For members of the LGBTQ community (lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and transgender people) who decide to move abroad, finding a country with laws in place to protect LGBT rights and one that offers a community that is friendly towards, and accepting of, LGBT people is a top priority. If you are part of the community, and considering moving to Portugal, you may be wondering: Is Portugal LGBTQ friendly?
The short answer is: Yes.
LGBT rights in Portugal have evolved and developed over the years to become tolerant and inclusive place to live. In this article, take a brief journey through the history of LGBTQ+ rights in Portugal and explore what life is like in Portugal today for those who choose to move to the country.
Historical Overview of LGBTQ Rights in Portugal
Portugal has not always had rights in place for the LGBTQ community. The Portuguese LGBT movement has taken a long road to get to where it is today. However, in the last few decades, the country has made substantial progress and become one of the most tolerant countries in the world. Portugal currently ranks in joint first position on the 2024 Spartacus Gay Travel Index, which considers 18 different factors ranging from anti-discrimination legislation and transgender rights to gay marriage and adoption rights.
Here is a quick overview of the evolution of LGBTQ+ rights in Portugal and the key milestones in the legal process.
1974 – A manifesto for the Liberation of Sexual Minorities was published in the Dario de Lisboa, establishing Portugal’s LGBT movement |
1982 – Homosexuality was decriminalized in Portugal |
1999 – Portugal’s first gay pride march took place in Lisbon and Portugal officially began to recognize same-sex unions |
2003 – Laws were passed against discrimination and sexual harassment in employment based on sexual identity and orientation |
2007 – The age of consent for same sex relationships was equalized |
2008 – Sexual orientation and gender identity was recognized as grounds to apply for asylum in the country |
2010 – Same-sex marriage was legalized in Portugal |
2011 – A new Law of Gender Identity was passed where transgender persons could have their gender stated on legal identity documents changed |
2016 – Same-sex couples were given the legal right to adopt, and lesbian couples were given access to IVF |
LGBTQ+ Rights in Portugal
While it is evident that Portugal is a frontrunner for tolerance and acceptance of the LGBT community and that there has been a lot of progression when it comes to Portugal LGBT rights, the country is not completely immune to anti-LGBT bullying and sexual orientation-based hate crimes.
This is why, if you are considering moving abroad as a member of the community, it is a good idea to be well aware of your rights, even if moving to an LGBT friendly country like Portugal.
Gay marriage rights
As we touched on earlier, same-sex unions were first recognized in Portugal in 1999, and same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010. This entitles married gay couples to the same marriage rights as married heterosexual couples in all matters related to inheritance, visas, adoption, and IVF laws.
Citizenship through marriage to a Portuguese citizen
Marrying a Portuguese citizen will enable you to eventually apply for citizenship, however, it is not an automatic process. Once you are married, you will first need to apply for residency. After three years of marriage, you will then be able to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Adoption rights for LGBTQ+ couples
Since same-sex couples have had the right to adopt since 2016. This includes the right to adopt their spouse’s biological or adopted children. The process is the same as for heterosexual couples who decide to adopt.
IVF access for same-sex couples
Along with adoption, equal access to IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) treatment was also legalized in 2016. This means that lesbian women would have the same access to the treatment as heterosexual women.
Legal gender change rights
Transgender persons have been able to have the gender stated on legal identity documents changed since 2011, under the Law of Gender Identity. The law allows any adult person to change their legal gender without any requirements, and allows minors aged 16-17 to do so with parental consent and a psychological opinion that confirms they are making this decision on their own and not because they are being pressured into it.
Blood donation rights
Gay men and bisexual men have been approved to donate blood since 2010. More recently, in 2021, further barriers to gay men who engage in same-sex sexual activity
donating blood were removed to end discrimination and make the process the same for all blood donors, regardless of sexual orientation.
LGBTQ Organizations and Resources in Portugal
Leading organizations championing LGBTQ+ rights have been established in Portugal, with members of the community both making use of their services and volunteering their support.
- IGLA Portugal – The largest organization in the country advocation for LGBTQ+ rights. Besides spearheading many social and cultural events, they also provide free essential services to the LGBTQ community, including legal services and counseling.
- Clube Safo – An organization focused on protecting the rights of lesbian women
- Casa T Lisboa – The first shelter in Portugal founded by trans people to provide support to trans immigrants facing eviction during difficult times.
Healthcare for LGBTQ people in Portugal
Portugal has a robust, reliable public healthcare network with high-quality private healthcare options available, too. This healthcare is accessible regardless of your sexual orientation. Therefore, Portugal LGBT expats should feel at ease making use of the healthcare services available in the country.
LGBTQ Life in Portugal
LGBTQ+ life in Portugal will differ depending on where you choose to live. The bigger cities tend to embrace the culture more than the smaller conservative towns. Portugal also proudly hosts a number of annual Pride and LGBT Portugal cultural events each year, with worldwide support and fanfare.
Pride celebrations in Lisbon and Porto
Lisbon Pride, known as Arraial Lisboa Pride, is organized by ILGA (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association) and is the largest Pride celebration in Portugal. First launched in 1997, it shines a spotlight on the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and intersex community. Lisbon Pride occurs in Terreiro do Paço in late June each year and features food, music, and performances. The event is free for all, and hundreds of thousands of people attend every year.
