Foreign Residents Represented a Significant Share of the Portuguese Population in 2024
Interim figures from AIMA indicate that by the end of 2024, approximately 1.55 million foreign nationals were legally residing in Portugal. This means that foreign residents now represent around 14.5 per cent of the total population, a notable increase from previous years.
Lisbon remains the primary destination, with more than 600,000 foreign residents, accounting for over a quarter of the city’s population. Other regions such as the Algarve and Porto also continue to attract strong inflows of international residents.
Portugal still ranks 18th among the 27 EU Member States in terms of the proportion of foreign-born residents, according to comparative European data. However, this position reflects a healthy upward trajectory, rather than an overheated or unsustainable migration model.
Immigration as an Economic Engine for Portugal
Beyond population growth, foreign residents play an increasingly vital role in Portugal’s economy and public finances.
According to figures highlighted by the European Commission, migrants fund over 17% of Portugal’s pension system, significantly outweighing the social benefits they receive. This reinforces the Portuguese government’s long-standing position that immigration is essential to economic sustainability, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, construction, hospitality, agriculture, and technology. The effects of this are seen in Portugal’s economic trajectory, with the country being named the 2025 Economy of the Year by The Economist.
Government Action to Support Immigration and Residency in Portugal
The rapid growth in foreign residents has prompted institutional reform. In May 2024, Portugal launched a new Immigration Plan aimed at reducing processing backlogs and modernising migration services.
AIMA, the Portuguese migration agency, has also been working alongside legal professionals to regularise long-pending applications, improving access to residency for thousands of foreign nationals.
These measures underline Portugal’s commitment to remaining open, efficient, and compliant with EU migration standards, even as demand for residency continues to grow.
Who Is Moving to Portugal?
Portugal’s foreign population is increasingly diverse. Brazilians remain the largest foreign community, but they are followed by British nationals, meaning that people moving to Portugal from the United Kingdom are now one of the most significant sources of foreign residents in Portugal.
Other growing communities include citizens from India, Nepal, the United States, South Africa, and China, reflecting Portugal’s global appeal across different professional and lifestyle profiles.
Portuguese Residency Options Continue to Attract International Interest
Portugal remains one of the most accessible EU countries for legal residency, offering multiple visa pathways suited to different needs.
Residency by investment remains available through the Portugal Golden Visa, now focused on regulated funds, research, cultural support, and business creation rather than real estate.
At the same time, visas such as the D7, D2, and Digital Nomad Visa continue to attract retirees, investors, and remote professionals, reinforcing Portugal’s reputation as a flexible and welcoming destination.
Cost of Living, Safety, and Quality of Life in Portugal
One of Portugal’s strongest advantages remains its cost-to-quality ratio. Compared to other major European capitals, Portugal offers a significantly lower cost of living while maintaining high standards in healthcare, infrastructure, and public services.
Portugal is also consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world, with recent Global Peace Index reports naming it the 7th safest country globally.
Language is rarely a barrier. Portugal boasts one of the highest among non-native English-speaking countries, easing integration for expats and international professionals.
Education, Families, and Long-Term Settlement in Portugal
Portugal’s strong public and private further enhance its attractiveness for families relocating from abroad.
Combined with , a welcoming culture, and excellent infrastructure, Portugal offers a long-term settlement option that appeals to families, retirees, and professionals alike.
Portugal as a Digital Nomad and Investment Hub
Portugal has also become a recognised European , combining reliable infrastructure, favourable visa options, and a high quality of life.
For investors, the continued inflow of foreign residents signals sustained demand across housing, services, and business sectors, reinforcing Portugal’s position as a growing and resilient market.
A Growing Market with a Welcoming Outlook
These population and migration figures confirm what many already recognise: Portugal is not just attracting foreigners, it is integrating them successfully.
With a growing population, strong economic contributions from migrants, proactive government policies, and a consistently high quality of life, Portugal continues to stand out as one of Europe’s most welcoming countries for those seeking residency and opportunity.
For individuals and families considering a move, Portugal offers a rare combination of stability, accessibility, and long-term potential, making it one of the most compelling destinations in Europe today
