Your guide to being an expatriate in Portugal

Demographics of Portugal:

Religion Overview

Portugal has a predominantly Roman Catholic population, with about 78% of the population identifying as such. The rest of the population is composed of Protestants, Jews, and Muslims.

Major Religions

Climate

Portugal has a Mediterranean climate in the south, with hot summers and mild winters. The coastal areas have a cooler climate, while mountainous regions in the interior have a more continental climate.

Economy Overview

Portugal's economy is a mixture of industries and services, with a focus on exports such as textiles, footwear, wine, and food products. Notable companies in Portugal include Banco Santander and Efacec.

Key Industries

• Tourism
• Textiles and Apparel
• Food and Agriculture
• Automotive Industry
• Technology and Innovation

Major Companies

• Banco Santander
• Efacec
• Sonae
• Galp Energia
• Millennium bcp

Culture and Language Overview

Portuguese culture is rooted in history and tradition, with music, dance, and cuisine being key aspects of daily life. Festivals such as Carnaval and São João celebrate the country's heritage. Portuguese is the official language, and residents are generally highly literate with a strong education system.

Cultural Highlights

• Fado music
• The Alentejo plains
• Esofa - Bacalhôa Seafood Restaurant (Lisbon)
• Carnaval (Oporto)
• São João Festival (Porto)

Geography and Landmarks Overview

Portugal is characterized by a rugged coastline, rolling hills, and lush forests. Notable landmarks include the historic city of Évora, the azulejo-covered cloisters of Béxaro, and the beautiful beaches of Algarve.

Notable Landmarks

• Lisbon: Castelo de São Jorge, Alfama neighborhood, Pasteis de Belém pastry shop
• Porto: Clérigos Tower, Ribeira riverfront, Port Wine Cellars
• Évora: Roman Temple, Évora Cathedral, Université de Évora
• Béxaro: Convent of Christ, Batalha Monastery, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos de São Bento
• Algarve: Ponta da Piedade, Benagil Caves, Farol da Ponta da Bandeira

National Holidays

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Epiphany (January 6)
• Restoration of Independence Day (May 1)
• Corpus Christi
• Our Lady of the Sea (July 5)
• Our Lady of Mount Carmel (July 16)
• Saint James (July 25)
• Assumption Day (August 15)
• St. Teresa of Jesus (October 1)
• All Saints' Day (November 1)
• Republic Day (October 5)
• Immaculate Conception (December 8)
• Christmas Day (December 25)
• St. Stephen's Day (December 26)

Political Stability

Portugal has a stable democratic system, with a parliamentary republic format. The country has experienced economic challenges in recent years but has taken steps to address them. Major issues facing Portugal include reform of the education system, combating unemployment, and addressing the country's struggling health service.