Local culture in Portugal

Regardless of whether you're moving to Portugal for leisure or for integration into the business environment, you're likely to take some time to adjust to the local culture in Portugal. Learning about certain differences beforehand can help you get a jump start on the process of settling in.

Greetings in Portugal

Unlike most Western countries, Portugal still takes a more formal approach to addressing individuals. The use of 'Senhor' (Mr) or 'Senhora' (Mrs) in front of a name is common practice, especially among older generations. To be polite, you should take care to address locals in this manner until you are on more familiar terms.

Shaking hands and kissing on both cheeks is the common greeting. Men shake hands at even the shortest of meetings, and more reserved expats will find it odd that strangers will often kiss them on both cheeks. Men don't commonly kiss each other unless there is a great display of affection or joy.

Bureaucracy in Portugal

Portugal is well known for its relaxed, slow pace of life that usually sounds appealing until it leads to frustration and exasperation. Bureaucratic processes can be long and tedious, often marked by redundant paperwork. This can be unnerving when opening bank accounts, filing tax information or applying for residency.

Since this is something you can't change, it's best to adopt an attitude of patience and acceptance. Adjusting expectations before embarking on a bureaucratic task can help temper frustration.

Language barrier in Portugal

Language is probably one of the biggest areas affecting those moving to Portugal. Thousands of expats live outside the main centres, typically causing them to feel isolated and without the opportunity to socialise with locals. 

In many Portuguese towns, there are schools or organisations offering free or low-cost Portuguese language classes, with options for everyone from beginners to more advanced speakers. In addition to helping new arrivals get to grips with the basics of the Portuguese language, these courses are also great for meeting fellow expats.

Learning the language is a key element to feeling more at home in Portugal, managing your way through the system and, of course, being able to share conversations with the locals. It is also a key element to help you integrate more smoothly and feel like less of an outsider.

LGBTQ+ in Portugal

Portugal is widely regarded as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world. It has progressive laws and strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, and the country has comprehensive anti-discrimination laws. 

Lisbon and Porto, in particular, have thriving LGBTQ+ communities, with an exciting nightlife scene, pride events, and LGBTQ+-friendly businesses. While social acceptance is generally high, particularly among younger generations, public displays of affection between same-sex couples can still attract occasional stares or discomfort in more conservative or rural areas. Overall, expats will find Portugal an inclusive and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ individuals, with a strong emphasis on equality and human rights.

Diversity and Inclusion in Portugal has more information on being LGBTQ+ in the country.

Women in Portugal

Women in Portugal enjoy a relatively high degree of equality, but challenges remain, particularly in the workplace. While the country has made progress in gender equality, a wage gap persists, with women earning approximately 13 percent less than men on average. 

In professional settings, women are well represented, though men still hold most leadership roles. Socially, Portugal is considered a safe country for women, and many expat women report feeling comfortable walking alone, even at night, without experiencing harassment. However, like in many places, occasional catcalling or unwanted attention can occur, particularly in larger cities, though it is generally not aggressive.

Learn more about women in leadership in Diversity and Inclusion in Portugal.