Got sick and unsure about your rights? This guide covers everything you need to know about sick leave in Portugal - from day one to returning to work.
What Is Sick Leave?
Sick leave - technically called the Temporary Incapacity Certificate (CIT) - is the official document certifying that a worker is temporarily unable to perform their professional activity due to illness or accident. The Social Security sickness benefit is based on this document.
Who Is Entitled to Sick Leave?
All workers who are covered by a mandatory social protection scheme, have at least 6 months of contributions, and are unable to work due to illness or accident.
Up to 3 Days - Self-Declaration
Since May 2023, you can request up to 3 working days of sick leave without seeing a doctor, through the SNS 24 portal or app. It can be used twice per year and these days are unpaid.
How to Request Sick Leave (CIT)?
- Visit your family doctor, hospital emergency, or private clinic
- The doctor issues the CIT (paper or electronic)
- If electronic: automatically sent. If paper: send to Social Security within 5 working days
- Social Security processes payment between the 14th-16th and 26th-28th of each month
How Much Do You Receive?
| Duration | % of Reference Pay |
|---|---|
| Days 1-3 | ❌ No payment (waiting period) |
| Days 4-30 | 55% |
| Days 31-90 | 60% |
| Days 91-365 | 70% |
| Over 365 days | 75% |
2026 Updates
- ✅ Enhanced digitalization of the CIT process
- ✅ CIT can be issued in emergency rooms and private clinics
- ✅ Automatic 60% disability for cancer patients in the first 5 years
- ✅ Decentralized medical boards through Local Health Units
Worker Rights During Sick Leave
- Cannot be dismissed due to illness
- Can interrupt holidays if sick (Article 244 of the Labour Code)
- Travel abroad is not automatically prohibited but may be verified
Worker Obligations
- Notify the employer as soon as possible
- Send paper CIT to Social Security within 5 working days
- Attend medical boards if summoned
- Do not perform activity incompatible with the declared incapacity
Sources: Decree-Law No. 28/2004 | Labour Code (Article 244) | Social Security | Decree-Law No. 15/2024
Article prepared by Grupo YOUR for informational purposes. For specific situations, consult a lawyer or HR specialist.
