Azores open permanent employment support applications until September

Employers headquartered or operating in the Azores can apply for the extraordinary ESTABILIZA programme, which grants €5,000 for every fixed-term contract converted into a full-time permanent contract. The measure is intended to encourage more stable employment relationships across the region.

Eligible cases include full-time fixed-term contracts, whether for a specified or unspecified period, that began before 1 July 2026 and are converted to permanent full-time contracts between 1 July and 30 September. The grant is paid in a single instalment to employers whose applications are approved.

Applications run from 7 July to 30 September and must be submitted online through emprego.azores.gov.pt. Delivery of the programme is handled by the Regional Directorate for Professional Qualifications and Employment under the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment.

Conversions required directly by law, a court ruling, or an inspection action are excluded. Part of a wider response to higher fuel prices, the scheme aims to provide workers and families with greater security while encouraging companies to strengthen their permanent workforce.