All of Europe feels steeped in Old World history, but nowhere so much as Portugal. This is a country of centuries-old vineyards, terracotta-tiled hill-towns, and cobblestone streets leading to outdoor farmers’ markets lined with café terraces.
Portugal offers one of the lowest costs of living in western Europe, has some of the best weather, excellent, affordable healthcare, warm welcoming people, stunning coastline, historic villages, and many people who speak English (especially in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve). In fact, cinemas throughout Portugal show movies in their original languages, usually English with Portuguese subtitles. The Portuguese people like it that way, it helps them to hone their English skills.
And speaking of the people, the Portuguese are some of the most warm, welcoming, and friendly we have ever met. They welcome foreigners with open arms—you’ll get used to the double-cheeked kisses.
Practical Benefits of Portugal
The highway system in Portugal is one of the best in the world making it easy to explore from one end of the country to the other. Driving from top to bottom takes about six hours and across, from the coast into Spain about three. Foreigners who settle here from the U.S. or Canada need not worry about taking a driver’s exam in Portuguese—you simply exchange your current driver’s license for a Portuguese one.
Portugal has some of the best healthcare in the world, ranked #12 according to the World Health Organization. Residents have full access to both the public and private healthcare systems not long after relocating.
The public system is free to join, and it covers you from birth to death with no restrictions around pre-existing conditions. Small copays do apply when you see a doctor or use a hospital or other medical facility. Private healthcare insurance is affordable and often covers pre-existing conditions.
The cost of our comprehensive, private health insurance is just €340 per month for the both of us. And this is a high-end policy that provides coverage for emergencies when we travel for up to 60 days, including in the U.S.
Portugal boasts 10 medical facilities that proudly display the prestigious Joint Commission International gold stamp of approval.
Language and Citizenship
The Portuguese government welcomes foreigners by offering them free language lessons to help make life easier or for those who seek employment. Classes are held around the country at local schools and take students to the A2 level required for citizenship or permanent residency after five years. Schools also offer further learning at the B and C levels of European Portuguese.
Portugal allows dual citizenship with both the U.S. and Canada, so there is no need to give up citizenship in either country. With a Portuguese passport, you can live in any other EU country without applying for a visa.
Despite its tiny size, Portugal has a variety of choices to accommodate most every living option. The impressive Atlantic coastline with golden sandy beaches, sapphire water with craggy rock formations and abundant sunshine. Historic villages with narrow cobbled lanes, majestic castles, monasteries, and old-world charm. Vibrant cities like Lisbon with its sunny yellow cable cars, lively café culture, numerous museums, and monuments galore. Porto, Portugal’s second city with its terraced vineyards, colorful riverfront scene, and famous Port wine region.
Come visit, rent a car, and explore this beautiful gem from one end to the other and perhaps you too will someday call Portugal your home.
