Top myths about immigrants in Portugal

In Portugal, as in many countries, several myths about immigrants persist. These misconceptions can shape public opinion and policy debates. Here are some of the top myths about immigrants in Portugal, along with explanations that debunk them:

1. Immigrants Increase Crime Rates

• Myth: Immigrants are often wrongly associated with higher crime rates, leading to the belief that immigration brings more criminal activity.
• Reality: Studies and statistical data consistently show that immigrants in Portugal are not more likely to commit crimes than native citizens. Many immigrants come for work, contributing to the economy, and often live in vulnerable conditions without engaging in illegal activities. In fact, they are often more focused on improving their lives and supporting their families.

2. Immigrants Take Jobs from Locals

• Myth: There’s a belief that immigrants take jobs away from Portuguese citizens, contributing to higher unemployment.
• Reality: Immigrants often fill gaps in the labor market, especially in sectors where there are shortages of local workers, such as agriculture, construction, tourism, and elderly care. These sectors are vital to the Portuguese economy. Rather than taking jobs, immigrants contribute by doing work that often lacks enough local labor force participation.

3. Immigrants Are a Burden on Social Services

• Myth: Some people believe that immigrants take unfair advantage of social services, such as healthcare, education, and welfare, putting additional strain on Portugal’s resources.
• Reality: Research indicates that immigrants contribute more to social security and the economy than they receive in benefits. Many pay taxes and make significant contributions to the country’s workforce. Their contributions to social security often exceed the costs associated with their use of public services.

4. Immigrants Don’t Integrate into Portuguese Society

• Myth: A common misconception is that immigrants isolate themselves and do not integrate, creating cultural ghettos and refusing to adopt Portuguese values.
• Reality: While integration can be challenging, many immigrants in Portugal actively participate in the workforce, attend Portuguese language courses, and integrate into local communities. Cultural exchanges and intermarriages are common, and many immigrants express a strong desire to contribute to and integrate into Portuguese society.

5. Portugal is Overrun by Immigrants

• Myth: Some believe that the number of immigrants in Portugal is overwhelming and that immigration is out of control.
• Reality: Immigrants make up about 6-7% of Portugal’s population. This is a manageable and relatively low proportion compared to many other European countries. In fact, with Portugal facing a demographic decline and an aging population, immigrants are seen as crucial for sustaining the economy and workforce.

6. Immigrants Drive Down Wages

• Myth: There’s a perception that immigrants accept lower wages, driving down wages for local workers.
• Reality: While some immigrants may accept lower wages due to lack of bargaining power, they generally occupy positions that are already low-wage or hard to fill by locals. Their presence can boost overall productivity, benefiting the economy as a whole. Policies focused on fair labor standards can prevent wage suppression regardless of immigration.

7. Most Immigrants Are Irregular (Undocumented)

• Myth: Many believe that most immigrants in Portugal are undocumented or have entered the country illegally.
• Reality: The majority of immigrants in Portugal are documented and enter the country legally, often through work visas, family reunification, or as students. Portugal has also implemented policies to regularize the status of undocumented immigrants to promote social integration.

8. Immigrants Don’t Contribute to the Economy

• Myth: There’s a false perception that immigrants only consume resources and don’t contribute economically to the country.
• Reality: Immigrants contribute significantly to the Portuguese economy, particularly in labor-intensive sectors that are essential for economic growth. They pay taxes, contribute to social security, and often work in roles that support the overall functioning of the economy.

These myths are often fueled by misinformation or fear of the unknown. In reality, immigration plays a vital role in Portugal’s economy and society, particularly as the country faces an aging population and workforce shortages. A more informed understanding of the contributions of immigrants can help foster a more inclusive and fact-based discussion on immigration.