Portugal is truly remarkable with its wonderful architecture, picturesque landscape, lush weather, and breathtaking views of nature. Being part of the Iberian Peninsula, the country is culturally multifaceted which, among many other reasons, makes it attractive to foreigners seeking to immigrate.With welcoming locals and a relaxed pace of life, Portugal has steadily emerged as a preferred destination for Americans looking to immigrate abroad. This particular article serves the purpose of helping readers learn about the cultural changes one would encounter, the visa details and other essential information while moving from the USA to Portugal.
Why immigrate to Portugal?
Portugal has emerged as a prime sought after country for Americans and this is why. When it comes to standout factors that set the country apart, its timeless blend of cultural heritage and state-of-the-art infrastructure tops the charts.
One of the major cultures of staying in Portugal is the low cost of living in comparison to the United States, especially in big cities. With a lower average cost of goods, rent, food, public transport and even healthcare, expats currently living in Portugal get to enjoy a great quality of life without overspending. Moreover, American expats have attributed the welcoming local culture, strong sense of community, laid-back nature, and slower way of life to be key reasons making Portugal Feel like home.
A Moving Guide to Portugal from the USA
Moving from the USA to Portugal is a different process that comes with its own guidelines. A plan that combined the visa application, residency search, and the myriad of expectations of moving to a new country would be the best approach.
1. Residency and visa requirements
When formulating a relocation strategy, one of the first aspects you should look into are the residency and visa requirements. Portugal is part of the European Union (EU) hence, as an American Portugal has a visa and residency framework that is applicable. There are a number of visa options available for you as an American citizen which include: As an American with significant financial resources, you can opt for the Golden Visa Investment Program which affords you residency if you purchase real estate, establish a business, or create jobs within Portugal. A permanent residency or citizenship can be obtained after five years of remaining in the country.
D7 Visa:
This is a frequently chosen option for old-age pensioners or for people with a passive income. With the D7 visa, one can live in Portugal so long as you can justify a proper income living from pensions, savings, or investments.
2. Identifying an Accommodation
After receiving the visa, organizing accommodation becomes the next critical phase. Portugal offers a wide variety of living conditions which includes metropolitan cities and rural towns. Besides Faro in Algarve, Lisbon and Porto are also popular with foreigners moving to Portugal.
Lisbon:
Lisbon offers a reliable form of public transport, available jobs, and friendly people which makes it appealing among expatriates, but all of this does come at a price. Incredibly, everything spectacular about the capital is complemented with rich culture and history.
Porto:
Anyone who is working professionally can consider relocating to Porto because of the breathtaking views, delectable food, and the city’s world-famous port wine which, in addition to being Porto’s trademark, all serve as a wonderful bonus alongside the living expenses that are lower than in Lisbon.
3. Health Coverage and Services
In relation to American citizens relocating to Portugal, healthcare is not an issue of concern. Portugal has a public healthcare service that is available for use after getting legal residency. Most expatriates prefer private health insurance to public coverage for easier and expedited service satisfaction.
Usage of healthcare services in Portugal attracts minimal charges from residents in the form of co-pays. These payments only cover visits to the doctor and medications recommended by the physician. With private insurance, better quality of service like stays at private hospitals and seeing specialized doctors is granted.
4. Socializing with the Locals using Different Tongues
Despite the fact that the young population residing in urban centers speaks English, knowing a few words and phrases in the local dialect will go a long way in helping you fit into society. Sometimes not knowing how to speak a local language makes living in the place quite difficult so take your time studying the language you want to use.
There are numerous schools that focus on teaching English in Portugal, alongside other online programs like Duolingo or Memrise that can help with basic phrases. Cultural immersion, especially with interacting locals, will also assist you in naturally progressing with the language over a period of time.
The Portuguese people are well known for their kindness, and getting familiar with local customs will surely help ease your transition greatly. Do take note to try the local traditions including the wine, food, and even taking part in local events.
5. Budget Allocation
If you’re from the US and are planning to move to Portugal, you will have to set a budget prior to moving as finances will have to be tracked. Portugal does offer a lower cost of living compared to the USA, but it is still vital to understand banking and currency exchange.
Portugal’s currency is based on euros, which means you will need to convert your US dollars over euros for expenses. Establishing a bank account whilst in Portugal is very favorable if you wish to pay bills and receive payments easily. For expatriates, opening an account with a bank is quite simple once residency documents are established.
Furthermore, it is equally important to pay attention to taxes in Portugal, especially if you intend to continue earning in the U.S. or elsewhere.
Conclusion
Portugal might appear to be a shock for a lot of Americans who are used to living in the United States. If you plan on moving, make sure you check for accommodation, healthcare facilities, visa regulations, and even learning the language. Regardless, Portugal is a beautiful country and relocating there can be easy and fulfilling with the right attitude and planning.
For those considering moving from the States to the European continent for the first time, this is certainly the country to start from. From history to stunning architecture, incredible cuisine, and a stunning coastline; Portugal checks all the boxes. Take your time, research everything you need, plan accordingly, and most importantly, enjoy the tremendous experience of becoming a Portuguese citizen.
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