Degree or experience — two paths to prove qualification
The law accepts two different ways to demonstrate "high qualification" — formal education or confirmed professional tenure.
What the process consists of
The D3 visa is valid for 120 days with two entries — you need to reach your AIMA appointment within that window.
How the process runs
A good fit if
A poor fit if
Who runs this programme
Your request goes to two or three firms from this list. You see exactly which ones before it is sent, and you can exclude any of them.
No matching firms in the directory for this category yet — the list is curated by hand and grows over time.
This is an independent list of firms in the market, not our partners — we do not forward requests to them or receive payment for referrals. Contact them directly via the link.
Frequent questions
Why is the threshold based on IAS rather than the minimum wage, like the student visa?
Because the D3 law explicitly uses a different calculation base — the Indexante dos Apoios Sociais (social-benefits index) — rather than the salário mínimo nacional used for the D4 student visa. These are two separate official scales, revised independently of each other.
How often does IAS change?
Annually — for 2026 it was set by official Portaria No. 480-A/2025/1 (Diário da República) at €537.13, up from €522.50 in 2025 (+2.8%). The formula accounts for GDP growth and inflation.
What counts as "highly qualified activity"?
A role requiring specialist technical skills, exceptional knowledge, or specific qualifications — proven by a bachelor’s degree or above in a relevant field, or 5–6 years of documented professional experience.
How long until the residence card is issued?
AIMA is legally required to issue it within 90 days of a complete document submission at the appointment.
How long is the D3 visa itself valid?
120 days with two entries — you need to enter Portugal and reach an AIMA appointment within this period.
Does a foreign degree need to be recognised?
Generally yes, if the degree is used as proof of qualification — recognition may take separate time and requires its own verification.
Sources
Figures are for reference only. Verified against official sources on 26 August 2026. A precise quote is issued by the appointed firm after document review. This material is not legal advice, a public offer or investment advice.