Whether you already live in Portugal or are considering moving there, you are entering one of Southern Europe's most dynamic job markets, with low unemployment (around 5.8%) and shortages in several sectors. The country attracts many international profiles, notably in tech. Here is how to find a job, an internship or an apprenticeship there.
Why work in Portugal?
Because Portugal combines a solid job market, an attractive cost of living, a renowned quality of life and a booming tech ecosystem in Lisbon and Porto. An EU member, it is freely accessible to Europeans.
- Low unemployment, around 5.8%.
- A booming tech ecosystem in Lisbon and Porto.
- Shortages in construction, health and hospitality.
- Free access for EU nationals.
How does the Portuguese labor market work?
The market is tight, with unemployment near historic lows and recruitment difficulties in several occupations. The skills gap is real: employers actively seek qualified profiles, which favors proactive candidates.
- A tight market, unemployment near its lows.
- A skills gap favoring qualified profiles.
- Marked regional disparities.
- A protective European legal framework.
Which sectors hire the most in Portugal?
- Technology and digital: developers and IT profiles in high demand.
- Health: nurses and medical staff.
- Construction: skilled workers, welders, electricians.
- Tourism and hospitality, notably seasonal.
- Logistics and elder care.
Which cities should you target in Portugal?
- Lisbon: the capital, tech, finance and services.
- Porto: tech, industry and services.
- Braga: a growing technology hub.
- Faro and the Algarve: tourism and seasonal work.
Work visa: the steps for foreigners
EU/EEA nationals work freely. For others, Portugal has set up a fast track (Green Lane) for shortage occupations, with expedited processing.
- EU/EEA: free access to the labor market.
- Non-EU: work visa and permit.
- Green Lane: expedited processing (20 days) for shortage occupations (nurses, developers, welders, electricians).
Salaries and cost of living: what to expect
Salaries remain modest by European standards, but the cost of living is among the lowest in Western Europe, making it an attractive destination, especially in tech.
- Modest salaries, higher in tech.
- A cost of living among the lowest in Western Europe.
- Good purchasing power outside Lisbon.
How to find a job, internship or apprenticeship in Portugal?
- Targeted unsolicited applications (see below).
- Networking and professional platforms.
- Tech fairs and university forums.
- International companies and start-ups.
The unsolicited application: the key to Portugal's hidden job market
In a tight market where employers lack qualified profiles, contacting companies directly is very effective. The unsolicited application lets you target employers before any ad and stand out.
- You reach companies seeking talent.
- You benefit from the skills gap.
- You show your motivation and initiative.
- You get ahead of the competition.
Succeeding in your professional integration: our tips
- English is often enough in tech; Portuguese helps for the rest.
- Target Lisbon and Porto for tech.
- Leverage your technical skills.
- Activate your local network.
Your next steps to work in Portugal
Target a city and a sector (tech first), prepare a CV in English or Portuguese, then contact companies directly. A tight market rewards initiative.