Portugal's HQA visa program is designed to facilitate highly qualified professional’s entry and residence applications in Portugal, and is meant for applicants who perform research and development activities in Portugal through collaboration with recognized research institutions. As foreseen under the law currently in force, apart from the general criteria, the applicant is specifically required to have in their possession:· An employment contract or a promise of an employment contract; or an invitation letter issued by a higher education institution or professional training institution; or a statement of responsibility provided by a certified company as stipulated by law; or an invitation letter issued by a company or institute developing a relevant cultural activity, in the Portuguese territory, recognized by the government agency responsible for cultural activities, or as stipulated by law; or an invitation letter issued by a research center. Regarding the nationality application, in order for one to apply for Portuguese citizenship, one must first apply for a temporary residence permit under the HQA program for a period of five years. Once an applicant fulfills the five-year period, they will be entitled to apply for either a permanent residence or the Portuguese citizenship.
