Portugal offers 50% salary subsidies for qualified hires

Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Portugal's Centro and Alentejo regions can access subsidies covering 50% of salary costs for hiring highly qualified professionals. These incentives are part of the CENTRO 2030 and ALENTEJO 2030 programs.

A total of €10 million is available for SMEs in the Centro region, while €3.5 million is allocated for the Alentejo region. The funding aims to strengthen teams and foster development in innovation, digital transition, and climate transition.

Eligible candidates include professionals with bachelor's, master's, doctoral, or post-doctoral degrees who possess relevant professional experience. The support covers eligible salary costs for a maximum of 36 months in the Centro region and 24 months in Alentejo. Upcoming application deadlines are set for December 21, 2026, February 26, 2027, and March 31, 2027.