Portugal's Migration Surge: OECD Claims 130% Rise While INE Reports Decline
OECD data point to a record surge in migrants to Portugal in 2025, but the country’s own statistics agency paints a contrasting picture of decline.
📌 Key Highlights & Context
- OECD reports 319,000 long‑term immigrants in 2025, a 130% increase over 2024
- INE records 254,000 immigrants for the same year, 140,000 fewer than 2024
- 12% of newcomers come from other EU states, 75% arrive for employment
OECD’s striking figures
The Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development (OECD) announced that 319,000 long‑term immigrants settled in Portugal in 2025, marking a 130% rise compared with the previous year. The report highlights the growing attractiveness of Portugal’s migration policies and labour market.
INE’s contrasting data
Portugal’s National Statistics Institute (INE) published a different picture, counting 254,000 immigrants in 2025 and noting a decrease of 140,000 compared with 2024. INE attributes the drop to return migration and recent changes in visa regulations.
Profile of the newcomers
According to OECD, 12% of the 2025 arrivals were from other EU member states, while 75% came for employment purposes, underscoring a demand for skilled labour.
- Employment‑driven migrants are concentrated in technology and services sectors.
- EU citizens benefit from freedom of movement, easing settlement in Portugal.
- The data discrepancy urges policymakers to improve statistical coherence.