1. The Results of the 2025 Portuguese Legislative Elections

Once again, AD, the coalition formed by PSD and CDS-PP, secured the highest number of votes (32.10%), an increase of 4.08%, and the most parliamentary seats (89), nine more than last year. However, AD’s victory was not strong enough to secure a majority in the Assembly of the Republic or greater government stability.

The Socialist Party (PS) came in second with 23.38%, nearly 5% less than in 2024, which translates to almost 420,000 fewer votes and only 58 parliamentary seats – 20 fewer. This is the Socialist Party’s worst electoral result since 1987, the year of Cavaco Silva’s first absolute majority, when the PS earned only 22.2% of the Portuguese vote.

On the other hand, Chega, led by André Ventura, tied with the PS in terms of elected deputies (58), but ultimately came in third with 22.56% of the vote – 50,000 fewer votes than the PS (23.38%) but 175,000 more than what it had achieved in 2024. Note, however, that the political party led by André Ventura could end up with more seats than the PS if it once again prevails in the two overseas constituencies.

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2. Portuguese Youth Voter Turnout Is Low

Youth participation in elections in Portugal continues to be marked by a lower turnout compared to older generations, with a recurring trend of high abstention rates among young voters. Despite this, there are signs of defiance against this pattern, as some young people express a strong commitment to voting, emphasizing that elections represent an important civic duty and an opportunity to influence political decisions. In this context, housing, education, health, and employment emerge as the top priorities for young people, signaling their desire for political leaders to address these issues with concrete measures.

The frequency of elections in Portugal, especially with three major elections occurring within a short span of time, has created a sense of fatigue among the electorate, particularly among young voters. While some experts acknowledge that this might lead to saturation, the repetitive electoral cycles also serve to keep young people engaged in national debates, stimulating reflection on the country’s future. Young voters see this as an opportunity to become more involved, with many insisting that their participation is a necessary step in shaping the country’s direction, despite occasional frustrations with political campaigns.

Political scientists highlight the complex relationship between youth and voting behavior, with factors such as age, life responsibilities, and campaign focus influencing participation rates. As youth are less likely to identify with traditional political forces, the rise of new parties and alternative proposals could offer a path to greater engagement in future elections. Note, however, that, despite the current trend of lower participation, there is hope that political reform and renewed enthusiasm could drive increased voter turnout among younger generations, who will ultimately shape the political landscape in years to come.

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3. President Marcelo’s Three Reflections on the Day of Reflection

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa urged the Portuguese to participate in the legislative elections, emphasizing that voting, at this moment, is contributing to stability and preventing long management governments. In a message from the Belém Palace, he highlighted that constitutional rules mean there will be no new elections until May 2026. Reflecting on the importance of voting, the President underscored that it is a way of giving life to key democratic values such as freedom, equality, and peace, drawing attention to the historic 1975 Constituent Assembly elections with the highest voter participation to date.

Marcelo also delivered three reflections on the current global and political context. Firstly, he stressed that voting now is crucial for maintaining stability in an increasingly unstable world. He argued that abstention would be misguided, equating it to “burying one’s head in the sand” and warned of the negative consequences of ignoring the gravity of the moment. Reflecting on the global shift, he pointed out the return of Donald Trump to power, signaling major changes in global relations and a stark contrast between the world of 2024 and 2025. This uncertainty, he said, places greater responsibility on Europeans and Portuguese citizens.

Concluding his message, the President stressed that the international economic situation remains unpredictable, emphasizing that stability and predictability are vital for the future. In the context of early elections, Marcelo reminded voters that the legislature cannot be dissolved within six months of its election or in the last semester of the President’s term, which ends in March 2026. 

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4. U.S. Confirms End of Restrictions on Portugal for Buying AI Chips

The U.S. Department of Commerce has officially confirmed the revocation of restrictions on the exports of artificial intelligence (AI) chips that had relegated Portugal to a second-tier category. These measures, implemented in the final days of the Biden Administration, were set to take effect on May 15, 2025, and posed a highly detrimental risk for Portugal by imposing limits on the purchase of critical components. In contrast, countries such as Spain, France, and Italy were included on a list of 18 “allies” exempt from such limitations, particularly regarding the purchase of essential chips.

