Portugal

Portugal has a range of options that make it an attractive destination for expats looking to live and work in the country. The D7 Visa, often called the Passive Income Visa, is ideal for retirees and individuals with stable, passive income from sources such as pensions, rental properties, or investments. The D8 Digital Nomad Visa, introduced in 2022, caters specifically to remote workers who earn income from clients or employers outside Portugal. This visa offers both a Temporary Stay Visa (valid for up to one year) and a residency Visa (which can be renewed and lead to permanent residency).

For entrepreneurs and investors, the Golden Visa provides a pathway to residency through real estate investment or other qualifying investments in the Portuguese economy. Additionally, professionals seeking employment in Portugal can apply for the D1 Work Visa, while highly skilled workers may be eligible for the EU Blue Card. With its welcoming policies, Portugal continues to attract a diverse range of expats looking for new opportunities.

Healthcare in Portugal

The healthcare system in Portugal is characterized by a mix of public and private services. The National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde, SNS) provides universal coverage to residents, offering a range of services from primary to specialized care. While public healthcare is generally of good quality, especially in urban areas, there can be long waiting times for certain treatments and procedures. Private healthcare is also available and is often used to complement the public system, providing faster access to services and more choice in healthcare providers. The cost of public healthcare is low, with many services being free or requiring a small co-payment, while private healthcare costs can be significantly higher. Expats and digital nomads who are legal residents in Portugal and contribute to the social security system can access public healthcare. They can also purchase private health insurance to access private healthcare services.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Portugal is considered moderate when compared to other Western European countries. Essentials such as food, housing, and transportation are reasonably priced, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and retirees.

Weather

Portugal has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, especially in the coastal areas. The interior can experience more extreme temperatures, with colder winters and hotter summers. The Algarve region in the south enjoys some of the most stable and sunny weather in Europe.

Educational System in Portugal

The educational system in Portugal is comprehensive and mandatory from the age of 6 to 18. It consists of four main stages: pre-primary (ages 3-5), basic education (1st to 9th grade), secondary education (10th to 12th grade), and higher education. Pre-primary education is optional but widely attended. Basic education is divided into three cycles: the first cycle (1st to 4th grade), the second cycle (5th and 6th grade), and the third cycle (7th to 9th grade). Each cycle builds on the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous one. Secondary education offers general, technical, and vocational pathways, preparing students for higher education or the job market. The school year typically starts in September and ends in June. Portuguese schools focus on a broad curriculum that includes Portuguese language, mathematics, natural sciences, history, geography, foreign languages, arts, and physical education. The quality of education in Portugal has been improving, with increasing investment in school facilities and teacher training. After completing the 12th grade, students take national exams that are crucial for university admission.

The university system in Portugal is part of the European Higher Education Area and follows the Bologna Process, which standardizes degree structures across Europe. It comprises both public and private institutions, offering undergraduate (Licenciatura), master's (Mestrado), and doctoral (Doutoramento) degrees. Undergraduate degrees typically take three years to complete, while master's programs take one to two years, and doctoral programs can take three to four years. The academic year is divided into two semesters, with exams at the end of each. Portuguese universities are known for their history, cultural significance, and academic rigor. They offer a wide range of courses in Portuguese and increasingly in English to attract international students. Admission is based on secondary school grades and national exam scores. The cost of attending university in Portugal is relatively low compared to other European countries, especially for EU citizens, who benefit from the same fees as Portuguese students. Non-EU students may face higher fees but can apply for various scholarships and financial aid programs. Living costs in Portugal are also moderate, making it an attractive destination for international students.