Jobs in Portugal

Famous for its sun, sea, and beaches, Portugal is undoubtedly a popular destination for overseas workers seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle and climate. Portugal is a good choice if you are planning to move out of your home country in search of better job opportunities and lifestyle. Let us discuss why Portugal is a good choice and all the details of the work visas.

Why go for jobs in Portugal?

Employers are obligated by the law to provide statutory benefits(also known as mandatory benefits) to their employees. On the International Trade Union Convention Global Rights Index, which measures workers' welfare around the world, Portugal ranks second. Let us discuss a few statutory benefits offered to the employees.

• Annual Leave Entitlements:

Every employee is entitled to 22 working days of annual leave per year. Workers that are temporary and are contracted for six months of consistent work are given two days of paid vacation monthly, whereas employees engaged for up to 12 months are given prorated annual vacation.

• Maternity Leave:

Portuguese law is progressive and flexible when it comes to parental leave. Partners are free to share their parental leave entitlements or they can also reserve these leaves for one partner only.

• Paternity Leave Allowances:

Compulsory paternity leave lasts up to 20 days according to the amendments made to the Portuguese Labor Code in 2020. Immediately after childbirth, it is compulsory for the father to take five days' leave of allowance, whether the father chooses to share the parental leave or not.

• Pension Plans And Retirement Contributions:

Administered by the Ministry of Labor, social security, and Solidarity, social security contributions and pensions are compulsory in Portugal.

• Overtime:

An employee is allowed to work for 40 hours per week and the maximum overtime is between 80 to 200 hours per week depending on various factors including the size of the business, the industry, and the employee's status.

• Insurance Entitlements:

Since social security caters to unemployment, disability, sickness and parental benefits, and pensions, Employers are not obliged to provide specific insurance benefits according to Portuguese law. However, in order to prevent any occupational injury, employers have to carry workers' compensation insurance.

Most in-Demand Jobs

• Web Developers:

A large number of jobs are now available in the IT sector in Portugal for web developers. The big companies in the cities are looking for web developers with degrees in computer science as well as relevant hard and soft skills.

• Real Estate Agents:

With a boom in Portugal’s real estate market, more foreigners are increasingly buying homes and businesses in the country, resulting in a strong demand for real estate agents that speak English.

• Content Creators:

With a rapid expansion in the online business world, there is a rise for content creators, which includes a high demand of copywriters, digital marketing specialists and social media managers. Proficient English, certification or degree and a passion for creative work is all you need to be a creative content writer.

• Tourism and Hospitality:

There are many opportunities in the tourism and hospitality industry as the country depends a lot on its tourism industry. The most popular location for expats trained as hotel managers, chef, bar and restaurant staff and many more is the Algarve region. Porto and Lisbon also come under popular locations.

• English Teachers:

There is a huge demand for English teachers in Portugal. The requirements to qualify as a teacher is usually a university degree and internationally recognized certification in TEFL. Mostly expats prefer to teach in private schools as they offer slightly higher wages.

• Senior Care:

Being a popular retirement destination, there is an increase in need of nurses and specially trained people to work with geriatric needs. There are many opportunities for English speakers in this field in larger towns and cities, including nursing homes and hospitals. However many opportunities are offered independently by families for live-in nurses.

Documents Required For

• A portuguese visa application form filled and completed with the correct information required.

• A valid passport or a travel document issued by the government
• Two recent coloured passport size photographs.
• A document proving that the applicant is financially sound to support themselves during their stay in Portugal, it can be a bank statement or any other document.
• A criminal record from the applicant's country of origin proving that the applicant is free or does not have any criminal charges against him/her.
• A proof of health insurance or a valid travel insurance to cover any medical emergency portugal.

• Accommodation proof in Portugal, any document from a rental agreement or hotel reservation proving that the applicant has a place to reside.

• Employment contract of the applicant.

• A visa proving that the applicant is legally allowed to enter Portugal, when the applicant is already in portugal.

• A proof that the applicant is allowed to stay in Portugal, it can be a residency permit or any other relevant visas, if the applicant is applying form his/her home country.

Work Permit Application Process

Types of Work Visas

There are mainly 2 types of work visas offered by Portugal, known as “Temporary Stay Visas” and “Residency Visas”. These visas differ in validity and allow multiple entries in portugal. Below are the few most common portuguese national work visas.

• Portugal Work Visa

This type of visa is the most common work visa for the employee's working in portugal. A standard residence permit with a validity of one year and can be renewed for upto five years. You are most likely to apply for a portuguese work visa if your work contract exceeds one year.

• Independent Work Visa

You can apply for a temporary stay or residency visa if you wish to work in Portugal independently. A temporary stay visa allows you to work in Portugal for a year. You are not allowed to work for a company in the country if you are applying for this type of visa. This visa is a perfect option for you if you are self-employed.

• Highly Qualified Visa

Individuals conducting scientific research or any other highly qualified activities are issued a highly qualified visa. Highly qualified workers include medical professionals, engineers, and scientists. Additionally, highly qualified subordinate activity, higher education teaching/professorial activity, performing artists,Can also apply.

• EU Blue Card

This card is issued to those having sought-after skills. This is an extreme option for professionals residing outside the European Union. You need to provide supporting documents proving your skills, education, and experiences to be eligible for an EU Blue Card.