And why not get a job while you're studying? If you're from an EU country, feel free to give it a try. And between us, Erasmus is pretty relaxed, right? Moreover, t’s a great way to meet new people : networking is essential !
Go on, get to work and make friends!
Two options are available to you :
1- Getting a job off the books 🙂 No special steps or advice here. Just check out youth hostels, bars, restaurants, café, stores, hair salons...
In brief, anything that helps you meet people is fair game.
2- Working within the rules, and there a few requirements to meet :
→ First, become an official resident. You’ll need a rental contract, or a utility bill (gas, electricity, etc.). If you're just renting a room, two individuals or legal entities (like shops or companies) must sign and stamp a document issued by the Junta de Freguesia (a local branch of the municipality, similar to a district council).
→ Go to the "Loja do Cidadão" with all your documents (proof of residence, passport, etc.) :
A. Go early — after 11:00 a.m., there are usually no tickets left. Take two tickets (senhas): one for Finanças and one for Segurança Social.
B. At Finanças, ask for a NIF (tax identification number).
C. At Segurança Social, ask for a NISS (social security number).
D. Open a bank account.
Once you have all these documents, you’re good to go — you can legally apply for any job 🙂
Got a more specific question? Ask me for advice !