Employment in Portugal: What Documents to Prepare

Introduction: Why Portugal?

Portugal, with its warm climate, rich culture, and growing economy, is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Ukrainians seeking new employment opportunities. The country actively attracts foreign workers, especially in tourism, construction, agriculture, and information technology sectors. However, like any country, Portugal has its requirements for documents that must be prepared for legal employment.

This article will help you understand the main documents you will need to work in Portugal, as well as explain how to obtain and legalize them. 

Main Documents for Employment in Portugal

First of all, citizens of countries outside the EU need an appropriate legal basis to live and work in Portugal. For individuals applying for a residence permit, migration matters are handled by AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo). Ukrainian citizens who are eligible for temporary protection are subject to a special regime: the Certificado de Proteção Temporária serves as a temporary residence document and provides access to the labour market, so a separate work or residence visa is not required for employment under this regime. NIF, NISS and an SNS user number are also assigned together with this status.

Key documents that may generally be required for registration and employment include:

• Passport: A valid passport or other identity document.
• Document confirming the right to work: A residence permit, temporary protection document or another document granting the right to work.
• Employment contract: An employment contract with a Portuguese employer or a document confirming the intended employment relationship, depending on the procedure.
• Criminal record certificate: May be required for relevant visa and immigration procedures.
• Health insurance: An employer may require proof of health insurance depending on the terms of employment and the nature of the work.
• Education and qualification documents: Diplomas and certificates may be required depending on the profession. Regulated professions may require official recognition of qualifications.
• NISS (Número de Identificação de Segurança Social): A Social Security identification number required for participation in the social security system. An employer may also apply for an NISS on behalf of a foreign worker.
• NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal): A Tax Identification Number used, among other things, for employment, entering into contracts and fulfilling tax obligations.

It is important to note that documents issued by Ukrainian authorities may require an Apostille and translation into Portuguese, depending on the type of document and the specific procedure. Not all documents automatically require legalization or translation.

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Document Legalization: Translation, Notarization, Apostille and Consular Legalization

Documents intended for use in Portugal may need to be translated, notarized or apostilled. The specific procedure required depends on the type of document and the requirements of the authority to which it is submitted.

Document Translation

Official documents issued by Ukrainian authorities may need to be translated into Portuguese when submitted to Portuguese public authorities. The translation must be properly certified in accordance with the requirements of the relevant authority. In Portugal, a translation may be certified by a notary or another authorized professional or authority.

Notarization

Notarization may be required for copies of documents or translations if this is required by a specific procedure. It may confirm that a copy corresponds to the original or certify a signature or translation. Not all documents and translations automatically require notarization.

Apostille

For Ukrainian official documents submitted to Portugal that require authentication, an Apostille is generally used. Ukraine and Portugal are parties to the 1961 Hague Convention, which abolishes the requirement for consular legalization between participating states and provides for the use of an Apostille. An Apostille certifies the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the person signing the document acted, and the authenticity of the seal or stamp on the document. In Ukraine, an Apostille is issued by the competent authority depending on the type of document.

Consular Legalization

Consular legalization generally applies to official documents issued in countries that are not parties to the Hague Convention, unless other rules apply between the relevant countries. For Ukrainian documents submitted to Portugal, an Apostille rather than consular legalization is generally used.

Legal Aspects and Legislation

When working in Portugal, it is important to be familiar with the relevant legislation. In particular, the Portuguese Labour Code (Código do Trabalho) regulates employment relationships. For foreign nationals, Law No. 23/2007 (Lei n.º 23/2007) is particularly relevant, as it establishes rules on the entry, stay, departure and removal of foreign nationals, including matters related to their employment.

It is recommended to always refer to the current versions of the relevant legislation or consult lawyers specializing in immigration and employment law to avoid errors and ensure compliance with the applicable requirements.

Conclusion

Preparing the necessary documents is the first and one of the most important steps for successful employment in Portugal. Understanding the procedures for legalization, translation, and the requirements for each document will help you avoid unnecessary difficulties. Remember that timely and correct document processing is the key to your legal work and a peaceful life in a new country.