Hiring a Domestic Worker in Portugal
If you are considering hiring a domestic worker in Portugal, please note that there are specific legal obligations that must be observed. Below is a summary of the essential requirements to ensure compliance with Portuguese labour and social security law:
1. Employment Contract
A written contract is required if the employment is fixed-term. If the employment is for an indefinite period and involves fewer than 6 hours per week, the contract may be verbal — although a written contract is strongly recommended.
The contract should include identification of both parties, workplace location, job duties, working hours and schedule, remuneration (minimum equal to the national minimum wage), holiday entitlement, rest days, and public holidays.
2. Social Security Registration and Notification
The domestic worker must be registered with the Portuguese Social Security system. The employer must notify Social Security of the commencement of employment at least 24 hours in advance. The employer must also register as a domestic employer within the system.
3. Salary and Contributions
The national minimum wage for 2025 is €820 per month (based on 14 monthly payments). Payment may be monthly or hourly but must comply with minimum wage rules. Holiday and Christmas allowances are mandatory.
4. Work Accident Insurance
The employer must take out a mandatory work accident insurance policy with a private insurer. This insurance covers accidents occurring during the performance of domestic duties.
5. Labour Rights
The domestic worker is entitled to 22 working days of paid annual leave, paid holiday and Christmas bonuses, weekly rest day (typically Sunday), public holidays, leave for sickness, maternity, in accordance with the law.
6. Let’s us Help You
At Luxe Move Portugal, we understand that hiring a domestic worker in Portugal can be a complex process. That's why we're here to guide you every step of the way. From helping you find a qualified domestic worker to drafting a legally sound employment contract, our team ensures that all legal requirements are met. We also offer training services to ensure your new hire is well-prepared for their role. Additionally, we’ll handle the necessary registration with Segurança Social (Social Security) to ensure compliance with Portuguese labor laws, giving you peace of mind throughout the entire process.
