Portugal: Great Place to Live, but Work-Life Balance Lags in New Expat Survey

What happened

The 2026 edition of InterNations' Expat Insider annual survey ranked Portugal 8th out of 31 destinations. The country was described as a great place to live but a poor one to work. Portugal trailed Spain, which came in 6th.

Why it matters for international residents

For those considering or already living in Portugal, the survey highlights a split between overall quality of life and career opportunities. International residents may find the lifestyle attractive but face challenges in the local job market, working conditions, or career development. This could impact relocation decisions or expectations.

What to do next

If you are an international resident or planning to move, carefully assess your employment situation. Research specific industries and talk to other expats about their work experiences. Consider remote work or consulting options that allow you to enjoy Portugal's living environment while maintaining career satisfaction. Keep in mind the survey's findings are general; individual experiences vary.

Sources

• Essential Business: "Portugal great place to live, bad to work" (published 2026-08-24)
• InterNations Expat Insider 2026 (as referenced in the article)