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Employer of Record in Portugal

Guide to hiring employees in Portugal

Your guide to international hiring in Portugal, including labor laws, work culture, and employer of record support.

Capital
Lisbon
Currency
Euro
Language
Portuguese
Population
10,196,709
GDP growth
2.68%
GDP world share
0.27%
Payroll frequency
Monthly
Working hours
40 hours/week
Portugal hiring guide

Employer of Record in Portugal

View our Employer of Record services

An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party organization that legally employs workers on behalf of another company. The EOR takes on the responsibility for all formal employment tasks, including payroll processing, tax withholding and filing, benefits administration, and ensuring compliance with local labor laws and regulations. This allows companies to hire employees in a foreign country without needing to establish their own legal entity there.

For businesses looking to expand or hire talent in Portugal, navigating the local employment landscape can be complex. Utilizing an EOR simplifies this process significantly, enabling companies to quickly and compliantly engage employees in Portugal without the administrative burden and legal requirements associated with setting up a local subsidiary or branch.

How an EOR Works in Portugal

When you partner with an EOR in Portugal, your chosen candidate becomes a legal employee of the EOR. You retain full control over the employee's day-to-day tasks, projects, and performance management. The EOR handles all the back-end employment responsibilities specific to Portugal, such as:

  • Generating compliant employment contracts in Portuguese.
  • Registering the employee with social security and tax authorities.
  • Processing monthly payroll accurately and on time.
  • Calculating and remitting income tax and social contributions.
  • Administering mandatory benefits and managing leave requests.
  • Ensuring adherence to Portugal's labor code, including working hours, minimum wage, and termination procedures.

Benefits of Using an EOR in Portugal

Engaging an EOR offers several key advantages for companies hiring in Portugal without a local entity:

  • Rapid Market Entry: Hire employees in Portugal quickly, bypassing the lengthy process of entity formation.
  • Reduced Costs: Avoid the significant expenses associated with setting up and maintaining a local legal entity.
  • Compliance Assurance: Ensure full compliance with Portugal's complex labor laws, tax regulations, and social security requirements, mitigating legal risks.
  • Focus on Core Business: Offload administrative burdens related to HR, payroll, and compliance, allowing your team to concentrate on strategic business activities.
  • Access to Talent: Easily hire skilled professionals anywhere in Portugal, regardless of your company's physical presence.

EOR Costs in Portugal

Rivermate's transparent pricing model eliminates complexity with a single, competitive monthly fee per employee. Unlike traditional PEO providers, our pricing in Portugal includes comprehensive HR support, benefits administration, compliance management, and access to our proprietary dashboard for real-time workforce analytics. No hidden costs, no setup fees—just straightforward pricing that scales with your business needs while ensuring full legal compliance in Portugal.

499 EURper employee per month

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Employ top talent in Portugal through our Employer of Record service

Book a call with our EOR experts to learn more about how we can help you in Portugal

Book a call with our EOR experts to learn more about how we can help you in Portugal.

Responsibilities of an Employer of Record

As an Employer of Record in Portugal, Rivermate is responsible for:

  • Creating and managing the employment contracts
  • Running the monthly payroll
  • Providing local and global benefits
  • Ensuring 100% local compliance
  • Providing local HR support

Responsibilities of the company that hires the employee

As the company that hires the employee through the Employer of Record, you are responsible for:

  • Day-to-day management of the employee
  • Work assignments
  • Performance management
  • Training and development

Portugal presents a growing opportunity for international companies in 2025, driven by a strategic location, expanding economy, and a skilled workforce. Key industries experiencing growth and driving recruitment include technology, tourism, renewable energy, shared services, and real estate. While a well-educated workforce exists, competition for specialized skills, particularly in tech and senior management, is high, especially in Lisbon and Porto. Companies should focus on offering competitive compensation, highlighting company culture, and streamlining the hiring process to attract top talent.

Effective recruitment strategies involve a multi-channel approach, utilizing online job boards (Net-Empregos, Sapo Emprego, Indeed, LinkedIn), social media, professional networks, university career services, and recruitment agencies. Understanding local labor laws and candidate preferences (job security, work-life balance, professional development) is crucial. Partnering with local experts or Employer of Record (EOR) services can help navigate bureaucratic complexities. Typical hiring timelines range from 4-6 weeks for entry-level roles to 8-12 weeks (or longer) for specialized or senior positions.

