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Travel
Can I get paid to move to Portugal in 2025?
Some countries in Europe will pay you to relocate. Here is everything you need to know about the requirements, incentives, locations, and application process for moving to Portugal.
· October 30, 2025 · 12 min read
Have you ever dreamed of moving to a sunny, welcoming country with a rich culture and delicious food? What if I told you that some countries in Europe are actually paying people to move there? That includes getting paid to move to Portugal.
But can you just pack your bags and expect a paycheck? The short answer is no; it's more nuanced than that. Read on to understand the requirements and opportunities available before you apply.
Portugal's "Emprego Interior Mais" program is designed to encourage people to settle in the country's interior regions. This program is aimed at those who get a job in the region or start a self-employed business. Unfortunately, this excludes most retirees, but it's an excellent opportunity for those looking to work or start a business.
The program's scope has expanded to include people relocating for remote work. This reflects Portugal's efforts to adapt to flexible work trends and attract professionals who are not tied to traditional office roles.
If you're already planning to move to Portugal and start a business or get a job, this program can provide a nice financial cushion. However, if you prefer the hustle and bustle of city life or the coastal areas, this might not be the best fit for you.
So, how much can you expect to receive? The program offers a base grant of €2,633, with an additional 20% for each family member, up to €1,316. Plus, you can get up to €878 for moving costs and another €878 for transporting your belongings. That's a nice little nest egg to help you get started in your new home.
Who can apply for the Emprego Interior Mais?
To get paid to move to Portugal through this program, you'll need to get a job locally, become self-employed, or start a business. You must also move to the region within 180 days of starting work and apply within 90 days of signing your employment contract. While this might seem like a lot of hoops to jump through, the financial incentives can make it worthwhile, especially if you're already considering a move to Portugal's interior.
Portuguese emigrants who left after December 31, 2015 and have lived abroad for at least a year are eligible for enhanced incentives. However, this program is open not only to Portuguese nationals but also to EU citizens, citizens of Switzerland, the EEA, and even third-country nationals, provided they meet legal residency requirements under Portugal's immigration law.
Additionally, employment contracts must be full-time and last at least 12 months (fixed-term or permanent). Starting a small business (maximum 10 employees), becoming self-employed, or acquiring a company or business entity also qualify you for support, provided the business operates in the interior territory and you own at least half the share capital if it's a private, for-profit entity.
How to apply for the Emprego Interior Mais program
You must register with the IEFP (Portuguese employment office) and submit your application within 90 days of starting work or registering your business. All applicants must not have contributed to Social Security as either wage-earners or independent workers in the month prior to applying or signing a contract/business registration. Applications are managed via the IEFP portal online.
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Other Money-Saving Perks
Portugal isn't just about paying you to move to its rural areas. The country offers several other financial incentives that can make your move more affordable. While these options might not necessarily help you get paid to move to Portugal, they can help you trim the costs.
NHR 2.0: The Tax Break for Brainiacs
If you're working in scientific research or higher education, Portugal has a special tax deal for you. We're talking about a potential 20% flat tax rate for qualifying roles. This can save you a bundle, especially if you're a high earner. Imagine keeping more of your hard-earned money while enjoying the beautiful Portuguese landscape.
Under 35? Portugal's Got Your Back
Buying property in Portugal when you're young just got easier. The government guarantees 15% of your mortgage, and banks can finance up to 100% of your property. This applies to properties up to €450,000, and only one partner needs to be under 35. Plus, you might dodge some serious taxes, such as no property transfer tax on homes up to €316,722 and partial exemption for pricier properties up to €633,453. You can also say goodbye to stamp duty and skip various purchase-related fees.
The Madeira Tax Haven
Want to start a business? Madeira's offering a tiny 5% corporate tax rate until the end of 2028. That's one of Europe's lowest rates, and you get to live on a subtropical island! This is an incredible opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to minimize their tax burden while enjoying a high quality of life.
Emprego Interior Mais: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get paid to move to Portugal if I work remotely?
Yes! The Emprego Interior Mais program has expanded to include remote workers. You can qualify for the relocation incentives if you work remotely for a company (even one outside Portugal) as long as you establish your residence in one of the eligible interior regions and meet the other program requirements, including the timeframe for moving and application deadlines.
What are the application deadlines and timeframes?
You must apply within 90 days of signing your employment contract or registering your business. Additionally, you need to physically move to the eligible interior region within 180 days of starting work or establishing your business. Missing these deadlines may disqualify you from receiving the relocation incentives, so plan your timeline carefully.
Which regions of Portugal are eligible for this program?
The program specifically targets Portugal's interior regions, which generally exclude major coastal cities such as Lisbon and Porto. These interior territories are designated areas that the government wants to revitalize through population growth and economic development. These include territories such as:
- Centro: Castelo Branco, Guarda, Viseu, Covilhã, Fundão
- North: Bragança, Vila Real, Chaves, Mirandela
- Alentejo: Évora, Beja, Portalegre, Serpa
- Algarve (Interior): Monchique, Alcoutim
- Other: Some parishes in Santarém, Tomar, and less populous parts of Lisbon/Tagus Valley
Are there special benefits for returning Portuguese emigrants?
Yes! Portuguese emigrants who left Portugal after December 31, 2015, and have lived abroad for at least one year are eligible for enhanced incentives through the program. This makes the Emprego Interior Mais program particularly attractive for Portuguese nationals living abroad who want to return home and contribute to the development of Portugal's interior regions.
Can I apply if I'm already living in Portugal?
The program is designed to encourage relocation to interior regions, so you must not have contributed to Social Security as either a wage-earner or independent worker in the month prior to applying or signing your contract. This generally means the program is targeted at people moving to Portugal from abroad or relocating from other parts of Portugal, rather than those already working in the eligible regions.
Ready to Get Paid to Move to Portugal?
Before you can receive the grant, you'll need to secure a qualifying job in one of the interior regions. Start your search right here on EnRoute Jobs — we list opportunities that can make your move possible. Sign up today and take the first step toward your new life in Portugal's welcoming interior communities.
