Why Americans are Choosing Portugal as Their New Home

Portugal, with its relaxed pace of life, breath-taking beaches, and cost-effective living, is becoming increasingly attractive to Americans. Exploring the Portuguese way of life uncovers a wealth of advantages, positioning it as a top selection for many. Whether you are drawn to Portugal for a visit, considering moving, or just curious, continue reading to discover the charm of life in this captivating country.

Apart from its economic advantages, Portugal attracts Americans with its beautiful landscapes, hospitable people, and vibrant cultural heritage, drawing them irresistibly. Picture yourself enjoying more than 300 sunny days a year, savouring exquisite cuisine in charming Portuguese restaurants, and adopting the relaxed Southern European way of life. Add to this the benefit of English-speaking residents, and Portugal stands out as a premier choice for American expatriates.

The most southwestern country in Europe offers a diverse palette of living experiences, from the lively urban environment and opulent residences to quaint historical towns and serene beachfront escapes along the Atlantic coast. It attracts American expatriates to its major mainland cities such as Lisbon and Porto, as well as the flourishing Algarve region, known for its tourism boom. The allure is enhanced by the country's safety, excellent international schooling options, and a vibrant job market, whether in the dynamic urban settings or the peaceful countryside of Northern and Central Portugal. 

Here are a few compelling reasons to consider relocating to Portugal:

• Affordable Living: Portugal offers a cost-effective lifestyle compared to the United States, despite Lisbon experiencing a price increase. It still stands as an affordable choice relative to other Mediterranean locations.
• Welcoming Community: Experience the warmth of the Portuguese people known for their friendliness and English proficiency. Perfect for US expats adjusting to a new environment with a strong American community for support.
• Healthcare Excellence: The Portuguese healthcare system, known as Serviço Nacional de Saúde, is widely regarded as exceptional. Public hospitals offer free medical care to both citizens and residents, while private healthcare clinics provide faster appointments and premium services for those with private health insurance. 
• Safety and Stability: Ranked the seventh safest globally in the 2023 Global Peace Index, Portugal offers low crime rates, ensuring a secure environment.
• Ideal Climate: Portugal's climate can be quite diverse. The northeast revels in balmy summers, while the northwest is adorned with rain-soaked colours, each area crafting its own distinct panorama. Southern Portugal enjoys arid warmth, with sun-drenched days from mid-June to late September, boasting average temperatures surpassing 25°C. Lisbon, during winter, provides a gentle respite with mild 14°C weather.

Families moving to Portugal have the option to choose schools that offer instruction in English or adhere to a British curriculum, complemented by lessons in Portuguese. They can discover a wide range of international schools, especially in Lisbon and Porto, designed to meet various educational requirements.

English is a common language among the Portuguese, facilitating communication even if you're not fluent in European Portuguese. However, as an expat, learning European Portuguese becomes essential. While many locals speak English, dealing with government offices might require a basic grasp of Portuguese. Embracing the official language of the country can open doors to deeper connections with the community.

This charming country offers a lifestyle that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Whether it's the lively atmosphere of Lisbon you crave or the tranquil ambiance of the Algarve, Portugal delivers. Imagine a nation where life moves at a leisurely pace, yet vibrant urban experiences are just around the corner.

Portugal provides a distinctly straightforward pathway for immigrants, featuring a variety of visa options specifically tailored to accommodate expatriates. From the investment-based residency program to the esteemed Golden Visa, along with the Digital Nomad Visa (D8) suited for remote workers, and the D7 Visa for retirees and passive income earners, Portugal extends a warm welcome, making relocation smoother and more accessible.

With the right guidance, the journey towards Portuguese residency and possibly citizenship is seamless. Whether you are enticed by the affordable living, the delightful climate, or merely seeking a fresh beginning in this charming nation, Portugal is inviting to all non-EU citizens with its vibrant expat community and a warm embrace within the European Union.

Should you wish to relocate to Portugal, please feel free to reach out to us. Our team is committed to offering thorough assistance in navigating these legal complexities with the highest level of diligence and accuracy.