Throughout the market crash of 2008 and the covid-19 pandemic, Portugal has proven to be resilient and continued to move forward and build a strong economy. More and more companies are welcoming employees from all parts of the world in this new era of remote work. This has led to many foreigners moving to Portugal for job opportunities. Let’s explore the best options for English-speaking expats to work in Portugal:
Most in-demand jobs for expats living in Portugal
1. Web developers
Over the past five years, Lisbon has become a start-up hub. This momentum in the start-up scene has indeed been supported by being the host of the Web Summit. As a result, a large number of jobs are currently available in the IT business in Lisbon, especially for web developers. Most big companies in the cities are looking for developers who have degrees in Computer Science as well as relevant hard and soft skills.
2. Real estate agents
Portugal’s real estate market is booming and increasingly more foreigners are buying homes and businesses in the country. This means there is a strong demand for English-speaking real estate agents. There are agencies located throughout the country, even in some of the smaller towns. The most well-known real estate agencies include REMAX, ERA and Century21.
To legally operate in Portugal, all estate agents must be trained and become certified by the Instituto da Construcao e do Imobiliario.
3. Content creators
With the online business world rapidly expanding, the demand for content creators is on the rise. This includes a need for copywriters, social media managers and digital marketing specialists. Most employers in the digital space are located in Portugal’s big cities. They are typically looking for candidates living in Lisbon, Porto, Braga or Coimbra who are proficient in English, have a certification or degree and have a passion for creative work.
4. Tourism and hospitality
Throughout the years, Portugal has always depended a lot on its tourism industry. Therefore, it’s not surprising that there continue to be many opportunities in the tourism and hospitality industry. The Algarve region is the most popular location for expats trained as chefs, bar and restaurant staff, hotel managers and more. Lisbon and Porto are also popular options.
5. English Teachers
English teachers are in high demand in Portugal. However, just being fluent in the language is not enough to qualify as a teacher. Usually, the requirements are a university degree and internationally recognized certification in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL). Most employers also prefer candidates with at least one year of experience. Many expats choose to teach at private schools because they pay slightly higher wages.
6. Senior care
Portugal is a popular retirement destination. Because of this, there is an increasing need for nurses and people specially trained to work with geriatric patients. Most opportunities for English speakers in this field are in bigger towns and cities and include employment with nursing homes and hospitals. However, there are also many opportunities for live-in nurses offered independently by families.
7. Customer support agents
Getting a job in a call center can be easy. It also requires nearly no qualifications. In Portugal, many big companies in the major cities are now recruiting English-speaking agents to serve the expanding foreign population. Most of these companies require you to simply speak English. Another language is often a bonus. Call centers are mostly located in Lisbon and Porto.
How can you legally work in Portugal?
If you’re planning on moving to Portugal from the US, there are a few important points to know about legally working in the country.
Once a job contract or work permit is approved, non-EU nationals must apply for a work visa at the Portugal Embassy. This will be used to enter the country. Once you have arrived in the country, you must apply for a Residence Permit for Work at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
Where to find jobs for English speakers in Portugal?
There are a few dedicated websites that you can use to find the latest job openings for English speakers. These include Next Station and Jobs in Lisbon.
You can also keep an eye on the English language newspaper Portugal Resident which features regular job ads in its classifieds section.
What is the average monthly salary in Portugal?
The average salary in Portugal is around 1,500 USD gross per month. But keep in mind that this figure is highly variable. For more qualified employees, the number may go up to an average of 2,500 USD or higher. And for those without a university degree, the number may be closer to 1,000 USD.
Finding the right job in Portugal starts with you
Finding the right job can be complicated in any country. However, it can be a bit more challenging in a foreign country. But it is possible and thousands of English-speaking expats get jobs in other countries every year.
If you’re planning on getting a job to support yourself while living in Portugal, the key is to start early, get your documents in order and network online. The more you research your options, the better your chances of landing your dream job abroad.
