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Living in Western Europe is a dream come true for US citizens trying to escape American tyranny. We’ve got sandy beaches, major cities, and great food in Portugal. If you’re thinking of moving to Portugal then you’ll find every nitty gritty detail within this blog.
There’s conflicting information these days because the official Portugal Golden Visa program ceased in 2023. The average Portuguese citizen was having trouble keeping up with skyrocketing housing prices, so real estate is no longer an eligible gateway to legal residency.
However, fear not because my average American family moved to Portugal using what some might call a retirement visa, and I’ll break down everything you need to know about Portuguese visas. In recent years there have been a lot of changes to Portugal visa options, so please take note that everything here is accurate as of March 20th 2025.
Skip to:
- Retire in Portugal
- Family Life in Portugal
- Pros & Cons of Living in Portugal
- Best Areas of Portugal for Americans
- Visa Options for US Citizens
- Cost of Living in Portugal
- Life in Portugal as an Expat
- Plan Your Move to Portugal
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Why More Americans Are Thinking of Moving to Portugal
Many Americans are looking at Portugal as a new home. It has long been an attractive option for those interested in life in Southern Europe. With its friendly people, hot summers, and laid-back lifestyle, Portugal offers a welcoming environment.
The cost of living is another big reason people are exploring this popular destination. Compared to other Western European countries, Portugal is very affordable. This makes it easier for those on a budget or with lower incomes to enjoy a higher quality of life.
Portugal is known for its safety and comfort. It’s considered one of the safest countries in Europe. We live in a small village and feel very comfortable with our middle school girls roaming around town on their own.
With great healthcare and friendly locals, the transition to a foreign country felt easy. Let me give you an example of how friendly a local can be. I sent my ten-year-old to the store with an empty bag of flour because mid-way through breading chicken for dinner I ran out. Another customer was entering the store at the same time and put her hand on my daughter’s shoulder while speaking Portuguese and motioning for my daughter to follow her. The customer took my daughter to the aisle with the flour and got it off the top shelf for her. The whole interaction was emblematic of the wholesome nature of life in Europe versus the grocery store mass shootings happening in the United States.
I am proud to call Portugal our new home. My hope is that family members who come visit us will see the beauty of Portugal and realize it’s a good idea to move here as well.
Who I Am & How I Can Help You Move Abroad
I’m Veronica, an American expat who left the grind behind and built a life of global freedom. If you’re ready to move abroad but feel stuck on where to go, how to qualify for a visa, or what to do next, I can help.
My Exit Plan Coaching Call is designed to give you a clear, step-by-step plan to make your move happen—whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or relocating with family. We’ll map out the best visa options, discuss affordable living, and create a strategy tailored to your financial situation and goals.
Don’t let uncertainty hold you back—book your Exit Plan Call today and start your journey abroad with confidence. [Schedule your call here →]
Retirement in Portugal
Thinking of moving to Portugal for your retirement? It’s a wonderful place with a warm climate and stunning scenery. Portugal is popular among retirees because their fixed income gives a better quality of life in Portugal than in their home country.
You’ll find that the cost of living here is affordable. Housing and healthcare are reasonably priced, allowing you to make the most of your retirement funds. Dining out is a treat with delicious local cuisine that won’t break the bank.
The relaxed pace of life is attractive. With sunny days and beautiful beaches, you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Pleasant weather is perfect for walks or enjoying time in local markets and cafes.
Safety is another perk. Portugal has a low crime rate, making it a comforting place for long-term stays. You’ll feel secure as you explore charming cities and towns.
Retiring in Portugal offers a chill lifestyle, good financial value, and a friendly community. You’ll quickly feel at home with other expats who have also found joy in this beautiful country.
Portugal Relocation for Families
Are you thinking of moving to Portugal with your family? It’s a wonderful place to consider! Portugal offers a family-friendly environment with many activities for children and adults alike.
Education Options: In Portugal, you will find both public , private, and international schools. Public schools offer free education but lack an advanced English curriculum and are often difficult socially for children, especially in higher grades. International schools provide a curriculum in English and very high education standards. Our children attend an international school as they have done since age three.
Family Visas: Multiple visa options allow legal residents to extend their application to allow for family reunification. In fact, reunification is a bit of a misnomer because your children are allowed to be connected to your application in the first place, it doesn’t have to come as a secondary step.
Family Life: Portugal is known for its friendly communities and safe environment. Outdoor activities are abundant, with coastal areas and parks to enjoy. Both rural areas and big cities are welcoming and accommodating towards families with children of all ages.