In a public statement, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) said that the AI Export Control Framework would have harmed American innovation, overburdened companies with onerous new regulatory obligations, and damaged the U.S.’s diplomatic relations with dozens of countries by downgrading them to second-tier status. The BIS confirmed it will issue a replacement rule in the future, though it offered no further details. According to Jeffery Kessler, the Assistant Secretary for Industry and Security, the Trump Administration will embrace a bold and inclusive strategy for American AI technology, partnering with trusted foreign countries and rejecting the Biden Administration’s “poorly designed and counterproductive AI policies.”

Even though the restrictions never came into force, the policy’s anticipated impact has already begun to affect economic behavior. For example, Spanish company Merlin Properties chose to divert part of its investment from Portugal to Spain, citing the U.S. restrictions as justification. The move concerned a new data center being built in Vila Franca de Xira, and serves as a clear example of how international tech regulation (even before implementation) can reshape cross-border investment, influence corporate strategy, and carry consequences for AI infrastructure development in smaller allied nations like Portugal.

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5. New Portuguese System Has Already Removed 530,000 People from the Social Security Counter

The current relationship between Social Security and individuals or companies is described as heavy, complex, and lacking agility, with millions still relying on in-person services. Luís Farrajota, president of the Social Security Institute’s IT department, explains that 6.5 million people visited counters in 2024 for tasks like payments, obtaining identification numbers, and clarifications about pensions, a system that no longer meets the needs of society. Aiming for transformation, the government launched the “People First” program with 110 measures, focusing on reducing in-person visits by 2 million by the end of 2025, offering services such as digital payment options and online declarations.

By implementing digital solutions, such as extending payment document validity and offering new methods like bank transfers and MB Way, 530,000 people were already removed from counters by mid-May. Farrajota emphasizes that, beyond digitalizing payments, the program focuses on making tasks like retrieving NISS and pension status more accessible, and introducing biometric verification. As part of this ongoing transformation, a unified Social Security portal will be launched in July, replacing outdated systems to create a more intuitive, user-friendly experience for citizens and businesses alike.

The digitalization process is also focused on incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline administrative tasks and improve service efficiency. With new features like virtual assistants and robots for handling invoices, Farrajota envisions a future where artificial intelligence helps Social Security manage its resources better and offers smarter, automated services. With a goal of reducing in-person visits and enhancing the experience for both people and businesses, the upcoming changes reflect a broader ambition to create a more efficient and digitally inclusive Social Security system, ultimately delivering a better, faster service to millions.

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6. Sporting Crowned Back-to-Back Portuguese Champions, 71 Years Later

Sporting has been crowned Portuguese football champion once again, becoming back-to-back champions for the first time in 71 years. With a 2–0 victory over Vitória de Guimarães at Estádio José Alvalade, the team secured 82 points in the 34th and final matchday of the season.

Under the leadership of manager Rui Borges, Sporting concluded the 91st edition of the Primeira Liga with their third title in five years, reclaiming dominance in Portuguese football. The club depended only on itself and delivered, while Benfica, needing to outperform them, drew 1–1 in Braga and ended the campaign two points behind. Despite playing with a numerical advantage from the 66th minute, Benfica failed to overcome Sporting de Braga.

With this result, Benfica finishes in second place with 80 points, while Braga ends the season in fourth, overtaken by FC Porto. The night belonged to Sporting, whose combination of clinical finishing, individual brilliance, and consistent performance led them to a historic bi-championship, putting an end to a 71-year wait for consecutive national titles.

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7. From Harvard to Baseball: Who Are the New Shareholders of Benfica SAD?

The American investment firm Lenore Sports Partners (LSP), co-managed by Jean-Marc Chapus and Elliot Holton Hayes, has acquired 5.24% of Benfica SAD, becoming its third-largest shareholder, behind the club itself and José António dos Santos. The stake was built through the purchase at auction of seized shares from Luís Filipe Vieira and further acquisitions on the stock exchange, via a Scottish-registered vehicle controlled by a Delaware-based holding. LSP presents itself as a firm specialized in sports assets, blending finance, real estate, media, and marketing, and claims to be a productive partner, with no intention of interfering in sporting decisions.

