Portugal has signed a Memoranda of Understanding with several countries to foster youth mobility, This has enabled stays in Portugal for up to 12 months with no option for extension. In addition, These agreements permit work, training, or study programs on a secondary basis, ensuring that activities taken go in line with the spirit of the agreement.
The following agreements are currently in effect:
Argentina:
Signed on June 13, 2017, this agreement aims to facilitate youth mobility for individuals aged 18 to 30, allowing them to enjoy an extended holiday with permission to work or study culture and languages. Also, It allows a maximum of 100 visas/entry permits for temporary stays of up to 12 months.
Australia:
Signed on September 25, 2014, and effective since November 24, 2014, this agreement promotes youth mobility for individuals aged 18 to 31, offering an extended holiday with work authorization.
It permits a maximum of 500 visas/entry permits annually for temporary stays of up to 12 months.
Canada:
Signed on May 3, 2018, this agreement encourages youth mobility for individuals aged 18 to 35 to travel and work. In addition, It allows a maximum of 400 visas/entry permits for temporary stays of up to 12 months.
Chile:
Signed on June 14, 2007, this agreement promotes youth mobility for individuals aged 18 to 30, facilitating extended holidays with work authorization.
Japan:
Signed on March 27, 2015, and effective since July 1, 2015, this agreement promotes youth mobility for individuals aged 18 to 30, offering an extended holiday with work authorization.]
New Zealand:
Signed on March 6, 2018, and effective since March 20, 2018, this agreement promotes youth mobility for individuals aged 18 to 30, offering an extended holiday with work authorization.
It allows a maximum of 50 visas/entry permits annually for temporary stays of up to 12 months.
Peru:
Signed on February 26, 2019, this agreement allows Peruvian nationals aged between 18 and 31, with a graduate degree or completion of two years of a graduate program, to stay in Portugal for up to 12 months for work and also holiday purposes.
Portugal will grant 400 visas under this agreement.
Republic of Korea:
Signed on April 10, 2014, this agreement promotes youth mobility for individuals aged 18 to 34, also offering an extended holiday with work authorization.
It allows a maximum of 200 visas/entry permits annually for temporary stays of up to 12 months.
United States of America:
Signed on February 11, 2019, and effective since February 28, 2019, this agreement allows US nationals to apply for a visa to stay in Portugal for up to 12 months for work and holiday purposes.
Portugal grants 400 visas under this agreement.
Main benefits of the Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Portugal
The Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Portugal, effective since November 2018, offers significant benefits for young people from both countries. Here are the main advantages:
1. Work and Travel Opportunities
- Open Work Permits: Participants can obtain open work permits that allow them to work for any employer in the host country, facilitating greater flexibility and the ability to support their travels financially.
Diverse Categories: The arrangement includes three categories of participation under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program:
- Working Holiday: For those seeking to travel and work simultaneously.
- International Co-op: Targeted at students who want to gain experience in their field of study.
- Young Professionals: For individuals seeking professional work experience related to their career paths.
2. Cultural Exchange
- The arrangement promotes cultural understanding by allowing youth to immerse themselves in a different culture, enhancing their global perspective and fostering international friendships.
3. Skill Development
- Participants gain valuable international work experience, which can enhance their employability and skill set. This exposure is particularly beneficial for personal and professional growth, making them more competitive in the job market upon returning home.
4. Strengthening Bilateral Relations
- The agreement reinforces the strong ties between Canada and Portugal, built on shared values and a significant Portuguese-Canadian community. This connection enhances opportunities for collaboration and mutual understanding between the two nations.
5. No Labor Market Impact Assessment Required
- Work permits issued under this arrangement are exempt from the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), simplifying the application process for participants.
6. Limited Visa Quotas
- The arrangement allows for a specific number of visas each year (up to 400 for Canadian citizens), ensuring that opportunities are available but also controlled, which helps manage the flow of participants2.
Overall, the Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Portugal provides a structured framework for young people to gain international experience while promoting cultural exchange and strengthening bilateral relations.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel insurance to Portugal straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Portugal Working Holiday Visa or a Temporary Stay Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit Portugal. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
