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How Covid-19 Changed the Job Market in Portugal: The Rise of Remote Work and Career Shifts

The Covid-19 pandemic led to a global transformation in the way people work, and Portugal was no exception. By the end of 2024, the number of remote workers in the country had surpassed the levels seen during the second lockdown in 2021, and many professionals decided to completely change their careers.

🔹 The Rise of Remote Work

What initially started as a temporary measure has now become a standard practice across various industries. Studies show that companies requiring employees to be in the office five days a week are experiencing waves of resignations.

🔹 Leaving Big Cities for a Better Life

Many professionals, especially those in IT and digital industries, have chosen to relocate from major urban centers to smaller towns and rural areas, seeking a better work-life balance. With companies hiring talent nationwide, location is no longer a limitation for career growth.

🔹 Career Transformations in the Post-Pandemic Era

The pandemic also accelerated career shifts, with many people transitioning to tech-related roles. Former flight attendants, consultants, and healthcare professionals retrained and found new opportunities in e-commerce, digital marketing, and IT.

🔹 Portugal’s Position in the Remote Work Landscape

Although Portugal still lags behind the EU average in terms of remote work adoption, it was one of the first countries in Europe to establish legal frameworks for telecommuting back in 2003. The shift towards remote and hybrid models continues, proving that for many industries, working from home was always a viable option.