Portugal, with one of Europe’s oldest populations, is experiencing significant labour shortages in food and hospitality, manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and IT sectors. Eurostat reports that the elderly population increased from 23.7% in 2022 to 24% in 2023, worsening the issue. Recent data shows a projected decline in unemployment rates due to migration. The European Labour Authority lists 31 high-demand professions. Foreign workers, especially in roles like garden labourers, truck drivers, welders, plumbers, IT specialists, healthcare professionals, and hospitality staff, have improved chances of securing work visas in Portugal.
