Live your career in Portugal!
Say hi to your new lifestyle

Portugal is blessed with lush vegetation and dramatic landscapes that are a haven for nature enthusiasts. Add in the uber-social Portuguese, wild nightlife, Atlantic beach vibes, and unique cuisine, and you’ve discovered the secret recipe for fun and adventure.

Cost of living in Portugal

Portugal is constantly ranked as having the best climate in Europe. It’s as if the winter has never heard of this country. But thousands of expats, digital nomads, and students have. This appeal has increased prices in real estate, but services and local products are more affordable than in other Western European regions.

The average monthly salary in the country is EUR 977 net, with higher wages in Lisbon. A single adult (20-29 years old) can maintain a vibrant life in the capital, experience the cultural and social scene, visit the country or go abroad during the holidays.

Thanks to the well-developed infrastructure, traveling around Portugal is convenient and fast, whether by car, train, bus, or airplane. Lisbon has direct flights to all major European destinations and many cities in South America, Africa, the Middle East, and North America.

Food and drinks

  • Combo meal in a fast-food restaurant €7
  • Lunchtime menu with a drink €8
  • 3-course meal in a mid-range restaurant €40
  • Bottle of Port wine €10

Monthly expenses

  • Utility bills for a 1-bedroom apartment €110
  • 4G mobile phone plan €14
  • High-speed Internet (up to 1 Gbps) €34
  • Chain store clothing item €30

City transport

  • One-way ticket (public means) €1.62
  • Monthly pass (public means) €40
  • Taxi (tariff per 1km) €0.80
  • Estimated Uber trip (10km) €20

Sports and leisure

  • Cinema ticket €7.50
  • Monthly gym membership €39
  • Escape room session/person €25
  • Cocktail drink in a downtown club €11

Working in Portugal

As the Portuguese are very outdoorsy, they greatly value their leisure time. On the other hand, they are competitive and results-driven, working on average 40 hours per week. The occasional extra hours are compensated with days off or a premium.

Work culture in Portugal is expat-friendly and tech-orientated, with a strong focus on performance and socializing. While the Portuguese do not consider themselves as such, most foreigners say they are the friendliest in Europe. We’ll let you be the judge of that.

 

Frequently asked questions about

Your life in Portugal

I have some concerns about moving to a new country I don’t know. What is the experience like?

Whether for personal or professional reasons, moving to a new country is always a challenging but exciting experience. Our HR Department is here to support you and answer all your questions. And we understand how you feel because we have welcomed other brave expats from over 63 nationalities.

Although Portugal has been a tourist country for many years, it has only recently started attracting large expat communities from Central and Northern Europe. You will find a true melting pot of cultures, cuisines, music, and art influences from around the world.

After the adjustment period, living in Portugal feels like being on holiday every day. And you just happen to work as well. Webhelp Portugal is a multinational hub that offers many possibilities to meet people and quickly make friends with stories you can relate to.

Is it difficult and expensive to find a flat in the city?

We will support you in this process and advise you on what areas are best suited to your needs and expectations. Do keep in mind that within the past couple of years, Lisbon has been challenging Barcelona for the top spot in terms of lifestyle and quality of life. This has made the Portuguese capital extremely popular with expats from all walks of life.

Renting a 1-bedroom apartment or a large studio in the city center can set you back 712 euros/month. If you prefer living in the picturesque city center, we recommend you share a flat – it’s roughly 350-600 euros/month.

Lisbon, however, is a city with lovely neighborhoods spread across a small geographical area. So, it’s convenient to rent a nice flat outside the center and even within the metropolitan area. You’ll pay only 250-300 euros/month for a room, and you’ll get to the office in less than 30 minutes.

Here’s a great tip: many colleagues use their workmate network to find a room in a shared flat. It’s the simplest and easiest way!

Is your city expensive?

