Portuguese nationals are leaving Switzerland in droves. Your old home attracts with an economic upswing, a record low unemployment rate and a hip image that is attracting more and more international companies; many industries are now reporting staff shortages there.
The government in Lisbon woos its compatriots far away with tax free gifts and financial incentives to encourage them to return. Tempting when you consider that the Portuguese in Switzerland often work in the low-wage sector and can hardly make ends meet. Around 30,000 Portuguese are employed in construction alone in this country; in the hospitality industry around 17,000 – the largest group of nationalities in this branch.
Many Portuguese also work in care professions: sectors that have been struggling with staff shortages for years. Nevertheless, these professional fields bring neither money nor recognition. Instead of a permanent position, there are often only temporary jobs or hourly wages.
In percentage terms, the Portuguese are employed more than the Swiss, they do jobs – like many immigrants – that others do not want to do.
Nothing works in Switzerland without foreign workers. And as the third largest group of foreigners, the Portuguese make a significant contribution to the well-being of the economy.
Now Portugal wants its compatriots back. It is high time that Mr and Mrs Swiss increase their appreciation for you!
Longing for home: Thousands of Portuguese are leaving Switzerland(01:34)