Why Move to Portugal?
Sunny beaches, peaceful towns, vibrant cities, lively nightlife, and a rich cultural heritage - all harmonize to create the unique experience that is Portugal, offering you a real quality of life and truly unforgettable memories.
If you are thinking of investing in Portugal, it’s essential to act within the legal framework. We are here to help you through the process, and our team of experts will advise you every step of the way, including not only all matters of law and taxes but also through the best and most profitable opportunities. Contact us for comprehensive guidance on how to obtain a Portuguese Residency.
Fast facts
Picturesque landscapes, amazing sea views, and unique vineyards: Portugal is a place of overwhelming beauty. Lisbon, the capital city, has traditional neighborhoods and very special historic architecture. Places like Porto and the Algarve share the vibrant scenario of the capital city. Festivals and celebrations mark each of these locations all year long, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere all over the country.
Portugal has a stunning coastline, going all the way from North to South of the country. Its climate makes it desirable all year round, attracting tourists in summertime. They come for the breathtaking beaches, with deep blue water – perfect for water sports, relaxing under the sun and enjoying a breathtaking sunset.
- Population: 10,07M (2023 est.)
- Capital City: Lisbon
- Climate: Mediterranean climate with some variation between regions. Warm to hot, dry summers, and mild to cool, wet winters. The Azores and Madeira archipelagos both have subtropical climates.
- Time Zone: GMT+1
- Language: Portuguese
- Country Code: +351
- Currency: EURO
- Economy: Agriculture, manufacturing, electricity, gas and water production and distribution, construction, retail trade, and accommodation.
- GDP Per/Cap: US$22,378 (est. 2023)
- Borders: Spain
Lifestyle
The Portuguese enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, highly focused on family and outdoor living, courtesy of the country's Mediterranean climate. Activities such as hiking, surfing and golfing are popular, and if you love wine and food, or just like to take part in the smaller pleasures in life, then Portugal is your ultimate destination.
Cost of living
Portugal is among the most affordable countries in the EU, especially when considering the low-cost housing sector, the developed healthcare and education systems, and the transport infrastructure. Overall, Portugal provides a budget-friendly lifestyle.
Safety
According to the 2023 Global Peace Index, Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world, ranking in the top ten. Moving to Portugal will provide political stability and a secure, peaceful environment. The Portuguese are a people who welcome everyone. Expats are no exception, as several communities can be found all over the country.
Healthcare
The Portuguese Healthcare System (SNS) is universal and available to everyone, providing access to excellent and affordable medical care. However, expats are advised to purchase private medical insurance if moving to Portugal, as it can take some time to secure an appointment.
Education
There are several options when it comes to the educational system in Portugal. Both public and private schools provide excellent basic to secondary instruction. The country also boasts international schools, private colleges, and world-renowned universities. Education is at the core of Portuguese society, and it is essential in fostering personal and intellectual growth for children of all ages and nationalities.
Language
Portuguese is the country's official language. English is widely spoken, especially in larger cities and amongst younger people, as it is taught in school as early as third grade. Nevertheless it is advisable to learn the basics, and there are plenty of opportunities for expat communities to learn the language so as to integrate more and help break down any language barriers.
Money and taxes
Portugal, as a member of the European Union, shares the EURO € as its currency. The country boasts one of the world's most advanced and complex tax systems, but navigating it will prove easy with our team of experts on your side, helping you with your move and giving reassurance that everything is within legal parameters.
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Moving to Portugal can be easy if you have the right professional advice, which helps you consider all the viable options for overseas retirement. The country offers Residency by Investment options for High-Net-Worth individuals looking for a safe country with a stable economic and political situation – and where profits and returns on their investment are a certainty.
Moving to Portugal as an EU citizen
If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU) or of the European Economic Area (EEA) you have the right to live, work and invest in Portugal without a visa or residency permit. You can also engage in one of the many investment programs available in Portugal if you want to expand your portfolio. The country also welcomes families wishing to join in the move, offering many benefits which can enhance their quality of life.
Moving to Portugal as a non-EU citizen
Non-EU/EEA nationals from countries such as Brazil, Canada, the UAE, the USA, Israel, Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore, among many others, are able to enter and stay in Portugal for a maximum of 90 days without a visa. If the stay is any longer than 90, then a visa is required, such as the short-term stay visa, which allows for stays up to a year. There are many Visa options available for Portugal, and they all serve different purposes, though Residency by Investment visa is still an option.
Moving to Portugal Through Investment Visa Programs
The Portuguese ARI, also known as the Portugal Golden Visa, was officially terminated for Real Estate Investment in October 2023, but there are still other options that allow non-EU/EEA nationals to enter and reside temporarily in Portugal without the need of a visa. This right also extends to the Schengen Area, and offers several investment options. There are many avenues an investor can pursue, for example investing in businesses and start-ups, or making sizeable donations to the arts and culture. Any of the options can open the path to Permanent Residency, and then, if the investor wishes, to Citizenship.
How can I gain Citizenship in Portugal?
Portuguese Citizenship is possible after only five years of Residency in the country. The best way to obtain Residency in the first place is through Residency by Investment Programs, which enable investors to become residents in the country through an assortment of investment options. These include the purchase of a Real Estate property, which you can resell at a premium, if you wish, after you obtain Citizenship.
How to obtain Permanent Residency in Portugal?
After you fulfill all the requirements you need to wait a period of five years to be eligible for Portuguese citizenship or Permanent Residency. By holding a Portuguese Residency you will have the benefits that Portuguese citizens enjoy in their lives, including work opportunities and visa-free travel to many countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pros: An affordable cost of living, stunning beaches, perfect climate, cosmopolitan cities, traditional towns, and great hospitality.
Cons: Language barrier might be an issue, but English is widely spoken across the country. The job market might also present some difficulties.
Portugal is a very inviting country when you meet all the requirements. If you are a citizen of the EU/EEA, you have access to the country. There are many Visa options for non-EU/EEA citizens if you wish to permanently live in Portugal.
You can bring your immediate family members, meaning your spouse and any of your children under the age of 18 at time of application, or if they are enrolled at an educational institution and financially dependent. In certain circumstances, you can bring your parents and/or in-laws, provided you can show you have the means to support them.
Although it is advised that you have a source of income or sufficient finance to support yourself, jobseekers and entrepreneurs find it easier to thrive in the job market when they have a plan. You can also contact expat communities, learn basic Portuguese, and try to find a job within your network.
Lisbon is traditional and modern, with a cosmopolitan lifestyle and has a range of job opportunities; Porto is the second largest city, located by the river; Cascais offers a luxury lifestyle, with calm beautiful beaches; The Algarve has sunny beaches, deep blue water.
If you are an EU/ EEA citizen the cost of living in Portugal is estimated to be 2,200€ monthly for a family of 4, without rent, and for a single person it’s 600€, without rent. For non-EU/ EEA citizens these numbers may vary depending on location and expected lifestyle.
Yes. You can live in Portugal without speaking Portuguese, as English is widely spoken. However, it is still advisable to learn Portuguese, even if just the basics. It will help you understand legal processes and further integrate with the locals, building and fostering the sense of community.
Paul Smith
Investment Advisor
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