Portugal is a stunningly beautiful country with a lot to offer ex-pats and retirees alike. From its affordable cost of living to its relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, Portugal has something to offer to everyone who is looking for a change in scenery.
Here are seven tips to help make your move go as smoothly as possible!
1. Do your research
Before making the move to Portugal, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared for the transition. There are a few things that you will need to take into account, such as the cost of living, the climate, and the language barrier.
You can find a lot of useful information online, from forums and blogs written by ex-pats to articles in magazines. You can also talk to friends or family who have already made the move, and get their advice on what to expect.
Additionally, the visa information website for Portugal provides a lot of detailed information on the different types of visas available, as well as the requirements for each.
However, did you know that applying for the Portugal Golden Visa program allows you to live and work in Portugal without a job offer? You only need to make a qualifying investment, which can be in the form of property, venture capital, or deposits in Portuguese banks.
2. Get your finances in order
Before making the move to Portugal, it is important to get your finances in order. This means making sure that you have enough money saved up to cover the cost of living and any unexpected expenses that may come up. It is also a good idea to get your affairs in order at home, such as setting up a power of attorney or making sure that your will is up-to-date.
It is also important to research the cost of living in Portugal and compare it to your current lifestyle. While the cost of living is generally lower in Portugal than it is in other Western European countries, it can still be expensive depending on your lifestyle. For example, eating out at a restaurant can be costly, but cooking at home is relatively cheap.
Additionally, transportation costs can be high, especially if you plan on using public transportation.
3. Learning the language
One of the best ways to make your transition to living in Portugal go smoothly is to learn the Portuguese language. While English is widely spoken in Portugal, learning at least some basic Portuguese will make your life much easier. It will also allow you to better integrate into the local community.
There are several ways that you can learn Portuguese, such as taking a class, using an online program, or hiring a tutor. Additionally, there are several resources that you can use to help you learn the language, such as books, audio programs, and websites.
4. Make friends with the locals
Making friends with the locals will allow you to better understand the Portuguese culture and way of life. Additionally, it will make your transition to living in Portugal much smoother. You can meet locals through local meetups, online forums, or ex-pat groups.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more authentic experience, then you can try to find a homestay. This is where you live with a Portuguese family and experience the culture first-hand.
Of course, depending on your personality, you may prefer to live in Portugal without making too many friends. However, it is still a good idea to try to meet people and learn about the culture.
5. Find an apartment or house
When looking for a place to live in Portugal, there are several factors that you will need to take into account. These include the location, cost, size, and type of housing that you are looking for. Additionally, it is important to consider the availability of housing in each location.
If you are looking for a furnished apartment or house, then you can use websites such as Airbnb or Booking.com. However, if you are looking for a long-term rental, then you will need to contact a real estate agent.
If you are looking for a quiet and relaxing place to retire from, then the Algarve region would be a good option. However, if you are looking for a lively city with lots of nightlife and activities, then Lisbon would be a better choice.
Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of living in each location, as well as the availability of housing. Lisbon, for example, has a higher cost of living than other parts of Portugal, but it also has a large selection of apartments and houses for rent.
6. Get a job or start a business
If you are planning on living in Portugal long-term, then you will need to either get a job or start a business. Portugal has several work visa options available, so it is important to research the best option for your situation. If you are planning on starting a business, then it is important to research the business visa requirements.
Of course, finding a job or starting a business is not always easy. However, there are several resources that you can use to help you find work or start a business in Portugal. These include websites such as Indeed and Workaway, as well as ex-pat groups and meetups.
7. Explore the country
Portugal is a wonderful country with a lot to offer. From its stunning coastline to its picturesque villages, there is something for everyone. Additionally, Portugal has a rich culture and history, which you can explore in its many museums and historic sites.
Of course, one of the best ways to explore Portugal is by car. However, if you don’t have a car, then you can also use public transportation, such as buses and trains. Additionally, some tour companies offer day trips and tours around Portugal.
With its affordable cost of living, stunning scenery, and rich culture, Portugal is a great place to live. However, there are a few things that you need to take into account before making the move. These include the cost of housing, the availability of jobs, and the best way to explore the country. But with a little bit of research, you can easily find everything you need to make your move to Portugal a success!
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