Au pair arrangements processed under standard employment permit. Host family must pay minimum wage (EUR 10,640/year). Visa fee EUR 75, residence card EUR 93. Processing ~2-3 weeks. Age 18-30. Renewable.
Young people aged 18-30 wanting cultural exchange experience while living with a Portuguese family. Common pathway for South Americans and Eastern Europeans.
Anyone over 30. Anyone wanting independent living arrangements.
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18–30 |
| Education Required | — |
| Job Offer Required | Yes |
| Sponsor Required | No |
| Remote Income Allowed | No |
| Family Accompaniment Allowed | No |
| Language Requirement | English (A1) |
Application Process
- 1Confirm eligibilityVerify you meet the age, education, and financial requirements above. Use our free eligibility quiz to score your fit against Portugal's Au Pair Employment Visa.
- 2Gather documentsPassport, recent photos, criminal record check, proof of accommodation, financial statements, health insurance, and any sponsor or employer letter.
- 3Submit applicationFile the application with the relevant Portugal immigration authority — usually online or at the consulate in your home country.
- 4Pay fees & attend appointmentPay the application fee (€110). Some applicants are required to attend a biometrics or interview appointment.
- 5Wait for decisionTypical processing: 1 months. Decision is communicated by email or via the official portal.
Cost & Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Annual Salary | — |
| Minimum Monthly Income | €920 |
| Minimum Investment | — |
| Application Fee | €110 |
Family & Long-term Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | No |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Path to PR | Yes |
| Path to Citizenship | Yes |
| Years to Citizenship | 6 |
| Dual Citizenship Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Work Rights | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Au Pair Employment Visa?
Au pair arrangements processed under standard employment permit. Host family must pay minimum wage (EUR 10,640/year). Visa fee EUR 75, residence card EUR 93. Processing ~2-3 weeks. Age 18-30. Renewable.
Who is the Au Pair Employment Visa best for?
Young people aged 18-30 wanting cultural exchange experience while living with a Portuguese family. Common pathway for South Americans and Eastern Europeans.
How long does the Au Pair Employment Visa take to process?
Processing typically takes 1 months. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
What does the Au Pair Employment Visa cost?
The application fee is €110. Total relocation cost depends on living costs, insurance, and document attestation.
Does the Au Pair Employment Visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes — this pathway has a path to PR.
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Official source: https://aima.gov.pt
Last verified: 2026-03-05