7 Reasons to Move to Portugal in 2025: Official Data Reveals New Opportunities for Investment and Residency

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Are you searching for a European country that offers both a captivating lifestyle and a solid economic foundation? Every year, thousands of people turn their attention to Portugal, but beyond the sunshine, cuisine, and friendly locals, what is the country’s real appeal?

We decided to look past the sentiment and dive deep into the latest Statistical Yearbook of Portugal 2024, published on 23 July 2025, released by the National Institute of Statistics (INE). The official data reveals seven powerful reasons why 2025 is the perfect time to invest in Portugal, apply for the Golden Visa, or start a new life with the D7/D8 Visa.

a couple having a picnic in Sintra

1. A Nation That Truly Welcomes and Needs You

Many countries welcome immigrants, but Portugal structurally needs them. Official data shows that the country’s population growth in 2024 was driven entirely by a net migration of over 143,000 people. This has created an exceptionally friendly social environment where new residents are seen as a valuable force driving the nation’s development, not as outsiders. This is crucial for individuals and families hoping to integrate quickly into a local community.

  • Implications for Investors (Golden Visa): The aging ratio is high at 192.4 (192.4 elderly for every 100 young people). This signals immense opportunities in the “Silver Economy,” including healthcare, medical technology, senior care services, biotechnology, and wellness industries. This demographic trend creates a structural, long-term demand, offering a guaranteed market for expansion over the next 20-30 years. Investment funds focused on these sectors are poised to benefit from this demographically assured growth.
  • Implications for Residents (D7/D8 Visas): The structural need for new residents translates into a genuinely welcoming social environment for immigrants. For retirees (D7), this means a well-established service infrastructure catering to a large peer group. For professionals and digital nomads (D8), it signifies a labor market with real demand for skilled talent, facilitating professional integration and career opportunities.

2. A Rock-Solid and Stable Economy

For investors and residents seeking stability, economic resilience is paramount. In 2024, Portugal’s GDP posted a steady 1.9% growth, powered primarily by strong local consumption. This means the Portuguese economy has a “safety cushion,” making it less dependent on any single industry and more resilient to external risks. This provides confidence for anyone looking to invest in Portugal.

  • Implications for Investors: An economy powered by strong domestic demand is more resilient to external shocks. This provides a “safety cushion” for local-facing investments in sectors like retail, services, and residential real estate. Furthermore, Portugal is deeply integrated into the EU, with Spain, Germany, and France accounting for 50.4% of its total exports, offering privileged access to the vast European market.
  • Implications for Residents: Economic stability ensures the continuity of public services and supportive integration policies. The active labor market, with over 1.51 million active enterprises (+5.1% YoY) and a low unemployment rate of 6.4%, constitutes a vibrant and opportunity-rich environment.

3. A Continuously Appreciating Real Estate Market

The Portugal real estate market continues to capture the attention of global investors, and the yearbook confirms why: in 2024, the official House Price Index rose by 9.0%. This reflects genuine market demand and strong potential for asset appreciation, which is an extremely positive signal for investors considering the Golden Visa through investment funds with real estate exposure.

4. World-Class Safety and Quality of Life

Portugal’s quality of life and safety record are among its brightest calling cards, and this is backed by data, not just reputation. In 2024, the overall crime rate fell by 4.6%, with significant decreases in traffic-related offenses that impact daily life. For those seeking retirement with the D7 Visa or moving with family, this means a genuinely peaceful environment where you can feel secure.

5. An Innovation Hub for Entrepreneurs and Digital Nomads

If you are an entrepreneur or a remote worker, Portugal’s dynamic business environment provides fertile ground. The country is home to over 1.51 million active companies, with a high new business birth rate. More importantly, a remarkable 62.6% of all R&D spending is executed by the business sector, showing a tight link between innovation and the market. This is highly attractive for applicants of the D8 Visa (Digital Nomad Visa).

6. Accessible, High-Quality Healthcare and Education

For families, healthcare and education are top priorities. Portugal offers a robust healthcare system with 5.8 doctors and 7.9 nurses per 1,000 inhabitants. In education, its higher education graduates are concentrated in high-value fields like “Business & Law” (22.0%) and “Engineering & Technology” (18.5%). This not only provides an excellent educational path for your children but also ensures a talented workforce is available for businesses investing in Portugal.

7. A Strategic Gateway to Europe

Investing or living in Portugal means you have all of Europe at your doorstep. The country is deeply integrated into the EU economy, with strong trade relationships with Spain, Germany, and France. Whether you aim to expand your business across the continent or simply want to explore different European cultures on the weekend, Portugal offers unparalleled access and convenience.

Your Future in Portugal Starts Today

This official data clearly shows that Portugal’s appeal is built on a solid foundation. It is more than just a beautiful country; it is a smart decision.

If you are ready to turn these opportunities into your reality, whether by investing for a Golden Visa or moving with a residency visa, our expert team at The Golden Portugal is here to guide you. Get in touch with us today to start planning your successful journey to Portugal.

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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