Abstract: Research on Portuguese immigration to Australia and return migration to Portugal is lacking, both in Australia and in Portugal. The current study explores the determinants of migration intentions to stay in Sydney, Australia, and/or return to Algarve, Portugal. It also examines the correlation between migrants intending to return to Portugal and those who have already returned. Guided by a summary of previous findings and by data results drawn from in-depth interviews with migrants and return migrants in both Sydney and Algarve, the study tests, using elements of the Value-Expectancy (VE) model, a proposition based on the argument that migration goals and expectations are a major factor in the desire to stay or to return to the country of origin. Results indicate a significant relationship between the decision to return to Portugal and such determinants as failure to achieve initial migration goals, other factors relating to adjustment problems, ties to the country of origin, and level of English language competency in the host country. While many of the findings are consistent with those derived from analyses of migration intentions and behaviour data, the study found that not achieving migration expectations in the host country is a primary determining factor in the immigrants’ intention to return.

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