Working in Portugal: Key Insights and In-Demand Jobs for Foreigners
Portugal continues to captivate expats with its stunning landscapes, welcoming culture, and emerging job market. If you’re considering moving to Portugal in 2025, here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the work culture, lifestyle, and in-demand jobs for foreigners, updated with the latest trends and data from 2024.
Understanding the Work Culture and Schedule in Portugal
Portugal's work culture is known for being relaxed and balanced. The standard workweek is 40 hours, typically spread over five days, with most employees working from 9 AM to 6 PM, including an hour lunch break. However, it’s not uncommon for businesses to close for a couple of hours in the afternoon, particularly in smaller towns.
Employees are entitled to 22 days of annual leave in addition to 13 public holidays. This generous leave policy shows the importance placed on family and leisure time, contributing to a healthy work-life balance. Furthermore, many companies offer flexible working arrangements, including remote work options, which have become increasingly popular post-pandemic.
General Lifestyle in Portugal
Portugal is celebrated for its high quality of life. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other Western European countries, making it an attractive destination for expats. We know salaries are also not the best in Portugal, but in combination with living costs and the amazing lifestyle you gain, it is definitely an upgrade for many. You will enjoy the amazing weather with long summers and mild winters, perfect to get active in outdoor activities and meeting friends after work. The Quality of Life Index demonstrates exactly this.
The Portuguese people are known for their friendliness and hospitality, which helps expats feel welcomed. The lifestyle is laid-back, with a strong emphasis on enjoying life. This also shows in their amazing food culture and the many festivals celebrated in the country.
Portugal is also a safe country with excellent healthcare and education systems. Public transportation is efficient and affordable, making it easy to travel within the cities and explore the stunning countryside and coastline.
Why It's Hot: With the rise of international businesses, there's a growing need for multilingual customer service representatives. Companies in Portugal often seek individuals who can communicate in English, Spanish, French, or German, catering to a diverse customer base.
Key Skills: Strong communication, patience, problem-solving abilities, and some technical know-how. Familiarity with CRM software and experience in handling customer queries efficiently can make a candidate stand out.
Job Titles: Customer Support, Customer Service Agent, Customer Representative.
Sales
Why It's Hot: Many international companies are expanding their operations in Portugal, creating numerous sales roles. Sales professionals who understand local market dynamics and can build relationships with clients are highly sought after.
Key Skills: Persuasion, resilience, industry knowledge, and excellent communication. Proficiency in using sales tools like Salesforce, and experience in B2B or B2C sales, can be beneficial.
Job Titles: Sales Representative, Business Development Manager, Recruitment Consultant.
Digital Marketing
Why It's Hot: As companies focus on digital strategies to boost their market presence, digital marketing roles are becoming increasingly vital. Professionals adept at leveraging social media platforms, SEO strategies, and data analytics are in high demand.
Key Skills: SEO, social media management, content creation, and data analysis. Expertise in using digital marketing tools like Google Analytics, SEMrush, and social media advertising platforms can enhance job prospects.
Job Titles: Digital Marketing Specialist, Media Optimization Specialist, Campaign Analyst
Technical Support
Why It's Hot: The demand for tech support is rising due to the tech industry's growth and the influx of startups. Companies need experts to troubleshoot technical issues and ensure seamless operations for their products and services.
Key Skills: Technical knowledge, problem-solving, communication, and customer service skills. Familiarity with various operating systems, hardware troubleshooting, and software support is essential.
Job Titles: Technical Support Advisor, IT Help Desk Representative, IT Support Specialist.
IT and Tech Jobs
Why It's Hot: Lisbon's startup scene is booming, attracting many IT professionals. There's a high demand for developers, cybersecurity experts, and IT consultants to support the tech ecosystem's growth.
Key Skills: Programming, networking, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, or C++, and certifications such as CISSP or AWS can give candidates a competitive edge.
Job Titles: IT Support Analyst, IT Team Lead, IT & Business Consultant.
Tips for Job Seekers
Network Effectively
Use online job listings, local job fairs, and networking events to discover opportunities. Join professional groups on platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry peers and potential employers.
Leverage Language Skills
While many roles don’t require Portuguese, knowing additional European languages such as Dutch, French, or German can give you an edge, especially for customer service and sales positions.
Tailor Your Resume
Personalise your resume to highlight relevant skills and experience for each job application. Include any certifications and proficiency in industry-specific tools that can set you apart from other candidates.
Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews
Research the company culture and understand the specific demands of the role you are applying for. Practice common interview questions and be ready to discuss your previous experience and how it relates to the position.
Applying for Jobs in Portugal
Job search from abroad can be quite difficult, but not impossible! To help you out get in touch with recruitment agencies, like Blu Selection. We know the ins and outs of the Portuguese market and can help you land a job in the field of your interest and experience. We also offer support throughout the entire application process and make sure your CV lands at the top of the pile of candidates!
Portugal offers a dynamic job market for foreigners from different nationalities (German, Dutch, French and more), with a variety of opportunities in customer service but also in sales, digital marketing, and IT. Highlight your skills and reach out to your network and recruitment agencies to make sure you find the job you are looking for. After that, all that is left is to pack your bags, don’t forget your sunglasses, and enjoy the relaxed lifestyle of Portugal!
