5 Common Mistakes to Steer Clear of When Relocating to Portugal

If you have fallen in love with Portugal and are considering a move there, it is important to prepare adequately and approach the experience with an open mind. Moving to a foreign country can be a life-changing and rewarding experience, but there are certain mistakes that you should avoid. Here are five key mistakes to avoid when moving to Portugal:

1. Avoid comparing Portugal to your home country, especially the United States. It is common for newcomers to experience culture shock when they realize that things are different in Portugal. To be successful as an expat, it is important to adapt and embrace the Portuguese culture. Accept the differences and avoid trying to change Portugal to be like your home country. Understand that as an expat, you will need to complete various tasks such as getting documented as a resident, setting up your home, exchanging your driver’s license, obtaining health insurance, opening a bank account, and more. Additionally, you will need to learn the Portuguese language as soon as possible. Look for resources, such as language classes or online programs, to start learning the language.

2. Do not expect the process of moving to be cheap. While Portugal is known for being one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, the process of relocating, shipping your belongings, and getting settled into a new home will require a significant amount of money. Keep in mind that a one-year lease is a requirement for the resident visa process. You may have to pay rent for several months before actually moving into the apartment. It is also important to have a funded bank account, as all banks in Portugal charge monthly fees. Additionally, taxes are a part of living abroad, so it is advisable to consult with a tax specialist. It is also important to have money set aside in case you decide that Portugal is not the right fit for you and want to return home.

3. Do not assume that you can come and go from Portugal anytime you want. When living in Portugal, you will need to apply for a long-stay, resident visa. These visas have specific requirements regarding the amount of time you must reside in Portugal and the maximum duration of your absences. During the initial two-year period, you must remain in the country for at least 16 months, with no absence exceeding six consecutive months. In the following three-year visa period, you must stay in the country for at least 28 months, with no absences exceeding six months consecutively. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship, both of which require proficiency in the Portuguese language. Even with permanent residency, you must spend a significant amount of time physically present in the country. While a resident visa in Portugal allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Zone, you can only spend 90 days out of every 180 days in other countries within the zone.

4. Do not expect medical care to be free in Portugal. Although healthcare in Portugal is more affordable compared to the United States, it is not free. As an expat, you will have access to both the public and private healthcare systems. Proof of private health insurance is required for the temporary visa period of five years. The cost of health insurance varies depending on factors such as age, pre-existing conditions, and the comprehensiveness of the policy. While private healthcare offers more options and shorter wait times, public healthcare is also available. It is important to note that copays may apply when seeing a doctor in either system.

5. Avoid buying property immediately upon moving to Portugal. It is advisable to rent for at least one year before making a decision to purchase property. This allows you to get a better understanding of the area, the country, and the weather. It is important to note that homes in Portugal may be different from what you are expecting. Many homes in Portugal do not have central heating or cooling systems, as they can be costly to use. Instead, locals prefer to heat only the room they are using or add extra layers of clothing to keep warm. Modern buildings often have individual split units in each room that provide both heating and cooling options. Insulation and double-glazed windows are more commonly found in newer or remodeled properties. It is also important to consider factors such as calçadas or cobblestones, which can be challenging to walk on, especially when wet. If you have mobility issues, take this into consideration when looking for property.

Moving to Portugal can be a wonderful experience, but it is important to avoid these common mistakes. Embrace the differences, familiarize yourself with the visa rules, understand the costs associated with moving abroad, and appreciate all that Portugal has to offer. Once you have settled into expat life, made friends, and become accustomed to the Portuguese way of life, it is unlikely that you will want to leave.