Query

Hi Jawad,

Thanks for asking, I am well. Short answer, no. If you want to participate in the free Portuguese language program you must reside in Portugal and have a NIF. You also need a medical document with all your shots. You go to the CNAI to sign up once you have all the paperwork together and they tell you when the next availability for classes is (for example, you may submit your paperwork in May, but classes may not start until October.

Click the link if you are looking for good and fairly priced Portuguese classes in Portugal.

Since you are not an EU citizen, if you want to work in Portugal over 6 months, you are required to get a a Residence Certificate (Certificado de Registo).

The majority of the time, if you area non-EU national, but have already secured job, or are married to a Portuguese citizen,

Jobs are scarce here, so Portugal has place quotas that limit the jobs that go to non Portuguese born people. Portuguese jobs also pay less than jobs in other countries.

You should also look into the tax ramifications. Portugal's taxes are high for those working here...so keep it in mind that you will get significantly less than what you are paid.

The CNAI is good, but holy smokes...it is always packed full of people and you can get stuck in for an entire day waiting. I went twice and decided to just figure stuff out on my own.

Sorry this is not more upbeat, but I definitely want you to have an accurate view into trying to find a job in Portugal.

Blanca