Chapus and Hayes, both Harvard graduates, have experience in private equity, structured finance, and the internationalization of sports brands. Their track record includes the acquisition of OGC Nice, financial involvement with the Milwaukee Brewers, and links to Norwich City through Mark Attanasio, co-founder of Crescent Capital. Other key investors, Omar Imtiaz and Alex Pomeroy, add to the global reach, with backgrounds in real estate, sovereign investment, tourism, and socially responsible finance. The new shareholders aim to enhance revenue, support the club’s international growth, and build synergies with other assets in the LSP network.

Despite their promises to respect Benfica’s founding values, the transaction has triggered legal challenges and controversy. Sport Lisboa e Benfica, the majority shareholder, has filed for nullification of the Vieira share sale, citing lack of notification on the right of first refusal and concerns over statutory compliance. Note that, as foreign capital flows into the club amid silence from its new partners, Benfica’s future is being shaped not only on the pitch, but also in the backrooms of global finance, where each move could impact the club’s sustainability, governance, and prestige.

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8. After the Stars, The Keys: Portugal Has 55 Hotels With Michelin Keys

Michelin has expanded its prestigious recognition to the hotel industry in Portugal, awarding a total of 55 hotels with keys for excellence. The highest distinction, three keys, was granted to Vila Vita Parc in Porches and Penha Longa in Sintra, marking them as two of the most extraordinary hotels in the world. The Michelin Guide, having already established its restaurant awards in Portugal, now brings its expertise to the hospitality sector, offering a selection of hotels “destined for the trip of a lifetime.” With the aim to help travelers find the best places to stay, the guide defines these top hotels as true gems, known for their exceptional service, unique character, and lasting memories.

Alongside the two three-key winners, Portugal boasts 13 hotels with two keys, including well-known names like the Ritz in Lisbon and Six Senses Douro Valley in Lamego, along with 40 hotels earning one key. These distinctions reflect a growing ambition in the hospitality sector to offer remarkable experiences, aligning with the guide’s commitment to offering travelers solid, verified advice. The Michelin keys have quickly become a symbol of quality, with hotels meeting high standards for design, service, and individuality. In Madeira and the Azores, for instance, a select number of hotels have also earned Michelin recognition, further elevating Portugal’s reputation in the global hotel industry.

Note that, this new initiative, launched in 2023, aims to provide travelers with carefully selected destinations that ensure top-notch stays, echoing the same level of excellence Michelin has long upheld for restaurants. Elizabeth Boucher, director of Michelin’s external relations, emphasized that the keys are the gateway to truly exceptional experiences. With the expansion into hotel recognition, Michelin’s influence grows, positioning it as a leading force in both the culinary and tourism industries.

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9. Lisbon’s Museum of Contemporary Art Opens in June to Showcase the City Hall’s Collection

Lisbon’s Museum of Contemporary Art, set to open on June 26, will showcase around 150 works from the City Hall’s Contemporary Art Collection. Located in the Avenida da Índia Gallery in Belém, the museum aims to highlight pieces acquired at art fairs like ARCOlisboa and Drawing Room, with a focus on emerging national and international artists. The City Hall allocates a budget of 150,000 euros annually for these acquisitions, contributing to a growing collection intended to enhance Lisbon’s cultural offerings.

The Museum will serve as a key part of a broader vision to strengthen the cultural axis between Baixa and Belém, with Mayor Carlos Moedas aiming to create new cultural clusters beyond central areas. Although the name is not fully confirmed, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Lisbon is currently the most likely designation. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum will complement other nearby cultural spaces, including the upcoming Julião Sarmento Pavilion, which will house a private collection of 1,500 pieces from renowned national and international artists.

Meanwhile, the ongoing development of Lisbon’s cultural landscape includes other key projects. The Design Museum’s integration into EGEAC, Lisbon’s municipal management network, is under discussion to ensure greater flexibility and autonomy. Additionally, the Memorial to Enslaved People, a long-delayed project, now has a proposed location at Avenida Ribeira das Naus, with the next steps depending on discussions with the DJASS association.

