12,500
Number of cybersecurity professionals
Estimated cybersecurity workforce in Portugal in 2026
4,200
Annual cybersecurity job openings
New cybersecurity roles anticipated annually in Portugal
120 million EUR
Cybersecurity budget (EUR)
Total cybersecurity investment in Portugal for 2026
33%
Cybersecurity skills gap (%)
Percentage of unfilled cybersecurity positions in Portugal
85
Number of cybersecurity training programs
Number of active training and certification programs in Portugal
Portugal faces a significant cybersecurity workforce gap in 2026, with an estimated 12,500 professionals and over 4,200 annual job openings. Despite increasing investments of EUR 120 million, the skills shortage remains at 33%, highlighting the need for expanded training initiatives. The country is actively developing more certification programs to bridge this gap and enhance national cyber resilience.
The rising demand for cybersecurity expertise reflects Portugal’s digital transformation and increased cyber threats. Efforts to upskill the workforce through dedicated training programs are vital for addressing the talent deficit. Strengthening partnerships between academia and industry can accelerate talent development, ensuring Portugal remains protected amid growing cyber risks in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the cybersecurity skills gap in Portugal?
Rapid digital growth, limited specialized training, and high demand for cybersecurity roles are contributing to the skills shortage in Portugal.
How is Portugal addressing its cybersecurity workforce gap?
Portugal is increasing training programs, fostering industry-academia collaborations, and investing in cybersecurity education to bridge the skills gap.
Disclaimer: All statistics presented are 2026 estimates and projections based on industry trend analysis, historical data, and publicly available research. Individual data points may vary from actual figures.