How International Students Can Earn While Studying in Portugal?
Portugal is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for international students, thanks to its affordable tuition fees, high-quality education, and vibrant cultural life. But many students wonder: Can you work while studying in Portugal?The answer is yes—international students can legally work part-time to support their living expenses.
Can International Students Work in Portugal?
Yes, international students enrolled in a Portuguese university can work part-time while studying. The rules vary depending on your nationality:
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EU/EEA/Swiss Students: No work restrictions. You can work without a separate permit.
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Non-EU Students: You can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks, provided you hold a valid student visa or residence permit.
Legal Requirements for Working as a Student
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You must hold a valid residence permit for studies issued by SEF (Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service).
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If you are a non-EU student, your employer may need to inform the authorities about your employment.
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Your work should not interfere with your academic performance.
Types of Jobs for International Students in Portugal
1. Part-Time Jobs in Hospitality and Tourism
Portugal is a tourist hub, so jobs in hotels, cafes, and restaurants are widely available. Common roles include:
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Waiter/Waitress
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Barista
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Hotel receptionist
Average Pay: €4–€6 per hour + tips
2. Retail and Customer Service
Shopping malls and retail stores often hire students for roles like:
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Sales Assistant
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Cashier
Average Pay: €5–€7 per hour
3. Language Teaching or Tutoring
If you speak English or another foreign language fluently, you can teach or tutor students.
Average Pay: €10–€20 per hour
4. Freelance and Online Jobs
Students with skills in writing, graphic design, or programming can work as freelancers.
Average Pay: €8–€25 per hour (depending on the project)
5. University Jobs
Some universities offer on-campus work opportunities like library assistants, research assistants, or administrative roles.
How Much Can Students Earn in Portugal?
The minimum wage in Portugal is around €760 per month (2025) for full-time work. For part-time jobs:
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Working 20 hours per week can earn you between €300–€500 per month depending on the job and city.
Tips to Find a Job in Portugal as a Student
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Start early: Begin searching before the semester starts.
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Use job portals: Net-Empregos, Indeed.pt, OLX.pt
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Leverage networking: Ask professors, classmates, and student communities.
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Learn Portuguese: Even basic Portuguese improves your chances of finding work.
Work Rules During Holidays
During summer and winter breaks, students can work full-time without restrictions. This is an excellent opportunity to save money for the next semester.
Working part-time in Portugal can help international students manage their living expenses and gain valuable work experience. From hospitality and retail to online freelancing and tutoring, there are plenty of opportunities for students who plan ahead and stay informed about legal requirements.
