Explore Portugal
Explore Portugal
- Written by Jisan Khan .
Portugal is a southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, known for its rich history, beautiful coastline, warm climate, and welcoming culture. It is a democratic republic with a strong education system and growing economy. Portugal is a popular destination for expats and tourists alike.
- Capital
Lisbon
- Currency
Euro (€)
- Languages
Portuguese
- Best universities
University of Lisbon
University of Porto
NOVA University Lisbon
- Quality of life
7.5/10
- Crime rate
30/100 (Generally low, especially in rural areas)
Visas & Immigration in Portugal
Portugal offers a range of visa options for individuals seeking to live, work, study, or invest in the country. Whether you’re a student, job seeker, entrepreneur, or skilled professional, there are clear pathways for entry and residence. As a Schengen Area country, Portugal also allows visa-free travel for short stays from many countries.
- Types of visas
National (Long-Stay) Visa – For stays longer than 90 days (work, study, family reunification).
Job Seeker Visa – Allows entry to search for work opportunities in Portugal.
D7 Visa (Passive Income/Retirement) – For those with regular income (like pensions or rental income).
D2 Visa (Entrepreneurs & Startups) – For those planning to open a business or invest.
EU Blue Card – For highly qualified professionals from outside the EU.
Student Visa – For international students pursuing education in Portugal.
Family Reunification Visa – To join family members legally residing in Portugal.
Taxes in Portugal
Portugal has a well-structured tax system that includes several types of direct and indirect taxes. These taxes fund public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Tax obligations can vary based on residency status, income levels, and the type of employment.
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Common Types of Taxes
Income Tax (IRS – Imposto sobre o Rendimento das Pessoas Singulares)
Levied on income earned by individuals, with progressive rates based on earnings.Value-Added Tax (IVA)
A standard consumption tax applied to goods and services, with common rates at 6%, 13%, or 23%.Social Security Contributions
Mandatory contributions by both employers and employees, covering pensions, healthcare, and unemployment benefits.Capital Gains Tax
Applies to profits from selling real estate, shares, or other investments.Real Estate Transfer Tax (IMT)
Paid when purchasing property in Portugal.Municipal Property Tax (IMI)
An annual tax on property ownership, based on property value and municipality.Insurance Tax
Applied to insurance premiums.
Cost of Living in Portugal
The cost of living in Portugal is generally affordable compared to many Western European countries. It varies depending on the region, with cities like Lisbon and Porto being more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Key expenses include housing, utilities, transportation, food, and healthcare.
- Most expensive cities
Lisbon
Cascais
Porto
- Most affordable cities
Braga
Coimbra
Évora
- Average rent
Around €500–€800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in city centers. Prices are lower in suburban or rural areas.
- Monthly living costs
A single person can expect to spend approximately €700–€1,200 per month, depending on location and lifestyle.
Global firms recruiting in Portugal
Portugal has become an emerging hub for international companies, especially in the technology, customer service, and renewable energy sectors. Its strategic location, skilled workforce, competitive labor costs, and supportive government policies attract multinational firms.
🏢 Major Global Companies Hiring in Portugal:
Google – Tech & Support roles in Lisbon
Microsoft – Engineering & customer success roles
Siemens – Engineering, finance, and logistics
Accenture – IT services, consulting, and operations
BNP Paribas – Finance and banking services
Bosch – Manufacturing and R&D
Teleperformance – Customer service and multilingual support
💼 In-Demand Sectors:
IT & Software Development
Shared Services & Call Centers
Engineering
Finance & Accounting
Tourism & Hospitality
Renewable Energy
Jobs in Portugal
Portugal’s job market is growing, especially in sectors like tourism, technology, healthcare, and renewable energy. International workers are welcomed through various visa programs, including the Job Seeker Visa and tech-focused initiatives. Lisbon, Porto, and Braga are key employment hubs.
- Leading employment industries
Tourism & Travel Services
Technology & Engineering
Healthcare & Social Services
Renewable Energy
Agriculture & Food Processing
- In-demand careers
Software Developers & IT Professionals
Hospitality & Tourism Specialists
Nurses and Healthcare Workers
Construction & Skilled Trade Workers
Customer Support (Multilingual)
Salaries in Portugal
Salaries in Portugal vary depending on industry, location, experience, and qualifications. High-paying sectors include technology, engineering, healthcare, and finance. Lisbon and Porto typically offer higher wages compared to smaller towns due to higher living costs and demand for skilled professionals.
Many full-time jobs include benefits such as annual bonuses, meal allowances, transport subsidies, and health insurance. Salaries tend to increase with seniority and specialization.
- Average salary
€25,457 per year (gross)
Key sectors:
Engineering & Technology
Healthcare
Finance
Hospitality & Tourism
- Minimum wage
Portugal’s national minimum wage (2025): €820 per month (14 payments/year)
This translates to approximately €665 net per month
Hourly average wage: €6.00–€7.00, depending on the sector
Portugal Health Services and Coverage
Portugal offers a well-developed public healthcare system known as the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS). It provides residents with access to essential medical services, including doctor consultations, hospital care, maternity services, and emergency treatments at low or no cost.
Non-EU citizens, including workers from Bangladesh, may need to contribute to social security to access public healthcare. Many expats and residents also opt for private health insurance for quicker service and access to private hospitals.
- Various health insurance options
Public health insurance (SNS):
Funded through social security contributions; covers most healthcare needs.Private insurance:
Offers faster access and a wider choice of providers and specialists.
- Private health insurance expenses
Costs vary by provider and plan.
Basic private health insurance typically starts around €20–€50 per month.
Comprehensive plans can go up to €100+ per month depending on coverage and age.
Cities in Portugal
Portugal boasts several dynamic cities that blend history, culture, and modern living. Lisbon, the capital, is known for its scenic coastlines, tech startups, and vibrant lifestyle. Porto, famous for its wine and architecture, offers a strong industrial base and cultural charm. Braga and Coimbra are renowned for education and innovation, while Faro in the Algarve attracts tourists and hospitality workers.
These cities offer a range of employment opportunities, quality education, and affordable living, making them attractive for international job seekers and expats.
- Top relocation cities worldwide
Lisbon: A hub for finance, tech, and tourism, known for its mild climate and seaside charm.
Porto: Industrial and cultural powerhouse, famous for wine exports and riverside beauty.
Coimbra: University city with a strong academic and healthcare sector.
Faro: Coastal destination popular for jobs in hospitality and tourism.
Relocation Services in Portugal
Relocation companies in Portugal assist individuals and businesses in moving to the country. They provide support with visa applications, housing arrangements, job placement, and settling-in services. These services are designed to make the transition smoother for expats by offering guidance on Portuguese laws, language, and local culture.
Many agencies also help with school enrollment for children, healthcare registration, and banking setup, ensuring a hassle-free relocation experience tailored to international workers and families.