Our family has moved to multiple different countries sight unseen, and we were absolutely ready to take that same leap in moving to Portugal. However, during our appointment to turn in applications for residency, the staff person said there had been applications denied based on the fact the person had never visited Portugal. So, after turning in our applications we booked a trip to visit Portugal for the first time. A few weeks later we updated our letter of intent to reflect our new perspective. I appreciated the insight from the worker and in the end, we got the good news that we were approved for residency.
Pros of Moving to Portugal
Thinking of moving to Portugal? You’re in for a treat. Portugal offers a combination of great features that make it an appealing place to live.
Portugal has a warm climate with plenty of sunshine. This is perfect if you love outdoor activities. You can expect mild winters and warm summers, which is a big plus.
The cost of living in Portugal is generally affordable. From housing, food, and education, to transportation, your money can go further here. You’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
For digital nomads, Portugal is a dream destination. Reliable internet and co-working spaces are easy to find. Plus, the beautiful scenery can be breathtaking while you work.
Portugal is known for its high quality of life. People here value social time and relaxation. It’s a great place to enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of leisure time.
Enjoy a safe and peaceful environment. Portugal has a low crime rate, making it a secure place for families and individuals alike. You can explore with peace of mind.
The natural beauty and historical significance of Portugal is awe-inspiring. From the stunning beaches to the picturesque mountains, there is always something beautiful to see and do. From hiking around castles to just relaxing by the sea, Portugal has it all.
Cons of Moving to Portugal
When you are thinking of moving to Portugal, you might consider some of the challenges associated with living there. Here are a few:
Job Market and Wages
Portugal has a lower average salary than other European countries. This can make it tough to achieve the same standard of living you might enjoy elsewhere, especially if you plan to work within the country.
Real Estate and Rent
Rent can be high in popular tourist areas. If your wages are your only income, finding affordable housing might be challenging in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
Housing Standards
Many homes lack central heating, which can be uncomfortable during the winter months. Plus, the damp nature of the buildings causes persistent mold issues. Buying or renting a home may require additional expenses for interior comfort.
Bureaucracy
Dealing with paperwork and getting necessary permits can be time-consuming. The bureaucratic processes might take more patience than expected.
Pace of Life
Portugal’s slower pace might not suit everyone. It may feel laid-back, but adjusting to this rhythm could require patience if you’re used to a faster tempo.
Consider these factors before making your decision to move. It’s important to weigh these cons against the benefits to determine if Portugal is the right place for you.
Best Places to Live in Portugal for Expats
Thinking of moving to Portugal? There are many great places to choose from. Each spot has its own charm. Let’s explore some of the best cities for new arrivals.
Lisbon is the capital and a vibrant city with a diverse culture. It offers plenty of job opportunities and activities. English is widely spoken, making it easier for expats.
Porto is another major city, known for its wine and historic charm. It’s less hectic than Lisbon but still has all the amenities you need.
For those who love the sea, Cascais is a beautiful beach town near Lisbon. It’s popular with expats for its stunning coastline and relaxed vibe.
Algarve offers stunning beaches and warm weather. Towns like Faro and Lagos are tourist-friendly and have a welcoming community.
If you prefer living in a smaller setting, Braga and Guimaraes offer rich history and culture. These places are great for experiencing traditional Portuguese life.
For a quieter, rural life, Alentejo features rolling hills and peaceful surroundings. It’s perfect if you want a slower pace.
Each location has something unique to offer. Whether you prefer bustling cities, quiet villages, or sunny beaches, Portugal has a place for you.
Americans in Portugal
The popularity of YouTube videos and blogs about Portugal might lead you to believe there are tons of Americans thinking of moving to Portugal. That’s why it’s always so surprising to find out there are only an estimated 14,000 Americans who call Portugal home. To put that in perspective, Portugal has a population of 10.4 million people.
On YouTube, there is a video called, “Portugal Golden Visa is Back,” which is one year old and has 306,000 views. But, in the eleven years that Portugal has welcomed foreign residents with the golden visa, only 713 Americans have used it to relocate. I mean, honestly, that shocks me. A lot of people think about moving to Portugal (or anywhere for that matter), but very very few people follow through.
A very important aspect for our family is the ability to transition from being a Portuguese resident to getting a passport and becoming a lifelong European Union citizen. The rights and privileges granted to an EU citizen are logical, practical, and vital for our long term happiness.
Taking steps to get your kids out of America is a great way to ensure safety and opportunities for future generations of your family. Every one of my intake phone calls for new clients includes an outpouring of emotions about the burden they feel to find a way out of America. You have the power to be one of the few people in a statistic about Americans living abroad, I can show you how.
Portugal Visa Options for Americans
There are two main paths my clients would typically be looking at for residency in Portugal.
