Is Portugal safe to live? 2025 safety guide for expats

Is Portugal safe to live? For many Americans and other expats, this is the first question before planning a move abroad. Safety affects where you live, how you travel, and whether you feel at home in a new country.

Global indexes rank Portugal well above the United States and much of Europe for low crime, political stability, and quality of life. For expats, this means fewer risks and a more predictable environment when starting fresh overseas.

In this article, you’ll find clear answers on crime rates, natural disaster risks, emergency services, and the safest places to live in Portugal. By the end, you’ll know what to expect before you move.

TL;DR — is Portugal safe to live? (2025 quick guide)

• Global Safety Ranking:

• 7th safest country globally (Global Peace Index 2025)

• Crime rate fell 5.7% in 2024; homicide rate 0.8 per 100k vs. 6.8 in the U.S.

• Crime Trends:

• Petty theft is most common in tourist areas.

• Violent crime remains rare; major cities have moderate risk, rural towns lowest.

• Political & Social Stability:

• Stable democracy, low unrest risk, strong rule of law, and a welcoming society to migrants.

• Economy growing: 1.6% in 2025 forecast, unemployment at 6.4%.

• Emergency Services:

• 112 for police, fire, medical (English support available).

• Public + private healthcare options, 2024 Health Emergency Plan improving response times.

• Natural Disaster Risks:

• Wildfires, floods, and mild earthquakes occur but with strong prevention systems.

• Early-warning alerts and modern building codes reduce risks.

• Best Places for Expats:

• Families: Coimbra, Braga

• Retirees: Cascais, Algarve towns like Tavira

• Digital Nomads: Lisbon, Porto

• Visa & Legal Safety:

• D7 Visa for retirees, D8 a.k.a. Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers.

• Clear path to residency and citizenship after 5 years.

• Daily Safety Tips:

• Use licensed taxis/Uber, avoid unlit areas at night, and secure valuables in tourist zones.

• Apply for visas, banking, rentals only through official channels to avoid scams.

Portugal’s global safety profile

Portugal ranks 7th worldwide and 5th within Europe In the Global Peace Index 2025. 

A 2025 ranking by insurer William Russell also lists Portugal as the 7th safest country for expats. Numbeo’s 2025 Safety Score places it at 67.9%, above Spain, Italy, and France, and well ahead of the United States at 50.8%.

Crime data supports these rankings. Portugal’s general crime rate fell from 35 per 1,000 residents in 2023 to 33 in 2024. That is a 5.71% decrease in one year. The HelloSafe Travel Rankings 2025 place Portugal 15th globally and 12th in Europe for overall safety. In contrast, Italy and France rank 33th and 34th, respectively.

So, is Portugal safe to live? These rankings suggest the answer is yes, with consistently strong scores across multiple safety metrics. 

What makes Portugal one of europe’s safest countries

Here’s how politics, culture, and infrastructure contribute to Portugal’s reputation for safety.

Political and social stability

Portugal has a stable political environment, a major point for people asking how safe Portugal is when thinking about relocation. The World Bank’s 2023 Political Stability Index gives the country a score of 0.71, well above the global average of 0.06. This means the chance of political unrest or sudden changes that disrupt daily life is very low.

Portugal also ranks in the top quarter worldwide for democratic representation, rule of law, and civil rights. Laws are applied consistently, and civil liberties are well protected, which helps build trust for residents and newcomers alike.

The economy also supports a steady living environment. Real household income increased in 2024, and forecasts expect 1.6% growth in 2025 and 2.2% in 2026. Inflation is likely to stay near 2%, helping maintain the value of wages and savings.

The labor market and fiscal outlook also remain stable. Unemployment stayed at 6.4% in early 2025, and Portugal’s credit rating improved to A with a positive outlook, thanks to strong financial management.

Cultural factors contributing to safety

Safety in Portugal is shaped not only by laws and institutions but also by the way communities work. People often know their neighbors and look out for one another. It helps keep public spaces calm and welcoming for newcomers.

Drug-related crime is also limited. Portugal changed its public health approach in 2001 and started handling drug use as a health issue instead of a crime. The change reduced overdose deaths and lowered drug-related crimes, which helps keep neighborhoods safer.

Respect for law enforcement adds to the sense of order. Police maintain a visible presence in cities, and residents usually cooperate with them. 

Millions of visitors come to Portugal every year, so public areas are designed with safety in mind. Tourist zones have regular police patrols, clear signage, and well-lit streets. Expats benefit from these same measures, whether they live in busy city neighborhoods or near popular coastal towns.

