Social Security Benefits in Portugal

Jobseeker's Allowance

If you are entitled to the contributory part of Job Seekers Allowance and have normally been claiming this for at least four weeks in the United Kingdom, you may continue to receive it for up to three months in Portugal, while you actively seek work there.

Before moving to Portugal you must inform your local JobCentre Plus office in the United Kingdom or where you are registered of your intention to look for work abroad. This must be done well in advance of your departure date.

Your Jobcentre Plus will advise the Department of Work and Pensions and the overseas Benefits Directorate who will determine whether conditions are satisfied and send you form E303 before you leave. This form, which secures payment of your unemployment benefit in Portugal, should be taken to the Portuguese employment service (Centro de Empregos) as soon as possible after your arrival in Portugal.

UK Sickness Benefit

If you are in receipt of Sickness Benefit in the UK, you may be able to transfer payment to another Member State. Ask at your local Jobcentre, Jobcentre Plus office or Social Security office in the UK for further information.

Further information is also given in the leaflet ‘Health Advice for Travellers’ (T7). A downloadable version of this leaflet is available from the Department of Health website.

Social Security

Your social security rights in Portugal are the same as those that apply elsewhere within the EEA. When you start work in Portugal, you will contribute to the Portuguese social security system and consequently, gain the right to benefits.

If you become unemployed in Portugal contact your local ‘Centro do Emprego’ and ‘CRSS’ office.

Ministério do Emprego e Segurança Social
(Ministry of Employment & Social Security)
Praça de Londres 2
1000 Lisbon
Portugal
Tel: 00 351 180 11 12