Five Tips for Living in Portugal as an Expat

Moving to a new country can be both thrilling and challenging, particularly for expatriates. Portugal, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and lively culture, has become a favoured destination for many seeking a fresh start. Nonetheless, adapting to life in a foreign country presents its own challenges.

From grasping local customs to fully embracing your new surroundings, follow our five tips for expats to enjoy a smooth transition and a more rewarding experience in Portugal.

1. Learn the Language

While many Portuguese people speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning Portuguese can greatly enhance your experience. It helps in building relationships, navigating day-to-day tasks, and understanding the culture more deeply. Even making the effort to use basic greetings and phrases can make a positive impression and open doors to more authentic experiences.

2. Embrace the Local Culture

Participate in local festivities, try traditional foods, and explore regional customs. Portugal’s diverse traditions — from the vibrant Carnaval celebrations to the soulful fado music — offer countless opportunities to engage with your new community. Showing genuine interest in local customs not only helps you integrate but also enriches your overall experience.

3. Understand the Cost of Living

Research the cost of living in different cities and regions of Portugal. While Lisbon and Porto tend to be more expensive, smaller towns and rural areas often offer a more affordable lifestyle. Understanding the price of essentials like housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation will help you create a realistic budget and avoid financial surprises.

4. Explore the Healthcare System

Familiarize yourself with the Portuguese healthcare system early on. Portugal offers high-quality public healthcare through the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), available to residents. However, many expats also opt for private health insurance to access a wider range of services and shorter wait times. Knowing your options will ensure you have the coverage you need when it matters most.

5. Build a Support Network

Creating a strong support network is essential for settling into a new country. Connect with fellow expats through local meetups, social media groups, and community organizations. At the same time, seek to form genuine friendships with Portuguese locals — this can provide a deeper understanding of the culture and language. Having a support system in place will not only ease feelings of isolation but will also make your new life in Portugal far more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Ready to enjoy your time in Portugal?

Moving to Portugal offers an incredible opportunity to experience a rich and welcoming culture, stunning natural beauty, and a relaxed way of life. By learning the language, immersing yourself in local traditions, managing your finances wisely, understanding the healthcare system, and building a supportive community, you can make your transition smoother and your new adventure truly rewarding. Boa sorte — and enjoy every moment of your new journey!

Exploring Investment Opportunities in Portugal

If you want to explore Portugal investment properties, we can help you. APW Group was founded by expats, for expats; building upon over 30 years of experience in property and fixed income investments.

Our team brings real, on-the-ground experience in the Portuguese property market—guiding you through everything from discovering the perfect home to securing visas and navigating local laws with confidence. We have helped over 6,000 expats progress their property portfolio in cities all over the world, including Portugal, Spain, Bali, Dubai and the UK, just to name a few.

Please get in touch to discuss your property goals with one of our experts.