Many people moving to Portugal picture a relaxed life of sunshine, sea and long afternoon coffees. But for some, a new life abroad also means finding new sources of income. Whether you’re looking to make a full-time living or earn a little extra to make luxuries affordable, if you want to work in Portugal, the country offers a wide range of job opportunities – especially if you’re open-minded, resourceful and ready to adapt.
From remote freelance roles to hospitality jobs in buzzing tourist regions, this guide shows you where to look, how to prepare and what to expect when working in Portugal in 2025.
Contents
- Where to find work in Portugal
- Learning Portuguese for better job prospects
- Best jobs for expats in Portugal
- Freelancing and online work
- Understanding salaries and cost of living
- The best places to find employment
- Legal and practical considerations
- Frequently asked questions
With the right preparation you can work in Portugal as part of your new life abroad
Where to find work in Portugal
Most expats find jobs either online or through personal connections. For high-skilled roles in tech, customer service or finance, major job boards such as Top Language Jobs, LinkedIn, and SAPO Emprego are a good start. Many international companies now operate out of Lisbon and Porto, often offering English-speaking positions.
For seasonal or casual work, being present makes a difference. Many hospitality jobs are filled through word of mouth, especially on the Algarve and in the popular hotspots like Lagos, Albufeira and Tavira. Asking in person or leaving a CV with a confident smile can go a long way.
Finally, take advantage of local community groups. Expats in Portugal are quick to share tips. Facebook groups like “Expats in Lisbon” or “Life in the Algarve” are useful for job leads, local recommendations and networking opportunities.
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Learning Portuguese for better job prospects
It’s hard to overstate how much learning Portuguese helps – both professionally and socially. Even a beginner level can open doors to jobs that would otherwise be out of reach. While English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas, many employers prefer staff who can communicate in Portuguese. Being able to speak even simple phrases shows respect for the culture and a willingness to integrate.
Portuguese isn’t the easiest language you’ll ever learn, but it’s very achievable. According to the US Foreign Service Institute, it takes around 600 hours of practice to converse comfortably. That’s roughly an hour a day over a year – well worth the effort for full participation in life and work here.
You’ll find countless tools available: apps like Duolingo or Babbel, YouTube tutorials, language exchanges and in-person lessons. Many language schools also offer specific courses for expats working in Portugal.
Best jobs for expats who want to work in Portugal
Employment options will depend on your experience, qualifications and how flexible you can be. Some popular roles for expats include:
- Beauty and wellness services: British hairstylists, nail technicians and massage therapists are in demand, especially among expat-heavy areas where language is a barrier. If you build a trusted local reputation, word of mouth can keep your appointment book full.
- Tourism and hospitality: Portugal’s tourism sector is booming, and each summer sees a surge in beachfront bars, hotels and restaurants looking for short-term staff. English speakers with enthusiasm and energy are always needed, though these jobs often don’t stretch into autumn.
- Property management and maintenance: Expats who know their way around garden tools or Airbnb check-ins can tap into the holiday rental market. Seasonal but lucrative in hotspots like the Algarve, property services can include cleaning, pool care or meet-and-greet duties.
- Customer support and tech jobs: Lisbon is earning a reputation as a start-up haven. Many international companies operate customer service hubs locally, offering contracts to multilingual applicants, including roles in IT, web services and sales.
Whatever your path, being flexible and open to trying something new is a big asset in Portugal’s evolving job market.
Freelancing and online work in Portugal
Many expats sidestep traditional employment entirely and work online. If you’re in a digital-friendly job – graphic design, writing, web development, marketing, or consultancy – freelancing can let you earn globally while enjoying a Portuguese lifestyle.
Portugal actively invites digital nomads with its Digital Nomad Visa, introduced in 2022. The visa allows you to stay in Portugal while earning money remotely, provided your income is stable and meets minimum threshold requirements (around €3,280 per month in 2025).
Platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr or PeoplePerHour can help beginners find freelance work and build a portfolio. Alternatively, if you already run a business or have clients in the UK or elsewhere, Portugal’s fibre-optic internet and co-working spaces make it a convenient and inspiring remote working base.
Understanding salaries and cost of living
Wages in Portugal are lower than in the UK. The average monthly salary in 2025 is around €1,400 gross, with minimum wage at €820. However, the lower cost of housing, food and transport means your take-home pay can stretch further than expected – especially outside major cities.
If you’re bringing in money from abroad or working for international companies, you may find you can live quite comfortably. But if you’re working entry-level roles locally, it’s best to be realistic about earnings and budget accordingly.
To avoid nasty surprises when transferring funds, use a currency exchange specialist like Smart Currency Exchange. They can offer better exchange rates and lower fees than high-street banks. You can also lock in exchange rates with forward contracts, helping you plan your budget more accurately.
The best places to find employment
Portugal’s job opportunities vary hugely depending on where you choose to live. Cities like Lisbon, Porto and Coimbra have the most diverse range of employment. The tech and tourism boom in Lisbon, in particular, has created demand for multilingual workers in customer support, sales and software development.
The Algarve offers seasonal work in travel and hospitality, often suited to those seeking a relaxed lifestyle. Rural areas, on the other hand, tend to offer fewer traditional jobs. However, they’re great for small business ideas or if you plan to work remotely.
If a job is essential to your relocation plans, it’s usually best to be based near a city. Good transport links, business clusters, and larger expat communities make everything from networking to job hunting much easier.
Legal and practical considerations
If you’re planning to work legally in Portugal long-term, make sure your paperwork is sorted. Depending on your situation, you may need:
- A tax identification number (Número de Identificação Fiscal, NIF)
- Registration with social security (Segurança Social)
- A visa or residence permit (for non-EU citizens)
Freelancers and remote workers should register under the Regime Simplificado with the Portuguese tax authority. You’ll need to issue invoices (called faturas) and pay taxes on your income. It’s worth hiring a local accountant to guide you through the process, as bureaucracy in Portugal can be complex.
Finally, avoid accepting “cash-in-hand” jobs. They may seem tempting but offer no job security, no access to healthcare, and leave you outside the social security system. Working legally ensures protection, benefits and peace of mind.
Ready to begin a new chapter in Portugal?
At Your Overseas Home, we help you prepare for life abroad with expert advice and trusted connections. Whether you’re financing a home, learning how to manage local admin, or planning a viewing trip, our team and resources are here to simplify every step.
Book a free consultation now and let us help you turn your plans into reality.
Frequently asked questions about working in Portugal
Can foreigners work in Portugal?
Yes. EU citizens can work freely in Portugal. Non-EU citizens need a valid visa or residence permit that allows employment. Remote workers may be eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa, while freelancers must register with Portuguese tax authorities.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to find work?
Not always. English-speaking jobs are available in tourism, customer service, and tech. However, speaking Portuguese improves your job prospects and helps with integration, especially for local roles or freelance services.
What are the most common jobs for expats in Portugal?
Popular options include hospitality work, property services, wellness and beauty, teaching English, and remote freelance roles like writing, tech support and digital marketing. Many expats also run small businesses or offer specialist services.
How much can I expect to earn in Portugal?
In 2025, the minimum wage is €820 per month, while the average gross salary is about €1,400. Freelancers and remote workers earning foreign income may do better, but cost of living is lower than in many northern European countries.
Where are the best places to find jobs in Portugal?
Lisbon, Porto and Coimbra have the most year-round job opportunities, especially in tech, tourism and education. The Algarve offers plenty of seasonal hospitality roles. Rural areas are quieter but may suit remote workers or entrepreneurs.
