Portugal attracts expats with high quality of life despite weak job market

Portugal continues to attract a diverse range of international residents, though the motivations and professional experiences of expats vary significantly. According to the 2026 Expat Insider survey by InterNations, the country ranks highly for quality of life, placing 11th globally. It performs particularly well in areas such as personal finance, ease of settling in, and overall lifestyle, with many residents citing climate, safety, and air quality as primary draws.

While the country is a popular destination for retirees and families seeking a safer environment and outdoor-oriented lifestyle, the professional landscape presents challenges. Portugal ranked 29th out of 31 destinations in the Working Abroad Index. Foreign residents reported low satisfaction with the local job market and career prospects, with only 19% rating the job market positively.

Despite difficulties with job security and bureaucracy, Portugal maintains a strong reputation for work-life balance, ranking 16th. The shift in demographics shows an increasing number of British families relocating to regions like the Algarve, Lisbon, and Cascais, driven by the desire for a different environment to raise children.