Portugal immigration, first of all, requires an understanding of its customs and etiquette to avoid mistakes in interpersonal interactions. Here are several aspects of life in Portugal regarding customs and etiquette.
Dress Etiquette
The Portuguese are very attentive to neatness in formal social settings. Men wear dark suits, ties, or bow ties, and carry themselves with great poise. Women often wear elegant suits or dresses. In daily life, the Portuguese have distinct dress styles based on profession and gender. Young male employees prefer loose-fitting suits. Male university students often wear sweatshirts and jeans, while female teachers often wear suits.
Etiquette of Demeanor
The Portuguese are quite particular about etiquette. When conversing with others, they sit with good posture; women, in particular, are careful to keep their legs together when seated. They do not like to stare at others for long periods, and if someone does so, they view it as a sign of poor behavior.
Greeting Etiquette
When meeting, Portuguese men are accustomed to warmly embracing and patting each other on the shoulder, while women who are acquaintances greet each other by kissing on the cheek. When meeting foreign friends, they sometimes use a handshake. The Portuguese are warm and hospitable; if guests visit, they always go to the door to welcome them early, and when guests leave, they always personally escort them to the door.
Dining Etiquette
The Portuguese primarily consume flour-based foods, favoring bread, and sometimes rice. They enjoy beef, pork, and seafood, and frequently eat potatoes and carrots. There is a particular etiquette regarding alcohol consumption. The local wine is not very high in alcohol content, so drinking a small amount will not lead to intoxication.
Celebration and Mourning Etiquette
Bullfighting is a form of entertainment that the Portuguese are very fond of, with performances held around New Year's Day each year. Unlike Spanish bullfighting, local bullfighting involves riding horses and does not kill the bull, but only wounds it; therefore, people call this a civilized form of bullfighting. Portugal celebrates City Day in late June each year. City Day is mainly to commemorate those who have done good deeds for the people. On this day, cannons are fired, ceremonies are held, and people sing and dance in the squares.
Business Etiquette
The best time to conduct business in Portugal is from October of the current year to June of the following year. Additionally, offices in Portugal are closed from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, so you will not be able to reach anyone during this time. You should pay attention to your attire when negotiating business; if they are wearing jackets during negotiations, you should not remove yours, even if it is hot. Most Portuguese businesspeople speak French, English, and Spanish. One must be patient when negotiating business with the Portuguese.
Travel Etiquette
Portugal has a central railway line about 700 kilometers long that runs from north to south, connecting major cities and famous scenic spots along the route, providing convenient conditions for tourism. Local shop assistants are known for their high-quality service; they always serve customers with a smile. Except for food, other goods purchased by customers can be returned or exchanged within a specified period if the customer is not satisfied.