Portugal is arguably the most affordable Western European country. For expats coming from countries like Sweden, France, the Netherlands, Germany, and even Spain, the cost of living will feel much lower. International products, electronic devices, luxury goods, and supermarket prices are on par with what you would find in other Western European cities. However, local food, recreational activities, transportation, and services are much cheaper.

For residents living on their own, accommodation in Lisbon is, in most cases, the largest monthly expense. Depending on your purchasing and saving habits, with your salary and performance-based bonuses, you can feel at ease in the city and enjoy a great quality of life.

Here you can settle into a very active lifestyle. Start by taking in the beauty of the city from the numerous vantage points – there is a good reason Lisbon is nicknamed ‘The City of the 7 Hills’ (or 8, depending on whom you ask). Then go explore the nearby blue-flag beaches with the softest sands and best surf spots in Europe. Have we mentioned the lush verdant gardens and parks that feel like tropical forests?

What is the impact of working in your country on my native country’s rights and obligations?

Before leaving your country, we recommend you check with your local authorities about your pension scheme and income tax system, especially if you’re not from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland. The same practice is recommended if you have student loans or other credit debts in your native country.

When you work in Portugal, Webhelp will pay all your taxes (deducted from your monthly salary), including mandatory health insurance, social security, and pension contribution. So, you will be eligible for the Portuguese government’s benefits.

If your country is part of the EU/EFTA, there are some bilateral agreements among states. If you decide to return to your native country, you may transfer your rights through your local administration. If your country is not part of the EU/EFTA, you will need to check with your embassy in Portugal about any existing agreements.

Please note that we do not disclose your salary or your contract agreement to any competent authority from your native country. If necessary, it will be your responsibility to declare your income or other earnings from abroad to your government.

What about the healthcare system? Who will pay if I need to go to the doctor or hospital?

Portugal’s state healthcare has undergone a strong reform within the past few years, resulting in an improved system that is now ranked among the best in Europe. For long-term residents (under 18 and over 65) and taxpaying employees (both nationals and foreigners), public healthcare is provided for free.

You will need to apply for your medical card and register with a General Practitioner for primary healthcare. When necessary, your practitioner will direct you to a specialist. Some consultations, essential medicine, and most procedures are free, but dental care is not covered by the public health system. Treatments, specialists, and equipment are at the highest standards, but waiting times can be long in the public system.

At Webhelp Portugal, private health insurance is part of your benefits package after 6 months in the company. You will have access to private hospitals and clinics, as well as enjoy the advantage of faster appointment times and better facilities. In private centers from large cities, most medical professionals speak good English and even French or Spanish.

Your career in Portugal

How do you support me in relocating to a new country?

“This is one of the bravest decisions you’ll ever make, so we are here for you! Let us know what challenges you have in relocating to Portugal, and we will find the most suited way to support you in getting here. Whether it is related to accommodation, transportation, flight ticket, or any other aspect, your personal recruiter can talk you through the available options.

Don’t know what documents you need to work in Portugal? No problem. We offer support to help you obtain the initial documents necessary to work. Settling in is easy and fast. You will need to get your European Resident Certificate, Fiscal Identification Number, Social Security Number, and open a bank account. It is a straightforward process, and we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to do it when you arrive in Portugal.

Webhelp Portugal is a community that values diversity, and our colleagues come from many regions of the world. However, due to strict local regulations and laws, we need our employees to be eligible to work in Portugal as EU/EFTA citizens or with a valid Portuguese work permit.”

What is included in my salary and benefits package?

Where do you want to take your career? We will match your skills, experience, and interests with our open positions and offer you the best possibility to grow with us. Your salary will be divided into 2 parts – a fixed base salary and a variable (bonus). In most cases, the variable will be linked to your personal or team’s performance.

Likewise, your salary package depends on the sector and type of role (customer service, technical support, sales), so please let us know which role you think suits you. Then we’ll review together what best adapts to your profile.