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10. José Cid, Ana Moura, and Many More Will Bring Their Talents to the Oeiras Festivities

The Festas de Oeiras, taking place from May 30 to June 15 at the Jardim Municipal de Oeiras, promises an exciting lineup that mixes generations and musical styles. With 19 concerts, the event opens on May 30 with Matias Damásio, followed by Revenge of the 90’s on May 31. June kicks off with performances by Miguel Araújo (June 1), Mariza (June 2), Carolina de Deus (June 3), Xutos e Pontapés (June 4), Quim Barreiros (June 5), and GNR (June 6). June 7 features Batida and Bonga, followed by José Cid, while June 8 brings Van Zee and Frankieontheguitar, as well as Buba Espinho and Bandidos do Cante.

Other highlights include Padre Guilherme (June 9), Ana Moura (June 10), Papillon (June 11), Os Azeitonas (June 12), Miguel Gameiro and Polo Norte (June 13), and Ornatos Violeta (June 14). The grand finale is a performance by Tony Carreira on June 15. Moreover, it is important to consider that, this year, in addition to the star-studded musical lineup at the Jardim Municipal, the Festas de Oeiras will extend its celebrations to the Parque Urbano de Miraflores, which will also host several performances.

Alongside the music, the festivities will offer local gastronomy routes, showcasing the region’s culinary delights. The event also features artisan markets and a dedicated space for children with trampolines and carousels, making it a perfect family outing. Whether through food, music, or activities, the Festas de Oeiras provides an immersive cultural experience for all ages.

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1. All-Time High Number of Portuguese Voters Have Registered for Early Voting 

Over 333,000 voters have registered to cast their ballots early by mail, setting a new all-time high for early voting. The registration process, which took place between May 4 and May 8, will allow voters to participate in the upcoming legislative elections one week earlier, on Sunday, May 11. This option gives citizens the chance to vote in any municipality on the mainland or in the Autonomous Regions of the Azores and Madeira.

According to the Ministry of Internal Administration, an exact total of 333,347 registered voters signed up for early voting, marking the highest figure ever recorded since the early voting option was extended to all voters. This increase in participation demonstrates growing enthusiasm for the opportunity to vote ahead of the official election date, which is set for May 18. Voters who registered can cast their ballots earlier and in mobilized voting.

On a side note, citizens planning to vote on May 18 and uncertain about their registered polling station can check their information in three ways: online via www.recenseamento.pt, by sending an SMS (free) to 3838 using a specific format, or directly at the parish council of their residence. These methods exist to ensure that every voter can easily access their polling station details before election day.

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2. Viseu Wants a Train and a Regional Airport

In Viseu, the ambition to transform the municipal airfield into a regional airport is gaining momentum. Mayor Fernando Ruas envisions an infrastructure capable of serving a wider region, arguing that between Lisbon and Porto, there is no airport, and that the current airfield is already at capacity, with executive jets, foreign golf tourists, and a daily flight that is almost always full. With aviation-related companies already operating there, and local aviation and mechanics courses in place, the Mayor insists it is time to give the airfield a new management framework and development status. However, the leap to an airport requires over €100 million, a scale of investment impossible for the municipality or intermunicipal community alone, and must be assumed by the central administration.

For the Mayor, such an airport would not only meet growing tourism demand (with Viseu now boasting four five-star hotels and capable of hosting large congresses) but also serve as a gateway for foreign direct investment. In this regard, he points to examples from Ireland, where airfields were used to stimulate regional development, and argues that the Viseu infrastructure could do the same. However, he makes clear that this would be a regional infrastructure, not a local one, and, as such, would need to be recognized as part of the national airport network.

Alongside air connectivity, Mayor Fernando Ruas places equal strategic weight on railway development, demanding that Viseu be connected to the Atlantic Corridor via elevated-speed, mixed-use rail. As it stands, Viseu is the only EU district capital with more than 40,000 inhabitants and no train. The current National Railway Plan foresees three phases: first linking Viseu to the Beira Alta Line, then to Aveiro, and finally to the Spanish border. The Mayor insists high-speed is unnecessary. In his view, elevated-speed, which is 20 km/h slower, would be enough for the region’s size. With ports like Leixões, Aveiro, and Figueira da Foz waiting, such a corridor would be essential not just for people, but for the flow of goods to central Europe.

