How many days of holiday does a housekeeper get?

22 working days a year. In the hire year, 2 days per complete month worked, up to 20 days, after 6 months of contract.

Are they entitled to holiday and Christmas subsidies?

Yes. A holiday subsidy and a Christmas subsidy (13th month), each equal to one month's pay, pro-rated in the hire and termination years.

What's the maximum working time?

40 hours a week (reduced from 44 in 2023), with one weekly rest day. Live-in workers are entitled to at least 11 consecutive hours of nightly rest.

Does the contract have to be written?

An open-ended contract can be verbal; a fixed-term one must be written. Either way, a written contract is always recommended.

What about board and lodging?

They count as in-kind pay, but total remuneration must be expressed in money and valued by reference to the national minimum wage.

Housekeeper Rights in Portugal: Contract, Holidays, Pay and Hours

Housekeeper rights in Portugal in 2026: contract, working hours (40h), 22 days of holiday, holiday and Christmas subsidies, weekly rest and rules for live-in workers.