA to receive your official Temporary Residence Permit Card.
Key Requirements for the Employee (You)
- Valid Job Offer & Contract: A signed contract from a licensed Portuguese employer. This is the most critical step.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
- Clean Criminal Record: From your home country and any country you’ve lived in for over a year.
- Health Insurance: Must have valid health insurance coverage until you are registered with the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS).
- Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will live in Portugal.
- Means of Subsistence: Proof you can support yourself initially (e.g., bank statements), though the job contract is the main proof.
Visa & Immigration Options for Unskilled Workers
Foreign applicants can work in Portugal under several visa categories:
- Portugal Work Visa for Unskilled Workers 2025
- Employer-Sponsored Jobs in Portugal for Foreigners
- Portugal D1 and D2 Visa Jobs for Workers
- Temporary Work Visa in Portugal for Unskilled Labour
- How to Apply for Portugal Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply
- Find Sponsorship Jobs—Search on job boards like EURES, Indeed Portugal, Net-Empregos, and LinkedIn.
- Check Employer License – Only licensed employers can provide work visa sponsorship.
- Prepare Documents—CV, passport copy, certificates (if any), and experience letters.
- Submit Applications – Apply directly on company websites or through recruitment agencies.
- Get a Job Offer – Employer issues a work contract and sponsorship letter.
- Apply for a Visa—Submit documents to the Portuguese embassy/consulate in your country.
- Relocate to Portugal & Start Work
Conclusion:
For foreigners looking for unskilled work, Portugal has excellent prospects with competitive pay, cultural immersion, and visa sponsorship. There are several jobs available in a variety of industries, including retail, construction, hospitality, and agriculture. You can begin your road toward employment in Portugal by fulfilling the qualifying requirements and completing the appropriate application process.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need experience to apply for unskilled jobs in Portugal?
No, prior experience is not required for most unskilled jobs.
What are the eligibility criteria for unskilled jobs in Portugal?
Applicants must get a work visa, be at least 19 years old, have a valid passport, and adhere to immigration laws. Although it is not always necessary, having a basic understanding of Portuguese or English can be advantageous.
