‘Just look at those shabby trains in Lisbon’ Post-arrival disappointment amongst Chinese migrants in Portugal

Published in the Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, this open-access article sheds light on the experiences of affluent Chinese migrants in Portugal, revealing a striking gap between their high premigration expectations and the realities they face after arrival.

Despite their financial resources, many express frustration with inefficiencies in public services, limited infrastructure, and a perceived lack of cultural vibrancy compared to life in China or other major global cities. Based on 27 in-depth interviews with migrants arriving through Golden Visas, D7 passive income visas, work, and student mobility programs, the study highlights how feelings of discontent often surface as boredom in their everyday lives, a paradox linked to both privilege and mediated expectations. Importantly, the research finds that such disappointment does not necessarily lead to failure or stagnation. Instead, it can inspire proactive strategies, such as revising personal goals, adjusting financial plans, or considering onward migration to better align aspirations with lived realities.