Regardless of your position at Webhelp Portugal, your salary will allow you to enjoy the great lifestyle and activities that the country offers. We are actively collaborating with external shops, malls, restaurants, gyms, and private clinics to enhance your experience in the city. We do our best to help you travel, stay in good health and socialize with other adventurous colleagues from over 15 nationalities.

I have no experience in this area. Is that an issue? Do you have a training plan?

Your life experience and personality can contribute to your new career more than you think! Indeed, customer service excellence is what makes Webhelp stand out from competitors. It’s why some of the greatest brands in the world choose to work with us and put their customers in our care. But your previous experience – vocational, academic, internships, on the job – is already a great starting point.

You may live it up in Lisbon or admire the centuries-old architecture in the Youth Capital of Portugal, Braga. Or maybe a wine-tasting tour in Porto followed by a relaxing day at the beach is more up your alley. But you will also develop exceptional skills that can be easily transferable to other areas of your life – be it in relationships with your partner, friends, and family or in another job.

We provide an extensive initial training plan of 2 to 4 weeks. You will learn how to deliver superb customer service, and we’ll equip you with everything you need to know about the project. Apart from this, we have continuous development programs and career path sessions to help you determine in what role you’d like to continue with us in the long term.

What is the company culture like at Webhelp?

Our company culture is in continuous evolution! We love our diversity above all, and everyone is welcome as they are – that is our mindset! Here in Portugal, we’re dynamic and progressive, and we find reasons to enjoy every day.

We have been ranked among the best companies to work for in Portugal thanks to our spirit of unity and altruism. Since helping each other succeed is a strong pillar of our company culture, we truly believe in our ‘Bring a Friend Program’. We create opportunities for you – you can do the same for your friends.

Our WebHEALTH initiative is a global campaign that promotes health and well-being within the company. In fact, we even provide a free doctor and psychologist on-site for our employees. We also like to keep active, stay in shape and play sports. Football and any game that involves a ball are a great part of our way of life.

At Webhelp Portugal, you can take part in company activities and events that are both rewarding and fun. And you never know… you might even end up being an influencer as well. Just have a look at #WebhelpsGotTalent on Instagram!

What is the working time at Webhelp? How many paid holidays do I have?

If you contemplate moving to Portugal, we know that you dream of paradise beaches, pristine waters, and natural wonders. And when you combine your wishes with our penchant for celebrations, gastronomy, and sports, you’ll find a place you’ll call home for a long while!

During your full-time employment at Webhelp Portugal, you will work 40 hours a week. You will have a 1-hour lunch break per day, as well as 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the afternoon. Paid annual leave is 20 days (22 days after one year of employment), and you will enjoy roughly 14 days more of public/bank holidays per year. This gives you plenty of time to immerse yourself in colorful carnivals, off-the-beaten-track places, and an active lifestyle.

Want to hear even better news when it comes to your days off? Portugal has jaw-dropping scenery, and you can traverse the entire country from north to south in just 5 or 6 hours by car. So, get ready for Instagram-perfect road trips.

We do our best to ensure a work-life balance for all our colleagues, whether they are parents, students, or expats like you who want to experience city life to the fullest.

What could this job bring to my personal growth and my career?

Explore your passion for traveling while discovering new places and meeting like-minded people! This job is what you make of it – maybe you’d like to spend a few years country-hopping, getting international experience, or just getting a fresh start.

Understanding other cultures and customs, learning a new language, and interacting with other expats will help you grow both as a professional and a person. We also spend time sharing our real-life stories – so, you’ll get to know people with amazing backgrounds!

We are a team of professionals who enjoy helping each other grow. Through our more than 30 projects in 13 languages, you can choose from different career paths, whether you are interested in training, quality, management, finance, or HR. At Webhelp, you’ll get to discover the backstage and processes of some of the most valuable companies in the world.

Come for 12 months, stay for 2 years, and love it here even longer! We are sure you’ll want to grow with us, whether in Portugal or in another country where Webhelp is present. Regardless of where your dream takes you, we’ll always keep in touch on Instagram!

