The national minimum wage (SMN) in Portugal increased to 870 euros in 2025, representing an increase of 50 euros compared to the previous year. In the Autonomous Region of Madeira, the value is higher, at 915 euros. Despite being the legal minimum remuneration, there are specific situations provided for in labor legislation that allow payments lower than the SMN, says .
Part-time work
Workers on part-time contracts can receive remuneration proportional to the hours worked. In this case, the salary may be lower than the SMN, as it is adjusted according to the workload worked. This rule applies, for example, to students or those who have a second job.
Internships and professional training
Interns, apprentices or recent graduates of professional training programs may be paid below the SMN. The law allows for a reduction of up to 20% of the national minimum wage during the training period, which can last up to one year. For workers with specific technical training, this period is reduced to a maximum of six months.
Workers with reduced capacity or disability
For workers with reduced working capacity or disability, the legislation provides for a salary adjustment proportional to their effective capacity. If the difference between full capacity and assessed capacity is greater than 10%, the salary may be reduced by a maximum of 50%. This reduction must be based on formal certification that proves the effective capacity for the role.
These exceptions are established in Portuguese labor legislation to accommodate specific work situations, training or physical conditions. Despite not being applicable to most workers, these rules demonstrate the flexibility of the legal system in particular cases. However, it is important that these conditions are always communicated and agreed between employer and employee, respecting the limits imposed by law.
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