5 reasons why you should consider working in Portugal

The HSBC Expat Explorer Survey revealed that Portugal ranks 16th worldwide as the best destination for expats. Thanks to this result Portugal leapfrogs normally high-ranking countries such as France (23rd), UK (35th) or Italy (38th). Despite an economic contraction due to the 2008 global financial crisis, Portugal remained a popular destination for expats, attracting international candidates from all over the world with its bright blue skies, great food, and excellent opportunities for expat professionals. However, these are not the only advantages of starting your professional journey in Portugal. Take a look below where we present five reasons why you should consider starting your career in Portugal.

1. The quality of life

According to the HSBC Expat Insider 2017, Portugal has the best quality of life worldwide for expats.

Quality of life in this instance is measured by safety and security, well-being, personal happiness, alongside travel and transport. The survey indicates that 93% of expats living in Portugal are satisfied with their life there, and describe it as a very easy place to settle in. in fact, 89% of respondents confirm that they are generally happy with their working life and their work life balance.  

2. Health

Nearly two-third (65%) of expats in Portugal consider the climate to be excellent, a huge difference compared to the global average of 26% - and a solid indicator of the country’s popularity (9/10 expats say this is a known benefit before relocating). However, good weather is not only a beneficial aspect in terms of free-time activities. Portugal ranks 9th globally in health & well-being, which could be attributed to the benefits of nature. Furthermore, Portugal’s public healthcare system has an excellent reputation, with 94% of expats answering positively in the Expert Inside 2017 study on the Portuguese health environment.

3. Social & Professional Life

Portuguese people are well known for being welcoming, effusive and justifiably proud of the place they call home. Learning the local language is an additional plus, not only for your integration, but also for your professional life, since Portugal and its much larger sister Brazil are considered emerging markets in business terms. However, if you are a high-level or native English speaker you will have a head start, because according to the EF English Proficiency Index, Portugal ranks 18th out of 80 countries in terms of English skills. Have a drink in Lisbon’s famous bar district Bairro Alto and get to know your new local and international friends.  

4. Culture

Portugal not only scores well with an attractive offer of entertaining districts to while the nights away in, but also with its rich and varied cultural history. Lisbon and Porto are hotspots, combining Mediterranean charm with metropolitan atmospheres. After treating your aesthetical senses with the famous Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, or by climbing up the historical castle of Palácio Nacional da Pena, it is time for you to explore expat life with local insights. Enjoy a classic Portuguese meal in the tavern Bairro do Avillez, a glass of red in the famous Sky Bar at the Tivoli Lisboa, or maybe relaxation at the sandy beach of Cascais, just a 30 minute walk from the center.

If you found your dream job in Porto you will not suffer from a lack of cultural enrichment, as the old town of Porto “Oporto” is an official World Cultural Heritage site, and is home to the famous Porto wine.

5. Cost of living

The cost of living in Portugal is relatively low compared to other destinations in Europe. Expats will pay less for almost all basics including accommodation, food, transport and utilities. A furnished apartment can be found for EUR 500 (depending on location and city), and many expats use the chance to buy low-cost property.

Are you curious about exploring Portugal? Check out our vacancies for international talents in Shared Service Centers and challenge your business skills for the benefit of your future career.