When hiring, define the role clearly, research local compensation benchmarks, choose appropriate recruitment channels, and craft compelling job descriptions in both Portuguese and English. Be prepared for face-to-face interviews and extend competitive offers compliant with Portuguese labor law.

Role Category Entry-Level (Annual Gross) Mid-Level (Annual Gross) Senior-Level (Annual Gross)
IT/Tech €15,000 - €25,000 €25,000 - €45,000 €45,000+
Marketing/Sales €12,000 - €20,000 €20,000 - €35,000 €35,000+
Administration/Support €10,000 - €18,000 €18,000 - €28,000 €28,000+
Engineering (Non-IT) €14,000 - €22,000 €22,000 - €40,000 €40,000+

Note: These are rough estimates and can be significantly higher in Lisbon/Porto or for highly specialized roles.

Taxes in Portugal

Employers in Portugal must contribute 23.75% of employees' gross salaries to social security, funding healthcare, pensions, and unemployment benefits. Additional payroll taxes, such as work accident insurance, vary by risk level. Employers are also responsible for withholding income tax (IRS) based on progressive rates for 2025, which range from 14.5% for incomes up to €7,410 to 48% for incomes over €50,483.

Tax Type Rate / Limit Key Deadlines
Social Security Contributions 23.75% of gross salary 15th of following month
Income Tax Withholding Progressive (14.5%-48%) 20th of following month
Annual Income Declaration Submission by end of February End of February

Employees can reduce taxable income through deductions such as healthcare, education, pension contributions, housing, and family expenses, provided proper documentation is maintained. Foreign workers and companies should consider special regimes like the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) scheme, offering a flat 20% tax rate on certain income and exemptions on foreign income for up to 10 years, along with tax treaties to prevent double taxation. Compliance with reporting deadlines and understanding these regimes are vital for optimal tax management.

Leave in Portugal

Portugal provides employees with comprehensive vacation and leave rights under the Labour Code. Key entitlements include a minimum of 22 paid annual vacation days, which accrue from the start of employment and are typically taken within the same calendar year, with a maximum carryover of 11 days (half of the entitlement). Vacation pay includes regular salary plus a vacation allowance, usually equivalent to one day's salary per vacation day.

Public holidays are observed nationwide, totaling 13 days, with some regional variations. Employees are entitled to paid time off on these days. Sick leave benefits are available for employees contributing to social security, requiring medical certification for absences over three days, with compensation based on a percentage of the salary. Parental leave includes maternity (120-150 days), paternity (28 days), and adoption leave, all paid at 100% of the reference salary, with flexible options for sharing leave and taking pre- or post-birth.

Other leave types include bereavement, marriage, study (unpaid), sabbatical (employer discretion), and leave for caring for sick children, accommodating diverse employee needs.

Leave Type Duration & Conditions Compensation
Annual Vacation Minimum 22 days, can carry over 11 days, scheduled jointly or employer's final decision Salary + vacation allowance (1 day’s salary per day)
Public Holidays 13 days (varies slightly by region) Paid
Sick Leave Variable, medical certificate required for >3 days, paid via social security Percentage of salary (varies)
Maternity Leave 120-150 days, with options for shared leave 100% salary from social security
Paternity Leave 28 days, mandatory, paid at 100% salary 100% salary
Adoption Leave Similar to maternity leave, duration depends on child's age 100% salary

Benefits in Portugal

Portugal's employee benefits are governed by statutory requirements and evolving employee expectations. Mandatory benefits include social security contributions, paid holiday (minimum 22 days/year), Christmas and vacation allowances (equivalent to one month's salary paid in June and December), parental leave, sick leave, and work accident insurance. These form the baseline of any compensation package and ensure employee security.

Beyond legal obligations, many employers enhance their offerings with optional benefits such as private health insurance, meal and transportation allowances, life insurance, supplementary pension plans, childcare vouchers, flexible work arrangements, and training programs. Private health insurance is particularly valued, providing faster access to care despite Portugal's universal public healthcare system.

