Portugal is most definitely a country which is on the up, with the population growing and a flourishing economy.  While there are large areas of the country dedicated to tourism and holiday makers, there are climatic differences between the north and southern ends of the nation.  However, on average it is still one of the warmest European states, perhaps one of the main reasons why the country is seeing net immigration grow with more Expats moving and living in Portugal . 

The history of Portugal is both interesting and varied, having under gone a series of wars and battles to cement independence, before releasing explorers to all areas of the globe.  The country also has the longest standing alliance of all time, having signed an agreement of co-operation with England in 1373.

Content: Culture in Portugal | Employment in Portugal | Property in Portugal | State Benefits in Portugal | Key Facts on Portugal

Culture in Portugal

Portugal is well known for its explorers who sailed the world in search of land and treasure, and the country also has a great affection for literature and music.  The country also introduced a number of renowned artists, many of whom are still held in high esteem to this very day.  

Food and Football are also deeply ingrained into the Portuguese way of life, with Football compared to more of a religion than sport.  The country is also very well known for its love of fine wine and fine food.  Portugal is a country which is very proud of its culture which is evident in the way this it is celebrated.  The people themselves are very friendly, offering a warm welcome to visitors from overseas.

Employment in Portugal

Prior to joining the European Union in 1986, Portugal had experienced a very volatile and unpredictable economic path.  Successive governments have however used the stable environment of the EU to implement a number of far reaching changes which have brought the economy where it is today.

Able to compete, and often better, some of its larger neighbours, Portugal has excelled in areas such as oil refineries,  cement production and furniture to name only a small selection.  The economic environment has been very well controlled by successive governments and many expect further growth in the short to medium term.

The flourishing economic environment and the fact that unemployment is only 6.5% has attracted a number of foreign nations to settle in Portugal.  The country now has a growing foreign community from former Indian and African colonies to Eastern Europeans and Brazilians who have made Portugal their home.  There is also a rapidly expanding Chinese community who have added both there traditional working and living practices to the culture of the country.

Property in Portugal

Portuguese property has been a hot area for some time, due to the improving economy and the favourable tax situation which has been installed by a government looking to attract inward investment.  This has resulted in a substantial increase in property prices over the last few years, although compared to other European destinations there is still great value around.

The holiday trade has also opened up a variety of property markets with many overseas visitors looking to invest in holiday homes.  This has created hot spots within some of the more popular holiday destinations, giving rise to substantial price increases.  The overall property market is still in its infancy, with the country only falling within the investment community radar since joining the European Union.

What does the future hold? Well, with a very sympathetic government looking to attract new visitors and inward investment, and the favourable comparisons against other European countries, many are forecasting good times ahead for Portuguese property.

State Benefits in Portugal

The Portuguese income tax system is similar to that of the UK, with a pay as you earn (PAYE) set-up where tax is deducted at source.  While income tax is a little lower than most other European countries, when adding in the social security element the overall impact is very similar.

Once all of your employment paperwork is in place, and you have begun paying taxes to the state, you will then become entitles to the full range of potential benefits including, health care, sickness, retirement, disability, pension, maternity, etc.  

Due to the fact that unemployment is only at 6.5% the cost of the Portuguese state benefits system is only a fraction of some countries such as Italy where problems are deep seated.  As the economy continues to grow and tax income increase, additional investment into services and benefits should continue.

Conclusion

While Portugal was often the quiet partner of the Europe Union, the country is showing many counterparts how to control and expand an economy which is still in relative infancy.  The employment figures are impressive, the economy is growing and the property market is still in demand.

Taking all of this into account, as well as the attractive climate and friendly nationals, Portugal is a place which may appeal to many.  A country which is definitely on the up!

More facts about Portugal :-

Capital : Lisbon

Official Language : Portuguese

Government : Parliamentary democracy with a President and Prime Minister.

Size : 92,391 km2

Population :  10.6 million

Currency : Euro

International Dialling Code : +351

Economy : 22nd largest in the world

Religion : Predominately Roman Catholic