How much do you really earn with the minimum wage in Portugal today? A complete analysis for those looking to move

Have you ever stopped to calculate how much is left in your pocket after deductions? The minimum wage in Portugal today is € 870 per month in the mainland region, but this gross figure hides a very different reality once taxes and contributions are taken into account. For those considering a move from Brazil to the European country, it is crucial to understand not only the nominal value but how this money is distributed between actual expenses and fiscal obligations.

In 2025, the amount represents a gradual increase compared to € 820 in 2024, reflecting the Portuguese government’s commitment to periodically adjust the minimum wage. In the autonomous regions, the numbers are slightly higher: Madeira offers € 913.50 and Azores, € 915. Converting to reais, the minimum wage in Portugal today corresponds to approximately R$ 5,584, more than three times the Brazilian minimum, although Portugal still ranks among the countries with the lowest minimum wages within the European Union.

Mandatory deductions: how much is left in practice?

The main surprise for those coming from another country is the systematic deductions. Social Security takes 11% of the gross — this is mandatory for all workers. A minimum wage of € 870 loses € 95.70 just to this contribution, leaving € 774.30.

The Portuguese Income Tax (Imposto de Renda Português) adds another layer of reduction, varying according to dependents and family status. For a single worker without dependents earning only the minimum wage, the IRS withholding is reduced or nonexistent, but in many cases, the final net amount hovers around € 770 — about 88% of the initial value.

How much does it cost to live in Portugal? Comparison with disposable income

Here is the critical point: the Portuguese cost of living quickly absorbs the disposable income. Data from specialized platforms indicate that a person needs approximately € 1,800 per month to live comfortably, while a family of four requires about € 3,304.

Analyzing the main items:

Housing — the big budget villain:

• T2 apartment (85m²) in a upscale neighborhood: € 1,518
• T2 in a common area: € 1,005
• Studio in a regular zone: € 729

Food (cost per item):

• Fast food meal: € 8
• Lunch set menu: € 12
• 500g chicken: € 3.36
• 500g cheese: € 4.90

Transport and services:

• Gasoline: € 1.69 per liter
• Monthly transport pass: € 35
• Gym: € 34
• Electricity, water, gas combined: € 112
• Private medical consultation: € 65

Is it feasible to live only on the minimum wage?

The answer is: it depends — and quite a lot. With € 770 net, a rent of € 729 already consumes 95% of the income. There are € 41 left for food, transportation, health, and leisure. Technically possible, but requiring severe choices.

In large cities — Lisbon and Porto — this reality is even more challenging. The same rent in more affordable neighborhoods can leave room for other expenses, but quality of life is compromised. In medium-sized cities, like Covilhã or Guarda, the equation changes substantially, with lower rents freeing up real budget space.

Qualified professions: where is the real difference?

Although the minimum wage in Portugal today is € 870, qualified professionals earn considerably more. An IT technician can earn € 1,200-1,500, a nurse around € 1,100-1,300, and specialists in in-demand sectors earn € 2,000+. For these professionals, Portuguese purchasing power offers a clear advantage over Brazil.

The working hour at the minimum wage level is around € 4.94 (considering 176 hours per month). Qualified professions double or triple this rate, transforming the move into a genuine opportunity for financial advancement.

Portugal versus Brazil: what is the real advantage?

The minimum wage in Portugal today is € 870 (R$ 5,500-5,600), compared to R$ 1,518 in Brazil. However, the cost of living is also significantly higher. Rent in Lisbon costs more than an entire house in many Brazilian cities.

Disposable income — what really matters — after paying essential expenses, can be surprising: in Portugal, a minimalist can save something; in Brazil, with the minimum wage, the margin is practically nil.

The Portuguese advantage increases drastically for those with experience, education, or in-demand professions. In these cases, Portuguese salaries create a much higher purchasing power than what can be achieved in Brazil, even considering the local cost of living.

Expected evolution and medium-term planning

The Portuguese government has signaled annual adjustments until 2026, suggesting that the minimum wage in Portugal will continue to rise gradually. This predictability is important for planning.

For Brazilians considering the move, the calculation cannot be limited to the minimum wage. It is necessary to map: what is the typical salary for your profession in Portugal, in which city you can really live comfortably, what is the expected salary progression in the first years, and how does the tax burden behave as income increases.

Conclusion: when is it worth it?

It is worth it for qualified professionals and people with valuable experience in the European market. It is worth it for those seeking institutional stability, access to quality public health, and medium-term security.

For those who would really need to live only on the minimum wage in Portugal today, the reality is more challenging — requiring strict budget discipline and acceptance of a modest standard of living, especially in large cities.

The strategic decision depends on understanding your actual earning potential in your chosen profession, not just the legal minimum. With this analysis in hand, Portugal becomes a viable and potentially prosperous destination.