In early November, Donald Trump was elected President of the United States for a second, non-consecutive term. This outcome resulted in a notable rise in searches for « moving to Portugal » among American citizens.
The elections, which saw a heated battle between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, attracted global attention. On 6th November 2024, it was confirmed that Trump would return to the White House. The result left many Americans dissatisfied, prompting them to explore options for living abroad, with Portugal emerging as one of the most searched destinations on Google.
However, relocating to another country is a complex process that requires careful planning and accurate information to ensure a smooth and secure transition. To help with this, we have compiled a list of questions and answers that may assist you in moving and taking the first steps towards making Portugal your new home.
Types of Visas in Portugal
- What visas are available?
D7 Visa in Portugal:
If you are considering relocating to Portugal, the D7 Visa could be the ideal solution, especially for retirees or individuals with passive income. This visa grants legal residence in the country and offers benefits such as access to the National Health Service, the possibility of family reunification, and free movement within the Schengen Area.
Among the key requirements for the D7 Visa are proof of sufficient income, submission of comprehensive health insurance, and evidence of residence in Portugal. These criteria ensure a stable stay in compliance with the law.
Additionally, after five years of legal residence, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship, becoming a European Union citizen with all the associated rights.
For detailed information on the necessary steps, financial requirements, and required documents, please refer to our comprehensive article on the D7 Visa.
Visa for Digital Nomads:
If you are a remote worker dreaming of living in Portugal, the Digital Nomad Visa (D8) could be the perfect solution. Introduced in October 2022, this visa is aimed at professionals from outside the European Union/EEA who wish to work remotely from Portugal, provided they earn a gross monthly income of at least €3,280.
The visa offers two options: temporary stays of up to 1 year or an initial 24-month residence, renewable for up to 5 years, with the possibility of obtaining Portuguese citizenship. The latter option allows for family reunification, grants access to the National Health System, and permits free movement within the Schengen Area.
Read more in the full article on the Digital Nomad Visa.
Golden Visas:
This visa, intended for foreigners, has experienced several changes in recent years. Introduced in 2012 to encourage foreign investment, it was updated in 2023, with new restrictions on eligible investments. The revised requirements include undertaking one of the following investments:
- Creating at least 10 jobs.
- Investing a minimum of €500,000 in scientific research activities.
- Investing at least €250,000 in culture or heritage projects.
- Investing €500,000 in investment funds or starting a company that generates jobs.
Residency is granted for an initial period of 2 years, renewable, subject to minimum stay requirements in the country. After 5 years of residency, applicants can request Portuguese nationality.
- How, and where, can I apply for visas to Portugal?
The location for applying for your visa depends on the country you are in. Below are the specific details for those in the United States of America (USA) and Canada.
United States of America:
Embassy of Portugal in Washington
Consulate General of Portugal in Boston
Consulate General of Portugal in Newark
Consulate General of Portugal in New York
Consulate General of Portugal in San Francisco
Consulate of Portugal in New Bedford
Canada:
Consulate General of Portugal in Montreal
Consulate General of Portugal in Toronto
Consulate General of Portugal in Vancouver
Schools in Portugal
- How do public and private schools work?
Portugal offers a high-quality education system that is well-suited for international students. Education is free and mandatory for children aged 6 to 18, covering pre-school, primary, and secondary levels. Public schools are readily accessible throughout the country, with student enrollment determined by their home address. For non-Portuguese speakers, “Portuguese as a Non-Native Language” classes are offered to facilitate integration.
In addition to public schools, Portugal has a variety of private, international, and Waldorf schools that employ alternative teaching methods. Higher education, overseen by the Ministry of Science and Technology, adheres to the Bologna system, encompassing undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
The academic calendar includes Christmas, Carnival, Easter, and summer holidays. The school year typically begins in September and ends between June and July, depending on the institution.
Portugal offers a welcoming environment and a variety of educational opportunities, making it a top choice for foreign families seeking quality education for their children.
- What is the process for enrolling in schools?
As previously mentioned, the choice of public schools, from preschool to primary education, depends on the family’s place of residence. To identify the school corresponding to your address, you can visit the local Parish Council (Junta de Freguesia) to obtain information about the school cluster in your area or access this website.
Each preschool and primary school offers extracurricular activities, known as AEC, which can extend the student’s school hours.
International students can apply for academic equivalency by submitting the required documents that verify their completed education level. For more information about school equivalencies, please refer to this website.
Learn more about education in Portugal.
Cost of Living in Portugal
- How much does it cost to live in Portugal?
Portugal offers a relatively affordable cost of living, especially when compared to the United States. Many foreigners choose to settle in the country due to its pleasant climate and high quality of life at lower prices. Dining out is quite affordable, with “daily menus” available for around €10 in some restaurants. In à la carte establishments, dishes typically range from €15 to €20, always featuring fresh food and excellent Portuguese wines at attractive prices. Fresh produce markets provide locally sourced, often organic products, at affordable prices.
Transport costs are also affordable. For instance, a high-speed train ticket from Faro to Lisbon costs around €33, and car hire can start from as little as €15 per day. While most motorways in Portugal are toll roads, prices vary depending on the route. The Via Verde system simplifies toll payments with an automatic device that allows payment directly from the vehicle.
As for higher education, tuition fees at Portuguese universities are lower than in many other European countries, making Portugal an attractive choice for international students.
- What are the housing costs?
Property prices tend to be higher in major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Setúbal, Faro, and Madeira. However, there are still areas with great potential for property investment, such as the western Algarve.
- Is it possible to live comfortably in Portugal on an American salary?
Yes, it is entirely possible to live comfortably in Portugal on an American salary. With an average monthly income of around $5,000, you can cover all essential expenses, such as housing, food, transport, and leisure, while still enjoying a good quality of life. The cost of living in Portugal is considerably lower than in the United States, particularly in housing, groceries, and transport.
Learn more about the cost of living in Portugal.
If you dream of living in a peaceful coastal country, Portugal may be the best decision you’ve ever made. Follow the second part of this guide on moving to Portugal from the USA.
