What The British Need To Know About Portugal

Have you heard a lot about the country or too little? Here’s an honest guide on what the British need to know about Portugal!

Article by Viv Europe - Official Legal and Relocation Partner to KipperTree.

Read the full article here

June 26, 2023

Located in southwestern Europe, this beautiful country boasts a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. Every year, hundreds of expats apply for residence Visas to experience this lifestyle. And many end up staying forever. But hold on; there are a few points the British need to know about Portugal before making the move. 

Why does the country appeal to the British so much so that they make up one of the largest expat communities in Portugal? Is it the pleasantly warm climate or the warm and welcoming people that make it easy for expats to integrate into the community? 

Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, indulging in delicious cuisine, or relaxing on the beach, Portugal has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of this fascinating country!

How common is it to find British expats in Portugal? 

Portugal has long been a popular destination for British expats seeking a new life in the sun. The allure of Portugal’s pleasant climate, affordable cost of living, and high quality of life have attracted around 50,000 British citizens. And continues to do so every year.

It’s common to find British ex-pats in some particular regions, like the Algarve. A region known for its stunning coastline, expat-friendly environment, business opportunities, and great educational facilities.

Many retirees relocate here to spend their golden years in a relaxed environment with all the amenities they require, along with their families sometimes. This increasingly rising number makes it one of the largest expat communities in the country. 

First things the British need to know about Portugal

We won’t make you wait so long! It’s time to dive into what the British need to know about Portugal before they embark on their adventure. Portugal has been captivating the hearts of many British, and there are plenty of reasons why. Let’s start with the basic ones and elaborate as we go on.

Say hello to more vitamin D and those enviable sun-kissed tans – something every British craves occasionally! And brace yourself for a melting pot of culture and history as well. From the stunning cobblestone streets of Lisbon to the enchanting Silver Coast, Portugal offers a tapestry of experiences. 

Keep reading to learn about everything you, as a British, need to know about Portugal.

Language Barrier

The language barrier is a manageable hurdle! Many Portuguese locals have a good command of English. So if you’re living in the top places mentioned later in this article, you’ll find it relatively easy to communicate with the locals.

Still, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can go a long way in showing appreciation and making local friends. Plus, it’s always fun to surprise people with your newfound language skills and see their faces light up!

Cost of living in Portugal

For some, it’ll be a shocker to know that Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Europe! 

Rent is way lower, groceries don’t hog up your entire budget, and utility bills are nearly the same in all cities. You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without putting excessive strain on your finances, no matter your budget. There’s something for everyone.

Offering a more affordable lifestyle than the UK, Portugal allows you to stretch your pounds or euros further. To give you a clear picture, look at the table comparing the expenses of both countries.

Compare the detailed Cost Of Living In Portugal Versus The UK in this article.

Portugal’s Visas

There are a few visa options worth exploring, but the following three are the most popular and helpful for British expats.

The first one is the D7 Visa. Designed for retirees or individuals with sufficient passive income who wish to reside in Portugal. This Visa primarily requires proof of financial means and health insurance coverage.

If you’re an entrepreneur or business owner interested in investing in Portugal, the D2 Visa is ideal. It requires a detailed business plan, proof of funds, and potential job creation for locals. This Visa opens doors for business opportunities and allows you to contribute to the Portuguese economy and make good profits.

But Portugal isn’t just for older people; thousands of young and excited individuals have options available for them too. The Digital Nomad Visa is a newer option catering to those working remotely. It provides the flexibility to live and work in Portugal for up to one year. An excellent choice for digital nomads looking for a change of scenery while working.

Working in Portugal

The country’s thriving economy makes it an attractive destination for ex-pats seeking employment. What the British need to know about Portugal and its work is that networking is crucial. 

So, try to join professional organizations and connect with local professionals. Building a solid professional network can open doors to job opportunities.

It’s best to know when it comes to work permits, EU/EEA citizens have the right to work in Portugal without restrictions. But for non-EU/EEA citizens, a work permit or Visa may be required, depending on the circumstances. 

Also, knowing Portuguese can enhance your job prospects. Though English is widely spoken in industries and tourist areas, having knowledge of Portuguese will give you an edge.

Lastly, do keep an eye on job portals, both local and international, as well as social media groups specific to your industry. These can be valuable resources for finding job opportunities in Portugal.

You might notice that the salaries in Portugal are low, but when you compare them to the cost of living, you’ll understand why the Portuguese are happy with what they get!

Great Tax benefits

The British need to know about Portugal and its great tax benefits if they haven’t already heard about it! One highlight is the Non-Habitual Resident Regime which offers attractive tax advantages. Under the NHR, qualifying British expats can enjoy tax exemptions for ten years!

For example, exemptions on most foreign income, such as pensions, dividends, and rental income, and reduced tax rates on certain types of Portuguese income. This allows expats to maximize their income and save more.

Portugal also has a network of double taxation treaties with several countries, including the UK. These treaties aim to avoid double taxation by allocating taxing rights and providing relief to taxpayers. Understanding these treaties to determine how they apply to your specific circumstances will help you benefit from the provisions.

Expats are very welcome

Did you know that British pubs are scattered throughout Portugal, serving traditional fish and chips and a pint of ale? Undoubtedly, British expats are warmly welcomed in Portugal, just like all other communities. Their presence adds a colourful touch to the country’s diverse expat community. 

The British influence is also felt during festive occasions like St. Patrick’s Day, where expats from the UK and Ireland celebrate. You’ll also find English bookstores, tea shops, and cricket matches in Portugal.

So, whether you’re craving a taste of home or looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant expat scene, Portugal has a special place for British expats to call their own. 

It’s a known fact that Portuguese people welcome their new neighbours with a dinner invite, so welcome friendliness and say hello! 

Read the full article here