What are the Work Benefits that Indians Can Embrace on Availing Portugal Visa?

Portugal has always been an immigration-friendly country, something that has earned itself the title of the most immigration-friendly country in the world, leaving several European countries and the US far behind as the dream destination for Indian immigrants. Whether one is looking to retire in a beautiful country and at its beaches, or they are looking to get a job abroad, Portugal is an excellent choice for both types of immigrants. In addition to all this, Portugal already has an excellent Indian diaspora already settled there. So, if you are ever in the mood for Indian food or want to partake in local activities, you can connect with several organizations that are already there.

The application process of a Portugal Visa in India is significantly easier as well. From residency to work visa, the Portuguese government has streamlined this process and this is another reason why it has shot up to be the number one immigration-friendly country in the world.

Employee Benefits You Just Can’t Afford to Miss in Portugal

One of the primary reasons people opt to immigrate to Portugal is due to its vibrant work and business-friendly environment. And also, the benefits that are available to employees in Portugal. Yes, there are several employee benefits that entice the immigration of skilled workers from India to Portugal. Here are some you can avail yourself of once you get your Portuguese work visa.

1.      Social Security

Portugal is among those countries that offer a social security net to its workers. It is a national insurance fund where both the employer and the employees are subject to social insurance contributions. This contribution is paid on a monthly basis at 34.75 percent. The employer is responsible for a wide portion of this contribution at 23.75 percent, whereas the employee only has to contribute 11 percent of their monthly wage.

Social security exists to create a safety net for employers that will help them in the future. The social security scheme in Portugal covers sickness, maternity, unemployment, death, diseases, disability, and old age, these are the benefits that are available to everyone working in Portugal.

2.      Healthcare

While the employers in Portugal are not legally required to provide any kind of fringe benefit to their employees, in this case, health insurance. But several companies actually add this clause in their employment agreement. Even if one is not forced to choose from a set of health insurance schemes, the company typically requires them to retain insurance in case of any work-related accidents. It has become a norm now in Portugal. That is why as soon as one gets their work visa, they can apply for an affordable health care plan suited to their needs.

3.      Insurance

Once you have obtained a work visa permit in Portugal, you are eligible to apply for a whole range of insurance schemes, including health insurance and life insurance. One only needs to showcase their work visa permit at the time of filing their application and that is it. The insurance in Portugal is relatively cheaper and something one should take advantage of.

4.      Holiday and Annual Leave

The work environment in Portugal is significantly more worker-friendly than in the Indian subcontinent. There are strict labor laws in effect that prevent or at least discourage the exploitation of the worker. In addition to all this, the employees in Portugal are entitled to paid vacation every year. Yes, once you have attained a work visa in Portugal, you are eligible for 22 business days of paid vacation every year. Even in the case of temporary contracts that would last only 6 months, the worker is entitled to 2 working days paid holiday each month.

5.      Maternity and Paternity Leave

Portugal also has paid maternity and paternity leave in their laws. The leave period is usually shared between the parents, but that is entirely optional. The leave period is 180 days, with the mother also enjoying 30 days of leave before the delivery. The mother is also entitled to six weeks of leave after the delivery; this is mandatory.

The maternity and paternity period are also in effect in case of adoption. If the adopted child is under the age of 15, the parents are entitled to initial paternal leave and supplementary leave for child care if the child is under 6 years of age.

6.      Sickness and Disability leave

The workers in Portugal are entitled to temporary leave from their work in case of sickness. There are several different types of calculations that go into calculating the number of days an employee is eligible for sick leave. It is something that is usually added to the contract as well. The allowance could vary from 55 percent to 100 percent of the remuneration.

7.      Other provided leave

In addition to all of the above-listed leaves, one can also apply for leave for childcare. In this case, the parents are entitled to leave up to 6 months, which can also be extended up to 4 years in certain circumstances. There are also several other provided leaves that one is entitled to if they are a worker in Portugal.

Final Words

These are just some of the work benefits that immigrants can embrace as soon as they get their work visas in Portugal. So, what are you waiting for? Meet a trusted immigration expert and get your Portugal visa application approved in no time.