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.


If you need help with this matter or any other related issue, please don't hesitate to ask for our assistance. We will be delighted to assist you.

How Brexit impacts UK citizens' permanent residence rights in Portugal. Essential guide.
by Danielle Avidago 30 October 2025
Brexit changed UK citizens' residency status in Portugal. Learn how the Withdrawal Agreement affects permanent residence rights for Britons living in Portugal.
Portugal's new job seeker visa targets highly qualified professionals from around the world.
by Javier Mateo 29 October 2025
Discover Portugal's new Job Seeker Visa for qualified professionals. Find out eligibility requirements, application process, and career opportunities in 2025.
Portugal attracts investors with tax benefits, residency regimes and crypto relevance.
by António Pratas Nunes 28 October 2025
Comprehensive overview of Portugal taxation on ETFs, shares, bonds and crypto, covering capital gains, tax rates and resident regimes such as IFICI+ and NHR.
Hiring Portuguese freelancers offers flexibility but requires legal care.
by António Pratas Nunes and Margarida Tempera 22 October 2025
"Hiring Portuguese freelancers offers flexibility for foreign firms, but misclassification risks in contracts can lead to heavy penalties and unexpected liabilities.
Foreign firms must distinguish contractors from employees under Portuguese Civil and Labour Codes.
by Margarida Tempera and António Pratas Nunes 21 October 2025
Foreign companies must distinguish contractors from employees in Portugal, as each is governed by a distinct legal regimes with different obligations in Portugal.
Children born in Portugal: nationality rules for foreign parents explained.
by Luís Maria Branco 16 October 2025
Birth in Portugal doesn’t guarantee nationality. Under Article 1(1)(f), it depends on parents’ status at birth, residence, and absence of diplomatic service.
Portugal’s reform tightens immigration, limiting residence paths and affecting key labour sectors.
by Joana Loureiro Veríssimo 15 October 2025
Portugal’s Parliament approved a bill to tighten immigration laws, signaling a shift from flexible policies to stricter, more regulated migration controls.
Portugal’s State Budget Proposal for 2026
by António Pratas Nunes 13 October 2025
Portugal’s State Budget Proposal for 2026 continues the Government’s gradual approach to fiscal reform, maintaining stability while introducing selective tax relief for households and businesses.
Life changes in Portugal—students graduate, careers shift, and families seek more independence.
by Javier Mateo 8 October 2025
Changing residence permit types in Portugal is possible under Law 23/2007 and its regulation, if the legal framework is carefully applied to evolving situations.
Directors must manage the business and ensure legal compliance and protection of company's rights.
by Pedro Mofreita 3 October 2025
Company directors in Portugal have duties beyond the company, extending to creditors, shareholders, and third parties, depending on company type and structure.
More posts