Portugal: A Welcome Haven for Expats in Pursuit of Quality Living

The 10th annual Expat Insider survey, conducted by the renowned organisation InterNations, has revealed its ranking of 53 countries based on five key indicators. This comprehensive analysis aims to identify the ultimate expat havens, considering factors such as quality of life, ease of settling in, working abroad, personal finance, and the all-important Expats Essentials Index, which encompasses housing, administration, language, and digital life.

Portugal has made an impressive mark, securing the 10th place out of the extensive range of destinations. This captivating country has captured the hearts of expats worldwide, thanks to its enviable climate, abundant recreational opportunities, and reputation for safety. It is no wonder that expats easily adapt to Portugal's charms, despite occasional challenges with local bureaucracy and the job market. In fact, a remarkable 85 percent of expats express their contentment with living in Portugal, surpassing the global average of 72 percent.

When it comes to quality of life, Portugal confidently stands among the global elite, ranking an impressive 7th worldwide in this year's survey. With its delightful climate placing it in the top 10 and its pristine air quality securing the 9th spot, Portugal proves to be an enchanting destination for those seeking a superior environment and climate, securing an outstanding 5th place ranking worldwide.

Portugal's welcoming culture and friendly population have earned the country a notable reputation for creating a comfortable home for expats. Rated 8th in terms of hospitality, Portugal's Ease of Settling in Index places it at an impressive 13th. Surprisingly, 78% of expats feel at ease and welcome in this delightful country, compared to the global average of 62%. It is worth highlighting that 71% of expats have established a personal support network, surpassing the global rate of 58%. Additionally, 80% of individuals find the local population exceptionally cordial towards foreign residents, exceeding the global average by 15%. Furthermore, 76% of expats find it effortless to adapt to the vibrant local culture, while only 62% can claim the same globally.

When it comes to safety and self-expression, Portugal stands out as an exemplary destination. This tranquil haven boasts an impressive 94% of expats feeling secure, surpassing the global average of 83%. But that is not all—the freedom to express one's identity and opinions thrives here, with a staggering 83% of individuals feeling liberated, a remarkable 18% higher than the global average.

However, Portugal's allure doesn't end there. Expats revel in the abundant choices of recreational sports offered, with an impressive 85% embracing an active lifestyle, surpassing the global figure of 75%. And when the sun sets, the captivating culture and vibrant nightlife take center stage, as 74% of expats joyfully immerse themselves in the rich Portuguese experience, outshining the global average by 6%.

Of course, no paradise is without its challenges. Local bureaucracy poses a hurdle for many expatriates, with over half of them grappling with administrative complexities, surpassing the global average of 38%. While dissatisfaction with the government's online services stands at 25%, slightly above the global average of 21%, the resilience of expats shines through. Over half of them consider Portuguese a challenging language to learn, yet an impressive 68% confidently declare that living in Portugal without knowing the local language is entirely feasible, surpassing the global average of 50%.

For work seekers, Portugal may not be the top choice, as 36% of expats express dissatisfaction with the job market, compared to the global average of 26%. However, the country ranks 17th globally for work-life balance, exceeding expectations. A notable 78% of expats believe their income is sufficient for a comfortable life, compensating for the low 42nd ranking for fair pay. In fact, Portugal thrives in the Personal Finance Index, securing an impressive 12th position. With 63% of expats content with the cost of living, Portugal stands out compared to the worldwide average of only 44%.

In the recently concluded Expat Insider 2023 survey, Mexico, Spain, and Panama earned the top positions, closely followed by Malaysia, Taiwan, Costa Rica, the Philippines, and Bahrain. Portugal, securing a respectable 10th place, showcased promising results in the Personal Finance Index and performed solidly in the Working Abroad Index.



If safety, freedom, and a rich experience are what you seek, Portugal awaits with open arms. Discover the charm of this captivating country and make it your new home.