- D7 Visa aka RESIDENCY VISA FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF RESIDENCE FOR PENSIONERS, RELIGIOUS PURPOSES OR PEOPLE LIVING ON THEIR OWN INCOME
- D8 Visa aka TEMPORARY STAY VISA FOR REMOTE WORK – “DIGITAL NOMADS”
D7 Visa Basics
The D7 visa is what might commonly be referred to as a retirement visa. However, the visa requirements don’t have an age requirement. The most important part about the D7 is that the income must be passive. Our family qualified based on the rental income we earn from converting our personal home into an Airbnb.
Income Requirements for the D7 Passive Income Visa (as of March 2025):
- Primary Applicant: €870 per month
- Additional Adults: €435 per month
- Minor Children: €261 per month
In addition to the recurring passive income requirement, you will need to fund a personal Portuguese bank account with one year’s worth of expenses based on your family size.
Deposit Requirements for D7 Passive Income Visa (as of March 2025):
Primary Applicant: €10,440
Additional Adults: €5,220
Minor Children: €3,132
For example, my family of two adults and two children would need €21,924 sitting in our Portuguese bank account if we were applying for the D7 today. After we arrived in the country we used €13,000 of those funds to buy a car and our utilities have slowly been chipping away at the balance. Point being, you have immediate access to the money once you arrive, it’s not tied up in an investment account or government bonds.
D8 Visa Basics
The D8 visa had much higher income requirements but allows for active income. You would be looking at this resident permit if you are a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur earning income from outside of Portugal which requires you to put in hours while physically living in the borders of Portugal.
Income Requirements for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa (as of March 2025):
- Primary Applicant: €3,480 per month
The income requirements do not increase for the D8 when requesting a residence permit for your spouse or dependents. However, the deposit requirements do increase based on family size.
Deposit Requirements for D8 Digital Nomad Visa (as of March 2025):
Primary Applicant: €10,440
Additional Adults: €5,220
Minor Children: €3,132
If you live in the United States your application for either the D7 or D8 visa would go through a third party service called VFS Global.
Cost of Living in Portugal
Thinking of moving to Portugal? You’ll find that it has a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western European countries. You can live comfortably on a budget of $2,500 to $3,000 per month for a couple. For a single person, a monthly budget of around €600, excluding rent, is possible.
Portugal offers a friendly tax regime for expats. If you’re a non-habitual resident, you can benefit from reduced tax rates on certain types of income for up to 10 years. Income tax rates generally range from 14.5% to 48%, depending on your earnings.
The minimum wage in Portugal is roughly €900 per month as of 2025. The average salary varies, often around €1,200 to €1,500 monthly.
Housing can be one of the higher expenses, especially in popular areas like Lisbon and Porto, which have experienced price hikes due to high demand. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city can be around €800 to €1,200.
Food and groceries remain reasonably priced, with local markets offering fresh produce. Eating out at local restaurants is also quite budget-friendly.
The job market in Portugal is welcoming but competitive, particularly in technology and tourism. Many expats find opportunities in these sectors, benefiting from the bilingual environment.
Rent or Buy as an Expat in Portugal
Deciding whether to rent or buy is a big choice. I advise anyone thinking of moving to Portugal to rent first before committing to a home purchase.
Renting offers flexibility. You can easily explore different areas. There’s no long-term commitment. Be prepared to pay two months’ rent upfront as a deposit, plus the first month’s rent. You might also need a fiador, a local guarantor. This can make renting trickier for newcomers.
Buying gives you stability and allows you to benefit from properties increasing in value. In many regions, property prices are becoming out of reach for locals. If you decide to buy, understanding local real estate laws and taxes is complex.
Here’s a simple table comparing renting and buying:
| Factor | Renting | Buying |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | High | Low |
| Initial Costs | Low | High |
| Commitment | Short-term | Long-term |
| Investment | None | Potential Growth |
Also, consider rental income if you buy. Renting out your property can help cover costs or bring extra income. Portugal’s sunny climate and friendly locals make it a popular place to live, which can boost the demand for rentals.
When deciding, trust your research and instincts. Each choice has its own benefits and challenges.
Daily Life as a Portuguese Expat
Anyone thinking of moving to Portugal is in for a welcoming community. You’ll find that Portuguese people are known for their friendliness. Daily life is slow paced and balance between work and play is evident.
Learning the Portuguese language is definitely valuable. While many locals speak English, knowing some Portuguese can help you connect better. It shows respect for their culture and opens up more opportunities for friendship.
The country’s food scene is fantastic. Enjoy fresh seafood, delicious pastries, and hearty stews. Portuguese cuisine offers a mix of flavors that you won’t want to miss.
Public transportation is efficient and makes getting around easy. In cities like Lisbon and Porto, buses, trams, and trains are available. Grabbing an Uber is much cheaper in Portugal than San Francisco, so a 30 minute ride will probably run you under €25. Ultimately as a busy mom to two pre-teens, we opted for purchasing a car.