Infrastructure and emergency preparedness

Portugal runs a nationwide healthcare system through the National Health Service (SNS), with hospitals and clinics in both cities and smaller towns. Expats have access to routine care and emergency services close to where they live.

Emergency calls go through 112, the single national number for police, fire, and medical help. Regional centers coordinate ambulances, air transport, and rapid-response teams to reach people quickly when needed.

In May 2024, Portugal launched the Health Emergency and Transformation Plan to expand staff, cut waiting times, and strengthen critical and mental health care. Authorities update emergency protocols each year to improve crisis planning and hospital coordination. These updates keep the healthcare system prepared for both everyday needs and large-scale emergencies.

Portugal’s safety risks expats should know

If you’re asking how safe is Portugal to live, it helps to understand the main risks you may encounter and how Portugal manages them.

Common crime types and how to avoid them

Portugal has a lower overall crime rate than many European countries, but some offenses occur more often in busy city centers and tourist areas. Here are the main crimes reported recently and how to stay safe:

• Petty theft often happens in crowded places like trams, train stations, and tourist landmarks. Police data from 2024 shows theft makes up a large share of urban crime reports, so keep bags secure and stay alert in busy areas.

• Scams such as fake rental listings and phishing emails often target newcomers in Lisbon and Porto. Many scams use unverified ads or suspicious payment links, so double-check property details and sources carefully before sending any money.

• Cybercrime rose from 2,124 complaints in 2022 to 2,916 in 2023, with phishing and ransomware leading the trend. Using strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and updated antivirus software reduces the risk significantly.

• Violent incidents like robberies and assaults remain rare and make up a small fraction of reported crime. Sticking to well-lit areas at night and calling 112 in emergencies keeps you on the safe side.

Natural disaster risks and preparedness

Portugal experiences natural hazards, but they tend to be smaller in scale than those in high-risk areas of the United States. The main risks are:

• Wildfires often affect central and northern Portugal during hot, dry summers. In 2023, fires burned about 36,000 hectares, compared to 100,000 hectares in 2017, Portugal’s worst year on record. The government now uses firefighting aircraft, local brigades, military units, and EU satellite systems for faster detection and response.

• Earthquakes occur because Portugal lies near the Azores-Gibraltar fault line. Most earthquakes are small or moderate. Larger ones in recent decades struck offshore, away from major cities. Lisbon and the Algarve now follow strict building codes to limit damage from future events.

• Floods affect urban areas after heavy winter rains, especially in Lisbon and Porto. Drainage systems and flood barriers built in recent years have reduced the risk of serious damage.

• Early warning systems send out Metro alarm alerts, civil protection text messages, and evacuation instructions in high-risk areas so people can act quickly before fires, floods, or storms become dangerous.

Compared with California’s wildfires or hurricane zones in the United States, Portugal faces fewer and less severe natural disasters. Ongoing investment in prevention and emergency response continues to improve safety in both cities and rural areas, making it a good place to live in 2025.

Traffic and transportation safety

Portugal’s roads are safer than before, but accidents and risks still affect daily travel. Here is what recent data shows:

• Road fatalities in Portugal reached 634 in 2024, down slightly from 642 in 2023. This equals 60 deaths per 100,000 people, higher than the EU average of 45. Norway and Sweden report fewer than 20 deaths per million, making them Europe’s leaders in road safety. In the first half of 2025, deaths in Portugal fell to 157, a 7% drop from the same period in 2024. 

• Collisions and injuries in the first half of 2025 included 17,900 crashes with 1,257 serious injuries and 20,795 minor injuries. In all of 2024, accidents cost Portugal about €5.5B, or 2% of GDP.

Safest places to live in Portugal

Now let’s break down regional safety patterns to help answer if Portugal is a safe country and see which cities work best for different expat needs.

Regional safety overview

Northern Portugal, with cities like Braga and Porto, consistently shows some of the lowest crime rates. As you move south through Central Portugal, places like Coimbra offer a similar sense of security but with fewer seasonal shifts in activity. The Algarve, in the far south, also remains safe overall, though its busy tourist towns can see more petty theft during the summer months.

Coastal areas often have more police coverage and better access to services, which helps keep crime low even where populations are larger. Inland regions such as Alentejo report fewer incidents and provide quieter surroundings, appealing to people looking for slower, low-risk environments.

Urban centers such as Lisbon and Porto record more cases because they are larger and busier. Smaller towns and rural areas report fewer crimes but sometimes have slower emergency response. For expats, mid-sized towns offer a middle ground: safer than big cities but with enough infrastructure to feel connected and secure.

