What is the Best Side Hustle in Portugal to Earn Extra Money Online in 2025

The 'Side Hustle' concept has become increasingly popular in Portugal, especially among those looking to increase their income without compromising their main occupation.

This article explores different ways to start a 'Side Hustle' in Portugal, covering everything from online opportunities to smart investments.

TLDR – Side Hustles in Portugal, how to make extra money in 2025?

• Explore different online platforms to find freelance work opportunities.
• Use social media and digital marketing to sell products or services.
• Invest in knowledge about e-commerce and affiliate marketing to maximize profits.
• Consider small local businesses or consultancy as ways to diversify income.
• Stay up to date on market trends and new technologies to optimize the 'Side Hustle'.
• Updated list of profitable small businesses that you can start with less than €5000 in Portugal.

How to Make Money Online in Portugal

Side hustles and online opportunities for 2025

The internet has opened doors to countless ways to make money online quickly.

From participating in online surveys to trading stocks, the options are vast, including the latest opportunity to help train information for AIs, called “data annotation”.

Freelancing platforms and content creation are also increasingly in trend.

You can offer your services, or consider selling digital products that don't require physical inventory.

You can also get started in the fastest way to sell, with a “side hustle” as an affiliate of products that you believe in and want to promote in exchange for a commission on sales that you can recommend.

Sell products or services online in 2024

Selling products or services is one of the most direct ways to generate extra income.

You can start with something as simple as crafts or consultancy.

In the case of crafts, Etsy is a good marketplace to start. You can also create your own Instagram profile for your creations.

Services such as consultancy are in greater demand, and are activities that are easier to start. Just think of an organized way to sell your knowledge on certain subjects.

Use social media to reach a wider audience and increase your sales.

Freelance work, the classic of side hustles

Freelance work is ideal for those looking for flexibility and have a skillset on-demand or digitally “commoditizable”.

With skills in areas such as writing, graphic design or programming, you can find many opportunities online.

Register at freelance platforms and start looking for projects that align with your skills and interests.

One of the best platforms for freelancers is Contra. This is a new generation platform, which, unlike more well-known platforms that exploit freelancers, does not charge commissions on the work you do.

Furthermore, Contra does not allow you to sell your services below 25$/hour, which prevents third-party markets from leveraging services based on weaker, third-world economies.

Tip: Always stay up to date with new market trends and tools to stay competitive.

Best Side Hustles to Make Money Online

1. Affiliate Marketing

This is by far the best way to start if you want to make money online.

Explore the affiliate marketing It can be an effective way to generate income online.

When promoting third-party products, you receive a commission for each sale made through your affiliate link.

It is essential to choose products aligned with the interests of your audience to maximize your chances of success.

Digital content creation

Increasingly current, content creation is seen as a demanding and respectable profession.

Creating digital content, such as blogs, videos or podcasts, offers an opportunity to monetize your passions and is a fundamental service for companies and brands.

By creating quality and engaging content, you can attract a loyal audience.

You can create content to develop your personal brand and positioning, or offer this service to other people and brands.

Monetizing your content can be done through advertising, sponsorships or the sale of digital products.

E-commerce and dropshipping

Selling products can be an option, as long as you don't have to deal with logistics and inventory.

Starting an e-commerce business, such as an online store, allows you to sell products directly to consumers without needing to maintain a physical inventory, thanks to dropshipping.

This option allows you to focus on marketing and customer service, while the supplier takes care of stock and logistics.

Other Investments Make Money Online in Portugal

Smart investments

For those looking maximize your income, exploring smart investments is a shrewd move. Diversifying your portfolio with stocks, investment funds, or even cryptocurrencies can be an effective way to increase wealth in the long term. It is crucial, however, to do in-depth research or consult a financial consultant before making decisions.

Profitable small businesses

Start a small business It can be an excellent way to generate extra income.

From opening a local cafe, an online store, or offering specialized services, the possibilities are vast.

Check out our list of profitable small businesses that you can start in Portugal, with less than €5000.

Success in these endeavors depends on a combination of passion, appropriate market strategy and, of course, a good dose of hard work.

Consulting and coaching

If you have specialized knowledge in a specific area, offering consulting or coaching services can be extremely profitable. This is an opportunity to not only monetize your experience, but also help others achieve their goals, creating a network of positive and sustainable impact.

Other Side Hustles

Seasonal jobs

In Portugal, seasonal jobs offer an excellent opportunity to earn extra money, especially during the summer or festive seasons. From working in events, tourism or agriculture, there is always a demand for temporary labor that can be a significant source of income.

Hobbies that pay off

Turning hobbies into sources of income is a smart way to earn extra money. Whether through selling crafts, photography, or even teaching classes on something you master, hobbies can become profitable small businesses with the right investment and publicity.

Maximizing passive income

Investing in passive income, such as property rentals, share dividends or creating digital content that generates recurring income, is an effective strategy for increasing your financial independence. Exploring these options could mean a substantial improvement in your long-term financial situation.

Finding paid remote work

Work from home

Flexibility and autonomy to work remotely from home, whether as a contractor or as a freelancer. It has never been easier to find work from home, there are options for all tastes and skills, check out our selection of 100 jobs you can start from home today.

Platforms for freelancers

Exploring freelancing platforms is an effective way to start making money online. Sites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Contra allow you to sign up, create a profile, and start applying for projects that match your skills.

It is important to build a solid portfolio and maintain clear and professional communication with clients to ensure good feedback and continuity of work.

Distance learning

Online teaching has become a promising area to make money in Portugal.

Platforms like Udemy, Coursera and even Intuitive offer the opportunity to share your knowledge in a variety of areas, from languages to programming. You can create courses and set your own price, reaching students from all over the world.

Online consulting services

Online consultancy is an excellent way to monetize your experience. If you have specialized knowledge in areas such as marketing, management or finance, you can offer your services through digital platforms. This flexibility allows you to work from anywhere and manage your own time, making it ideal for those looking for a 'side hustle'.