Moving to Portugal
Portugal is an excellent choice for westerners looking to relocate. With a mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and historic cities, the country provides a high quality of life. The cost of living is low in comparison to other Western European countries, making it an appealing option for retirees or expats. Portugal also has a rich culture and history, as well as delicious food and wine and a relaxed and welcoming way of life. The healthcare system is regarded as excellent, and the country is considered safe and stable. For foreigners looking to relocate,
** Update: Golden Visa Program Ended **
Portugal also provides a variety of visa options, including the popular “Golden Visa” program for investors and the “Non-Habitual Resident” tax regime for retirees. All of this makes Portugal an excellent choice for those seeking a change of pace and a new way of life.
Benefits of living in Portugal
From the standpoint of a westerner, there are several primary advantages to relocating or retiring in Portugal.
Cost of living: When compared to other Western European countries, Portugal has a relatively low cost of living. Housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are all reasonably priced for expats and retirees.
The climate in Portugal is mild Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to escape colder climates.
Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque countryside, and historic cities. It has a diverse landscape, ranging from mountains to the sea, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Portugal has a rich culture and a long history, as well as delicious food and wine. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the pace of life is slow.
Healthcare: Portugal has an excellent healthcare system, with both public and private options. The country is also well-known for its low-cost dental care.
Portugal is regarded as a safe country with a low crime rate.
Visa options: For foreigners looking to relocate, Portugal offers a variety of visa options, including the popular “Golden Visa” program for investors and the “Non-Habitual Resident” tax regime for retirees.
Language: The official language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in major tourist areas and many expat communities, making it easy for westerners to communicate and navigate daily life. Furthermore, many people in Portugal speak other European languages, such as Spanish and French, making communication easier for those who speak those languages.
Access to Europe: Because Portugal is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, residents can easily travel to other European countries.
Real estate opportunities: Portugal has a thriving real estate market with numerous investment opportunities, particularly in the tourism and vacation home markets.
Overall, Portugal has a lot to offer westerners looking to relocate or retire. With its low cost of living, stunning natural scenery, rich culture, and excellent healthcare, it’s no surprise that an increasing number of Westerners are choosing to call Portugal home. It is critical to remember that each experience is unique, and it is always recommended to visit the country and explore different areas before making any decisions.
Housing costs for expats in Portugal are relatively low when compared to other Western European countries, according to Numbeo. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €600 per month on average, while a one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center costs around €450 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about €900 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment outside of the city center costs about €700 per month. Expats frequently report slightly higher rents, particularly in tourist-heavy or upscale areas.
Housing options
For those looking to relocate or retire in Portugal, there are a variety of housing options available. Among the most popular choices are:
Purchasing a property: Portugal’s real estate market is expanding, with many properties available for purchase, particularly in the tourist and vacation home market. The Algarve, the Silver Coast, and Lisbon are popular destinations for foreign buyers.
Renting a home: Portugal has a wide range of rental options, from apartments to villas. Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve are popular rental destinations.
Retirement communities: There are an increasing number of retirement communities in Portugal that cater to foreign residents and include amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and social activities.
Serviced apartments are another popular choice for expats and retirees because they combine the convenience of a hotel with the comfort of a home.
Living in a rural area: Portugal has a diverse landscape, and many people prefer to live in a more rural area to enjoy the country’s natural beauty.
Overall, the type of housing you select will be determined by your personal preferences and lifestyle. It is always advisable to visit the country and explore various areas before making any decisions. Furthermore, the cost of housing varies depending on location, with prices generally being higher in urban areas like Lisbon and Porto and lower in more rural areas.
Locations
Depending on their preferences and lifestyle, there are many great places in Portugal for expats and retirees to relocate to. The following are some of the best places in Portugal for expats and retirees:
Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal. It is located in the western part of the country, on the Atlantic coast. The city is known for its historic architecture, picturesque streets, and charming neighborhoods. The historic center of Lisbon, known as the Baixa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features grand plazas, narrow alleys, and 18th-century buildings.
