Portugal Article 90.2: A Complete Guide for Highly Qualified Professionals Seeking Residency

Portugal Immigration: Article 90.2 for Highly Qualified Professionals
Article 90.2 of Portugal’s immigration law provides a structured pathway for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries to obtain a residence permit through employment with a Portuguese company. This provision is part of Portugal’s effort to attract skilled talent and enhance its economic and technological sectors.

Key Requirements:

  1. Educational Background or Professional Experience
    A higher education degree relevant to the job position and
    A minimum of five to six years of professional experience in a related field (Ideal for Information Technology, Engineering, Management Professionals)
  2. Employment Contract
    A valid job offer or employment contract from a Portuguese company with a minimum duration of one year.
    The position must align with the applicant’s qualifications and experience.
    Wipgen can assist in securing a job offer relevant to your qualifications and experience.
  3. Salary Threshold
    The salary offered must be at least 1.5 times the national average gross annual salary in Portugal.
    As of 2025, this equates to approximately €2,100 per month.
  4. Proof of Financial Means
    If applying with a job offer (promise of employment) instead of a finalized contract, applicants should demonstrate sufficient savings, typically around €10,440.
  5. Legal Entry into Portugal
    Applicants must have entered Portugal legally through:
    A Schengen visa (Portugal or another Schengen country).
    A Schengen residence permit from another EU country.
    A Portugal Job-Seeker Visa.
    Application Process
    Step 1: Secure Employment in Portugal
    Applicants must obtain a valid job contract with a Portuguese company hiring highly qualified professionals.
    Wipgen can help connect you with employers and assist in securing a job contract.
    Step 2: Prepare Documentation
    Valid passport.
    Job contract or employment offer from a Portuguese company.
    Educational certificates (apostilled and translated if necessary).
    Proof of financial means (if applicable).
    Legal entry documents (Schengen visa, Portugal entry stamp, or residence permit from another EU country).
    Police clearance certificate from the applicant’s home country.
    Step 3: Submit Application
    The residence permit application under Article 90.2 should be submitted at the AIMA Migration Office in Portugal.
    Step 4: Await Decision
    Processing times vary, but applicants should anticipate a waiting period of 2 to 6 months for a decision.
    Post-Approval
  6. Residence Permit Validity
    The initial residence permit is valid for two years, with the possibility of renewal.
  7. Family Reunification
    After obtaining the residence permit, applicants can apply for family reunification, allowing their spouse, children, and dependent family members to join them in Portugal.
    Important Considerations
  8. Legal Entry Documentation
    It is essential to maintain documentation of legal entry into Portugal.
    If Portugal was the first point of entry into the Schengen area, ensure that you retain the passport stamp and boarding pass.
    If entry was made via another Schengen country, securing accommodation in Portugal upon arrival and keeping proof of residence can help support the application.
  9. Financial Preparation
    Initial expenses include:
    Document translation and apostille services.

    How Wipgen Can Help You
    Wipgen provides expert immigration and job placement services for highly qualified professionals applying under Article 90.2 of Portugal’s immigration law.
    ✔️ Helping you find a relevant job offer from a certified Portuguese company.
    ✔️ Guiding you through the entire visa and residence permit application process.
    ✔️ Advising you on the best route to enter Portugal based on your visa or residence status.
    ✔️ Providing support with documentation, legal formalities, and financial preparation.
    📩 For expert assistance, contact Wipgen at info@wipgen.com