From cobbled streets to corporate heights
Why Lisbon?
Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is located on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, where the Tagus River meets the Atlantic Ocean. This coastal city is renowned for its unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation, exemplified by its iconic Manueline architecture, cobbled streets, and contemporary business hubs. Landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery showcase Lisbon’s rich maritime history. As a strategic gateway to Europe, Africa, and the Americas, Lisbon serves as a significant centre for international trade and business outsourcing. Its skilled workforce, advanced infrastructure, and strategic location make it a prime destination for global enterprises.
Key advantages of BPOs in Lisbon include:
Population and language
The population of Lisbon is over three million, with non-nationals making up around 9.3%. The city has a diverse demographic, shaped by rural-to-urban migration and returning citizens from former colonies. Recent years have seen an influx of young professionals, particularly from the United Kingdom, drawn by the city’s culture and opportunities. Portuguese is the official language, spoken universally, while English is widely used in business and higher education. Institutions such as Católica Lisbon School of Business & Economics and Universidade de Lisboa offer courses in English and other foreign languages. This multilingual environment supports Lisbon’s global business connections and academic appeal. The city’s ability to attract a skilled, diverse workforce has established it as a hub for international trade and education.
Education and workforce
Lisbon is a leading educational hub, hosting major institutions such as the University of Lisbon, NOVA University Lisbon, and ISCTE – University Institute of Lisbon. The University of Lisbon enrols over 51,000 students annually, with approximately 10,000 graduates, including over 400 doctorates. Higher education in Lisbon supports key industries, producing specialists in technology, business, engineering, and health. NOVA’s School of Business and Economics is globally recognised, attracting international students and professionals. Lisbon’s Polytechnic Institute provides industry-focused programmes, enhancing workforce skills in engineering and communications. Around 17% of higher education students in Portugal are international, contributing to Lisbon’s diverse talent pool. Partnerships between universities and businesses ensure graduates are ready to meet industry demands, cementing Lisbon’s status as a centre for global talent.
Transport and infrastructure
Humberto Delgado Airport (IATA: LIS, ICAO: LPPT) is the primary international gateway to Lisbon, handling millions of passengers annually and serving as a hub for TAP Air Portugal. The metro system, currently expanding with new stations and extensions, provides reliable and safe travel, particularly to business districts. The city also offers efficient suburban rail services, taxis, and ride-sharing options for seamless connectivity. Significant government investments focus on modernising metro and railway networks while promoting sustainable urban mobility. The planned construction of a new international airport aims to accommodate growing demand. Public transport projects include measures to expand access and improve freight systems. Lisbon’s infrastructure ensures efficient travel for businesses and supports its role as a hub for international operations and commerce.
Telecommunications and connectivity
Lisbon is a key hub for global data connectivity, strengthened by the EllaLink subsea cable linking Europe to South America for faster data transmission. Equinix is investing approximately USD 54 million in the LS2 data centre, boosting Lisbon’s digital capacity. AtlasEdge has added over 20MW of IT infrastructure by acquiring two local data centres. Connectivity to Madeira and the Azores is being modernised with new submarine cables led by IP Telecom. The government enforces secure telecommunications by limiting Chinese 5G equipment, a policy costing approximately USD 1.07 billion. Comprehensive fibre-optic networks and public Wi-Fi ensure reliable citywide connectivity. Smart city initiatives integrate technology into urban planning. Lisbon’s focus on advanced digital infrastructure attracts global businesses, while Digi’s acquisition of Nowo Communications further strengthens its telecommunications landscape.
Government support and growth
The Portuguese government has introduced tax incentives for professionals under 35, including income tax exemptions for those earning below approximately USD 30,000 in their first employment year. Lisbon benefits from a USD 2.15 billion redevelopment project at Fábrica de Gás da Matinha, led by VIC Properties, which will create over 3,000 jobs and 120,000 square metres of green spaces. Corporate tax reductions from 21% to 20% are planned to attract investment. Panattoni is developing a logistics park in Lisbon, enhancing its infrastructure, while Chancerygate and Mitiska REIM are building multi-let industrial parks near Sintra. Hub Criativo do Beato has become a key innovation centre. Additionally, urban mobility initiatives include modernising public transport and freight systems. Lisbon’s dynamic growth is supported by robust government and private sector collaboration.
BPO services
Customer service, back-office outsourcing, and sales outsourcing are the leading BPO sectors in Lisbon, supported by a skilled multilingual workforce. The industry contributes significantly to Portugal’s approximately USD 1.02 billion call centre sector, with over 26,000 professionals employed nationwide. Lisbon’s BPO market benefits from robust infrastructure, with 90% of Portugal’s upcoming data centre capacity concentrated in the city. Key players include Connecta Group and Cluster Outsourcing Services Limited, delivering services to international clients. Lisbon’s reputable universities provide a steady stream of graduates with strong language and technical skills, enhancing the talent pool. The city also hosts major industry events, such as the Shared Services & Outsourcing Week Europe. These factors solidify Lisbon’s position as a dynamic hub for business outsourcing services.
Top Outsourcing services
Exceptional service solutions
South Africa excels in providing diverse and efficient outsourcing services, including customer support, technical assistance, financial process management, and specialised industry support.
ServiceS frequently outsourced to
Lisbon
- Appointment Setting
- Billing Support
- Claims Management
- Collections
- Customer Retention
- Customer Services
- First Notification of Loss
- Gaming Support
- Guest Services
- Healthcare Support
- Help Desk
- Inbound Sales
- Insurance Policy Checking
- Lead Qualification
- Loyalty Programs
- Omni-channel Services
- Quality Assurance
- Reservation Bookings
- Ticket Sales
- Technical Support
- Travel & Leisure Support
ServiceS frequently outsourced to
Lisbon
- Appointment Setting
- Billing Support
- Claims Management
- Collections
- Customer Retention
- Customer Service
- First Notification of Loss
- Gaming Support
- Guest Services
- Healthcare Support
- Help Desk
- Inbound Sales
- Insurance Policy Support
- Lead Generation
- Loyalty Programs
- Omni-channel Services
- Quality Assurance
- Reservation Bookings
- Ticket Sales
- Technical Support
- Travel & Leisure Support