The data comes from the first phase of a report by the Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, commissioned by the Beira Baixa Intermunicipal Community (CIMBB), examining immigration trends in the region.

According to the Penamacor municipality, this rise led to a net population increase of 49 people in 2023, driven by a positive migration balance of 130 residents, offsetting a natural population decline of 81.

Most foreign residents in Penamacor are from the United Kingdom and Germany, contributing to a demographic shift in a traditionally depopulating area. The municipality views this as a reinforcement of its local development strategy, also boosting school enrolments over the past three years.

In March, Mayor António Beites noted that foreign pupils now represent 18% of students in early education and primary school. He welcomed the newcomers, saying they are helping to “repopulate the territory” and underlining the need for strong integration policies. He stressed that understanding who the new residents are, why they have chosen Penamacor, and what keeps attracting more is essential for future planning.

Across the CIMBB region, the number of legal foreign residents grew by 266%—from 1,856 in 2008 to 6,786 in 2023—signalling a reversal of long-term demographic decline.

The report describes immigration as a vital opportunity to revitalise the local economy and combat depopulation. However, it also highlights key integration challenges, including housing, language barriers, and access to public services.

CIMBB includes the municipalities of Castelo Branco, Idanha-a-Nova, Oleiros, Penamacor, Proença-a-Nova, Sertã, Vila de Rei, and Vila Velha de Ródão.