The city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters. Lisbon is also famous for its lively nightlife and great food scene. You can find a wide variety of traditional Portuguese dishes, from seafood to traditional pastries. The city also offers a great public transportation system and is a great place for expats who want to live in a cosmopolitan city with a great quality of life.
However, Lisbon is also known for its high cost of living compared to the rest of the country, especially when it comes to housing. The city has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years, which has led to a significant increase in property prices.
Additionally, Lisbon can be quite hilly and it can be challenging to get around, especially for people with mobility issues. Despite this, it is still considered a popular destination for retirees and expats looking to relocate to Portugal.
Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, located in the northwest of the country, along the Atlantic coast. It is known for its historic center, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and features charming medieval streets, baroque architecture, and picturesque plazas. The city is also famous for its lively cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters.
Porto is also famous for its wine, particularly the fortified wine known as Port, which is produced in the Douro Valley, just outside the city. The city also offers great seafood and traditional dishes such as francesinha, a sandwich made with bread, ham, sausage, steak or roast meat and covered with melted cheese and a special spicy sauce.
Porto is considered a more affordable place to live in Portugal compared to Lisbon, with lower housing costs and a lower cost of living overall. The city also offers a great public transportation system, and the people are known for being friendly and welcoming to foreigners.
However, it can be a bit cooler and damp compared to other parts of Portugal, and the weather can be unpredictable. Nevertheless, Porto is still considered a popular destination for retirees and expats looking to relocate to Portugal, particularly those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle with a mix of culture, history, and good food.
The Algarve is a region located in the southernmost part of Portugal, known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque cliffs, and clear blue waters. It is a popular tourist destination known for its mild Mediterranean climate and its warm temperatures throughout the year. It is also known for its vibrant nightlife, golf courses and water sports.
The region is home to many historic towns and villages, such as Lagos, Tavira, and Silves, which offer a glimpse into Portugal’s past. The Algarve is also known for its traditional seafood dishes and its famous Algarve wine.
The Algarve is a popular destination for retirees and expats looking for a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. The region offers a lower cost of living compared to other parts of Portugal, and the housing costs can be quite affordable. Property prices are lower than in Lisbon and Porto, and the region has a good selection of properties that are suitable for retirees and expats.
However, it’s worth noting that the Algarve can get very busy during the summer months and it can be challenging to find parking or even walk around in the busiest areas. Additionally, the region is more rural, meaning it may be harder to find certain goods and services, especially if you’re looking for something that’s not typically associated with tourism.
The Silver Coast, also known as Costa de Prata, is a region located in the central part of Portugal, along the Atlantic coast. It is known for its unspoiled beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and historic towns. The region is also known for its mild climate and its natural beauty, including the Serra de Aire Natural Park and the Obidos Lagoon.
The Silver Coast is home to many historic towns and villages, such as Obidos, Alcobaça, and Nazaré, which offer a glimpse into Portugal’s past. The region is also known for its traditional seafood dishes and its famous Obidos liquor, a sweet cherry liqueur.
The Silver Coast is becoming a more popular destination for retirees and expats looking for a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. The region offers a lower cost of living compared to other parts of Portugal, and the housing costs are quite affordable. Property prices are lower than in Lisbon and Porto and the region has a good selection of properties that are suitable for retirees and expats.
However, the Silver Coast is more rural than other parts of Portugal, thus non-tourism-related shops and services may be tougher to find. Atlantic Ocean beaches may be cooler than Algarve beaches despite their beauty.
The Azores
The Azores are an archipelago of nine volcanic islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,500 km (932 mi) west of continental Portugal. The Azores are known for their breathtaking landscapes, including lush green forests, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear lakes. The islands are also known for their mild climate, which is influenced by the Gulf Stream.
The Azores are a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. The islands are also known for their traditional cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the sea and features a variety of seafood dishes.
The Azores are becoming a more popular destination for retirees and expats looking for a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. The region offers a lower cost of living compared to other parts of Portugal, and the housing costs are quite affordable. The Azores have a good selection of properties that are suitable for retirees and expats, with a mix of traditional and modern housing options.
