Why are so many Brazilians migrating to Portugal?

Brazil - February 10, 2025

Located in a strategic position between Europe, the United States and South America, Portugal is attracting more and more Brazilians thanks to its high quality of life, affordability, security and strong historical ties with Brazil.

The country is already home to more than 400,000 Brazilians, many in search of stability in the face of violence and economic instability in Brazil. It is also one of the ten safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index.

While many Brazilians settle permanently, others keep a frequent flow, using Lisbon and Porto as strategic hubs. Whether it's to visit family members - especially those of Portuguese descent -, explore business opportunities or establish a base in Europe, Portugal remains a prime destination.
This growing movement is also reflected in the interest in the Golden Visa, with Brazilians accounting for 9.88% of the visas issued until September 2023. They are currently the largest foreign community in the country, accounting for 35.3% of immigrants and consolidating their position as the second largest group of investors, behind only the Chinese.

The strong Brazilian presence reinforces the cultural, linguistic and historical ties between the two countries, making adaptation even more natural for those seeking a new life in Portugal.

Although this trend of Brazilians moving to Portugal is not new, let's take a closer look at the most recent factors driving this record interest among Brazilian emigrants:‍

Security and stability - A life without fear

Growing polarization and political instability in Brazil have led many Brazilians to seek a safer and more stable environment for their families and finances.
Political and social violence remains high, while the government faces ongoing challenges in fighting crime. In addition, deep-rooted corruption in the upper echelons and a lack of government transparency reinforce the population's disenchantment.

Portugal, on the other hand, presents the opposite scenario, with exceptional security standards. In 2024, it remained the seventh safest country in the world, even after the revision of the Global Peace Index criteria. In contrast, Brazil ranked 131st out of 163 countries. With a significantly lower crime rate, Portugal has established itself as a safe haven in an increasingly unstable and unpredictable world.

Similar language - ease of communication

The common language and historical roots between Brazil and Portugal make the country a naturally attractive destination for Brazilian immigrants. These similarities make adaptation more fluid, providing a sense of familiarity and belonging that is difficult to find elsewhere. Although there are regional variations in vocabulary, pronunciation and expressions, these are subtle given the ease of communication that Portugal offers.

Visa-free travel - a gateway to Europe and the world For Brazilians who move to Portugal or invest in the Golden Visa - without a residency requirement - one of the great attractions is the easy access to travel through the Schengen Area and other destinations, often without the need for a visa. In addition, after five years, beneficiaries of the program can apply for permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship, guaranteeing mobility and the privileges of a European passport.

For those who acquire Portuguese citizenship, the advantages extend significantly, with the passport allowing visa-free entry or visa on arrival in more than 190 countries and territories around the world.

In 2025, Portugal will continue to be a highly desirable destination for foreign investors, families and individuals looking for a new home, a second residence or pure investment. If current trends continue, the country will continue to attract thousands of Brazilians in search of quality of life and opportunities.

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