Minimum Wage Portugal 2025: Is It Worth It for Brazilians?

The Portuguese minimum wage has just been adjusted again in 2025, marking €870 per month on the mainland. For Brazilians considering immigration, the central question is not just how much you earn, but how much actually remains after taxes and expenses. This article breaks down the financial reality of living in Portugal, effectively comparing it with Brazil.

Conversion to Reais and First Impressions

Converting to Brazilian currency, Portugal’s minimum wage reaches approximately R$ 5,584—more than three times the Brazilian minimum of R$ 1,518 in 2025. It seems attractive. But there is a crucial detail: Portugal is also expensive, and mandatory deductions significantly reduce what goes into your pocket.

How Much Is Deducted From Your Earnings

The minimum wage in Portugal undergoes two main deductions:

Social Security (11% mandatory)
All workers contribute. On €870, this means €95.70 deducted immediately.

IRS—Portuguese Income Tax
Applied progressively. Those earning only the minimum may have lower withholding, but professionals with higher incomes see substantial percentages.

Practical demonstration:

• Gross: €870
• Social Security: -€95.70
• Base net: €774.30
• With IRS (varies by profile): can drop to €720-€750

That is: you only receive 82-86% of what is written in the contract.

Autonomous Regions Pay a Little More

Madeira records €913.50 and Azores €915 per month—modest difference but relevant for those planning to move to the archipelagos.

How Much Is Your Hour of Work Worth

With 176 hours per month (standard 40h weekly), the hourly rate is approximately €4.94. Technical and qualified professions multiply this value by two, three, or even four times—a huge difference that explains why engineers and programmers earn well in Portugal.

The Real Cost Scenario: Where Your Money Goes

Living on the minimum wage in Portugal is feasible but requires careful planning. Basic expenses vary depending on location:

Monthly Food:
A set menu costs about €12. 500g of chicken costs €3.36. Cheese (500g) €4.90. Those looking to spend less should prepare meals at home.

Housing—The biggest villain:
A T2 apartment in a desirable neighborhood: €1,518/month
Even a T2 in a common area: €1,005
Studio in the outskirts: €729

This absorbs 84-175% of net income, depending on the area. Only medium-sized cities (Covilhã, Guarda) offer more affordable rent.

Transport:
Monthly pass: €35
Gasoline: €1.69/liter (own car is expensive)

Services and maintenance:
Electricity + water + gas: €112
Gym: €34
Private medical consultation: €65

Monthly budget for one person:
Estimates point to €1,800 as a comfortable minimum. Families of four need around €3,304.

Lisbon and Porto: Cities for Those Earning Above the Minimum

In the capitals, €870 net does not even cover rent + decent food. The scenario changes drastically for professionals earning between €1,500-€2,500. Medium-sized cities (Viseu, Braga) allow a more balanced life with the minimum wage.

Portugal Minimum Wage Trajectory: Steady Growth

Values have gradually increased:

• 2024: €820
• 2025: €870

This demonstrates government policy to approach the European average. Still, Portugal remains among the lowest minimum wages in Western Europe according to Eurostat.

Salaries by Profession: Where the Real Opportunity Lies

The Portuguese advantage is not in the minimum wage but in specialized careers. Engineers, programmers, nurses, and managers earn 1.5 to 3 times the minimum, making immigration economically attractive for these profiles.

Direct Comparison: Portugal Versus Brazil for Migrants

Interpretation: Portugal pays nominally more, charges more to live, and the final balance is surprisingly close. The Portuguese advantage exists for professionals with market-demanded experience.

Who Should Consider Moving to Portugal

✓ Professionals with qualifications (engineering, IT, healthcare)
✓ Those seeking legal stability and strong labor rights
✓ People willing to live in medium-sized cities
✓ Workers aiming for long-term salary growth

✗ Those solely dependent on the minimum wage
✗ Immigrants without specific qualifications
✗ People who need to send remittances to family

Conclusion: A Decision More Complex Than It Seems

Portugal’s €870 minimum wage in 2025 does not tell the whole story. Converting to reais and comparing nominally is misleading. The truth lies in the details: mandatory deductions, housing costs in big cities, and the real earning potential depending on your profession.

Portugal offers real opportunities for skilled labor. For those earning the minimum, moving requires serious lifestyle commitments or relocating to the interior. The smart decision involves analyzing your specific profession, likely salary in the Portuguese market, and target city—not just the gross number in the job offer.