Average Wages in Portugal

How are the salaries in Portugal? See average values by profession in 2021.

Living in Portugal has become a dream for professionals around the world. And, to fulfil this dream, one of the ways to get a residence permit in the country is to work. But entering the Portuguese labor market may not be that easy without information. Find out in the article about salaries in Portugal, the best areas to work and tips for expatriates.

How are the salaries in Portugal?

Salaries in Portugal are not the most impressive things in the world. Especially if you come from countries like the UK, USA or Canada. Here in Portugal, salaries are much lower than in these countries, but on the other hand, the cost of living is also lower. And, fortunately, the quality of life is superior.

But before we talk about everything, let’s get to the numbers. Get to know the average salaries in Portugal and in European countries for a direct comparison.

The labour market

The labour market in Portugal is reputed to be competitive. To get a good job here, in addition to being well qualified, you have to have a good network of contacts.

For most jobs, in most of the country, it is necessary to know at least the basics of the Portuguese language. But, especially in high-level positions in larger companies or some places in the Algarve, you can get by with just English.

Although the country faced a severe crisis in 2008, Portugal witnessed an economic miracle. The economic policy focused on exports and the tourism boom helped Portugal to rise again. Today, the Portuguese population sees, along with the arrival of immigrants and ex-pats to the country, an optimistic future.

In the Portuguese economy, the areas of technology, digital marketing, tourism, and civil construction are the most promising. In addition, Portugal is becoming the new hub for startups in Europe. Definitely good news.

Average salaries per profession

IT

By far, information technology is the most talked about and promising in Portugal. There aren’t enough people to work in the IT business in the country, so many foreigners are moving here. A computer application programmer in Portugal receives, on average, a starting salary of 1,216€ per month.

Biotechnology

The biotechnology area has also been well explored in Portugal for some years. In Portugal, a laboratory technician in the area receives, on average, a starting salary of 832€ per month. Biotech, however, receives 1,023€.

Construction

Although in the 2008 crisis Portugal had a downturn in the Civil Construction area, in recent years the economy has demanded a lot of it.

The average starting monthly salary of a construction assistant in Portugal is 714€. A civil engineer, on the other hand, receives 1,049€, under the same conditions.

Health

As in any society, healthcare professionals in Portugal are essential and, as such, well paid. The initial monthly salary of a hospital nurse in Portugal is 1,158€. A professional paramedic receives, under the same conditions, 1,081€, and a specialist doctor or surgeon 2,058€.

Lawyers

Another area traditionally recognized socially is Law. Lawyers in Portugal receive an initial average monthly salary of 1,209€.

School teachers

Without a doubt, one of the most essential professionals, as the pandemic came to prove, are teachers. School teachers (secondary education) in Portugal receive an average monthly salary of 1,161€. Higher education teachers receive, under the same conditions, 1,438€.

Data on salaries in Portugal were taken from the Meu Salario website, part of the Wage Indicator Foundation.

To read the full article click here.

Article by VIV Europe - Official Legal Partner to KipperTree