The Year 2024 In Review

As 2024 draws to a close, it is the perfect moment to reflect on the significant events of the year. At Belion Partners, we have documented key changes that have shaped our business and influenced the broader landscape of life in Portugal.

First and foremost, we extend our congratulations to several Portuguese cities for their international recognition throughout 2024. At Belion Partners, we attentively monitor and document these achievements, which reflect positively on the country as a whole. 

According to the European Commission, Braga has been recognised as one of the top European cities to live in. The city stands out in various aspects, including its age-friendly environment, high-quality healthcare services, clean air, vibrant cultural facilities, LGBTIQ inclusiveness, and the overall sense of safety enjoyed by its residents.

The European Commission's Quality of Life Survey, now in its 6th edition, was designed to evaluate living conditions across various European cities. This extensive survey covered capital cities and major urban areas within the EU, EFTA, the UK, Turkey, and the Western Balkans. A total of 83 cities were included, with 70,000 interviews conducted to provide a comprehensive dataset.

Meanwhile, in the 2024 edition of Time Out magazine's "30 Coolest Streets" list, two Portuguese cities – Lisbon and Porto – were prominently featured. Rua da Boavista in Lisbon achieved the 7th place, while Rua Sá de Noronha in Porto secured the 16th spot.

Situated in Lisbon's Cais do Sodré area, Rua da Boavista has transformed beyond its origins as a nightlife destination. Today, it provides a diverse array of experiences suited to various lifestyles. From enjoying a relaxed family brunch and exploring chic boutiques to savouring an unforgettable dinner at its renowned restaurants, Rua da Boavista invites you to immerse yourself in its dynamic and vibrant ambience.

In Porto, Rua Sá de Noronha captures the city’s youthful and vibrant spirit. Known for its dynamic cultural offerings, including poetry readings and theatrical performances, it provides endless opportunities for discovery. For culinary enthusiasts, this street boasts exceptional dining experiences, allowing visitors to savour stunning cuisine in a setting that perfectly blends charm and sophistication.

Finally, Cascais, a coastal resort town near Lisbon, received the Green Destination Platinum award for its commitment to promoting sustainability both in the short and long term. This recognition highlights Cascais' exceptional environmental quality and its innovative approach to various municipal functions. The town’s dedication to sustainability benefits both residents and visitors, emphasising community engagement and the implementation of fair and effective ecological solutions.

Portuguese gastronomy also received international acclaim in 2024. The Michelin Gala, hosted by Catarina Furtado – a prominent figure in Portugal – spotlighted Portugal’s culinary excellence. As a result, Portugal now boasts 39 Michelin-starred restaurants, with 8 establishments earning two stars and 31 achieving one-star status.

Building on these local successes, Portugal has strengthened its position on the world stage across multiple domains - from education and safety to innovation and economic development.

Portugal ranks among the top 10 countries for English proficiency among non-native speakers, securing the 8th place. This ranking is provided by the EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), which analyses data from 2.2 million individuals across 113 countries worldwide.

The widespread proficiency in English within Portuguese society makes Portugal an attractive destination for foreigners, particularly those from English-speaking countries. This linguistic accessibility facilitates smoother communication and eases the transition for expatriates, enhancing their overall experience and integration into Portuguese culture.

Contact us! And learn more about Portugal.

Portugal ranks 7th in the world for safety, according to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI) report, published by the Institute for Economics and Peace. This high ranking as one of the safest countries worldwide enriches the quality of life in Portugal and significantly boosts its appeal as a destination for residents and visitors alike.

In 2024, Portugal also achieved a prominent position regarding its passport, ranking 3rd in the Nomad Passport Index (NPI). This global ranking assesses passports based on their freedom to travel and live in different countries. Additionally, the validity of the Portuguese passport will be extended from 5 years to 10 years, doubling its duration.

Regarding Portugal’s economy, The Financial Times, a renowned British newspaper, recently published its inaugural list of European start-up hubs, titled “Europe’s Leading Start-up Hubs”. Portugal is home to two technology hubs within the Top 10: Startup Braga, which holds the 7th spot, and Startup Lisboa – Unicorn Lisbon Factory, which ranks in 10th place.

2024 marked a pivotal year in Portuguese politics, combining historical commemoration with significant electoral changes that have reshaped our country's direction.

Firstly, the country celebrated its 50th anniversary as a democracy. On the 25th of April 1974, a military coup ended the authoritarian regime that had ruled Portugal, an event known as the Carnation Revolution.

In March, Portugal held general elections, resulting in a notable political shift from left to right. The Democratic Alliance (AD), a right-wing coalition formed by the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the People’s Party (CDS), emerged as the winner. The Socialist Party (PS), which previously held a majority, now ranks as the second-largest political force.

Portugal also held regional elections in the Azores, an autonomous region located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. 

In the international political landscape, the US election has garnered significant attention in the global media. With Donald Trump’s victory, many US citizens have begun exploring options for relocation, and Portugal has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations.

AIMA’s 2024 migration report states that US citizens are the leading nationality in securing Portuguese Golden Visa. This demonstrates the growing interest that citizens of the United States have in living in Portugal.

Another highly desired Portuguese visa is the D7 visa, which has gained popularity due to its affordability. This visa option is especially attractive for retirees, remote workers, and those with stable passive income, offering a pathway to residency in Portugal without the need for significant financial investment. As a result, the D7 visa has become an appealing choice for individuals seeking a cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of living in Portugal.

If the Portuguese visas has piqued your interest, contact us – we are here to offer our assistance.