Honorary Consul to spotlight Algarve’s Irish boom at Dublin event – Portugal Resident
The number of registered Irish residents in the Algarve has more than tripled since 2012, reflecting the region’s growing appeal as a place in which to live throughout the year, rather than simply visit on holiday.
According to Portugal’s Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) the number of Irish residents registered in the Algarve increased from 452 in 2012 to approximately 1,500 in 2023. Across Portugal, the number of registered Irish citizens rose from 838 to 5,450 during the same period.
The growth of the Irish community has been encouraged by strong transport connections between Ireland and southern Portugal. The cities of Dublin and Faro are both well served by regular direct flights operated by Aer Lingus and Ryanair, with a typical journey time of approximately three hours. This route enables residents and homeowners to maintain close family, professional and social links with Ireland.
The changing relationship between Ireland and the Algarve will be explored in more detail at the Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars at the Herbert Park Hotel in central Dublin on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.
Andrea Viegas, Honorary Consul for Ireland in the Algarve, will address the event and share her perspective on the recent growth of the Irish community, the development of all-year-round services and the practical considerations involved in moving to Portugal.
“As Honorary Consul of Ireland in the Algarve, I have seen first-hand how the Irish community in southern Portugal has evolved in recent years. My role is to assist Irish citizens and to strengthen the links between Ireland and Portugal. The Moving to Portugal Show provides an excellent opportunity to share practical information about life in Portugal and to help prospective residents understand both the opportunities and the responsibilities that come with relocating abroad.
The Algarve remains one of Europe’s leading holiday destinations, but its infrastructure now supports a much broader way of life. International and bilingual schools, public and private healthcare, professional services, digital connectivity and active communities allow families, professionals and retirees to live in the region throughout the year.
Christina Hippisley, General Manager of the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce, said: “The recent growth of the Irish community shows that the Algarve is increasingly being considered as a place in which to build a life, rather than simply somewhere to visit.
“Improved connectivity, established services and a strong international community have made the region a realistic option for Irish residents considering relocation, retirement or a second home. Andrea’s participation will give our visitors valuable first-hand insights into how the Algarve has developed.”
The Moving to Portugal Show will bring together specialists in Portuguese property, taxation, financial planning, law, healthcare and relocation. Visitors will be able to attend expert presentations, ask questions and speak directly with organisations that support people moving to or purchasing property in Portugal.
