Can I Work in Other EU Countries with a Portugal TRC Temporary Residence Permit?

Many people with a Portuguese TRC (Temporary Residence Card) often wonder about their ability to work in other EU countries. This article aims to clarify the situation and provide detailed information based on current rules and regulations.

Understanding the TRC Permit

A TRC is a permit that legally allows non-EU/EEA or Swiss nationals to live and temporarily stay in Portugal. It grants the holder the right to travel and live within the Schengen Area without entry and exit restrictions. However, it does not come with the automatic right to work in other EU countries.

Legal Rights and Restrictions

The TRC permit specifically entitles the holder to live and temporarily reside in Portugal. An individual holding a TRC permit is allowed to travel to most EU/EEA countries for short stays, as per the Schengen Area rules, which permit a 90-day stay within a 180-day period. However, the permit does not automatically extend the right to work in other EU countries.

Employment Rights in EU Countries

EU citizens enjoy the freedom of movement and citizens from third countries (non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss) typically require additional permits to work in other EU countries. If you have a TRC in Portugal, your ability to work in other EU countries will depend on the specific work permit or residency permit of that country.

Steps to Gain Work Rights in Other EU Countries

Find Employment and a Sponsor: You must find an employer in the country where you wish to work. The employer can sponsor your work permit application. Apply for a National Work Permit: After securing employment, you need to apply for a work permit from the relevant authorities of the country where you wish to work. This process varies significantly from one country to another. Residency Permit Application: Once your work permit is approved, you can apply for a residency permit to live and work in that country on a permanent or temporary basis.

The TRC permit does not give you the right to work in other EU countries. To work in another EU country, you must follow the specific procedures of that country, which often require you to apply for a work permit before you can be employed.

Conclusion

If you are a non-EU/EEA or Swiss national with a Portugal TRC permit, you must adhere to the specific rules and guidelines of each country to work there. While the TRC allows you to travel and reside in the Schengen Area, it does not grant you the automatic right to work in other EU countries.