Plans have been announced to increase Portugal’s minimum wage to €870 a month by 2025, a move that aims to improve the living standards of workers in the country. However, this increase still leaves Portugal trailing behind many of its European Union counterparts in terms of minimum wage levels.
As of now, the minimum wage in Portugal is set at €820 per month. The government has committed to a gradual increase, with plans to raise it by €50 each year until it reaches €1,020 in 2028. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the economic well-being of Portuguese workers.
Comparison with EU Counterparts
Despite the planned increases, Portugal’s minimum wage remains significantly lower than that of several other EU nations. Here’s a comparison of minimum wages across selected EU countries:
| Country | Minimum Wage (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| Luxembourg | €2,204 |
| Ireland | €1,840 |
| Netherlands | €1,829 |
| Belgium | €1,774 |
| Germany | €1,761 |
| France | €1,550 |
| Portugal | €820 |
What Constitutes a Good Salary in the EU?
The definition of a good salary varies widely across Europe, influenced by factors such as location, industry, and personal circumstances. For instance:
- In Germany, a gross annual salary between €64,000 and €70,000 is considered good, translating to a net monthly income of approximately €3,300 to €3,600.
- In France, a comfortable life typically requires a net monthly salary of around €3,200 for a single person.
- In Spain, a good monthly net salary is estimated to be around €2,700 for a single individual.
- In Ireland, a gross salary between €4,100 and €6,000 is deemed sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle.
While the increase in Portugal’s minimum wage is a positive development, it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by workers in the country. As the government continues to implement wage increases, it will be crucial to monitor their impact on the living standards of Portuguese citizens and ensure that they are competitive within the broader European context.