Guide to HVA Professions for Portugal Visa and NHR Tax Regimes

Introduction

The Portuguese government has introduced a list of High Value-Added (HVA) professions to attract highly skilled workers and investors to the country. Individuals with professions on the HVA list may be eligible for a Portugal visa and the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) tax regime.

Current HVA Professions List

The current HVA professions list includes a wide range of occupations, including:

• Architects
• Doctors
• Engineers
• IT professionals
• Lawyers
• Professors
• Researchers
• Scientists
• Teachers
• Veterinarians
• Artists
• Athletes
• Musicians
• Entrepreneurs

Changes to the HVA Professions List

‍

The HVA professions list has been expanded in recent years to include more occupations, such as IT professionals and entrepreneurs. However, the Portuguese government has also made some changes to the HVA professions list to make it more difficult for people to qualify. For example, in 2021, the Portuguese government removed the option for people to qualify for the HVA professions list on the basis of their experience. This means that people must now have a formal qualification in an HVA profession in order to qualify.

‍

Eligibility for HVA Professions List

‍

If you are unsure whether your profession is eligible for the HVA professions list, you can contact the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) for more information.

‍

Conclusion

The HVA professions list is an important tool for the Portuguese government to attract highly skilled workers and investors to the country. The list is likely to continue to evolve in the future, so it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest changes. If you are considering applying for a Portugal visa or the NHR tax regime, you should check to see if your profession is on the HVA list.

‍

Disclaimer: The guidance above should not be fully relied upon and does not constitute formal instructed professional advice. In relation to tax advice in Portugal, please engage and instruct a regulated professional for all tax advice and structured financial planning. Please contact Portugal Pathways if you would like an introduction to one of our professional advisors.

‍