Ask the lawyer: I arrived in Portugal with a work visa. Can I change companies?

Holders of a residence permit for professional activity can change employers by notifying AIMA, as established by Article 88, paragraph 8 of Law 23/2007 (as amended by Law 62/2026). If you have not yet received your first residence permit, you are not strictly tied to the initial employer, but you must still provide AIMA with a valid employment contract and proof of Social Security enrollment at the time of your appointment to remain eligible for residency.

