Moving to a new country can be challenging — and if you identify as LGBTQ+, the process may come with extra layers of complexity. Between adapting to a new culture, facing potential discrimination, and navigating legal or bureaucratic systems, it’s easy to feel lost. But Portugal has made important progress in recent years, and there are organizations ready to help.
Portugal is known for having some of the strongest LGBTQ+ rights laws in Europe.
Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, and discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression is prohibited by law in areas such as employment, housing, education, and access to healthcare.
If you ever experience discrimination or violence due to your identity, you have the right to report it. You can contact:
These institutions can help you understand your legal options and accompany you through the complaint process.
Trans and non-binary migrants can change their name and gender marker in Portuguese documents, but this can only be done after obtaining legal residence.
If you’re still in the process of regularizing your stay, organizations such as ILGA Portugal and Rede Ex Aequo can offer guidance and emotional support.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Several NGOs provide psychosocial, legal, and community support for LGBTQ+ people in Portugal:
Portugal recognizes persecution based on sexual orientation or gender identity as valid grounds for international protection (asylum).
If you had to leave your country for being LGBTQ+, you can apply for asylum in Portugal. Organizations like the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) and Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa can guide you through the process.
How to Get Here