The general strike held on December 11, 2025, the first in 13 years in Portugal, paralyzed transport, schools and public services and placed the issue of trade unionism back at the center of the debate. For many Brazilians living in the country, the strike raised practical questions: Can I join a strike? Do I need to be a union member? How much does a union cost? And, after all, what changes in the worker’s life?
In yet another Immigrant Guide, the DN Brazil explains how unions work in Portugal, what the rights of immigrant workers are and in which situations unionization can make a difference. Check it out:
In Portugal, the right to unionize and strike is guaranteed by the Constitution. This means that any worker, Portuguese or foreign, has the right to join a unionparticipate in assemblies, vote, be represented and join legally called strikes, without suffering punishment for doing so.
Being a union member, in practice, means being part of an association that represents your professional category in negotiations with employers and the State. It is through unions that so-called collective work agreements and conventions emerge, documents that define minimum wages by function, career progression, payment of overtime, night work, subsidies and other conditions.
Who are the unions in Portugal
Portuguese trade unionism is mainly organized around two large central groups:
– The CGTP-IN (General Confederation of Portuguese Workers – Intersindical Nacional) is the largest trade union center in the country and has a more combative profile. It usually leads general strikes and mobilizations and has a strong presence in sectors such as transport, industry, health, education and public services.
– The UGT (União Geral de Trabalhadores) has a role more focused on institutional negotiation and social consultation, representing unions from various areas of the private and public sector.
In addition to them, there are independent and sectoral unions, linked to specific professions, such as hospitality, technology, culture, teaching, health and commerce. The worker joins the union of his profession, which may or may not be linked to one of these centers.
How much does it cost to be a union member?
Unionization is not free. In general, the worker pays a monthly union fee, which usually varies between 1% and 2% of the base salary, depending on the union. In many cases, the amount is deducted directly from the pay slip, with the worker’s authorization. This amount finances the functioning of the union, including administrative structure, legal advice, collective negotiations and support actions for members.
What are the concrete benefits
Benefits vary from union to union, but they usually include legal support in labor disputes, guidance on contracts, support in disciplinary processes or dismissals, representation in salary negotiations and access to category-specific collective agreements.
In some cases, only unionized workers have the automatic right to certain benefits provided for in collective agreements, such as higher professional categories or additional salaries. The Brazilian Court has already decided that applying these benefits only to members does not violate the principle of equality.
Do I need to be a union member to go on strike?
No. In Portugal, the right to strike does not depend on union membership. A non-union worker may join a legally called strike. During the strike, the day’s wages are not paid, but the employment contract remains valid and the worker cannot be punished or fired for participating. Unions usually offer support and information to members before, during and after strikes, which helps to reduce risks and clarify rights.
Is it worth it for the immigrant worker?
For many Brazilians in Portugal, unionization still causes strangeness, either due to negative experiences in Brazil or due to lack of knowledge of local rules. However, in a labor market with complex contracts and its own legislation, the union can – and should – function as a protection network, especially in conflict situations.
nuno.tibirica@dn.pt
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