Voluntary Return Requests Surge Over 40% in Portugal
Rising living costs, job scarcity and housing pressures are prompting more migrants to consider leaving Portugal, driving voluntary return applications up by more than 40% this year.
📌 Key Highlights & Context
- Over 2,000 migrants have sought support since 2020, including 1,767 Brazilians.
- Monthly average requests increased from 55 to 79 in 2025‑2026, a rise of over 40%.
- The IOM‑run ARVoRe scheme provides administrative, logistical and financial aid for those wishing to return.
Voluntary return programme and rising demand
High living costs, unemployment and a tight housing market are accelerating migrants' decisions to leave Portugal. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) runs the ARVoRe programme, offering administrative, logistical and financial support to those who want to return.
Statistics and trends
Since 2020 more than 2,000 migrants – 1,767 of them Brazilians – have applied for assistance. Between 2025 and 2026 the monthly average rose from 55 to 79, a growth of over 40%.
- The surge reflects mounting economic and social pressures.
- The programme eases the return process with financial aid and logistical support.
- The Portuguese government now faces pressure to reassess its migration policies.
Sources
Retorno voluntário: pedidos de apoio para regressar ao país de origem sobem mais de 40% em Portugal