Everything you need to know about finding jobs, navigating the legal process, and succeeding in Portugal’s job market this year.
If you’re considering a career move to Portugal, you’re not alone. Many people are drawn to this European nation for its lifestyle, culture, and professional prospects. But how easy is it to work in Portugal, what jobs are available, and what are the financial realities? This article breaks down the essential information you need to plan your move successfully.
Navigating the Basics: What You Should Know Before Starting
Before moving to Portugal, here are a few answers to the most frequent questions people ask about working in the country:
- What’s Required? To work legally, you need a visa that allows professional activity or European citizenship.
- Who Can Work? Anyone, assuming they are not a tourist and have proper documentation.
- Are Jobs Plentiful? Certain sectors offer many positions, but it’s not easy, and the job market is competitive.
How to Get a Job in Portugal
Getting a job in Portugal requires careful planning, preparation and execution. Here’s how:
- Craft Your Resume: Adapt your resume to meet Portuguese market standards.
- Use Job Boards: Register on Portuguese job sites or directly on company career pages.
- Ace Interviews: Prepare for interviews.
- Secure the Right Visa: Apply for a work visa before you move to Portugal.
- Move Smart: Ensure your visa is in hand before you change your life or fly into Portugal.
- Get to Work: If successful, sign the job contract and begin your new position.
The Reality of the Portuguese Job Market
Don’t expect the job hunt in Portugal to be a walk in the park. The unemployment rate hovers around 6.5%, as of the end of 2023, with economists projecting it to remain above 7% into 2026. The economy is expected to grow moderately at 1.2% in 2024, according to the Bank of Portugal, but the job market faces uncertainties.
The ease of finding work varies significantly based on your qualifications, field, and status as a foreigner. For those in high-demand sectors such as IT, opportunities are readily available. In contrast, those without advanced degrees may face limited choices that typically involve fewer financial rewards.
Real Challenges in the Job Market
For many, particularly those entering without EU citizenship, some of the biggest issues are:
- Skill Mismatch: Many job postings require low qualifications, whereas professionals might find it difficult to find higher-level work.
- Diploma Validation: Validating diplomas is expensive and sometimes time-consuming, with no guarantee of success, and in some fields, they could make you study for an extra 2 years.
- Bureaucracy: Long and often difficult process to register with relevant professional boards.
Key Strategies for Landing a Job in Portugal
Start your job search early to gain insights into market demands. Here are some of the best ways to look for openings:
- Use Job Boards: Start with well-known platforms such as Net-Empregos, Sapo Empregos, Indeed, and CareerJet.
- Facebook Groups: Join local Facebook groups with jobs specifically tailored to the cities you like, such as Porto and Lisbon. Be vigilant for scams and request a contract before you relocate.
- Leverage LinkedIn: Keep your LinkedIn profile updated, and actively look for job opportunities that match your interests.
- Specialized Websites: If you have a niche or sector, check sector-specific job boards such as Carga de Trabalhos for communications or IT Jobs for tech. EURAXESS also serves researchers.
- Relocation Services: If you are looking for higher management jobs, think of hiring a company that specialises in placement for foreigners in Portugal.
What’s Needed to Work in Portugal?
Here’s a step-by-step guide of the paperwork you will need before making the big move:
- Passport: Your passport is the only recognized travel document. Make sure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond your return date. If you’re moving permanently, aim for at least two years of validity.
- Work Visa or Job Seeker Visa: Those without Portuguese or EU citizenship will need a visa.
- Work Visa: Use this if you have a job offer.
- Job Seeker Visa: Use this if you want to move to Portugal to search for a job. This gives you 120 days (extendable for 60 more) to find a job, provided that you have the financial means to support yourself.
- Other Visas: You can also work on a student visa with the appropriate permissions. D7 Visas for retirees and those with passive income are another option, as well as family reunification.
How to Secure a Work Visa for Portugal
The first step towards working in Portugal is applying for either a work visa (if you have a job offer) or a job-seeking visa. Apply in your country at the Visa Application Center (VFS Global).
If you are already in Portugal, you can seek a residence permit for work if you have a work contract and no criminal record.
Can You Work in Portugal on a Tourist Visa?
Technically no. Most companies will not hire you without proper work authorization. Working on a tourist visa means working illegally. Not only does this keep you outside the legal system, it also can affect your basic rights and make you liable to exploitation. So avoid this option.
If you Have European Citizenship
If you have European citizenship, you simply have to notify the local municipality of where you live and register your presence.
PB4 or Private Health Insurance: Acquire the PB4, which grants you access to the public health system or secure travel insurance that includes health coverage, for at least a month to cover your initial period in the country. You can explore options through Seguros Promo.