Daily life combines modern amenities with traditional charm. You might visit a local market in the morning and enjoy a modern cafe in the afternoon. This balance creates an interesting lifestyle.
The pace of life is generally relaxed. Many shops close during lunch, so people can enjoy leisurely meals. This slower rhythm allows you to savor moments and reduce stress.
Overall, being an expat in Portugal offers a rich cultural experience filled with warmth, flavor, and convenience.
What is Healthcare Like in Portugal
If you’re thinking of moving to Portugal, you’ll find a robust healthcare system. Portugal offers both public and private medical services.
Public Healthcare System
Portugal’s public healthcare, known as Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), is widely accessible. It provides good quality care at low costs. Though not entirely free, the charges are minimal. It covers most treatments and medical needs.
Private Health Insurance
Many residents also opt for private health insurance. This allows quicker access to specialists and shorter wait times. Private healthcare facilities are modern and offer many options. Private insurance can be valuable for more comprehensive coverage.
Life Expectancy and Quality
Residents in Portugal benefit from a high life expectancy of around 81 years. This is higher than the EU average, showing the effectiveness of the medical care system.
Is Portugal Safe?
Portugal is known for being very safe. Anyone thinking of moving to Portugal should rest assured that personal safety is not a huge concern.
Safety Rankings:
Portugal often ranks high on safety lists. The Global Peace Index placed Portugal in the top 10 safest countries worldwide.
Low Crime Rates:
The crime rate in Portugal is low. Violent crime is rare, making it a secure place to roam around.
Remember to take typical precautions, like in any part of the world. Stay aware of your surroundings and follow local guidelines to keep safe.
Challenges of Living in Portugal
If you’re thinking of moving to Portugal, there are a few challenges to consider.
One of the main hurdles is the language barrier. Learning Portuguese makes everyday life easier and is an essential element for requesting citizenship after five years of residency. English is not widely spoken in smaller cities, which can make communication difficult.
The job market can be tough, particularly for expats. Job opportunities are often limited, and salaries are much lower than those in other European countries. Many foreign investors or those planning on staying long-term rely on savings or income from abroad.
Housing quality can also vary. Many homes lack insulation and ventilation, which leads to wide temperature fluctuations and becomes a breeding ground for mold. Although the climate is mild, this can be uncomfortable for new residents.
If you’re aiming for permanent residence status, the process can be complex and lengthy. Obtaining the necessary paperwork and meeting the requirements takes time and patience.
Cultural resistance to change might be another challenge. Some communities hold on to traditional ways, which can be isolating if you don’t adapt.
Being a permanent resident can make a difference in navigating these challenges, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential obstacles. Despite these issues, with some preparation, living in Portugal can still be an enriching experience.
Essential Steps for Moving to Portugal
Go from thinking of moving to Portugal to taking concrete steps towards making it happen. Here are some key things to consider:
Visa and Residency
Before moving, apply for the appropriate visa. The Portuguese government offers different types, so choose one that matches your needs.
Organizing Finances
The D visa options require you to have a NIF and Portuguese bank account prior to applying. I used a company called E-Residence to take care of this for my family prior to our ever visiting Portugal.
Documentation
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. Other documents, like proof of income, health insurance, and criminal background check are also necessary.
Housing
A particularly difficult aspect of the D visa process is the retirement to have a lease agreement or own a home at the point of your application. It’s difficult to get a landlord to to agree to rent you a property for six months from now, so there is a high likelihood of paying for rent for many months while you are waiting for residency approval.
Transportation
Portugal has several international airports. This makes travel easy whether you’re arriving or heading somewhere else. If you plan to drive, you might need to convert your driving license.
Language
Learning Portuguese can make daily life easier. It helps in social situations and when dealing with official matters.
Adaptation to Culture
Portugal has a rich culture that newcomers find welcoming. Take time to learn about local customs and traditions to better integrate.
These steps can help make your move to Portugal easier and more enjoyable.
Should You Move to Portugal?
As you can probably tell, I am a bit biased in regards to Portugal. If you are thinking of moving to Portugal I can tell you that it’s been a great home for my family these past nine months. While I can’t know if this will be our forever home, I don’t think that in any way detracts from how lovely our experience has been.
People tend to delay their decisions because they want some absolute certainty that it’s the correct choice. But I disagree with that premise entirely. There are seasons for different experiences in our lives and we should be willing to ride the roller coaster of life accordingly.
I hope my breakdown of Portugal immigration options has helped someone get the clarity they need to push forward and take action. Most people ignore articles with such long read times, but anyone motivated enough to leave an entire country should realize a long article is just scratching the surface.
Best of luck on your journey to Portugal!
