Languages:

Portuguese

Cost of living:

Cost of living in Portugal is even cheaper, but wages are also lower.

Visa and Work Permits:

To work in Portugal, you will need to obtain a visa from the Portuguese Consulate and a work permit, which your potential employer should secure through the Ministry of Labor.

Job Searching:

Personal contacts are important for finding work in Portugal. There is a dominance of small companies in Portugal, as such informal recruiting is commonplace.

            Initial correspondence should be in Portuguese and personal appearance is important.

            In Portugal, you may be able to find work as an English teacher. One such avenue is through Via Lingua, at www.vialingua.org, which offers preparation and placement.

Cultural Differences in the Workplace:

Portuguese culture both tend to be more laid back and do not see deadlines as crucial.

            They prefer face to face meetings. Relations are built with people not companies. Age and position are very important in the corporate environment.

           Money, Banking & Insurance:

To bank in Portugal, identification must be shown to complete any transaction. Banco Espirito Santo is one of Portugal’s largest bank.

Safety/ Security:

For complete, up-to-date information on safety in Portugal please visit: http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1002.html