Safest Cities for Different Expat Profiles

Here’s a closer look at the safest cities in Portugal based on different expat needs and lifestyles.

For families with children

If you plan to move with children, Coimbra and Braga stand out for their low crime rates and strong local services. 

In Coimbra, you will find schools, healthcare, and quiet neighborhoods within easy reach. Braga offers the same sense of security along with parks and family activities that make it easy to build a routine. Both cities give you peace of mind while keeping you connected to the rest of the country.

For retirees

If you are retiring in Portugal, Cascais and towns across the Algarve stand out. Cascais provides a safe, relaxed environment with reliable healthcare nearby and quick train access to Lisbon when needed. 

Algarve towns like Tavira offer the same low crime levels along with coastal walking paths and a slower pace of life. Retirees here benefit from both security and lifestyle comfort.

For digital nomads and Young professionals

Lisbon and Porto are the top choices for remote workers and young professionals. Lisbon’s central districts balance busy work hubs with moderate crime levels, so you can enjoy coworking spaces and nightlife without feeling unsafe. 

Porto has a well-known cultural scene and a steady decline in crime. Newcomers often find it a safe place to work and build a business.

Legal and administrative safety for expats

For anyone asking if Portugal is a safe place to live, here’s what you need to know about visas, legal rights, and avoiding scams during relocation.

Visa security and legal protections

Portugal’s visa system gives newcomers a clear legal path, from temporary stay to permanent residency and citizenship. If you want to move for long-term, two visas stand out:

• D7 Visa: Best for retirees or anyone with a stable income from pensions, investments, or rentals.

• D8 Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers earning at least four times Portugal’s minimum wage from outside the country.

Both visas start with a residence permit that lasts two years, renewable for three more. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship if you meet language and residency rules.

Once you receive a residence permit, you can open bank accounts, sign rental contracts, register for health services, and enroll in Portugal’s tax system. The new NHR 2.0 regime, launched in 2024, offers tax benefits for certain professionals, retirees, and entrepreneurs, though rules are stricter than before.

Government agencies oversee the visa process and give you the right to appeal if a renewal or application faces delays. This structure keeps your status secure while you live and work in Portugal.

Avoiding bureaucratic and financial scams

Moving to Portugal involves paperwork, contracts, and financial steps. Each step has clear official channels so it helps to know how to avoid common traps.

Start with visa applications. Apply through Portugal’s immigration service (AIMA) or the consulate in your home country. Their websites list all fees and documents. If someone asks for cash or promises approval without paperwork, it is likely a scam.

For banking and tax ID (NIF), go to a major bank or the local tax office. Opening a bank account in Portugal always requires your passport, proof of address, and NIF. Banks never ask you to send money before the account exists.

When renting or purchasing a home, especially for Americans buying property in Portugal, ask for a written contract. It should show the full address, rent amount, payment dates, and landlord details. Avoid paying deposits before you see the property and sign the contract.

For insurance or legal documents, choose companies listed with Portugal’s insurance regulator (ASF) or lawyers registered with the Portuguese Bar Association. Official providers must give you terms in writing, in Portuguese and often in English.

Touchdown makes moving to Portugal smooth, with expert legal guidance before and after your move. Use our free eligibility checker to see which visa option is best for you.

Healthcare and emergency services for expats

For anyone wondering if Portugal is safe, these services play a big role in creating that sense of security.

Healthcare system safety and quality

When you move to Portugal, you will use the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), the public healthcare system. After you register as a legal resident and get a health number, you can access public hospitals and clinics at low cost.

Public care is safe and regulated, but waiting times for non-urgent cases can be long. Expats usually choose private insurance so they can use private hospitals, which offer faster appointments and often have English-speaking doctors. These facilities are common in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.

Basic public healthcare does not require private insurance, but private plans give you more choice, shorter waits, and access to English-speaking specialists. Many insurance providers in Portugal offer expat-friendly policies with clear terms in both Portuguese and English.

Emergency services and support networks

In Portugal, 112 is the only emergency number you need. It works for police, fire, and medical help anywhere in the country. 

For health concerns that are not life-threatening, you can call Saúde 24 at 808 24 24 24. Nurses give advice in Portuguese and sometimes in English, telling you whether to visit a hospital or wait for a doctor’s appointment.

If you are an American expat, the U.S. Embassy in Lisbon and the Consulate in Ponta Delgada can help in serious situations. They keep lists of English-speaking doctors, lawyers, and translators and can guide you on what steps to take in a crisis.

Portugal also has mental health hotlines and 24/7 counseling services. These are free or low cost and can be reached from any region.

