A job
in Portugal is
typically a must for foreigners who want to stay in the country and
do not have another source of income. Anyone interested in finding
a job in Portugal needs to have an informed and realistic overview
of the employment outlook, labor market, wages, and other related information.
Once one of the poorest countries in Europe, with limited economic
opportunities, Portugal has improved its status since joining the
European Union. The EU monies received helped fund important projects
and created jobs in construction and transportation. And as host
of the Euro 2004 football tournament, Portugal had many situational
jobs in different sectors, but many of those jobs have disappeared
now that the event is over.
Additionally, countries across Europe have been experiencing a recession
over the past several years, and unemployment is up. People looking
for Portugal jobs need to understand that there are many others also
looking, and competition is tough, especially in certain fields and
parts of the country.
In addition, wages in Portugal tend to be lower. Yet for many people,
the chance to work in a beautiful and interesting company on the
shores of the ocean makes up for the lower income.
Best bets for long-term and summer jobs in Portugal
If you are from
a European country and have and EU or EEA passport, you will be
allowed the same opportunities and governed by the same rules as
native Portuguese. If not, you need a working
in Portugal visa,
and you should get it before arriving in the country, if possible.
Contact your consulate for more information.
Depending on the occupational field in which you plan to work, you
will likely need to have a solid foundation of Portuguese. Although
most business executives and many in the tourist industry speak English,
most Portugal jobs require knowledge of the language.
Top employment
areas
On the flip
side of the language issue, one of the best employment opportunities
for foreigners in Portugal is teaching English, especially if you
have training, experience or certification in this field.
Tourism is another promising industry, especially for those who
want summer jobs in Portugal. Regions with heavy tourism, such as
the Algarve will likely have the best opportunities. Common jobs
in the tourism industry include waitressing, bartending, and resort
staff. Of course you could always sell timeshares if you are really
desperate to stay in the country.
Where to look
for Portugal jobs
Whether looking
for jobs on the mainland of Portugal or Azores jobs, employment
and temporary agencies can help match your skills with jobs available.
They often have a connection to different employers and are well-informed
about current and pending openings. Most of these agencies are
located in Oporto and Lisbon.
Most newspapers
have want ads with job listings. There are several English language
papers such as Portugal Post and Anglo-Portuguese News. You
can also go in person and fill out applications or drop off resumes.
Just be sure to have all of your documentation in place in case
the employer decides to hire you on the spot.You
may have to do a bit of research, apply to many places, and be
willing to work for lower wages, but chances are if you’re
persistent and realistic, you will be able to find a job in
Portugal.
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