However, because the Azores are more remote than other parts of Portugal, it may be more difficult to find certain goods and services, especially if you’re looking for something that isn’t typically associated with tourism. Furthermore, the islands are known for their unpredictable weather, which can change quickly, so be prepared.
Madeira is an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 km (620 mi) southwest of Portugal. It is known for its lush green landscapes, picturesque villages, and subtropical climate. The island is also famous for its wine, Madeira wine, which is produced on the island.
Madeira is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. The island is also known for its traditional cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the sea and features a variety of seafood dishes.
Madeira is becoming a more popular destination for retirees and expats looking for a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. The region offers a lower cost of living compared to other parts of Portugal, and the housing costs are quite affordable. The island has a good selection of properties that are suitable for retirees and expats, with a mix of traditional and modern housing options.
However, because Madeira is more isolated than other parts of Portugal, it may be more difficult to find certain goods and services, particularly those unrelated to tourism. Be prepared for the island’s volatile weather, which can change quickly.
Overall, the best location for an expat or retiree will be determined by their personal preferences and lifestyle. It is always advisable to visit the country and explore various areas before making any decisions. When deciding on a location, it’s also important to consider things like the cost of living, access to healthcare and amenities, and language. Many expats and retirees prefer to live in smaller towns and villages, where they can get a more authentic Portuguese experience and live at a slower pace. Portugal has many options for expats and retirees, and with a little research and exploration, you’re sure to find a place that feels like home.
Visas
Depending on the individual’s circumstances and the length of stay, there are several types of visas available for westerners wishing to travel to or relocate to Portugal. The following are some of the most common types of visas for Westerners:
Tourist Visa: This type of visa allows foreign visitors to visit Portugal for a limited time, typically up to 90 days. It is only valid for tourism, business, or family visits and cannot be used for work or study.
Short-stay Visa: This type of visa allows for stays of up to 180 days and is issued for a variety of purposes including study, research, and work.
Residency Visa: This type of visa allows foreigners to live and work in Portugal for an extended period of time. The “Golden Visa” program for investors, the “Non-Habitual Resident” tax regime for retirees, and the “EU Blue Card” for highly skilled workers are all examples of residency visas.
** Update: Golden Visa Program Ended **
Student Visa: This type of visa is granted to students who intend to study in Portugal.
Family Reunification Visa: This type of visa allows a legal resident’s family members to join them in Portugal.
It is important to note that visa requirements and the application process are subject to change, so it is best to check with the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your country for the most up-to-date information, as well as consult with an immigration lawyer.
More Visa Information
Food
Portugal’s food scene is diverse and delicious. Portugal has a rich culinary tradition that has been shaped by its history, geography, and climate. Here are some dishes to try for yourself:
Pastel de nata – a traditional Portuguese pastry, the Pastel de Nata is a custard tart made with a flaky pastry crust and a creamy custard filling. The custard is made with egg yolks, sugar, and cream, and is often flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. The tarts are traditionally dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.
Sardinhas assadas – Grilled sardines is a traditional Portuguese dish, usually served as a starter or a main course. Sardines are seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. They are often served with a side of boiled potatoes and a green salad.
Polvo à Lagareiro – This dish is a traditional octopus dish, cooked with olive oil and potatoes. The octopus is boiled until tender, then grilled and served with boiled potatoes and a sprinkle of olive oil, garlic and parsley.
Arroz de pato – This is a traditional dish of duck rice. It is a hearty dish made with duck, rice, and a variety of vegetables and spices. The duck is slow-cooked with the rice and vegetables, which creates a rich and flavorful dish.
Porco preto – Iberian black pork is a traditional dish of Portugal and Spain. It is a cured meat made from the meat of Iberian pigs. The pork is dry-cured with salt, paprika, and other spices and then aged for several months. It is usually sliced thin and served with bread or crackers.
