Portugal Strike 11th December Details – What’s Really Happening on 11 December

If you live in Portugal or are planning a trip here this week, you’ve likely seen alarming headlines about a "Portugal strike on the 11th." Here is everything you need to know about how it affects your commute or holiday.

First, let’s clarify the date: The nationwide general strike is scheduled for Thursday, 11 December 2025. (Do not confuse this with earlier, smaller strikes that took place in September).

This is a major, cross-sector walkout called by Portugal’s two largest union confederations, CGTP-IN and UGT. It is the first general strike supported by both groups since 2013 and is a protest against the government’s proposed "Trabalho XXI" labour law reform.

Residents and visitors should expect significant disruptions in transport, schools, hospitals, banking, and public services.

Note: All information below is current as of Monday, 8 December 2025, and may change as negotiations evolve.

Who is Striking and Why?

The strike targets the government’s draft labour reform package, known as "Trabalho XXI."

Unions argue the reform is a "social setback" (retrocesso social). Their main grievances include:

• Easier Dismissals: Relaxing the employer's obligation to present evidence or hear witnesses when firing for "just cause."
• Longer Hours: Expanding the use of "individual time banks," which could allow longer working days without overtime pay (up to an annual cap).
• Weaker Bargaining: Unions claim the package shifts power significantly toward employers.

The government maintains the reform is necessary to modernise labour rules and boost productivity, though they have signaled some openness to dialogue.

What Will Be Closed or Disrupted on 11 December?

While minimum services are legally required in essential sectors, the disruption will be widespread.

Flights and Airports

The cabin crew union SNPVAC has voted to join the strike, predicting that "most flights at Portuguese airports will be grounded."

• Expect cancellations: Widespread cancellations and rebookings are likely.
• Minimum services: A small number of protected flights (emergency, state, and certain returns to Lisbon/Porto) must run.
• Advice: Avoid flying on 11 December if possible. If you must fly, check your flight status immediately.

Trains, Metro, Buses, and Ferries

The Economic and Social Council (CES) has mandated minimum services, but travel will be difficult.

Lisbon & National Rail

• CP (National Rail): Will run minimum services only. Many regional and long-distance trains not on the minimum list will likely be cancelled.
• Lisbon Metro: No service. The arbitration court decided not to impose minimum services, so the metro is expected to be fully closed.
• Carris (Lisbon Bus/Tram): Limited to 12 bus lines and services for reduced mobility.
• Ferries (Transtejo/Soflusa): Required to run only 25% of normal crossings during peak hours (06:00–09:30 and 18:30–20:00).

Porto & Nationwide

• Similar minimum service rules apply to trains and buses in Porto and other cities. Expect reduced, irregular schedules rather than a full shutdown.

Schools and Universities

• Closures likely: Unions expect a "strong impact," especially in public basic and secondary schools. Many will close or operate only as "childcare spaces" with minimal staff.
• Universities: Classes may be cancelled or moved online.

Hospitals and Health Centers

• Emergency Care: Legally protected. ERs, oncology (chemotherapy), and palliative care will remain operational.
• Non-Urgent Care: Expect postponements for routine appointments, surgeries, and exams. Health centers (centros de saúde) will likely have fewer staff and longer waits.

Banks and Public Services

• Public Offices: Expect closures or severe delays at town halls (Câmaras), tax offices (Finanças), courts, and Social Security.
• Banks: Some branches may close or operate with skeleton crews.

If You Live in Portugal: How to Prepare for the Strike

Commuting & Work

• Work Remote: If possible, agree on a remote work day with your employer.
• Avoid Travel: Avoid non-essential trips, especially into Lisbon or Porto.
• Check Timetables: If you must commute, check the "Minimum Services" (Serviços Mínimos) timetables on operator websites (CP, Carris, etc.).
• Carpool: Consider car-sharing or cycling. Traffic will likely be heavier than usual.

Home & Family

• Childcare: Have a backup plan in case your child's school closes.
• Health: Ensure you have necessary prescriptions filled before Thursday.
• Errands: Withdraw cash and visit public offices (like the Citizen Shop) before the 11th.

If You Are Visiting: Travel Advice

Flights

• Check Policies: Look at your airline’s waiver policy now. Moving your flight to the 10th or 12th is the safest bet.
• Passenger Rights: Under EU Regulation 261/2004, you are entitled to care (meals/hotels) and re-routing if stranded, though cash compensation may not apply if the strike is deemed an "extraordinary circumstance."

Getting Around

• Lisbon: Without the Metro, the city will be congested. Rely on walking for short distances.
• Taxis/Uber: Expect surge pricing and long wait times. Book airport transfers well in advance.
• Inter-city: A rental car is likely more reliable than the train for travel between cities on this specific day.

Sightseeing

• Treat the 11th as a "slow travel" day. Explore your local neighborhood on foot. Most restaurants and cafés will remain open, though perhaps with fewer staff.

Bottom Line

Think of Thursday, 11 December, as a day when Portugal moves in slow motion.

Essential services will function, but "normal life" will be paused. If you can avoid travel, stay home. If you must travel, plan for delays, stay patient, and keep checking official sources for updates.