The Positive Impact that Immigration Has in Portugal

5 January 2024

Based on recent data, there has been a notable rise in the immigrant population in Portugal, showcasing both the influx of immigrant individuals and their significant contribution to Portuguese Social Security. In 2022, the Observatory for Migrations reported 782,000 immigrants in Portugal who contributed 1,861 million euros to social security while receiving 257 thousand euros in social support, resulting in a positive balance of 1,604 million euros.


Breaking down these figures into percentages, immigrants constitute 7.5% of the Portuguese population and contribute 13.5% to Portuguese Social Security. This indicates that immigration in Portugal is characterized by a working population, although with some variations. For example, immigrants from the European Union community mirror the older age demographic seen in the Portuguese population, a contrast to immigrants from outside the European Union who are characterized by a younger population.


UK nationals stand out as the second-largest immigrant community in Portugal, totalling 45,218 individuals.


A positive trend emerges as foreigners contribute to 16.7% of all births in Portugal, countering the long-standing issue of an ageing population in Portugal.


Geographically, the Algarve region possesses the highest percentage of immigrants, with Vila do Bispo leading at 42.2% of its total population being foreigners. Lisbon hosts the majority of immigrants in Portugal, with 41% residing in the capital.


However, political participation among the foreign population is notably low, with only 7.4% of them registered as voters.


In conclusion, a thorough analysis of the data supports that immigrants play a constructive role in society. They contribute to the economic growth of the host country, bring about population rejuvenation, and fill essential job roles that may be overlooked by natives. To harness the positive impact of this global trend in population movement, every country must establish effective policies and laws for immigration.


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