One of the most important decisions you may ever make is where to live.
And if you’re currently deciding which country to call your next home, Portugal might have exactly what you’re looking for!
Read on to learn more about this hidden gem of a European country and how to prepare yourself for your potential move.
Table of Contents
Relocation Portugal – a checklist
If you’re considering moving to Portugal, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. Here are some tips on what to expect and how to prepare for relocation to Portugal:
Choose your location carefully
Portugal is a large country with much regional variation. Do your research and pick a place that suits your lifestyle and budget. There are a few things to keep in mind when researching Portuguese cities:
Size:
Portugal is a small country, so even its largest cities are relatively small compared to other European capitals. Depending on your preferences, this can be good or bad; a smaller city may offer a more intimate and authentically Portuguese experience, while a larger city will have more amenities and attractions.
Location:
Portugal is on the Atlantic coast of Europe, meaning its climate is milder than inland countries like Spain or France. The northern regions of Portugal tend to be cooler and wetter, while the south is warmer and drier. Again, this is something to consider when choosing a city to live in.
Cost of living:
Portugal is generally cheaper than Western European countries, but there can vary significantly from city to city. Lisbon and Porto, for example, are relatively expensive compared to most other Portuguese cities.
Learn the language
Portuguese is the official language in Portugal, so it’s important to at least be able to get by before relocation to Portugal. Plenty of resources are available online and in bookstores to help you learn the basics.
Sort out your finances
Portugal is a relatively affordable country to live in, but ensure you have enough money saved up for your move and everyday living expenses once you’re there. Some visas require proof of a certain amount of funds available to you, so keep that in mind when planning your move.
Get your paperwork in order
Ensure you have all the necessary documents (visas, work permits, etc.) sorted out before leaving for Portugal. It will make the whole process a lot smoother and less stressful.
Look into which visa is right for you
There are a few different types of visas available for those planning a relocation to Portugal, so be sure to research which one is right for you.
The options for Portuguese visas include the following:
- Short Stay Visa
- Temporary Stay Visas, work and study visas
- Residency Visa
- Family reunion visa
- Study visa
- D7 visa
- Golden Visa
Applying for a visa can be complicated, so starting the application process as early as possible is important.
Gather all the required documents and paperwork before beginning the application. Once you have everything ready, you can begin the application process online.
After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for a decision from the Portuguese government. This can take several weeks, so it’s important to start the process early.
What to expect – Life in Portugal
The actual process of relocation to Portugal is one thing, but living life in Portugal is a different subject. Here are a few things that make living life in Portugal extra special.
Healthcare in Portugal
Portugal has high-quality, affordable healthcare. According to the World Health Organization, it ranks among the best healthcare systems in the world.
Whether you’re a resident or visitor, you’ll be able to access quality medical care in Portugal. There are both public and private hospitals and clinics available, though waiting times for appointments can be longer at public facilities.
Portuguese culture
When it comes to Portuguese culture, there are a few things that you should know. First of all, the people are very friendly and welcoming.
You’ll find that they are quick to help you with anything you need and always willing to have a conversation. Portuguese culture is also very family-oriented.
You’ll find that many families spend a lot of time together and are always willing to help each other. This sense of community is one of the things that makes Portugal such a great place to live.
