Is the word fica the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

No.

While the core dictionary definitions of "fica" (from the verb ficar) are essentially the same, there are notable differences in typical usage and grammar. In Brazil, "ficar" is the culturally pervasive, standard term for casual romantic or sexual encounters ("ficar com alguém"), whereas in Portugal, other verbs like "beijar" are often used to express the same idea. Additionally, Brazilians frequently use "fica" in idiomatic reassurances (e.g., "Fica tranquilo"), whereas a Portuguese person would more naturally use "Não te preocupes." Lastly, the grammatical conjugation of the verb changes significantly because Brazilians use the você form, while Portuguese people typically use the tu form.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Onde fica o shopping? (Where is the mall?)
2. Eu fiquei com ela na festa. (I hooked up with her at the party.)
3. Fica tranquilo, vai dar tudo certo. (Stay calm, everything will be fine.)
4. A comida fica ótima com muito sal. (The food becomes great with a lot of salt.)
5. Eu vou ficar em casa hoje. (I am going to stay home today.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Onde fica o centro comercial? (Where is the shopping center?)
2. Eu beijei-a na festa. (I kissed her at the party.)
3. Não te preocupes, vai correr tudo bem. (Don't worry, everything will go well.)
4. A comida fica ótima com muito sal. (The food becomes great with a lot of salt.)
5. Eu vou ficar em casa hoje. (I am going to stay home today.)