Portugal is fast becoming a top destination to move to for foreigners. Many settle in the vibrant cities of Lisbon, Porto and Algarve, which offer a unique blend of modern amenities and historical charm.
Stay tuned as we delve into just why foreigners are choosing Portugal as their country of choice!
Portugal is known for being a relatively safe country with a low crime rate. The Global Peace Index 2023 names Portugal as the 6th safest country in the world.
The Portuguese police are highly professional and well-trained, and they work hard to maintain the safety of citizens and visitors.
The government has made significant investments in modernizing the police force and improving their ability to respond to security threats. The use of technology, such as surveillance cameras and facial recognition software, has helped to deter criminal activity and make it easier for the police to solve crimes.
In addition, the country has strict laws and regulations that help to prevent and reduce crime. The Portuguese judicial system is also effective in bringing criminals to justice, ensuring that those who break the law are held accountable for their actions.
Overall, Portugal is a safe and secure country to live in. The combination of a well-equipped and competent police force, strict laws and regulations, and a low crime rate make Portugal one of the safest countries in Europe.
In general, in Europe, the cost of living is much higher than in Portugal even in the most affordable cities in Europe. Whether it's as simple as buying a coffee or the menu of the day, to traveling around the country by train. Foreigners may raise an eyebrow in surprise at the sheer affordability of sunny Portugal.
Compared to many other countries in Europe, the cost of housing, food, and other everyday expenses is quite reasonable, allowing for a comfortable standard of living without breaking the bank.
Housing in Portugal is generally more affordable than in other European countries, with a wide range of options available to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for a small apartment, a traditional townhouse, or a spacious villa, you're sure to find something that meets your needs and budget.
Food is also relatively cheap in Portugal, with a variety of fresh produce, meats, and seafood readily available at local markets and supermarkets. Eating out is also affordable, with many local restaurants serving up delicious, hearty meals at reasonable prices.
In addition to housing and food, other everyday expenses, such as transportation and utilities, are also relatively low in Portugal. This allows residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without having to worry about excessive bills or unexpected costs.
Overall, the low cost of living in Portugal makes it an attractive destination for those looking to live, work, or retire abroad. With its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage, Portugal offers a great quality of life at an affordable price.
The Portuguese are well known for their genuine and friendly spirits. So much, so that a recent survey, by ex-pat insiders, recently placed them as the friendliest group of people in the world.
This warmth and hospitality is a defining characteristic of the Portuguese culture, and it's something that visitors to the country are likely to experience first-hand.
One of the key elements of the Portuguese spirit is a strong sense of community. Whether it's a group of neighbors chatting on the street, or a group of friends sharing a meal, people in Portugal have a strong bond that helps to create a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
This friendliness extends to visitors as well, with many locals going out of their way to help those in need. Whether it's providing directions, making recommendations, or just chatting, the Portuguese are always happy to lend a hand and make newcomers feel at ease.
The Portuguese also have a strong appreciation for the arts, and their culture is rich with music, dance, and other forms of expression. This love of the arts is reflected in the many festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year, showcasing the best of what the country has to offer.
Move to a place where you will feel welcomed while the Portuguese will certainly make you feel at home.
If you are planning to move with your family, Portugal is an excellent option. There are very good international schools in the country, particularly in Lisbon and Porto.
One of the standout features of international schools in Portugal is the diversity of their student bodies, with students from all over the world coming together to learn and grow in a supportive and inclusive environment. This diversity allows students to broaden their perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
In terms of academic excellence, international schools in Portugal are known for their high standards and rigorous curricula. These schools place a strong emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on learning, preparing students for success both in their studies and in their future careers.
The schools are also well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including modern classrooms, science labs, libraries, and sports facilities. These resources help to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment, where students can explore their passions and interests and develop new skills.
The staff at international schools in Portugal are highly qualified and experienced, and they are dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. With small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, students are able to receive the individual attention and guidance they need to succeed.
International schools in Portugal offer a high-quality education that is designed to prepare students for success in an increasingly globalized world. With their strong academic programs, diverse student bodies, and supportive learning environments, these schools provide an excellent option for families looking for an international education for their children.
One thing that the Portuguese excel at is their ability to take time to appreciate the little things. There is a certain kind of peace that comes with just soaking it all.
Portugal is widely regarded as a country with a high quality of life, offering residents a warm and sunny climate, beautiful scenery, and a rich cultural heritage. This combination of factors has made Portugal a popular destination for those looking to live, work, or retire abroad, and it's something that visitors are sure to appreciate and remember long after they've gone home.
