Jobs in Portugal: what you need to know about working

Thinking about starting a new life in Portugal? You’re not the only one. Every year, thousands of people, from young graduates to experienced professionals, decide to swap routine for sunshine, delicious food, and a slower pace of life. But Portugal isn’t just about breathtaking beaches and charming cities. It’s also a place full of opportunities if you’re ready to work abroad.

Before you pack your bags, it’s good to know what daily working life looks like here: how the workweek is organized, what office hours are like, when shops are open, and how much holiday time you’ll get. This guide is here to give you a clear picture, so you can step into your new chapter with confidence.

The Work Schedule in Portugal

Wondering what your days will look like once you land that job? In Portugal, the rhythm is pretty straightforward, but there are a few details worth knowing.

A standard workweek runs Monday to Friday.
Most people work 8 hours per day, between 38 and 40 hours per week.
Overtime happens, but it’s paid fairly:

125% for the first extra hour,
137.5% for the following ones,
150% if you’re working weekends or public holidays.

This means you’ll know exactly what to expect, and any extra effort you put in will be properly rewarded.

Office Hours: When the Workday Starts and Ends

Office life in Portugal has its own rhythm. And yes, lunch is taken seriously here. Forget eating a sandwich at your desk; you’ll have time to enjoy your break.

Common schedules: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.with a 1-hour lunch, or 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.with a longer 2-hour break.
No one works more than five hours in a row without a pause.
You’re guaranteed at least 11 hours of rest before your next day begins.

The balance between work and life is built into the system something you’ll quickly come to appreciate.

Shop and Business Hours: When Things Are Open

Life outside work matters too, and it’s worth knowing when you can run errands or go shopping. The rules depend on where you live, but here’s the general picture:

Small shops: usually 9:00/10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., closed Sundays in smaller towns.
Shopping malls: in Lisbon or Porto, they can stay open until midnight.
Supermarkets: generally 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., later in busy tourist areas.
Restaurants: one weekly closure day, plus national holidays.

So whether you’re in a sleepy coastal town or the middle of Lisbon, the pace of daily life will feel different.

Full-Time vs Part-Time Work

If you’re planning to join the Portuguese job market, here’s what counts as full-time versus part-time.

Full-time work= 8 hours per day, 40 per week.
Part-time work= a reduced schedule agreed with your employer.
Lunch breaks: usually1–2 hours, depending on the company.

This flexibility allows you to adapt your work to your lifestyle and not the other way around.

Jobs in Portugal

Paid Holidays and Time Off

When it comes to holidays, Portugal doesn’t disappoint. You’ll have plenty of time to travel, relax, or simply enjoy a coffee in the sun.

22 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees.
13 national holidays, plus a few regional ones.
Short-term contracts: at least 2 paid days off.

Time off is respected, and taking it is part of the culture, something that makes living here even more enjoyable.

Sick Leave: What Happens If You Fall Ill

Nobody plans on getting sick, but Portugal’s system makes sure you’re covered if it happens. To qualify, you’ll need a medical certificate from the public health service and a history of social security contributions.

Here’s how it works:

Sick pay covers 65%–75% of your income, depending on the length of leave.
For long-term conditions, it can go up to 80%.
Work accidents are compensated right away at 70%, increasing to 75% after a year.

It’s reassuring to know that even in difficult times, there’s a safety net in place.

Why Portugal Could Be Your Next Career Move

Moving abroad is a big decision, but Portugal makes it an exciting one. For young graduates, it’s a chance to gain international experience in a friendly, multicultural setting. For senior professionals, it’s an opportunity to combine career growth with an unbeatable quality of life.

The first step? Get your NIF number (tax ID) and start exploring the jobs in Portugal for expats that match your skills. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything this country has to offer, professionally and personally.