Francesinha – “Little Frenchie” is a traditional sandwich from Porto. It’s a sandwich made with bread, ham, sausage, steak or roast meat, and covered with melted cheese and a special spicy sauce. It’s often served with fries.
Açorda – Açorda is a bread soup, traditional from the Alentejo region. It’s made with bread, garlic, coriander, olive oil, and fish or meat broth. It’s a comforting soup, perfect for a cold day.
Arroz de marisco – Seafood Rice is a traditional dish of Portugal, it’s made with a variety of seafood, such as clams, shrimp, and squid, cooked with rice and a variety of herbs and spices. It’s a delicious and flavorful dish.
Queijo – Cheese is an important part of Portuguese cuisine, from the famous Azeitão cheese to the creamy Azeitão cheese, there are many varieties of cheese in Portugal. Some of the most popular ones include Serra da Estrela, Azeitão, and Queijo da Ilha.
Prego – Steak sandwich is a traditional Portuguese dish, it consists of a steak, usually a tender cut, cooked to perfection, and served on a bread roll. It’s often garnished with garlic butter, cheese, and a fried egg.
Lapas – Limpets are a type of sea snail, they are considered a delicacy in Portugal and are often served grilled or in a stew. They have a unique texture and a slightly sweet and salty taste.
Wine: Portugal is well-known for its wine production and offers a wide range of wines from various regions. The Douro Valley, Alentejo, and Do are the most well-known wine regions.
The food scene in Portugal is constantly changing, with new restaurants, cafes, and bars opening up all the time, serving a wide range of international and fusion cuisine. The country also has a thriving street food scene, with both traditional and innovative options.
Safety
Portugal is regarded as a safe country to live in, with a low crime rate when compared to other Western European countries. The country has a stable political and economic environment, and the Portuguese government places a high value on the safety and security of its citizens and visitors. However, as with any country, it is critical to be aware of potential hazards and to take the necessary precautions.
Pickpocketing and theft from cars and houses are common crimes in Portugal, particularly in tourist areas and large cities. It is prudent to be aware of your surroundings, especially in congested areas, and to keep an eye on your valuables.
Although violent crime is considered rare in Portugal, it is still prudent to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
The overall safety situation in Portugal is regarded as favorable, with expats and visitors reporting a sense of security in the country. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe.
Language
Portuguese is the official language in Portugal, which may be difficult for westerners who do not speak the language. However, because many Portuguese people, particularly those in the tourism and service industries, speak at least some English, communication is usually possible. Furthermore, many people in Portugal speak other European languages, such as Spanish and French, which can make communication easier for those who speak those languages.
Learning the language is recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in the culture and integrate more fully into society. There are numerous language schools and resources available to assist westerners in learning Portuguese, such as online courses, language exchange programs, and private tutors.
Overall, while the language barrier may be difficult for some westerners, it is manageable and can be overcome with time and effort.
What Do People Say?
Expats in Portugal generally have positive things to say about their time in the country. Some of their common experiences include:
Low cost of living: Many expats find the cost of living in Portugal to be relatively low, particularly when compared to other Western European countries. They appreciate the low-cost housing, food, and healthcare.
Beautiful weather and scenery: The mild climate and beautiful landscapes of Portugal are frequently cited as major draws for expats. Many people appreciate the warm weather and the ability to participate in outdoor activities all year.
Friendly and welcoming people: Expats frequently comment on the Portuguese people’s friendliness and welcoming nature. They discover that the locals are welcoming and helpful, making it simple to integrate into the community.
Rich culture and history: Many expats are drawn to Portugal because of its rich history and culture. They enjoy the country’s many museums, festivals, and cultural events, as well as the country’s art, music, and literature.
Expats also report that transportation in Portugal is well-organized and efficient, making it simple to get around the country.
Language barrier: For some expats, the language barrier is difficult to overcome and may take some time to adjust to.
Quality of healthcare: According to some expats, healthcare in Portugal is generally good and accessible, though there may be some challenges in terms of access to certain medical procedures.
Overall, expats in Portugal have a positive experience and find that the country provides a high quality of life at a reasonable price.
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