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3. Padaria Portuguesa to Expand Into Other Countries While Keeping National Management

The Spanish group Rodilla has acquired Padaria Portuguesa, with plans to expand into other countries while maintaining national management in Portugal. This marks Rodilla’s first international expansion, a process that took the usual time in these cases, driven by shared values of craftsmanship, quality, and customer service. While the group confirmed the brand’s continued expansion, specific details about the countries or number of locations to open have not been revealed, beyond Spain.

Rodilla has assured that the Portuguese management team will remain in place to ensure a smooth transition, and that the transition period will be handled with care, focusing on team management and daily operations. The group also confirmed that the expansion will continue at the same pace, aligning with the previously announced plan, which includes an international expansion strategy. However, the exact details on the scope and number of new bakeries remain undisclosed.

The long-term growth strategy for Padaria Portuguesa includes the goal of reaching 120 locations in the next three years, with a total investment of €16 million. This will generate up to 600 new jobs, growing the workforce to 1,600 employees. The sales goal is an ambitious €80 million, almost doubling the €44 million revenue achieved in 2024. Independently of all the plans, the deal will proceed once the Competition Authority grants its approval, allowing the group to focus on transitioning the business and maintaining its high standards.

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4. Tekever Drone Manufacturer Is the Newest Portuguese Unicorn

The Portuguese drone company, Tekever, has reached unicorn status, achieving a valuation of over 1.2 billion euros after a new funding round. This round, led by investors such as Ventura Capital, Baillie Gifford, and the NATO Innovation Fund (NIF), solidifies the company as a leader in autonomous AI-driven defense and security. With such a valuation, Tekever now joins the ranks of Portugal’s seventh unicorn, alongside companies like Outsystems, Feedzai, and Talkdesk, marking a significant milestone in its journey.

With a team of 1,000 employees spread across six European countries, Tekever’s expansion continues at an ambitious pace. Ricardo Mendes, the founder, emphasized that the company’s global leadership in defense technology hinges on AI, autonomy, and the ability to innovate at a rapid pace. Additionally, the company’s strong corporate culture, based on empathy, problem-solving, speed, and agility, has been key to its success. Mendes also highlighted that, as Europe faces pressing security challenges that require scalable, fast-paced innovation, the company’s presence in the U.S. market is crucial.

Looking ahead, Tekever plans a £400 million investment in the UK over five years, which will generate 1,000 jobs. This comes after securing a multi-million euro contract with the Royal Airforce (RAF) for drone supply. The company’s growth also extends to Ukraine, where its drones support land and maritime operations. Note that the recent funding round, which follows the 70 million euro investment raised earlier, ensures Tekever’s continued dominance in the DefTech sector and fuels its ambitions for a global presence.

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5. Qatar Group Invests 75 Million Euros to Open International School in Alcântara

Artemis Education, a Qatar-based company, has invested 75 million euros to open the Lisboan International School in Alcântara, Lisbon. The school, housed in the historic A Napolitana pasta factory, is set to open in September 2025, and the project, designed by architect Frederico Valsassina, blends historical heritage with innovative architecture, with a campus spanning over 11,500 m². In terms of curriculum, the school aims to provide 21st-century education through a British program and the gradual implementation of the International Baccalaureate (IB) by 2027.

The school aims to accommodate up to 1,200 students, but its initial capacity will be for 150 to 300 students. The campus will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including science and technology labs, art and design rooms, dance and music studios, a 170-seat theater, and sports facilities. Apart from the facilities, the school will offer extracurricular activities like robotics, Mandarin training, volunteering, and sports, encouraging students to explore Lisbon through collaborations with local artists, environmental studies on the Tagus River, and visits to local startups and markets.

Note that the Lisboan International School will begin by enrolling students aged three to 14, gradually expanding to serve those up to 18. Guðmundur Hegner Jónsson, who has led prominent institutions like Dulwich College and UWC Red Cross Nordic, will be the school’s director. When it comes to reputation, Artemis Education already has a presence in Europe and the Middle East, with schools like Northview International School and ACS Doha International School under its belt.

