Thinking about relocating to Greece or Portugal? This comprehensive Greece vs Portugal comparison covers everything expats and international workers need to know: average salaries, tax rates, work-life balance, annual leave policies, maternity and paternity leave, and cost of living considerations. Whether you're a software developer, engineer, or professional considering a move to Europe, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Average Salary Difference
0%
Same pays more
Greece
€22,000
avg. salary
Portugal
€22,000
avg. salary
Greece vs Portugal Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
€22,000€22,000Median Salary
€18,000€18,000Minimum Wage
€12,320€12,880Top 10%
€40,000€40,000Work-Life Balance: Greece vs Portugal
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
40 hours
40 hours
Annual Leave
20 working days minimum (25 after 10 years)
22 working days minimum
Public Holidays
14 days
13 days
Sick Leave
Up to 6 months at 50% via social security (EFKA)
Up to 3 years at 55-75% salary (via Social Security)
Maternity Leave
17 weeks at full pay
120 days at 100% or 150 days at 80%
Paternity Leave
14 days paid
28 consecutive days mandatory
Greece vs Portugal for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
Greece
Why Work in Greece
Low Cost of Living
One of the most affordable countries in the eurozone, especially outside Athens
Mediterranean Lifestyle
Excellent climate, food, culture, and a relaxed quality of life year-round
Tax Incentives
Special regimes for foreign workers: 50% tax exemption for new residents, digital nomad programs
Growing Tech Scene
Athens is becoming a notable startup hub with increasing venture capital investment
EU Membership
Full eurozone member with freedom of movement for EU citizens
Challenges of Living in Greece
Lower Salaries
Wages are below the EU average, though cost of living partially compensates
High Social Security
Combined employee + employer contributions exceed 36% of gross salary
Bureaucracy
Administrative processes can be slow and complex, especially for non-Greek speakers
Limited Industries
Job market is concentrated in tourism, shipping, and services; fewer opportunities in manufacturing
Portugal
Why Work in Portugal
Affordable Living
Significantly lower cost of living compared to Western Europe, especially outside Lisbon
Quality of Life
Excellent climate, food, culture, and one of the safest countries in the world
Growing Tech Scene
Lisbon and Porto are thriving tech hubs with many startups and international companies
NHR Tax Regime
Non-Habitual Resident program offers favorable tax treatment for up to 10 years
English Proficiency
High level of English proficiency, especially among younger professionals and in tech
Challenges of Living in Portugal
Lower Salaries
Salaries are among the lowest in Western Europe, though cost of living compensates partially
High Tax Rates
Progressive IRS rates reach 48%, plus 11% social security contributions
Housing Pressure
Lisbon and Porto rental prices have risen sharply due to tourism and foreign demand
Bureaucracy
Administrative processes can be slow and complex, especially for non-Portuguese speakers
Tax Rates Greece vs Portugal
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
Greece
- Progressive income tax with 6 brackets from 9% to 44% (Law 5246/2025)
- Social Security (EFKA): 13.87% employee + 22.04% employer
- 14 monthly payments (12 regular + Christmas, Easter & vacation bonuses)
- Tax credit of €777 (phased out above €12,000 income)
- Solidarity surcharge abolished since 2023
- Minimum wage: €880/month (2026)
Portugal
- Progressive IRS with 9 brackets from 12.50% to 48%
- Social Security: 11% employee + 23.75% employer
- 14 monthly payments (12 regular + holiday + Christmas subsidies)
- Specific deduction of €4,587 for employment income
- Solidarity surcharge: 2.5% on €81,199-€250,000, 5% above €250,000
- Minimum wage: €920/month (2026)
Best Cities to Work in Greece and Portugal
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Greece
Portugal
How to Find Jobs in Greece vs Portugal
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Greece
Portugal
Work Visa Options: Greece vs Portugal
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
Greece Work Visas
Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers employed by foreign companies or freelancing for foreign clients
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified workers from outside the EU
National Work Visa (Type D)
Standard work visa for non-EU nationals with a job offer
Portugal Work Visas
Tech Visa
Fast-track visa for tech workers joining certified companies
D7 Visa (Passive Income)
For retirees and remote workers with passive income
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified workers from outside the EU
Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers earning from foreign sources
Frequently Asked Questions: Greece vs Portugal
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Greece vs Portugal?
The average salary in Greece is €22,000 per year, while in Portugal it is €22,000 per year. This represents a 0% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Greece or Portugal?
Greece offers 20 working days minimum (25 after 10 years) annual leave and 14 public holidays with a 40 hours work week. Portugal offers 22 working days minimum annual leave and 13 public holidays with a 40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Greece and Portugal?
In Greece, maternity leave is 17 weeks at full pay and paternity leave is 14 days paid. In Portugal, maternity leave is 120 days at 100% or 150 days at 80% and paternity leave is 28 consecutive days mandatory.
Is it better to work in Greece or Portugal as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Greece offers: Low Cost of Living, Mediterranean Lifestyle. Portugal offers: Affordable Living, Quality of Life. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Greece and Portugal?
Greece: Progressive income tax with 6 brackets from 9% to 44% (Law 5246/2025). Portugal: Progressive IRS with 9 brackets from 12.50% to 48%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Greece or Portugal
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
