Minimum Wage in Portugal: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Portugal?

As of January 1, 2025, the national minimum wage in Portugal is €870 per month. This is calculated based on 14 payments per year, including the standard 12 monthly salaries plus two additional payments (a Christmas bonus and a holiday bonus). When spread over 12 months, this equates to approximately €1,015 per month. In U.S. dollars, this is roughly $1,100 per month, subject to exchange rates.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in Portugal?

Portugal's minimum wage laws ensure fair pay for various types of employees. While the standard minimum wage applies broadly, there are different considerations for full-time workers, part-time workers, interns, trainees, and expatriates.

Full-Time Employee Wages

Full-time employees are entitled to a minimum wage of €870 per month based on a standard 40-hour workweek. However, industry-specific collective bargaining agreements may set higher minimum wages for certain sectors.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees receive wages on a pro-rata basis. For instance, a part-time worker with a 20-hour weekly schedule (half of full-time hours) must receive at least €435 per month, which is half of the full-time minimum wage.

Interns and Trainees

Interns and trainees may or may not be entitled to the minimum wage, depending on their programs. Mandatory professional traineeships were proposed to have a minimum salary of €950 per month in 2023, though other internships may have different payment structures based on company policies.

Expatriates

Expatriates working in Portugal are generally subject to the same minimum wage laws as local employees unless specific exemptions apply based on bilateral agreements or contractual terms.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Portugal

Several factors contribute to minimum wage adjustments, including industry-specific variations, economic conditions, and government legislation.

Industry-Specific Variations

Although the national minimum wage provides a baseline, some industries negotiate higher wages through collective agreements. Sectors with high demand for skilled labor may offer above-minimum wages to attract workers.

Economic Conditions

Inflation and employment rates play crucial roles in minimum wage policies. In 2025, Portugal increased its minimum wage by over 6% in response to inflation and EU directives recommending that minimum wages represent at least 60% of the median gross salary.

Government Policies and Legislation

The Portuguese government regularly adjusts minimum wages to ensure fair pay. Recent legislation raised the wage from €820 to €870 per month as of January 1, 2025, with plans to reach €1,020 by 2028.

Minimum Wage History and Trends in Portugal

Portugal has consistently raised its minimum wage to improve living standards and reduce income inequality. Projections indicate continued increases, with a goal of reaching €1,020 per month by 2028.

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