A growing number of Brazilian nationals residing in Portugal on job-seeking visas are encountering significant bureaucratic hurdles with the Portuguese immigration agency, AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum), raising concerns over compliance with visa regulations and the overall processing of residence permits.

Job-Seeking Visa Rules Under Scrutiny

Brun Miranda, a Brazilian national holding a valid job-seeking visa, recently voiced her frustrations regarding Portugal’s immigration procedures. According to Miranda, AIMA required her to submit a work contract within just 29 days of arriving in Portugal, a demand that contradicts the official visa guidelines which allow 120 days for visa holders to find employment.

News reports highlight that Miranda was among many Brazilians who received job-seeking visas without an accompanying appointment at AIMA to formalize their residence permit applications. Following her arrival, AIMA contacted her 19 days later, instructing her to provide a work contract within ten days or face visa denial, according to sources from Portugal Giro.

“This directive is inconsistent with the regulations set for job-seeking visas,” said Miranda, who has since retained legal counsel. Her lawyer has issued a formal notice to the immigration agency demanding clarification and compliance with the visa framework.

Concerns for Vulnerable Applicants

Miranda’s case underscores a broader issue affecting numerous Brazilians in Portugal who are similarly navigating the immigration system under challenging circumstances. Many do not have the financial resources to seek legal assistance, potentially placing them at risk of losing their legal residency status due to administrative errors or inconsistent enforcement of visa policies.

Expert Advice: Apply for Portuguese Visa Before Departure

Immigration expert Wilson Bicalho advises Brazilian nationals to initiate visa applications while still in Brazil to avoid complications upon arrival in Portugal. According to Bicalho, applicants who secure their visas before relocating have a substantially higher chance of obtaining their residence permits without delays or denials.

In contrast, those who apply from within Portugal—especially those relying solely on their visa-free status for short-term entry—face significantly greater challenges. The probability of securing long-term documentation through in-country applications is described as “very remote.”

Increasing Demand for Portuguese Visas by Brazilians

Recent immigration statistics reveal a sharp rise in visa applications by Brazilian nationals. In the first four months of 2025 alone, 11,497 applications for Portuguese national visas were filed by Brazilians, marking a 56% increase compared to the same period last year.

Portuguese authorities process approximately 95 visa requests daily; however, ongoing delays persist, partly due to labor strikes impacting administrative efficiency.

Navigating Portugal’s Immigration Process With Expert Support

For Brazilians and other international investors or job seekers aiming to establish legal residency in Portugal, understanding the nuances of visa regulations and avoiding bureaucratic pitfalls is critical.

EU Prime Serwis offers comprehensive immigration consultancy services designed to guide applicants through the complex Portuguese visa system. Their experienced team specializes in:

• Residence permits and visa application assistance

• Legal guidance on job-seeking visas and work permits

• Support with documentation and appointment scheduling at AIMA

• Strategic advice to maximize approval chances and minimize processing delays

If you’re a Brazilian national planning to relocate to Portugal or an investor seeking residency solutions, contact EU Prime Serwis today for expert assistance:
https://euprimeserwis.pl/