Social Security (Segurança Social) in Portugal

Useful Information

Starting a Business in Portugal

How to Start a Business in Portugal

Working in Portugal

Employment in Portugal

Helpful Information & Links in Portugal

Code of Work Practises in Portugal

(Codigo de Trabalho)

(Centro de Emprego)

Social security (segurança social) in Portugal is compulsory for all employees and for those on permanent contract is deducted at source. Social security is paid on a monthly basis and based on the minimum wage but bonuses are also subject to social security. Although employees pay a percentage of the contribution, employers in Portugal pay the bulk.

Social security payments must be paid by the 15th of each month. Employees have 11% deducted at source and employers pay a further 23.75% (as of 2010). However certain areas of employment such as agriculture and fishing do have reduce levels of contributions for employees.

By paying into the social security system in Portugal employees become eligible for certain benefits including paid sick leave. However these levels of payment fall far below those of other northern European countries.

However if you are a self employed person in Portugal then you will have to pay a minimum contribution of 25.4% to social security. However as self employed you can elect to pay a higher rate of 32% which provides for additional benefits should you become ill or need to retire earlier than expected.