What is expected of me on the job?

Regarding your job, it will very much depend on your role. We have a whole panel of different shifts. You could work either the traditional Monday-to-Friday shift, a night shift, a morning shift, or a weekend schedule. One thing is carved in stone – you will work 5 days a week, so you can make the most of your 2 days off!

No matter which shifts you work, you will always be able to enjoy quality time with your friends or go out and about. Portuguese people and expats living in our sunny country love their laid-back lifestyle. We will strive to consider your needs, as it is important for us to match you with the work that fits you. Plus, shifts worked between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. are paid at an hourly rate of an extra 25%.

And there’s one more thing! As we provide services to our clients’ end-users and partners through phone, chat, and email, it’s important to show them they can trust us to handle their confidential data. At Webhelp, regardless of your position, as a co-worker, you will be fully trained to become GDPR compliant. We’ll teach you everything about our security procedures and best practices during your training.

What is your HR policy? Are there any career opportunities?

Webhelp Portugal is a people-first company! And an equal-opportunity employer who values and encourages diversity in the workplace. Our HR policies focus on respecting each other, appreciation towards results, working as one united team, and learning new skills.

Advancing your career doesn’t necessarily come with seniority or after many years within the company. We know we operate in a fast-changing and dynamic industry. As such, if you’re committed, passionate about your work, and enroll in our development programs, you can easily fast-track your career.

We love to help you grow! When there is an opportunity for a promotion within the company, you will be the first to hear about it.

If you choose to stay with us in Portugal, through our career development programs, you’ll also benefit from internal mobility – you can switch between projects and even departments. Our clients come from a wide range of industries, including tech, fashion, entertainment, travel, pharma, hospitality, transport, and many more you can try and experience.

Your adventure in Portugal

Could you give me 5 reasons to live in your city?

OK. Here’s a short listicle:

1. Weather and lifestyle. Lisbon is the kind of city that will bring out your inner explorer. Since the temperature rarely drops below 15 degrees and it’s always sunny, you feel the urge to get active every day.
2. Start-up scene. You don’t need to develop a Silicon Valley-worthy business idea to enjoy the high-tech vibe of Lisbon. People speak a high level of English and are excited about tech, digital solutions, and innovation.
3. Liberal atmosphere. Lisbon constantly comes up in the top 10 of the most tolerant and socially progressive cities in the world. So, if personal freedom is a decisive factor for you, Portugal is the place to be.
4. Perfect travel hub. Algarve, with its dramatic landscapes, the natural wonders in the volcanic archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira, or the colorful fairy-tale city of Sintra, are just a short drive or flight away from Lisbon.
5. Small city that feels like a metropolis. Cultures from Africa, Latin America, and Europe, heritage palaces and castles, neighborly locals, large business centers, and a small population – all these make Lisbon a one-of-a-kind city.

What are the 5 best things to do, see or experience in your city?

Ready for another short listicle? Here we go:

1. San Francisco meets Rio De Janeiro in Lisbon. The meandering hills, the stunning architectural styles, the charming trams, The 25 de Abril Bridge, and the statue of Christ the King make you feel like you have experienced three cities in one.
2. Beach culture. The Atlantic vibe is slightly different than the Mediterranean one. Even the landscapes look more exotic. Here you can enjoy some of the best scuba diving, swimming, and surfing on the old continent.
3. The urban culture. Lisbon has become one of the world’s capitals for urban art. Just by walking in the city, you will discover an authentic open-air museum of impressive wall designs created by well-known artists.
4. Music scene. Concerts by international musicians and some of the best festivals in the world are hosted in Lisbon. But you also need to experience our authentic heart-melting fado music in traditional neighborhoods to get a truly immersive experience.
5. Food scene. Savor everything – fresh seafood, our world-famous pastel de nata in tascas (taverns), delicacies in Michelin-starred restaurants, and fusion dishes.