Housekeeper Employment Contract Template in Portugal (Free Model 2026)
A free domestic worker contract template for Portugal — the essential clauses, when a written contract is mandatory, how to fill it in, and what to do after signing.
Quick answer: A domestic work contract with no fixed term can be verbal, but a fixed-term contract must be in writing. Either way, putting the agreement in writing is always recommended. Below is a template with the essential clauses that you can adapt to your situation. As an expat employer, note that the legally governing contract in Portugal is normally written in Portuguese — so we also provide a bilingual Portuguese/English version, letting you understand every clause while the Portuguese text remains the official one.
📝 Editable Word version
Download the editable Word template (PT/EN) — DOCX
What the law says
Domestic work in Portugal is governed by Decree-Law 235/92, amended by Law 13/2023, with the Labour Code (Código do Trabalho) applying subsidiarily. The contract must respect the national minimum wage (€920 in 2026), the 40-hour weekly limit, rest periods, holidays (22 working days) and the holiday and Christmas subsidies.
Note: this model is for information only and is not legal advice. Adapt it to your case and confirm the current figures with the official sources.
Domestic work contract template
Copy and adapt the text below. Fields in square brackets are for you to complete.
Domestic service employment contract
Clause 1 — Parties. Between [employer name], tax number (NIF) [—], resident at [address] (the "Employer"), and [worker name], tax number (NIF) [—], social-security number (NISS) [—], resident at [address] (the "Worker"), the present domestic service employment contract is entered into.
Clause 2 — Duties. The Worker is hired to provide domestic service at the Employer's home, located at [address], including [cleaning and tidying the home / preparing meals / laundry and ironing / childcare or elderly care — specify].
Clause 3 — Term. This contract is entered into [with no fixed term / for a fixed term of — months, starting on — and ending on —, for the following reason: —]. (Note: a fixed-term contract must be in writing and justified by a valid reason.)
Clause 4 — Probation period. The probation period is [90] days, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Clause 5 — Hours and place of work. The Worker will work [—] hours per week, on [days], from [—] to [—], with a weekly rest day on [Sunday]. (Maximum: 40 hours per week.)
Clause 6 — Pay. The Employer will pay a [monthly wage of € — / hourly wage of € —], by the last day of each [month / week], via [bank transfer]. The Worker is entitled to a holiday subsidy and a Christmas subsidy as required by law. [If applicable: board and lodging as payment in kind — specify.]
Clause 7 — Holidays. The Worker is entitled to 22 working days of paid holiday per year, as required by law.
Clause 8 — Social Security and insurance. The Employer will register the hire with Social Security before work begins and will keep valid work-accident insurance in force for the whole duration of the contract.
Clause 9 — Termination. Termination is governed by the domestic-service regime and, subsidiarily, by the Labour Code, including the applicable notice periods.
Made in duplicate, in [place], on [date]. Signatures: Employer / Worker.
How to fill it in without mistakes
- Concrete duties — avoid vague wording; list the tasks you agreed.
- Fixed term only with a reason — without a valid justification, the contract is treated as open-ended.
- Payment in kind — if board and lodging are provided (live-in), state it explicitly. See live-in vs live-out.
- Minimum figures — confirm the minimum wage and typical rates; see how much a housekeeper costs.
After signing
The contract does not replace your legal obligations: register the hire with Social Security before the start date (step by step here) and take out work-accident insurance. The worker's rights are summarised in this guide, and what each clause should contain is explained in what to include in the contract.
👉 Still looking? Compare available housekeepers here.
Conclusion
Putting the agreement in writing protects both sides and prevents most disputes. Use the template as a starting point, adapt it to your situation, and don't forget Social Security and insurance — without those, the contract alone is not enough to be fully compliant.
Official sources
FAQ
Does a domestic work contract have to be in writing?
An open-ended contract can be verbal; a fixed-term contract must be in writing and justified. A written contract is always recommended to protect both parties.
Which law applies to domestic work in Portugal?
Decree-Law 235/92, amended by Law 13/2023, and subsidiarily the Labour Code (Código do Trabalho).
What is the probation period?
As a rule 90 days, unless otherwise agreed in writing. During this period either party can end the contract under simplified rules.
Can I use this template for a live-in housekeeper?
Yes, with adaptations: state board and lodging explicitly as payment in kind and adjust the hours and rest periods accordingly.
Does the language of the contract matter for expats?
The legally governing contract in Portugal is normally in Portuguese. Use the bilingual Portuguese/English version so you understand every clause while the Portuguese text stays the official one.