Portugal has already issued around 5,675 visas for citizens of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) to seek work in the country since the end of October, when the new type of visa came into force.

Citizens of Brazil, Cape Verde and São Tomé and Príncipe lead the list of nationalities with this visa, according to data from the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MNE).

"Since the creation of this new type of visa, with the amendment to the Aliens Act, which came into force on October 30, 2022, a total of around 5,675 visas for job-seeking have been issued (until April 26, 2023) at all consular posts," says an official MNE source.

Citizens of Brazil, Cape Verde and São Tomé and Príncipe lead the list of nationalities with six-month visas for foreigners who are part of the CPLP and wish to look for work in Portugal.

This visa is valid for a total of 120 days, but can be extended for a further 60 days. It is granted at Portuguese consular posts, which immediately notify the Foreigners and Borders Service and the Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP).

To apply for a visa to look for work, you need a declaration of conditions of stay in Portugal and proof that you have submitted a declaration of interest for registration with the IEFP and that you have means of subsistence equivalent to three minimum monthly salaries.

Citizens of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP) will also have a visa facilitation scheme in Portugal, as part of the agreement on mobility between CPLP member states.

According to the decree, CPLP citizens can obtain a visa to look for work or a CPLP residence visa, and are exempt from presenting valid travel insurance, proof of means of subsistence, a copy of their return ticket and an in-person visa application.

In addition to Portugal, the CPLP includes Cape Verde, Brazil, East Timor, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe, Angola and Mozambique.

SEF data shows that the foreign population legally residing in Portugal increased in 2022 for the seventh consecutive year, totaling 757,252, and the Brazilian community grew the most, with a total of 233,138. (cnnportugal)