In the province of Padova (or Padua, in Portuguese), the number of foreigners has almost tripled in the last 20 years. According to the January 2024 census, the region has 97 immigrant residents, equivalent to 10,4% of the total population.
Among the countries of origin, Romania (33%), Morocco (9%) and China (9%) stand out.
Em Padova (capital of the province, which bears the same name) and Pontelongo, the incidence reaches 16%, with one in every six residents being a foreigner.
Demographic transformations
Padova is the municipality with the largest number of foreigners: 34. Pontelongo leads in proportion, thanks to housing policies and work in the industrial sector. Camposampiero, Cadoneghe and Battaglia Terme also have a high incidence of immigrants, while smaller cities, such as Arquà Petrarca, have only 2%.
Over the past two decades, significant changes have marked the profile of immigrant communities. The Chinese population, for example, has increased from 1.711 to 8.908, according to ISTAT.
Community impact
Immigrants have contributed to various economic sectors, such as services and tourism. However, challenges arise, such as housing and social integration. Local authorities point to the need for housing solutions, especially in Abano, where foreigners represent 10% of the population and occupy positions in hotels and restaurants. (Photos: Depositphotos)