How to Polish Your Resume for Portugal
Update your resume with key skills and experiences. Be honest, and include a photo. Remember Portuguese linguistic norms; for example, a “dentist” in Brazil is a “medico dentario” in Portugal. The Europass model is a great formatting template to use.
What to Expect in Job Interviews
Interviews in Portugal are similar to the ones you may have experienced previously. Be ready for several rounds that may include group activities. Some companies also prefer to interview candidates in English. Online interviews through Skype are very common, and be prepared for video calls.
Understanding Employment Contracts
Portuguese employment models have specific structures. Be aware of contract details, such as:
- Fixed-Term Contract: Ranging from 6 months to 1 year.
- Open-Ended Contract: Similar to a full-time position.
- Uncertain-Term Contract: Often lasts for 4 years and does not need renewal.
When you receive an offer, read the contract carefully and, if needed, read the Portuguese Labour Code for full details, and never be surprised with an involuntary “termination” by not having your contract renewed.
Working as a Freelancer: The “Recibos Verdes” System
Freelancing, known as recibos verdes, requires registration with the Finance department. Then you can invoice your clients using recibos verdes.
Important Notes on Freelancing
Be aware that the taxes and fees are different from those in other countries:
- VAT: You might need to charge 23% VAT on each service, depending on your yearly income.
- Withholding Tax: 25% income tax (IRS) withholding on every invoice.
- Social Security: 21.4% of earnings are contributed to Social Security every three months, based on your previous earnings.
Should You Work Under Contract or as a Freelancer?
A contract provides the security of formal employment and benefits. On the other hand, the recibos verdes method offers freedom, but it requires financial responsibility for social contributions and taxes. So pick your poison.
Here’s a summary:
| Contract | Recibos Verdes |
|---|---|
| Paid Holidays | Self-Paid Social Security Contribution |
| Christmas Bonus | Work whenever you want |
| Meal Allowance | You can work for multiple companies |
| Set Salary | No Paid Holidays or Christmas Bonus |
| Formal Employment | No Set Salary |
| Unemployment Benefits | No job security |
| Working Hours and Location | You can resign when you want |
Understanding Social Security Contributions
While working on a contract has clear benefits and protection, social security contributions for freelancers are important to understand. In the first year of freelancing, you are exempt from contributing. After that period, independent workers pay 21.40% on 70% of their earnings. Make sure to plan for this expense. You can consult online calculators for better details.
Be Aware of “False Freelancing”
Some companies try to have you work full-time hours while classified as a freelancer. These companies try to have the best of both worlds. They have you work full time for them while paying you like a freelancer. This might involve:
- Mandatory working hours.
- Working only from their premises.
- Fixed monthly salaries.
- Use of company equipment.
- Supervisory or management roles.
Areas of Strong Demand in Portugal
Some areas have a higher demand than others.
- Tourism: It’s one of the largest sectors, but keep in mind that salaries are usually low in low-skill roles.
- IT: This sector has several openings, particularly in Lisbon and Porto, home to major national and multinational firms. As Bianca mentions, the arrival of many well-qualified immigrants has boosted the tech sector.
Other sought-after roles for 2024 include:
- Sales
- Engineers
- Information Technology
- Administration
- Finance
- Marketing
- Logistics
- Human Resources
- Customer Service
- Hospitality
Where Are the Best Job Opportunities in Portugal?
The Lisbon and Porto metropolitan areas offer the highest number of jobs, followed by the Algarve, which is mostly driven by tourism jobs.
Are There Opportunities for Foreigners?
Yes. Many companies are open to hiring non-nationals, but expect a competitive market. Skills, experience, and ability to communicate in English or Portuguese are key elements to focus on.
National Preference: Is It a Real Thing?
Some companies prefer locals. However, most companies value relevant qualifications and experience first. Make your resume shine and put yourself ahead of local candidates.
Portuguese Minimum Wage, Average Salaries and Purchasing Power
The minimum wage in Portugal is €820 (2024). While it is a decent amount for a living wage, compared to other EU nations, it’s rather mid-range. The cost of living can also vary. It’s important to understand what you are walking into before making a decision.
In 2023, the average salary in Portugal was €1,505 per month, a 6.6% increase year-on-year, yet this is below two times the minimum salary. Higher salaries are typically seen in the tech sectors.
