Why Move to Portugal: 6 Powerful Reasons to Relocate in 2025

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Thinking about making a big move to Portugal but still weighing your options? You’re not alone. More and more people from around the world are choosing Portugal as their new home and it’s easy to see why. From its sunny climate and delicious food to its relaxed lifestyle and welcoming culture, Portugal offers a unique blend of charm and opportunity. But beyond the lifestyle appeal, there are solid, data-backed reasons to move to Portugal. Whether you’re planning to invest, retire, work remotely, or simply start fresh, Portugal stands out as one of the most attractive destinations in Europe. So, is Portugal a good place to live? Absolutely and we’re here to show you why. Based on the latest insights from Portugal’s National Statistics Institute (2024 Statistical Yearbook), here are six key benefits of living in Portugal and why 2025 might be the perfect time to make your move.

1. Open Immigration Policies and a Welcoming Society

Unlike many European countries, Portugal doesn’t just accept immigrants, it actively needs them. In 2024, the country’s entire net population growth came from over 140,000 new arrivals. Immigration is now a driving force behind Portugal’s demographic and economic development.

This openness has shaped a genuinely inclusive society. Newcomers aren’t seen as outsiders, they’re welcomed as partners in progress. Whether you’re a family, retiree, or professional, this friendly environment makes it easier to settle in and feel at home.

What This Means for Investors (Golden Visa)

Portugal’s aging population, reflected in an aging index of 192.4, has created strong demand in the “silver economy,” especially in healthcare, wellness, and biotech. For Golden Visa applicants, this opens up long-term investment opportunities in sectors with real growth potential.

What This Means for Residents (D7/D8 Visa)

If you’re moving to Portugal through the D7 retirement visa or the D8 digital nomad visa, this demographic trend works in your favor. Retirees benefit from excellent elder care and public health services, while professionals and remote workers find a thriving job market hungry for talent. Portugal offers more than just residency, it offers a society that truly values your contribution.

2. A Stable Economy That Supports Life and Investment

One of the top reasons to move to Portugal is its economic stability. In 2024, Portugal’s GDP grew by 1.9%, driven by strong domestic consumption and a robust service sector. The country’s economy is diverse and resilient, not reliant on any single industry.

For Investors (Golden Visa)

Portugal’s focus on internal demand makes sectors like retail, housing, tourism, and services ideal for stable, local investment. As a member of the EU, Portugal also offers easy access to major markets like Spain, Germany, and France—making it a strategic base for expanding across Europe.

For Residents (D7/D8 Visa)

A stable economy means a stable lifestyle. With over 1.51 million active businesses and a 5.1% annual growth rate, Portugal’s job market is vibrant. The unemployment rate remains low at 6.4%, ensuring strong public services and financial sustainability. For retirees and remote workers, this translates into reliable healthcare, social support, and career opportunities.

3. A Real Estate Market with Long-Term Value

If you’re planning to move to Portugal, real estate is more than just a place to live, it’s a smart investment. In 2024, property prices rose by 9.0%, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. This growth reflects genuine demand and long-term value. With steady appreciation, attractive rental yields, and a lower cost of living compared to other European countries, Portugal is a top choice for both living and investing.

4. World-Class Quality of Life and Safety

When asking yourself, “is Portugal a good place to live?” Safety and quality of life are key and Portugal excels in both. According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, Portugal ranks 7th globally, making it one of the safest countries in Europe.

In terms of lifestyle, Portugal climbed to 6th place globally in 2025, surpassing countries like the Netherlands, UK, and Norway. Crime rates continue to drop, with a 4.6% national decrease in 2024, especially in traffic and property-related incidents. These stats reflect Portugal’s political stability, low crime, inclusive society, and high-quality public services. Whether you’re a solo expat, a family, or a retiree, Portugal offers peace of mind and a high standard of living.

5. A Thriving Hub for Everyone

If you’re looking for a place to work remotely or launch a startup, Portugal is a fantastic choice. The country boasts a fast-growing innovation ecosystem and strong digital infrastructure, attracting entrepreneurs and digital nomads from around the world. 

In 2024, Portugal saw a 16.3% startup birth rate, with over 1.51 million active businesses. Impressively, 62.6% of R&D spending came directly from companies, showing a strong market-driven focus on innovation. Government-backed tech parks and startup hubs, like Lisbon’s Startup Lisboa, Porto’s UPTEC, and Madeira’s Digital Nomad Village, offer co-working spaces, legal support, and community resources. These initiatives make it easier to start a business and enjoy a flexible, fulfilling lifestyle.

Furthermore, one of the most practical benefits of living in Portugal is its solid infrastructure. For families, retirees, and long-term residents, healthcare and education are essential, and Portugal delivers.

Portugal’s public-private healthcare system allows all legal residents to register with the National Health Service (SNS) and access affordable or free medical care. With 5.8 doctors and 7.9 nurses per 1,000 people, Portugal ranks well in Europe for healthcare access and quality.

In education, the public system covers everything from preschool to university, with many international schools offering English, French, or German curricula, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Portuguese universities are well-regarded in fields like engineering, business, medicine, and tech. The government is also integrating AI tools into education, enhancing learning and supporting local talent development.

6. Strategic Location and Full Access to Europe

Portugal isn’t just a great place to live, it’s a gateway to Europe. As a member of the EU, Schengen Area, and Eurozone, moving to Portugal gives you seamless access to European markets and lifestyles. With a Portuguese residence card, you can travel visa-free across 29 Schengen countries—perfect for business, tourism, or visiting family. Geographically, Portugal sits at the southwestern edge of Europe, bordering Spain and facing the Atlantic, with proximity to both the Americas and Africa.

Lisbon and Porto’s international airports offer direct flights to major European cities and intercontinental routes, making Portugal a key hub for global mobility. For immigrants seeking cultural diversity, business expansion, or European exploration, Portugal’s location and legal framework offer unmatched flexibility.

Final Thoughts: Your New Life in Portugal Starts Now

From demographics and economic resilience to real estate growth, lifestyle quality, and infrastructure, the data is clear—Portugal is built on a strong and diverse foundation. The benefits of moving to Portugal go far beyond scenic views and sunny weather. It’s about choosing a safe, comfortable, and sustainable environment for long-term living.

If you’re ready to turn these opportunities into reality, our expert team is here to support your journey. Whether you’re applying for a D7/ D8 visa, or the Golden Visa, we’ll help you navigate every step of the process.

Contact us today to create a personalized immigration plan, assist with visa applications, find your new home, and help you integrate smoothly into your new community.

We have helped more than 500 families on their Portugal Golden Visa journey. 

We are also the pioneer firm to help clients to invest through funds back from 2020 until now. Come talk with us.

Book Your Free Consultation Today
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