In terms of scenery, Portugal is a country of incredible natural beauty, with miles of pristine beaches, rolling hills, and rugged mountains. This landscape provides a stunning backdrop to daily life, and it's something that residents are able to enjoy year-round.
Another highlight of life in Portugal is the country's rich cultural heritage, with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene that encompasses music, dance, and the arts. This culture is celebrated in the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year, showcasing the best of what the country has to offer.
In terms of quality of life, Portugal also offers a number of practical benefits, such as a relatively low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and a high standard of living. These factors, combined with the country's warm and welcoming spirit, make Portugal a great place to call home.
Overall, the quality of life in Portugal is something that is hard to beat. With its warm and sunny climate, beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage, and high standard of living, it's no wonder that so many people are drawn to this enchanting country.
Let's not forget the non-habitual residence scheme where, if structured correctly, you can gain generous tax benefits for a 10-year period. Perfect for foreigners moving to the country.
The Non-Habitual Residence Scheme (NHR) in Portugal is a tax program that was introduced to attract high net worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and foreign professionals to the country. The scheme provides these individuals with a special tax status, which allows them to take advantage of Portugal's favorable tax regime for a period of ten years.
Under the NHR program, qualifying individuals are exempt from paying Portuguese tax on certain types of foreign-sourced income, including pensions, rental income, and certain professional services. Additionally, the program also offers a reduced tax rate on other types of income, such as dividends and capital gains, making it an attractive option for those looking to minimize their tax liability.
To qualify for the NHR program, individuals must be resident in Portugal for 183 days or more per year, and they must not have been tax resident in the country in the preceding five years. Additionally, the individual must prove that they have no intention of remaining in Portugal beyond the ten-year NHR period.
One of the standout features of the NHR program is its simplicity and ease of use. Individuals who wish to take advantage of the scheme simply need to apply through the Portuguese tax authorities, and once they have been approved, they can start enjoying the benefits of the program immediately.
The NHR program has been highly successful in attracting high net worth individuals and entrepreneurs to Portugal, and it has helped to bolster the country's economy by providing it with a steady stream of investment and talent. Additionally, it has also made Portugal an attractive destination for those looking to retire abroad, with its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and excellent quality of life.
In conclusion, the Non-Habitual Residence Scheme in Portugal is a tax program that provides individuals with a special tax status, allowing them to take advantage of Portugal's favorable tax regime for a period of ten years. With its simplicity, ease of use, and favorable tax benefits, the NHR program is an excellent option for those looking to minimize their tax liability while enjoying all that Portugal has to offer.
Portugal is renowned for its warm and sunny climate, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape colder climates and enjoy a more relaxed, outdoor lifestyle. With temperatures that average in the mid-60s to low-70s (°F) throughout the year, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this enchanting country.
In Portugal you'll be blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine per year and able to venture outside for most of the year. Great if you are moving with kids as you can head to the beach pretty much anytime and try your hand at surfing, paddle, boarding, golf, or any other outdoor sport that you so desire.
Whether it's the warm, sunny beaches of the Algarve or the mild, Mediterranean climate of Lisbon and Porto, Portugal is a place where visitors can expect to see plenty of sunshine.
Another highlight of the Portuguese weather is its lack of extreme temperatures. Unlike many other countries that experience hot, humid summers or cold, harsh winters, Portugal's climate is mild and temperate, making it an ideal place to live or visit year-round.
In addition to its warm and sunny climate, Portugal is also home to a number of microclimates that provide a range of different weather conditions. Whether it's the cool, misty mountains of the interior or the arid plains of the Alentejo, each region of the country has its own unique weather patterns that are well worth exploring.
Overall, the good weather in Portugal is one of the country's defining characteristics, and it's something that visitors are sure to appreciate and remember long after they've gone home.
To conclude, Portugal is considered to be an excellent place for many foreigners to live and one of the best European countries to relocate to, mainly due to its picturesque cities, beautiful landscapes, and great climate. Foreigners moving to Portugal will find an affordable cost of living, good quality health care, and welcoming locals in addition to stunning landscapes.
To live comfortably in Portugal, you can get by with €1,200 as a single person, while a couple will need around €2,000-€2,500. Remember that living in Lisbon is more expensive, while in smaller towns, you will probably be surprised by the affordable cost of living.
And if you're wondering if it is easy for a foreigner to move to Portugal, the answer is yes. It’s relatively easy for foreigners to move to Portugal. You will need to acquire a visa, but with many options on the table, such as the Portugal Golden Visa, the D7 Visa, and the Digital Nomad Visa, there is something for everyone.