Salaries Based on Profession
Here are some average salary ranges in Lisbon and Porto:
| Profession | Lisbon (Annual) | Porto (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Accountant | €35,000 – €53,000 | €30,000 – €46,000 |
| HR Manager | €37,000 – €57,000 | €35,000 – €52,000 |
| Lawyer (Small/Medium) | €30,000 – €81,500 | €24,000 – €75,000 |
| Logistics Director | €42,000 – €67,800 | €40,000 – €68,000 |
| Front-End/Back-End Developer | €30,000 – €70,000 | €26,000 – €62,900 |
| Copywriter | €18,500 – €27,000 | €18,000 – €26,000 |
| Store Supervisor | €24,000 – €36,000 | €23,200 – €35,000 |
| Chef | €37,000 – €70,000 | €37,000 – €70,000 |
Purchasing Power
It’s easy to think that wages are very low, but it’s important to factor the power of what that money can buy. The purchasing power in Portugal is significantly better than in countries like Brazil. For example, in a direct comparison between Lisbon and São Paulo, the purchasing power in Lisbon is 72% higher, though costs, such as rent, are higher. Similarly, Porto has a 193.8% higher purchasing power than Rio de Janeiro. You can see that there are swings, advantages and disadvantages between different regions.
Is it Possible to Save Money While Working in Portugal?
Saving money is challenging due to the cost of living, especially when salaries are not high. Quality of life is easier to achieve than saving a large sum of cash. If your goal is to get rich, Portugal is probably not your best option. But if you aim for a more balanced and fulfilling experience with high quality of life, it may be just what you are looking for.
Work Environment: What’s it Like?
Work environments can vary significantly, from great supportive work culture to high-pressure toxic environments, this applies to both Brazil and Portugal. As Joyce mentions, the work environment may depend on the company. Always ask and investigate how a company operates.
The Upside of International Colleagues
Portugal’s globalized economy means working with colleagues from various countries. This multicultural approach is very rewarding and broadens both personal and professional experience. As Bianca mentions, it’s an enriching experience for humans and for career advancement.
Is Working in Portugal Worth It?
The real answer to this questions is, it depends on what you want. Here is a list of pros and cons to give you a better idea:
Advantages of Working in Portugal
- International experience
- Work with professionals worldwide
- Earn in Euros
- Ability to obtain residency and potential citizenship after five years.
- 14 Salaries a Year If you work under contract.
- Open doors to work in other European countries.
- The similarities in language and culture are advantages, making it easier to build solid relationships and connections in a professional setting.
- Possibility to practice other languages
Disadvantages of Working in Portugal
- Lower salaries than in other European countries and even in some cases lower than Brazil
- Difficult job market, where you will need to compete with local and foreign candidates
- Navigating Portuguese labour laws that are different than your own.
- Need to validate diplomas for some professions (such as medical), and the sometimes lengthy bureaucratic registration processes.
- Financial stability is often difficult to achieve, and xenophobia is sadly still present.
You’ll have to decide what you need. If your goal is quality of life, public services, and security, Portugal may suit you. If not, you should probably look at another destination.
FAQs about Working in Portugal
- Professions with a Future: Technology is big, including marketing, e-commerce, development, data, and cybersecurity. Healthcare also has consistent demand.
- Professions with Risks: Jobs in agriculture (chemical use, sun exposure) and construction (accidents, musculoskeletal issues) are prone to high risks. Manufacturing also carries health and safety risks. Healthcare workers such as doctors and nurses work in a high stress environment with high risk of contamination.
- How to Get a Work Contract: Once you secure a job, your employer provides your work contract. Familiarize yourself with Portuguese labour laws to be aware of your rights.
- How to Work as an Uber Driver: To drive for Uber you will need to have a work visa, a driver’s license, and an operator’s license. Your car also needs to be compliant.
- Working as a Nurse: Nurses must validate their diplomas and register with the Order of Nurses.
- Working as a Construction Worker: You need no specific qualifications, just the experience and capacity to work. Many companies hire without specific qualifications and even without residence authorization, although this does not mean that these are safe choices.
- Working in Restaurants: A variety of roles are available, such as waiters, chefs, bartenders, etc.
- Working as a Dentist: You must validate your dental degree and register with the Order of Dental Physicians.
- Working in IT: You don’t need a degree, though it’s beneficial. Having a good grasp of English is key. There is a very large demand in Portugal.
- Finding Work from Abroad: This is hard unless you are in very high demand sectors such as IT.
Final Recommendations
To wrap up, patience and persistence are key to achieving a solid career in Portugal. Many face hurdles on arrival, from working in non-ideal situations to slowly climbing the corporate ladder, such as Joyce who is a trained nurse, and started out delivering goods.
Take action and reach out. Don’t hesitate to engage and be proactive. As Bianca says, much of the opportunity lies in networking and getting referrals. Finally, choose quality of life over high pay as a main goal and you’ll do well in Portugal.
Sources
Tostes, L., Gutierrez, E., & Sanches, C. (2024, March 22). Como trabalhar em Portugal. Eurodicas.