Benefit packages vary by company size and industry, with larger firms typically offering comprehensive perks including private health insurance, pension plans, and additional allowances, while startups focus on core statutory benefits and flexibility. The following table summarizes typical offerings:

Benefit Startup/Small Business Medium-Sized Enterprise Large Corporation
Social Security Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory
Holiday Pay Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory
Christmas/Holiday Pay Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory
Private Health Insurance Optional Common Standard
Meal Allowance Common Common Common
Transportation Allowance Optional Optional Common
Life Insurance Optional Optional Common
Pension Plan Rare Optional Common

Workers Rights in Portugal

Portugal maintains a strong legal framework protecting workers' rights, with key provisions on termination, anti-discrimination, working conditions, health and safety, and dispute resolution. Employers must follow specific procedures for dismissals, including notice periods based on tenure:

Length of Service Notice Period
Up to 6 months 15 days
6 months to 2 years 30 days
More than 2 years 60 days

Employees dismissed without just cause are entitled to severance pay, and unfair dismissals can be challenged legally, potentially resulting in reinstatement or compensation. Anti-discrimination laws prohibit unfair treatment based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, disability, and political beliefs, enforced by the Commission for Equality in Labour and Employment (CITE).

Standard working hours are 40 hours per week, with mandated rest periods and paid annual leave. Overtime is permitted but must be compensated at a higher rate. Employers are legally responsible for ensuring workplace safety through risk assessments, preventive measures, and emergency procedures. Dispute resolution is facilitated via internal procedures, mediation, arbitration, or labor courts, with enforcement overseen by the Authority for Working Conditions (ACT).

Agreements in Portugal

Employment agreements in Portugal are legally binding contracts governed by the Labour Code, requiring compliance with specific legal standards to ensure enforceability and fair treatment. The main contract types are fixed-term (for temporary or project-based work) and indefinite (standard employment with greater job security). Fixed-term contracts are limited in duration and renewal, with conversion to indefinite contracts possible under certain conditions.

Key clauses must be included in employment agreements, covering essential aspects such as job description, salary, working hours, probation periods, and termination procedures. Employers should be aware of the legal framework to avoid disputes and ensure compliance.

Contract Type Description Typical Use Cases Duration Limits
Fixed-Term (Contrato a Termo) Predetermined start and end date; used for temporary or seasonal work, projects, or replacements. Temporary work, seasonal, project-based Max duration varies; renewal restrictions apply
Indefinite (Contrato Sem Termo) No end date; standard employment contract offering higher job security. Permanent employment No fixed duration; stricter termination rules

Employers must include clauses on job duties, remuneration, probation, and termination to ensure clarity and legal compliance. Proper adherence to these regulations helps avoid legal issues and fosters positive employee relations.

Remote Work in Portugal

Portugal has become an attractive hub for remote work due to its affordable cost of living, pleasant climate, and expanding digital infrastructure. The country has established a clear legal framework regulating remote work, emphasizing employee rights such as the right to request remote arrangements (especially for caregivers and parents under eight), and employer obligations including providing necessary equipment, ensuring safety, and respecting working hours and rest periods. Remote workers are entitled to the same benefits as on-site employees, with laws prohibiting discrimination and unauthorized surveillance, unless approved by authorities.

Flexible work options are increasingly adopted, including arrangements like full remote, hybrid, and flexible hours, which help companies attract talent and accommodate diverse employee needs. Employers are responsible for equipment provision, expense reimbursement (covering internet, energy, and equipment costs), and ensuring compliance with GDPR for data protection. Portugal’s advanced internet infrastructure, with fiber-optic speeds averaging 100-500 Mbps in urban areas, supports efficient remote work. Data security measures, such as VPNs and antivirus software, are mandatory, and remote surveillance is generally prohibited without proper authorization.

Aspect Key Points
Work-from-Home Rights Employees can request remote work, especially if caregiving; requests must be considered.
Employer Obligations Provide equipment, ensure safety, and respect working hours; surveillance requires approval.
Working Hours Same as on-site: max 8 hours/day, 40 hours/week, with mandated rest and meal breaks.
Data Protection GDPR compliance, secure data handling, no unauthorized surveillance without approval.
Equipment & Expenses Employers provide equipment; reimburse additional work-related costs; tax exemptions apply.
Internet Infrastructure Fiber-optic speeds: 100-500 Mbps in urban areas, supporting reliable remote connectivity.

Salary in Portugal

Portugal's salary landscape varies by industry, role, and location, with higher wages in metropolitan areas like Lisbon and Porto. Key salary ranges include €35,000-65,000 for software engineers and €50,000-90,000 for physicians, reflecting sector demand and skill levels.

The 2025 minimum wage is approximately €886.67/month (14 payments annually), applicable across industries, with some sectors having higher collective agreements. Employers must comply with this legal requirement to avoid penalties.