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6. Court Ruling Should Ensure Essential Train Services Until May 14 While Respecting the Right to Strike 

The last Arbitration Court’s ruling is supposed to ensure a significant portion of CP’s usual services during the strike, with minimal disruption expected on May 11 and 14 in Lisbon and Porto. Half of the trains scheduled until 8:00 AM Saturday were cancelled due to machinists striking over overtime, primarily affecting long-distance routes. The court set minimum services at 25% for all scheduled trains, which CP welcomed, as it ensures essential mobility while respecting the right to strike.

The decision allows CP to run about 50% of scheduled trains on May 12 and 13, ensuring mobility for passengers. While the machinists’ strike continues through the weekend, its impact is mitigated, with only a 50.3% cancellation of trains during the 12:00 AM-8:00 AM period. This includes the significant reduction in long-distance trains, which saw cancellations of up to 90%. It is relevant to consider that the partial strike by SFRCI, which affects conductors and ticket office workers, was set to begin on Sunday and to also have a limited impact on long-distance services.

In addition, the union’s decision for a 25% minimum service is seen as a fair balance, allowing CP to meet the mobility needs of passengers while maintaining essential transport services. Note that this ruling protects passenger rights and ensures that the railway operates safely while the right to strike is upheld. Strikes will continue until Wednesday, with disruptions expected to be limited to specific services, particularly long-distance routes.

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7. Latest Lisbon Derby Ends in a Draw

In a championship defined by balance and fierce competition, the derby between Benfica and Sporting once again carried monumental weight. As one of the most intense and historic rivalries in Portuguese football, this weekend’s Benfica-Sporting derby represented much more than just a game; it was almost the pinnacle of the season. The 1-1 draw, with Sporting holding a slight advantage in the direct confrontation, set the stage for a thrilling finish.

Historically, these derbies are known for their emotional intensity, often offering the spectacle of beautiful football, but always a contest defined by fierce rivalry, strategic struggle, and collective effort. This particular edition of the derby was no different, as both teams came into it with everything on the line, knowing that whoever won could gain a crucial advantage in the race for the title.

The importance of this game in the wider context of the Portuguese league cannot be overstated. To some extent, it marked the culmination of a season where the two teams have been locked in a relentless race, pushing each other to the brink. With the draw and the title hanging in the balance, all eyes are now on the final match of the season, where this fierce rivalry will finally be settled, delivering a dramatic conclusion to what has already been considered a historic campaign.

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8. Sintra Festival Will Turn the Mountain into a Giant Stage Once Again

The Sintra Festival returns for its 59th edition, transforming the region into a true open-air concert hall from June 12 to 22. Under the artistic direction of Martim Sousa Tavares, the event features performances in iconic locations such as the Peninha Sanctuary, Monserrate Palace, Adega Regional de Colares, Santa Maria Church, and the National Palace of Queluz. The program opens with German pianist Christian Zacharias, known for his interpretations of Schubert, Mozart, and Beethoven, and includes a performance by the prestigious Leipzig Quartet.

Maintaining its connection with nature, the festival presents sunrise concert-hikes, with Bruno Pernadas performing solo and Tiago Nacarato offering an intimate recital at sunset. A piano duel between American Dan Tepfer and Portuguese Daniel Bernardes promises a show of improvisation and musical innovation. Other featured artists include William Christie and Les Arts Florissants, Italian cellist Mario Brunello, clarinetist Martin Fröst, violinist Nicola Benedetti, and Portuguese pianist Maria João Pires, which is returning for the 14th time.

It is relevant to consider that the festival highlights national talent with performances by the Sintra Municipal Orchestra, the Algarve Orchestra, and musicians Irene Lima and Marta Menezes. Other highlights include a French chanson recital by Katia Ledoux, a tribute to Ryuichi Sakamoto by the Bang on a Can All-Stars, and the show Speak Low followed by a roundtable on exile and otherness in the arts. Moreover, the program also includes the screening of Coda, about Sakamoto, and a documentary on the festival’s history. Tickets are already available, costing between 10 and 50 euros.

