Published on
October 28, 2025
Portugal has taken a dramatic turn in its immigration policy with the implementation of Law No. 61/2025, which introduces a highly skilled job-seeking visa to replace the old job seeker visa. Although the shift is focused on bringing in highly skilled professionals, it impacts the tourism sector of Portugal, most notably for those who rely on low-skilled employees in sectors such as hospitality and tourism services. This reorientation, while intended to increase economic competitiveness, can also impact the way visitors and business travelers interact with the nation in the years to come.
The New Work-Seeking Visa: Impact on Tourism and Visitor Experience
Under the new law, foreign nationals seeking employment in Portugal will no longer be able to enter under the job seeker visa which allowed them to search for work for up to 120 days. Instead, the highly skilled work-seeking visa will be available only to individuals with “specialized technical competencies,” which will be defined by future regulations. While this change targets high-value professionals, it also poses potential challenges for the tourism industry, especially in hospitality and service sectors that have traditionally relied on seasonal or lower-skilled labor.
For tourists, the immediate concern is that some of the labor shortages affecting the tourism sector, such as hotel staff, waitstaff, and tour guides, could make service delivery more difficult, potentially impacting the overall tourist experience. Visitors, especially those coming for luxury or adventure tourism, might notice a difference in the availability and quality of service in popular tourist regions like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
Potential Impact on the Tourism Workforce in Portugal
The tourism sector in Portugal has long been a key economic driver, contributing billions of euros annually. However, as the country shifts towards a more selective immigration policy, businesses in tourism—including hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and tour operators—may struggle to meet the demand for workers. Eurostat data highlights that Portugal currently faces over 58,000 job vacancies in key sectors, with tourism-related jobs, including those in hospitality, construction, and agriculture, accounting for a large portion of these vacancies.
The government’s focus on attracting highly skilled workers to fill specialized roles could further exacerbate the labor gap in low-skilled tourism positions, especially during peak travel seasons. If not addressed, this could result in longer wait times, increased costs, or lower quality services for tourists, impacting Portugal’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination.
The Role of Tourism in Portugal’s Economic Strategy
Tourism is one of the most important pillars of Portugal’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and local income. In 2024, Portugal welcomed over 20 million international tourists, with tourism revenues surpassing €20 billion. Tourism Minister Maria do Céu Antunes has acknowledged the importance of maintaining a strong tourism infrastructure to support economic growth while encouraging the development of sustainable tourism.
With the new immigration laws, tourist experience remains a priority, and the government’s goal is to balance the needs of the labor market with the demands of tourism businesses. However, some tourism stakeholders are concerned that the new visa requirements may result in higher costs for businesses, which may, in turn, be passed onto consumers, impacting tourism prices in the country.
Shifting Focus to Sustainable Tourism and Long-Term Growth
While the shift to a highly skilled work-seeking visa presents immediate challenges for Portugal’s tourism industry, it also creates an opportunity to focus on sustainable tourism growth. As Portugal moves forward with its national tourism strategy, the country is increasingly prioritizing quality over quantity in attracting tourists, focusing on delivering a high-value, sustainable tourism product that balances economic growth with environmental preservation.
In addition to fostering digital tourism tools and smart city infrastructure, Portugal is focusing on attracting eco-conscious tourists and promoting slow tourism, where visitors explore the natural beauty of the country at a more relaxed pace. Sustainable tourism initiatives, such as eco-friendly accommodations, local product sourcing, and community-based tourism, align with the government’s broader goal of positioning Portugal as a responsible travel destination.
Strengthening Portugal’s Global Position through Tourism Innovation
The development of new visa policies and tourism infrastructure is a key component of Portugal’s growth strategy. The launch of the “MaiGreece” digital app for personalized travel recommendations, along with next-generation AI-powered travel tools, highlights the growing emphasis on digital innovation in the tourism sector. These tools make it easier for tourists to explore Portugal’s cultural gems while ensuring a seamless, tech-driven travel experience.
As Portugal moves towards smart tourism models, integrating AI technologies and data-driven insights, the country aims to boost tourism while addressing issues like over-tourism and the management of resources. By embracing technology, sustainability, and local empowerment, Portugal aims to enhance its tourism sector’s global appeal and ensure that tourism remains a long-term driver of economic prosperity.
Balancing Tourism Growth with Labor Needs in Portugal
Although the introduction of the highly skilled work-seeking visa is a major change in Portugal’s immigration policy, its implications on the tourism industry are a vital aspect to consider. The tourism sector of Portugal has the responsibility to reconcile the nation’s ambition to attract high-skilled workers with the imperative need for low-skilled workers in industries that will benefit greatly from the influx, such as the hospitality and tourism services sectors.
Through innovative solutions in tourism, emphasizing sustainability, and ensuring the adjustment of labor markets, Portugal is able to continue being a world-leading destination while protecting its local economy and providing a pleasant experience for all visitors. The changing face of tourism in Portugal requires the ongoing cooperation between the government, tour operators, and host communities to ensure that the dividends of tourism development are mutualized and maintained over the long term.
