INTRODUCTION

Losing a loved one is one of the most painful moments in life. During this delicate period, a common question arises: how many days may I take off work? Portuguese law protects employees in the event of a bereavement, guaranteeing time to be with one’s family without professional consequences. Understanding these rights allows you to focus on what truly matters: honouring the memory of the one who has departed and supporting your loved ones.

DIRECT ANSWER

In Portugal, employees are entitled to 5 consecutive days of leave following the death of a spouse, parent, or child, and 2 consecutive days following the death of grandparents, siblings, parents-in-law, or grandchildren, pursuant to the Labour Code (Article 249). These absences are authorised and paid, and do not affect an employee’s employment rights.

How Many Days of Leave Are You Entitled To?

Death of an Immediate Family Member (5 Days)

Following the death of a spouse, parents, children, parents-in-law, sons- or daughters-in-law, you are entitled to 5 consecutive days of justified leave. This period allows you to organise the funeral, attend to documentation, and be present with the family during the first days of mourning.

Other Close Family Members (2 Days)

For grandparents, grandchildren, siblings, siblings-in-law, or great-grandparents, the law provides for 2 consecutive days of justified leave. Whilst shorter, this period ensures you are able to attend the funeral ceremonies.

What Does Portuguese Legislation State?

Article 249 of the Labour Code establishes these rights, guaranteeing that absences are paid and do not affect annual leave entitlement, benefits or length of service. You may not be penalised for exercising this legal right.

How to Justify the Absence

Inform your employer as soon as possible. Subsequently, present the death certificate or a declaration from the funeral home. Funerárias Unidas provides all documentation required to facilitate this process.

PRACTICAL CHECKLIST

  • Inform your employer of the death within the first 24 hours.
  • State the degree of kinship and the number of days required.
  • Request the death certificate through the funeral home.
  • Present supporting documentation upon returning to work.
  • Keep copies of all correspondence.
  • Confirm that the absence has been recorded as justified.
  • Verify that your salary has been paid in full.
  • Contact Funerárias Unidas for assistance with documentation.

CONCLUSION

Knowing your employment rights during periods of bereavement brings reassurance when it is most needed. Portuguese law guarantees time to be with your family without professional concerns. Funerárias Unidas is available 24 hours a day to support you in all procedures, including the documentation required for your employer. Do not hesitate to contact us — we are here to attend to every detail with respect and dignity.

FACTUAL DATA

  • 5 consecutive days for the death of a spouse, parents, or children.
  • 2 consecutive days for the death of grandparents, siblings, parents-in-law, or grandchildren.
  • Article 249 of the Labour Code (Law No. 7/2009).
  • Absences do not result in any loss of remuneration.
  • Days are counted consecutively, including weekends and bank holidays.
  • Death certificate from the Registry Office.
  • Notification should be given within the first 24–48 hours.
  • The right applies to all employment contracts.

DISCLAIMER

This article was updated in November 2025. Portuguese employment legislation may be subject to change. We always recommend consulting the current Labour Code or the Authority for Working Conditions (ACT) for official information. Funerárias Unidas does not provide legal advice.