Living in Portugal
Your complete guide to visas, healthcare, housing, and starting a new life in Portugal
Portugal has emerged as one of Europe's most sought-after expat destinations, combining Western European stability with remarkably affordable living costs. The country's D7 visa program attracts retirees and remote workers with passive income, while the Digital Nomad visa caters to location-independent professionals. Beyond visa accessibility, Portugal offers a rare combination of advantages: year-round mild Atlantic climate, extensive English-speaking services in major cities, and one of Europe's lowest crime rates.
The cost of living remains roughly 50% lower than the United States, with quality healthcare through both public SNS system and affordable private options. Lisbon and Porto provide cosmopolitan amenities while smaller cities like Braga or coastal towns along the Algarve offer quieter, more affordable alternatives. Portugal's Non-Habitual Resident tax regime, though recently modified, still provides potential tax advantages for new residents.
The Portuguese culture emphasizes work-life balance, with long leisurely meals and strong community connections. While bureaucracy can be challenging and Portuguese language skills become essential outside tourist areas, the country's combination of EU membership, political stability, and welcoming attitude toward foreigners continues to attract a growing international community. From tech entrepreneurs in Lisbon to retirees in the Silver Coast, Portugal accommodates diverse expat lifestyles at various budget levels.
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Recent changes to our guides
Leave Entitlements in Portugal: Vacation, Sick Leave, and Parental Rights
Visas & Legal Status
Immigration pathways to Portugal
Portugal offers Europe's most welcoming residency pathways for expats and digital nomads.
Popular routes:
• D7 Visa - passive income & retirees
• Digital Nomad - remote workers
• Golden Visa - qualified investors
• EU citizens - freedom of movement
Non-EU nationals can achieve permanent residency in 5 years, citizenship after 6 years.
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Healthcare & Insurance
Medical systems in Portugal
Portugal combines universal public healthcare (SNS) with affordable private options.
Key benefits:
• Public care - free/low-cost for residents
• Private insurance - €50-150/month
• English-speaking doctors - available in cities
• EU citizens - immediate access with EHIC/GHIC
Prescription medications cost 70% less than US prices. Dental care remains affordable even without insurance.
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Housing & Property
Real estate in Portugal
Portugal's property market offers diverse options from Lisbon apartments to Algarve villas.
Current market:
• City rentals - €800-1500/month for 1-bedroom
• Property purchase - still below EU averages
• Required deposits - typically 2 months
• Energy certificates - mandatory for all properties
Smaller towns offer significantly better value. Understanding IMI taxes and condominium fees is essential for buyers.
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Banking & Finances
Financial systems in Portugal
Opening a Portuguese bank account is essential for residency and managing daily finances.
Banking essentials:
• Major banks - Millennium BCP, Novo Banco, Santander
• Requirements - NIF number + proof of address
• Digital alternatives - Revolut, N26, Wise
• Multibanco ATMs - bill payments + cash
SEPA transfers make European transactions seamless. Watch for higher-than-expected monthly fees.
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Education & Schools
Learning opportunities in Portugal
Portugal offers public, private, and international schooling options for expat families.
Education options:
• Public schools - free, Portuguese instruction
• International schools - €5,000-20,000/year
• Universities - €700-1,500/year for EU citizens
• Language courses - affordable adult learning
Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve host British, American, and IB curriculum schools.
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Transport & Driving
Getting around in Portugal
Portugal's compact size makes everywhere accessible, with modern infrastructure in major cities.
Getting around:
• City metros - Lisbon & Porto networks
• Trains (CP) - affordable intercity travel
• Toll highways - Via Verde electronic system
• License exchange - required within 185 days
EU licenses transfer easily. Car importation taxes often make local purchase preferable.
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Working & Business
Employment opportunities in Portugal
Portugal welcomes foreign talent, especially in tech, tourism, and digital services.
Employment basics:
• Labor protections - 22 vacation days standard
• Freelancing - recibos verdes system
• Minimum wage - €760/month
• Startup visa - available for entrepreneurs
Remote work for foreign companies is increasingly common. EU citizens enjoy full work rights immediately.
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Probation Periods in Portuguese Employment
Daily Life & Culture
Living like a local in Portugal
Portuguese culture balances tradition with modern European lifestyles in a welcoming environment.
Living in Portugal:
• Cost of living - 30-40% below Western Europe
• Language - English widely spoken in cities
• Bureaucracy - patience required
• Climate - Atlantic north, Mediterranean south
Local markets offer fresh produce at excellent prices. The Portuguese appreciate attempts to speak their language.