Can I later move to another EU country for work?
Many international students choose Portugal not only for high-quality education, but also because studying in an EU country can open doors to future employment opportunities across Europe. However, moving to another EU country for work after studying in Portugal depends on several immigration rules. While studying in Portugal does not automatically give you the right to work in the rest of the EU, it does give you important advantages when applying for jobs elsewhere in Europe.
Understanding how this mobility works will help you plan your long-term career goals within the European Union.
Does a Portugal Student Visa Allow You to Work in Other EU Countries?
No.
A Portuguese student visa only allows you to:
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Study legally in Portugal
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Work part-time in Portugal
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Stay in Portugal for the duration of your program
It does not grant the right to work or live in another EU state.
For that, you must apply for the specific work visa or residence permit of the country you wish to move to.
Can You Move to Another EU Country After Graduating?
Yes.
After completing your studies in Portugal, you can apply for a job and work permit in any other EU country, provided you meet that country’s requirements.
Many graduates move to countries such as:
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Germany
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Netherlands
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France
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Ireland
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Belgium
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Spain
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Sweden
These countries often face labor shortages and actively hire foreign professionals.
How Studying in Portugal Helps You Move Elsewhere in Europe
Although your permit is specific to Portugal, your education still provides major advantages:
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European-recognized degree: Makes your credentials accepted across the EU.
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Easier employer acceptance: EU employers prefer candidates educated in Europe.
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Higher visa approval chances: Previous legal stay in the EU builds credibility.
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Opportunity for post-study work in Portugal: Helps you gain EU work experience before applying elsewhere.
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Pathway to EU Blue Card: A strong option for skilled workers who want EU-wide mobility.
This makes Portugal an excellent starting point for building a European career.
What Are the Requirements to Work in Another EU Country?
You will need to apply for:
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A job offer from an employer in that country
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A work visa or residence permit
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Documents proving your qualifications
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Proof of financial resources or employment contract
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Health insurance coverage
Some countries also require language skills depending on the job.
Does Portuguese Residency Help With EU Mobility?
Yes—but indirectly.
If you stay in Portugal long enough to obtain Permanent Residency (PR), you gain additional mobility benefits:
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PR holders can live and work in other EU countries under certain EU long-term residence rules
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Some countries offer simplified procedures for EU long-term residents
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It becomes much easier to switch employers and countries within the EU
However, long-term residency requires completing several years of legal stay in Portugal.
Can You Apply for an EU Blue Card?
Yes.
If you secure a high-skilled job in another EU country with a qualifying salary, you can apply for the EU Blue Cardthere.
Benefits include:
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High mobility across the EU
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Ability to move to another EU country after 1–2 years
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Fast-track residency options
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Strong recognition of your degree and experience
Your Portuguese education will help you meet the qualifications.
Final Summary
Yes, you can move to another EU country for work after studying in Portugal, but not automatically. A Portugal student visa does not give you EU-wide work rights. You must apply for the work permit of the country you want to move to. However, your Portuguese degree, EU experience, and legal stay greatly increase your chances of being hired in other European countries. With the right job offer and visa, Portugal can be the perfect first step toward building a long-term career anywhere in the European Union.