Expat groups on Facebook and WhatsApp share local emergency contacts and real-time updates during fires, floods, or transport strikes. You can use these networks to learn where to find help fast.

Practical safety tips for living in Portugal

Here are simple steps that make day-to-day life safer for newcomers.

Neighborhood research and housing safety

Check crime maps on council websites before choosing where to live. Ask in expat forums about safe areas. Visit neighborhoods during day and night to check lighting and foot traffic.

Look for secure building entrances, working intercoms, and good hallway lighting when viewing apartments. Always get a written rental contract with your full address, rent amount, and payment dates for bank accounts and residency permits.

Daily life safety practices

Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers where cameras and security are present. Keep bags zipped and phones in front pockets on public transport, especially Tram 28 in Lisbon.

Stick to well-lit main streets at night and avoid empty parks or alleys. Book rides through Uber, Bolt, or licensed taxis with company names and meters visible.

Digital security for remote workers

Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi in cafes and coworking spaces. Enable two-factor authentication for online banking and bill payments. Keep antivirus software updated.

Avoid posting your address, travel plans, or financial details on social media. Scammers target people who share too much personal information online.

Building your support network in Portugal

Let’s see where to find English-speaking communities, resources, and language support.

English-speaking communities and resources

American expat groups in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve host regular meetups about housing, healthcare, and daily life. Facebook groups and expat forums provide quick answers on safety updates, visa changes, and reliable local services.

Find English-speaking doctors, lawyers, and accountants through expat networks early. Many towns offer cultural programs with Portuguese lessons and local customs to help you settle safely.

Language barriers and safety implications

Learn key Portuguese emergency words like "ajuda" (help), "hospital", and "polícia" (police). These simple phrases help when seconds count during emergencies.

Keep medical and legal terms like "doença" (illness) and "documentos" (documents) saved offline. Translation apps work well, but having essential words on paper helps when the internet fails.

How Touchdown supports your move to Portugal

Touchdown is an expert relocation and immigration firm built by expats and backed by in-house lawyers. We combine legal expertise with an easy-to-use platform, giving you the confidence and clarity you need when moving to Portugal.

Every move is unique, and so is our approach. Whether you’re relocating on your own, with a partner, or with family, we take the time to understand your situation and design a tailored plan around your goals. Our free Eligibility Checker lets us quickly assess your options, so we can guide you toward the right visa pathway from the start.

From handling your visa application and structuring your taxes to providing ongoing support once you arrive, Touchdown ensures that your relocation is smooth, secure, and stress-free. With legal experts by your side, you can focus on enjoying all that Portugal has to offer, knowing the details are in safe hands.

Use our free Eligibility Checker to see which visa is right for you.  Or book a 1:1 consultation with our team today!

Final verdict: Is Portugal a safe place to live?

Portugal’s 7th place in global safety rankings makes it one of the most secure destinations for expats. Whether you want city convenience, coastal living, or a quiet inland town, the country offers a safer and more predictable lifestyle than many parts of the United States and Europe.

FAQs about safety in Portugal

Is Portugal safe for americans to live?

Yes. Portugal ranks among the world’s safest countries. Violent crime is rare, politics are stable, and healthcare access is strong. Most risks involve petty theft in tourist areas, not serious threats. Many Americans move here for both safety and quality of life.

What is the most common crime in Portugal?

Petty theft, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, happens most often. It usually takes place in crowded spots such as tourist sites, trains, or summer festivals. Police maintain a visible presence, and keeping belongings close reduces the risk.

How does Portugal's safety compare to major US cities?

Portugal’s crime rates are far lower than those in large U.S. cities. The homicide rate is around 0.8 per 100,000 people, compared to more than 6 per 100,000 in the United States. Lisbon reports fewer incidents than cities like New York or Los Angeles.

Are there any areas Americans should avoid?

No region in Portugal is considered highly dangerous. Tourist zones in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve see more petty theft in summer. Rural areas stay quiet but have fewer 24-hour services. Checking crime maps and speaking with expat groups helps when choosing neighborhoods.

How safe is Portugal for solo female expats?

Portugal ranks as one of Europe’s safer countries for solo female expats. Street harassment is less common than in many places, and violent crime rates are low. Using licensed taxis at night and learning a few emergency phrases in Portuguese improves safety even more.

What should I do in case of an emergency as an American in Portugal?

Call 112 for police, fire, or medical help. Operators can often speak English. The U.S. Embassy in Lisbon and the Consulate in Ponta Delgada assist with legal, medical, or travel issues. Saving local hospital contacts and joining expat networks helps in urgent situations.