Moving to a new country is a major decision that requires significant preparation. Here is a guide for moving to Portugal, including tips, hints, and processes.
- Learn the Language
Although many Portuguese speak English, especially in the main cities, learning some Portuguese can make your day-to-day life much more accessible and help you integrate into the local community.
- Plan Your Finances
Portugal is generally more affordable than many European countries, but you need to plan your finances accordingly. Ensure your income or savings can comfortably cover your living costs.
- Visas and Residence Permits
For non-EU residents, it’s crucial to determine which type of visa or residence permit you require to live in Portugal. If you intend to stay longer than three months, you must apply for a residence permit.
- Healthcare
Portugal has a good standard of healthcare. EU citizens can access the state healthcare system, but non-EU citizens will need private health insurance.
- Housing
Housing costs can vary significantly in Portugal. Big cities like Lisbon and Porto are more expensive than smaller towns. You can find great deals on real estate platforms like Idealista, Remax Portugal, and ERA Portugal. Rent before buying to ensure you’re happy with the area.
- Opening a Bank Account
A Portuguese bank account can make life easier—research to find the bank that best suits your needs.
- Driving and Transportation
Portugal has an efficient public transport system. If you prefer driving, foreign drivers often require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Importing Goods
If you’re bringing household goods, please be sure to familiarize yourself with the customs regulations. Import duties can be high for non-EU citizens.
- Hiring a Moving Company
Depending on your situation, you should hire a moving company to help you relocate. Check their references and get quotes from multiple companies before choosing one or come to us; we will handle everything else.
Places to Move To
- Lisbon
The capital of Portugal is known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, rich history, and cultural scene.
- Porto
Famous for Port wine, Porto offers a vibrant food scene, beautiful architecture, and a lively cultural scene.
- Faro
Faro is the gateway to the Algarve, Portugal’s famous beach region. It offers a relaxed lifestyle and stunning natural beauty.
- Coimbra
Known for its university, Coimbra offers a vibrant student life mixed with rich historical sites.
- Madeira or Azores
If you prefer an island lifestyle, consider the archipelagos of Madeira or Azores. Both offer a relaxed pace of life, stunning natural beauty and are great for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Deals for Purchasing
Property Websites
Websites like Century 21 Portugal, ERA Portugal, or Idealista offer a variety of properties across the country.
Local Estate Agents
They often have exclusive deals not found online. Could you ensure they are registered with the Portuguese Association of Real Estate Professionals (APEMIP)?
Property Auctions
Some properties are sold at auction, often because a bank has repossessed them. These can be significantly cheaper.
Remember, moving to a new country can be complex, so working with a relocation expert or legal professional can be beneficial to ensure everything goes smoothly.
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