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9. Three Days of Jazz Returns to Palácio Baldaya in Benfica This May

Junta-te ao Jazz, now in its 16th edition, returns to Palácio Baldaya with three days of free concerts in the palace gardens. Taking place from May 23 to 25, the festival will bring prominent jazz names to Benfica, creating a space where audiences can enjoy the sounds of the Portuguese jazz scene in an open-air, community-focused setting.

The lineup kicks off on Friday, May 23, with Selma Uamusse taking the stage at 9:00 PM, opening a strong lineup. On Saturday, the music begins at 3:00 PM with Leonor Baldaque, followed by O Mau Olhado, a musical project by João Cardoso, at 5:30 PM. On that night, at 9:00 PM, Carmen Souza will bring her Cape Verdean roots into the language of jazz, continuing the festival’s diverse and rhythm-rich offerings.

On the final day, Sunday, Benfica will hear the voice of Myles Sanko, a British singer whose path from hip-hop and funk led to a successful jazz recording career. His set begins at 4:00 PM. The festival closes with Angolan singer Paulo Flores, adding a powerful and emotional finale to this celebration of jazz music. Note that the festival will be free and that, throughout the three days of the festival, the Soul to Soul project will also be featured.

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10. A New Festival in Lisbon Combines Craft Beer and Climbing

A new craft beer festival is coming to Lisbon, bringing a unique setting and a new energy to the city. Called Ponte & Pints, the event will take place on May 23 and 24, right beneath the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, at Escala25, near the Pilar 7 Experience. It’s a two-day celebration that blends beer, music, climbing, and community spirit in a distinctive urban space.

The festival will feature 14 local breweries offering tastings of their latest creations. Participating names include Musa, Dois Corvos, Oitava Colina, Rafeira, HopSin, Mean Sardine, and more. To accompany the drinks, there will be street food stalls and a sustainable market, ensuring no one goes hungry. From beer lovers to foodies, the event promises something for everyone.

Beyond the beer and food, Ponte & Pints will offer live performances and music by artists like Neil Fernandes. Additionally, the venue’s distinctive vertical space will also host climbing activities running throughout the festival. In short, the event is supposed to celebrate creativity and the community spirit of the city, turning Escala25 into a lively, multi-sensory experience.

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The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) continues to process its enormous backlog of residency applications, with 23,500 immigrants having their residence permit applications rejected so far. Of these rejected applicants, 4,500 have already been notified to voluntarily leave the country within 20 days.

This figure is expected to rise even further by June 3rd, when the Mission Structure of AIMA concludes its work. Just last week, the Minister of the Presidency announced that 18,000 applications had been rejected, indicating a rapid increase in processing outcomes.

While rejections continue to mount, AIMA has approved 123,000 residence permits, representing 27.5% of the total 446,921 pending expressions of interest, according to an official Government source who spoke to Expresso.

The agency’s task has been somewhat reduced after the initial cancellation of 171,000 applications due to lack of payment. This left 275,000 expressions of interest to be processed with biometric data collected. Of these, 44.7% were approved for residence card issuance.

Enforcement actions have also been ongoing, with 42 administrative expulsions carried out throughout 2024 and 10 forced removals completed in the first quarter of 2025 alone.

In addition to processing new applications, AIMA has expanded its operations. Starting in mid-February 2025, the Mission Structure took on the responsibility of renewing and replacing residence permits for citizens from the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP). This process involves verifying criminal records from applicants’ countries of origin and recording biometric and personal data.

The agency plans to issue a new call in the coming days for CPLP citizens to exchange their current paper residence permits (A4 format) for plastic cards that meet European Union safety standards. Those who have already paid the required fee but missed their appointments will be summoned again soon.

Since the mission centers began operating in September last year, AIMA has addressed 440,000 previously pending cases related to defunct expressions of interest. The agency has also called 220,000 CPLP citizens to exchange their residence permits. The processing queue still includes approximately 50,000 Golden Visa investors and those who applied for family reunification.

Currently, 117,000 cases remain pending, though the government source notes that all of these have already been processed and distributed to the instructors or instructed for a final decision.