You’ve conquered the exams, enjoyed the pastéis de nata, and finally have that Portuguese diploma in hand. But as the celebration fades, a pressing question remains: How do you stay legal in Portugal after graduation? 

Moving from a D4 Student Visa to a Work Permit is a critical transition. In the past, this was a bureaucratic mountain, but recent updates to the Portuguese Aliens Act (Law 23/2007) have made the path for high-skilled graduates smoother than ever.

The Post-Graduation Reality with Article 122

In the world of Portuguese immigration, Article 122 is your best friend. Specifically, Article 122, paragraph 1, item p) allows students who have completed their studies in Portugal to stay and look for work or start a business.

Think of your D4 visa as a “temporary pass” and the work permit as your “permanent membership.” You aren’t just changing a card; you are changing your tax and social contribution status. 

Option 1: The “Job Seeker” Extension (Article 122)

If you haven’t secured a contract by graduation day, don’t panic. You can apply for a residence permit for seeking work. 

• Validity: Usually granted for 1 year.
• Requirement: You must have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Portugal.
• The Catch: You must show “means of subsistence” (proof of funds) to support yourself while job hunting. 

Following the Article 122, we have the example of a student in Portugal. Elena, a Master’s graduate from the University of Porto, had her D4 visa expiring three weeks after her thesis defense. Instead of rushing into a low-skill job, she applied for the Article 122 extension. This gave her 6 months to land a high-level marketing role at a tech startup in Lisbon, allowing her to later transition directly to a High-Skilled Residence Permit. So, this is how you can get yourself legal from D4 student Visa to work permit.

Option 2: Direct Transition to a Work Permit (Article 88 or 90)

If you already have a job offer, you can skip the “seeker” phase. Depending on your role, you will likely fall into one of two categories: 

1. Article 88 (Standard Employment)

This is for general employees. You need a valid Employment Contract or a Promissory Contract. 

• Key Requirement: Your employer must be registered with Social Security and the Tax Authority (Finanças).
• Expert Tip: Ensure your salary meets the minimum Portuguese wage requirements to avoid AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) rejections. 

2. Article 90 (High-Skilled Activity)

If you are a researcher, teacher, or “highly qualified” professional (earning significantly above the average), this is a faster, more prestigious route. It often leads to the EU Blue Card, which offers greater mobility within Europe. 

The Step-by-Step Checklist for Successful Results

To ensure your transition from D4 Student Visa to Work Permit is seamless, gather these documents early:

• Final Diploma or Certificate: A simple “letter of completion” from your university is often enough to start the process.
• NIF & NISS: You likely have these from your student days, but ensure your NIF is updated from a “non-resident” to a “resident” address.
• Clean Criminal Record: You will need an updated record from your home country (translated and apostilled) and a Portuguese one.
• Housing Proof: A valid rental contract registered with the Autoridade Tributária. 

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• The Gap Year Trap: Do not let your D4 card expire before you start the renewal or transition process. Even a one-day gap can complicate your “5-year clock” for citizenship.
• Incorrect NIF Status: Many students forget to update their tax address. This can lead to issues when showing proof of “means of subsistence.”

Key Takeaways for Graduates

1. Don’t wait for the physical diploma: Start your application with a temporary certificate of completion.
2. Use the “Job Seeker” bridge: If you don’t have a job yet, Article 122 is your legal safety net.
3. Check Social Security: Ensure your employer is actually making contributions; your future PR depends on it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work in Portugal while my D4 to Work Permit transition is pending?

Yes. Under Portuguese law, if you have a pending appointment or a “manifestation of interest” and a valid social security number, you are generally allowed to work while awaiting your final residence card. 

How long does it take to get a work permit after graduation?

While the application can be submitted immediately after graduation, processing times at AIMA currently range from 6 to 18 months. However, your receipt of application serves as a legal document to stay in the country. 

For more information, you can contact us.