Working visa
Timor-Leste's work visa lets foreigners work under an employment or service contract, or volunteer for more than 120 days a year. It is valid for up to one year, renewable for equal periods, and allows multiple entries. The labour secretariat SEFOPE must certify that the job and employer are legitimate, and the Migration Service then decides. The fee is USD 100 for the first application and USD 100 for each extension.
Life in Timor-Leste
Money
3
Currency
US Dollar
USD
US Dollar
Cost of living
45
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
—
Income tax (national)
Wage income tax historically 10% on monthly wages above USD 500 for residents.
Your edge here Members
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Who it’s for
Foreign employees, contractors and long-term volunteers with an employer or organisation in Timor-Leste.
Eligibility
Purpose
Show that you will do paid work under an employment or service contract, or volunteer for more than 120 days per year.
- Volunteering for up to 120 days uses the temporary stay visa instead
- Work must be for hire or reward under a contract
Official wording
Professional activity for hire or reward under an employment or service contract, or volunteering for more than 120 days per year (up to 120 days: temporary stay visa).
SEFOPE certification
The employment and employer must be legitimate and the job conditions must meet employment laws, as certified by SEFOPE.
Character and health
Good character and health, and compliance with any previous visa.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Document checklistTravel document and copy
- FeesInitial application
- Steps to applyAgree a contract with an employer in Timor-Leste
The full requirements are for members
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- 8 documents
- 2 fees
- 4 steps
- Processing times and conditions
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