The Portuguese government is maintaining the ‘Emprego Interior Mais’ programme, a measure that aims to encourage the geographical mobility of workers to territories in the interior of the country, offering financial support to those who decide to move and take up residence in these regions.

In 2025, with the increase in the Social Support Index (IAS) to 522.5 euros, the incentive amounts have been updated, making the initiative even more attractive for those looking for new opportunities outside the major urban centres.

Who can benefit?

– Unemployed people and employees looking for a new job, registered with the IEFP or the employment services of the Autonomous Regions.

– Employed and self-employed workers, including those setting up their own jobs or businesses.

– Portuguese immigrants who left the country after 31 December 2015 and have lived abroad for at least one year.

– Foreign citizens, provided they fulfil the legal requirements for entry and stay in Portugal.

– Teleworkers who settle in the countryside.

What are the supports?

The basic financial support for those moving inland is 2,633 euros, which can be increased by 20 per cent for each member of the household who also moves. There is also a contribution towards the cost of transporting goods, and the total amount of support can reach up to 4,827 euros. The work contract must preferably be open-ended or last at least 12 months, and the change of residence must take place within 90 days before or after the start of the activity and remain for at least one year.

Impact and balance sheet

From the programme’s launch in 2020 until the end of 2023, 1,698 applications were approved, covering more than 3,000 people, including members of their households. The total value of the support awarded exceeded six million euros, with a greater incidence in the Centre, Alentejo and North regions.

How to apply?

Applications are open until 28 April 2025 and must be submitted electronically via the iefponline portal. The programme cannot be combined with Support for the Return of Emigrants to Portugal, but it can be combined with other incentives for hiring and creating one’s own job.

Programme objectives

‘Emprego Interior Mais’ aims to combat regional disparities, stimulate territorial cohesion and boost the economy of inland territories, promoting population settlement and job creation in these traditionally less populated areas.

‘The Emprego Interior Mais programme, which grants support of up to 4,827 euros to those who decide to move to the interior, has been extended to foreign citizens who settle directly in these territories. People who telecommute to the interior will also be covered.’

With this measure, the government is reinforcing its commitment to the balanced development of the national territory and the valorisation of the interior as an area of opportunity.