Big news for visa applicants, Portugal has officially canceled all work-seeking visa appointments after introducing Law No. 61/2025, which came into effect on October 23, 2025. The new law replaces the popular job seeker visa with a highly skilled work-seeking visa, designed for qualified professionals.

But here’s the catch: no one can apply yet because the regulations aren’t ready. This sudden move has left thousands of applicants stranded, unsure when applications will reopen.

The change also ends the “manifestation of interest” route by December 31, 2025, signaling a significant shift in Portugal’s immigration policy toward prioritizing skilled workers.