There is also a smaller Pride in Porto celebration usually in the first week of July every year, allowing supporters to attend both Pride celebrations in one trip.
LGBTQ+ cultural events
Queer Lisboa and Queer Porto are two well-known film festivals showcasing LGBTQ+ cinema. These festivals provide a platform for queer creatives to present their work and explore themes and stories related to their narratives and lived experience.
Best Places to Live in Portugal for LGBTQ+ People
If you’re considering moving to Portugal and would like to move to one of the more LGBTQ+ friendly areas, Lisbon, Porto, and Algarve regions are your best bet. Here, you will have access to a well-established community of LGBT expats and the best that Portugal has to offer.
Lisbon
Portugal’s capital city is thought to be the most progressive in terms of tolerance of LGBT people, with many gay and lesbian people choosing to settle here. Some of the friendlier neighborhoods include Principe Real, Bairro Alto, and Arroios. Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife extends to these areas, where you’ll be able find gay bars, an underground drag scene, and other LGBTQ-friendly activities like gay-friendly gyms and saunas.
Porto
Another advanced city in terms of tolerance and acceptance, Porto offers a diverse atmosphere and is home to a more underground LGBT scene. While the city does not have as many gay bars as Lisbon, you can try out the drag club, Invictus, and the gay cafe Pride Coffee.
Algarve
The region of Algarve is considered a safe haven for queer expats. It features fine dining restaurants, excellent property choices, and some gay nightclubs. Living in the Algarve also means enjoying some of the best beaches in the country, with friendly resorts catered to LGBT people.
Real Estate in Portugal
Real estate prices will vary depending on the area, so it is important to have a clear idea of where you would like to live and what you want your lifestyle to look like. Lisbon generally has a higher cost of living, and Lisbon’s real estate prices are around €5,885 per square meter in Arroios but could increase to around €8,117 per square meter in Santo António.
In Porto and the Algarve, the cost of living and property is slightly cheaper, but you could still find luxury property in these areas that would cost a bit more. The average property price per square meter in Porto is €3,291 and the Algarve averages €3,897 per square meter.
Find out more about how to buy property in Portugal with our expert guide.
Residency and Visa Options for Same-Sex Couples and LGBTQ+ Expats
Residency and Visa processes are the same whether you are a same-sex couple, an LGBT person, or a heterosexual individual. One of the excellent aspects of moving to Portugal is the fact that there are many different visa options to cater to different expat profiles. Visa options include the Digital Nomad Visa, for those who work for a foreign employer or are self-employed, and the D7 Visa if you have a sufficient source of income.
If you are seeking residency options in Portugal, why not get in touch with our residency and citizenship partner, Global Citizen Solutions.
So, if you are looking into living or retiring in Portugal as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, you can rest assured that there are laws and policies in place – as well as a thriving LGBT expat community – to support you as you start your new life abroad. Residency and visa options are within reach and there are many great real estate options in welcoming neighborhoods for you to choose from.
Find Your Dream Property with BE Global
BE Global Properties is the discerning property investors’ gateway to meticulously curated properties that transcend ordinary listings. Look no further when searching for your next dream home or investment property in the Portuguese luxury real estate market.
Explore our exclusive listings and work with our experts who offer market insights for smart investment choices and exceptional customer service to find the property investment perfectly tailored for your lifestyle ultimately.
Contact BE Global Properties today and start your journey to find your global haven.
Frequently Asked Questions About LGBTQ+ Life in Portugal
Is Portugal safe for LGBT people?
According to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI), Portugal is the seventh safest country in the world. With the added LGBTQ+ rights enforced by law, Portugal remains an exceptionally safe country for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Is gay marriage legal in Portugal?
Yes, Same-sex marriage has been legal in Portugal since 2010.
Can I get citizenship in Portugal through same-sex marriage with a Portuguese citizen?
Marrying a Portuguese citizen will enable you to eventually apply for citizenship. However, you will first need to apply for residency and after three years of marriage, you will be able to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Can I get a visa in Portugal through same-sex marriage?
Yes, same-sex couples are afforded the same rights as heterosexual couples in Portugal, including marriage, visas, adoption, and inheritance.
Is Portugal a good place for retirement as an LGBT person?
Portugal is a safe, accepting place to retire as an LGBT person. The country already has a large and active LGBT community with organizations and resource support services available.
Is Portugal gay friendly?
Yes, Portugal is a gay-friendly country, with laws in place to protect gay people from discrimination and harassment. Same-sex marriage and adoption are also legalized in the country and there are several widely supported Pride events, gay culture celebrations, and organizations in support of the gay community established in the country. Portugal ranks in joint first position on the 2024 Spartacus Gay Travel Index.
Is Portugal LGBT friendly? (Is Portugal LGBTQ friendly?)
LGBT rights in Portugal have evolved and developed over the years to become tolerant and inclusive place to live. The country is safe for the LGBT community and there are multiple laws and policies in place to prevent discrimination and harassment against the LGBT Portugal community.
What are Portugal’s policies on gender identity?
Portugal encourages the expression of gender identity. A Law of Gender Identity has been in effect since 2011, where transgender persons can have the gender stated on legal identity documents changed.
Does Portuguese law protect individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation?
Yes, Portugal has several laws and policies in place that prohibit sexual harassment and sexual orientation discrimination in employment, housing, and public services.
