The Portuguese Labour Code establishes several circumstances where an employee can be justifiably absent from work. These situations include marriage, illness, family bereavement, or childcare, but rules on pay and consequences differ.
For marriage, 15 consecutive days of justified absence are permitted, requiring prior notice to the employer. In cases of illness, the absence is justified as long as the inability to work persists, and the employer may request proof. However, corresponding salary payment may be forfeited if the employee benefits from social protection for illness.
Assisting children under 12, or those with disabilities or chronic illnesses, allows for absences of up to 30 days per year or during hospitalization. For children aged 12 or older, the limit is 15 days annually. Additionally, parents can take up to four hours per quarter to attend school-related matters for their children, for the strictly necessary time.
Unjustified absences can result in loss of remuneration and, in severe cases or upon recurrence (five consecutive or ten interpolated absences per year), may lead to dismissal for just cause.
