Portugal Launches ‘Via Verde’: A Fast Lane for Hiring Foreign Workers
Portugal has taken a major step toward simplifying the hiring of foreign professionals. As of April 15, 2025, the Portuguese government officially launched a new law called “Via Verde para trabalhadores estrangeiros” – translated as the Green Lane for Foreign Workers.
This legislation aims to streamline the process of hiring international employees by significantly reducing administrative barriers and visa processing times. This initiative opens new doors for companies focused on international expansion and accessing top talent worldwide.
What Is the ‘Via Verde’ for Foreign Workers in Portugal?
The ‘Via Verde’ is an fast-track legislative initiative to support large companies in Portugal by speeding up the visa process for non-EU workers. Companies that meet specific criteria can now benefit from:
- Visa approvals in just 20 days
- Reduced bureaucracy and faster onboarding
- Greater flexibility to address skill shortages
Which Companies Are Eligible?
To qualify for the benefits of the Via Verde scheme, companies must meet the following requirements:
- Have 150 or more employees
- Generate an annual turnover of €25 million or more
- Have no outstanding debts to Portuguese Social Security or the Tax Authority
- Hold a valid permanent certificate code (código de certidão permanente)
These criteria aim to ensure that only compliant and stable employers can access the new benefits, ensuring the protection of both businesses and employees.
Why This Matters for Hiring Foreign Employees in Portugal
The demand for international talent is growing, especially in sectors like technology, engineering, and healthcare. However, navigating local labor laws and visa processes in Portugal has historically been complex and time-consuming.
With the Via Verde program, the Portuguese government is acknowledging the need for more agile and competitive hiring practices, especially for businesses with global operations.
How Parakar Supports Companies in Portugal
At Parakar, we specialize in helping international companies hire employees compliantly in Portugal, whether through our Employer of Record (EOR) services or tailored payroll and HR support.
The introduction of Via Verde marks a promising development for companies looking to expand their teams internationally. If your business meets the eligibility criteria, we’ll ensure;
- Fast and compliant hiring of foreign professionals
- Expert support with documentation and visa applications
- Local payroll setup and HR administration handled for you
Ready to Hire in Portugal? Let’s Talk
We’ll support you in every step of the process and handle the local compliance, so you can focus on growing your business. Reach out to our local experts to learn how we can support your hiring process in Portugal.
Let’s get in touch
