Thinking about relocating to Portugal or Greece? This comprehensive Portugal vs Greece 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
Portugal
€22,000
avg. salary
Greece
€22,000
avg. salary
Portugal vs Greece Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
€22,000€22,000Median Salary
€18,000€18,000Minimum Wage
€12,880€12,320Top 10%
€40,000€40,000Work-Life Balance: Portugal vs Greece
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
40 hours
40 hours
Annual Leave
22 working days minimum
20 working days minimum (25 after 10 years)
Public Holidays
13 days
14 days
Sick Leave
Up to 3 years at 55-75% salary (via Social Security)
Up to 6 months at 50% via social security (EFKA)
Maternity Leave
120 days at 100% or 150 days at 80%
17 weeks at full pay
Paternity Leave
28 consecutive days mandatory
14 days paid
Portugal vs Greece for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
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
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
Tax Rates Portugal vs Greece
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
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)
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)
Best Cities to Work in Portugal and Greece
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Portugal
Greece
How to Find Jobs in Portugal vs Greece
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Portugal
Greece
Work Visa Options: Portugal vs Greece
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
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
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
Frequently Asked Questions: Portugal vs Greece
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Portugal vs Greece?
The average salary in Portugal is €22,000 per year, while in Greece it is €22,000 per year. This represents a 0% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Portugal or Greece?
Portugal offers 22 working days minimum annual leave and 13 public holidays with a 40 hours work week. Greece offers 20 working days minimum (25 after 10 years) annual leave and 14 public holidays with a 40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Portugal and Greece?
In Portugal, maternity leave is 120 days at 100% or 150 days at 80% and paternity leave is 28 consecutive days mandatory. In Greece, maternity leave is 17 weeks at full pay and paternity leave is 14 days paid.
Is it better to work in Portugal or Greece as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Portugal offers: Affordable Living, Quality of Life. Greece offers: Low Cost of Living, Mediterranean Lifestyle. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Portugal and Greece?
Portugal: Progressive IRS with 9 brackets from 12.50% to 48%. Greece: Progressive income tax with 6 brackets from 9% to 44% (Law 5246/2025). Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Portugal or Greece
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