Additional compensation often includes mandatory holiday bonuses (~one month's salary), performance bonuses, meal and transportation allowances, and private health insurance. The standard payroll cycle is monthly, with payments made via bank transfer and detailed payslips required.

Key Data Point Value / Range
Minimum Wage (2025) €886.67/month (14 payments/year)
Salary Range (Tech - Software Engineer) €35,000 - €65,000/year
Salary Range (Healthcare - Physician) €50,000 - €90,000/year
Salary Range (Finance - Analyst) €30,000 - €50,000/year

Salary trends are upward due to inflation, skills shortages, and remote work influences, emphasizing the need for competitive packages to attract talent in sectors like technology, healthcare, and tourism.

Termination in Portugal

In Portugal, employment termination must adhere to specific legal procedures, including notice periods, severance pay, and grounds for dismissal. Notice periods vary by tenure: 15 days for up to 6 months, 30 days for 6 months to 2 years, and 60 days for over 2 years, with potential extensions via collective agreements. Severance pay depends on the contract's initiation date, with formulas ranging from 18 to 30 days of salary per year of service, capped at 12 times the monthly salary or 240 times the minimum wage.

Contract Initiation Date Severance Pay Formula Cap on Severance Pay
Before Oct 1, 2012 30 days + seniority bonuses per year 12x monthly salary or 240x minimum wage
Between Oct 1 - Dec 31, 2012 Similar to above, with transitional rules Same as above
After Nov 1, 2012 18 days + seniority bonuses per year Same as above

Termination can be with or without cause. Just cause dismissals require serious misconduct and no notice or severance, while dismissals for economic or structural reasons require notice and severance. Employers must follow procedural steps, including written notices, disciplinary procedures if applicable, consultation in collective dismissals, and proper documentation. Employees are protected against wrongful dismissal and may seek reinstatement or damages if unlawfully terminated.

Portugal is experiencing a shift towards flexible work arrangements, with many opting for freelancing or independent contracting. This model benefits companies by providing access to specialized skills without long-term commitments. However, understanding the legal framework is crucial to ensure compliance with labor and tax laws. Misclassifying an independent contractor as an employee can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions. The Portuguese Labor Code outlines criteria to differentiate between employees and contractors, focusing on factors like subordination, work autonomy, and risk-bearing.

Indicator Employee Independent Contractor
Subordination/Hierarchy Subject to direction and control of the entity Works autonomously, determines own methods
Fixed Hours/Schedule Adheres to entity's working hours/schedule Sets own hours, works flexibly
Workplace Works primarily at the entity's premises Can work from own location or various sites
Tools/Equipment Uses tools/equipment provided by the entity Uses own tools/equipment
Integration Integrated into the entity's organizational structure Provides services for specific projects/tasks
Exclusivity Often works exclusively for one entity Can provide services to multiple clients
Remuneration Structure Fixed salary, often monthly Paid per project, task, or agreed fee
Risk Entity bears business risk Bears own business risk

A written contract is recommended to formalize independent contractor relationships, detailing scope, remuneration, confidentiality, and IP rights. Contractors must manage their own tax and social security obligations, including income tax, VAT, and social security contributions. They often work in sectors like technology, creative industries, consulting, education, healthcare, and construction, where specialized skills are needed on a flexible basis. Professional indemnity insurance is advisable, especially in professions where errors could cause client losses.

Work Permits & Visas in Portugal

Portugal offers diverse work visa options for foreign nationals, including the D2 (Entrepreneur), D3 (Highly Qualified), D7 (Passive Income), EU Blue Card, and general Work Visa for subordinate employment. Each visa targets specific applicant profiles, with requirements such as business plans and investment proof for D2, job offers and qualifications for D3, and passive income documentation for D7. The EU Blue Card facilitates entry for highly qualified non-EU workers.

Visa Type Target Applicant Key Requirements
D2 Visa Entrepreneurs/investors Business plan, investment proof, clean criminal record
D3 Visa Highly skilled workers Job offer, qualifications, clean criminal record
D7 Visa Passive income earners Proof of passive income (pensions, investments)
EU Blue Card Highly qualified non-EU workers Job offer, qualifications
Work Visa General subordinate employment Job offer, employer sponsorship

The application process demands proper documentation and compliance with immigration regulations, but with clear understanding, foreign workers can legally work and reside in Portugal. Pathways to permanent residency are available, often after continuous legal residence and employment. Employers should ensure adherence to visa requirements and facilitate the necessary procedures for foreign employees.

Frequently asked questions about EOR in Portugal