Number of Americans in Portugal Increased Sevenfold Since 2017

The number of US nationals living in Portugal has skyrocketed since 2017, with the number of Americans in Portugal now seven times higher than in 2017. While each US national seeking to relocate to Portugal will have their own personal reasons, the strong US expat communities, the welcoming nature of the Portuguese, and high lifestyle benefits are among the crucial pull factors.

How many Americans now call Portugal home?

The former Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) registered 2,888 US nationals living in Portugal in 2017. Fast forward to 2014, according to data from the US Embassy based on records from the Portuguese Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA), the number now reaches 20,959.

In the last year alone, 4,800 new American residents were regularized, an increase of almost 50 percent when compared with 2023.

North Americans were at the top of visas granted under the Portugal Golden Visa, with 567 concessions. This data is also supported from data from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE), showing that in 2023 and 2024, US nationals requested the most visas for remote work, the D8 or Portugal Digital Nomad Visa.

If you are considering relocating to Portugal and want to know more about the residency options on the table, our residency and citizenship division, Global Citizen Solutions, are ready to assist you. Get in touch with the team today. 

Why are Americans moving to Portugal?

There are many reasons why Americans are choosing to relocate to Portugal, with each American in Portugal having a different motive for picking up sticks and enjoying the high quality of life that Portugal offers.

The range of American expats is also telling, with retirees, families, young professionals and high-net worth individuals each choosing to relocate Portugal. The cost of living is also much more affordable in Portugal, compared with the USA – the cost of living in Portugal is around 35 percent lower in Portugal – with everything from transportation costs to healthcare being cheaper.

Below are ten key reasons why Portugal has quickly become a hot topic amongst US nationals looking to relocate to Europe.

1. Climate

There’s no getting around the fact that Portugal has a fantastic climate, with more than 300 days of sunshine in much of the country and the possibility to enjoy the great outdoors for much of the year.

2. Expat community

Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto, now have established US expat communities and, alongside welcoming locals, it is easy to establish a close network of friends.

3. Politically stable and safe country

Portugal is a democratic country, with fair elections and progressive legislation, with the country also renowned for its safety – ranking in 7th position in the 2024 Global Peace Index.

4. English is widely spoken

While it helps to know basic Portuguese, many locals, particularly in the larger cities and the younger population, have excellent command of English. Portugal ranks in sixth position in the latest Global English Proficiency Index, ahead of countries such as Denmark and Germany.

5. Unique culture

The Portuguese culture is one-of-a-kind, with locals appreciating music, food, and literature. You’ll quickly get to know about the incredible Portuguese cuisine, fine wine, and lively festivals that take place throughout the year.

6. Thriving property market

Portugal’s real estate market has proved to be exceptionally resilient over the years, meaning that property investors will likely see strong returns on their investment.

7. Booming tech hub

Since Web Summit, the largest tech festival in the world, moved to Lisbon in 2016, Lisbon has become a center for startups, tech companies, and innovation. Porto, Braga, and, increasingly the Algarve, are also blossoming into sought-after tech hubs, with state-of-the-art co-working spaces and a plethora of passionate startups making their mark.

8. Residency options

From the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) that allows you to work remotely in Portugal, to the Portugal D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa), there are a wide range of residency options open to non-EU nationals. The Golden Visa is also a top choice, providing you with residency in return for an investment into the Portuguese economy.

9. Range of beautiful locations

From the sublime, golden beaches of the Algarve, to the bustling capital of Lisbon, there are many gorgeous spots in Portugal. If you are thinking about moving to Portugal, we recommend spending some time in the country to find the corner of the country that is right for you.

10. Excellent healthcare and education opportunities

Portugal’s healthcare system is excellent, with English widely spoken and the public service – the SNS – available at just a minimal cost to Portuguese residents, while private healthcare is also affordable and accessible. When it comes to education, with 51 international schools in the country, offering a range of languages, curricula, and learning styles, families will also be able to set their children up in the best way for the challenges of life.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You

Is Portugal on your mind? If you are an American considering relocating to Portugal, we’re here to help you get set up in Portugal.

Whether you are seeking out a rental property (for example, to use as proof of accommodation to secure residency in the country) or are seeking to hunt down your dream home in Portugal, we are here to make your property goals come true.