Digital Nomad Life in Portugal

"Many expats in Portugal join social groups and local clubs specific to their interests and professions, such as book clubs, running clubs, wine tasting clubs, and even language exchange groups. For example, the Lisbon Expat Networking Club is an online group focused on networking, business, and career development for expats in Portugal. Other ways expats can meet people in Portugal is by attending cultural events or being involved in community activities. Many cities and towns across the country also offer language classes, which is a great way to meet people and improve language skills. Additionally, expats can reach out to other people through social media platforms and websites such as Expat.com," remarked one member in Portugal.

"In my experience, restaurants and cafes afforded me the opportunity to meet new people, develop friendships, and practice speaking the language. At nearly every turn, I was able to find people willing to speak English with me and to offer useful help in developing the ability to speak Portuguese. For my part, I have not made any attempts to join expat communities. Instead, a little humility and lots of hard work trying to learn the language has opened doors to friends and families in the local community. All this began by trying to frequent the cafes and restaurants that had employees and clients who were willing to communicate," explained one expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.

"There's a little bit of everything in Lisboa (Lisbon). Public transportation is a must in this city. There are a number of outdoor cafes where you can enjoy a coffee and people-watch. However, sports is the priority in Lisbon. Futebol (Soccer) is king here. Sporting and Benfica are the top soccer teams in the city. Be careful about wearing green (Sporting colors) in the Benfica neighborhood," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Lisbon.

"Expatriates and digital nomads who are living in Portugal find a balance between a modern local lifestyle and a relaxed Mediterranean one. With low cost of living and great weather, the country is a popular destination for many expats and digital nomads to live, work, and explore. From the bustling cities of Lisbon and Porto to the picturesque coastal towns, the diversity and culture of Portugal offer many opportunities to discover its traditional foods, landscapes, and people. Expats and digital nomads have access to excellent healthcare and education, as well as a vibrant expat community to help them settle in. For those looking for a location to work remotely, there is plenty of space in Portugal to get work done and stunning views to go along with it. Overall, Portugal provides a great experience for expats and digital nomads who are looking to experience a new culture, learn a language, and enjoy all the country has to offer," explained one person living in Portugal.

"We came to Portugal last year for 2 weeks. We explored two areas only: first, the Algarve and next, Lisboa. These selections were based on weather, as we didn't want the colder weather in the North of Portugal. The Algarve is dead in winter, congested in summer, and just stuffed with Brits. The Lisboa area was delightful but we were sold when we took a train from Lisboa to Cascais. This is ideal: generally reliably nice weather, pristine beaches, restaurants all over the narrow streets and squares as well as along the pedestrian esplanade along the ocean. An easy train ride into Lisbon any time you want more culture or diversions, while plenty of museums, shows and parks in the Estoril/Cascais area. IDEAL," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Cascais and Estoril.

"By cost and internet posts on Idealista. I had 10 days to get an address. Price was a big concern. I looked at 3 listings, 1 in Porto and 2 in neighboring Gaia. I chose the bigger place in Gaia. It was the right size and price. I was lucky that the Remax agent was honest and super helpful and spoke English! It is a good place in a nice neighborhood. Do your research beforehand and have representation, preferable an honest attorney," explained one person living in Porto, Portugal.

"I live in Albufeira. We have a lot of tourists in the summer. There are certain areas I don't frequent because of the tourists. The strip, to a lesser degree Old Town. Go down some of the side streets and eat in restaurants the locals do. The food is great, inexpensive and they will even help you with your Portuguese. There are closures in the winter months but enough stays open that you don't suffer. The beaches are great, instead of going to Marinha where you can spend an hour looking for a parking spot, head to Sao Raphael in Sesmarias by Albufeira. Beautiful beach with a nice restaurant and good parking. I am a 25 minute walk from the beach and west of the strip and old town. Go closer to the beach.... you get more tourists. Come in the summer and spend two weeks, you will get a good feel and see if it is for you. If you come to Albufeira drop me a line and I will give you a tour," explained one person living in Albufeira, Portugal.

"My vastly improved diet. Without any actual effort, I’ve lost 25 pounds since I got here, which I attribute to eatting a lot more fresh fruit and vegetables and walking on cobblestoned up and downhill sidewalks. The extreme level of consideration for other people among the Portuguese. Because of an obstruction in the left venticle of my heart, I have to stop and catch my breath about every block, and I had to learn almost immediately how to say “I’m OK. I’ve got water. I just need to take a short rest before I move on,” because people stop all the time to ask," said one expat in Lisbon.

"Pace of life and government bureaucracy. Pace of life is easy to adjust...slow down and enjoy. When dealing with government agencies just be prepared for extreme bureaucracy," said one expat who made the move to Cascais.

"Mastering the language. This sounds silly, but steaks I can afford and no A1. Sizes. I’m built on a much bigger frame, particularly compare to Portuguese my age, and I wear size 8.5 3E shoes. I’ll just have to look for men’s shoe that will fit and pass. CUSTOMS which basically prevents ordering anything from beyond the EU. And Covid of course, though Portugal has handled it beautifully in my opinion," explained one foreigner living in Lisbon, Portugal.

"Expats in Portugal may find it difficult to adjust to the slower pace of life as well as the more relaxed attitude towards timeliness and deadlines. Language can also present a challenge for expats, as Portuguese is the predominant language and English is not always widely spoken. Other cultural adaptation issues for expats can include understanding the subtleties of local customs and etiquette, such as taking the time to greet others prior to engaging in a conversation or conducting business. Portuguese culture is also very family-oriented, so expats may find it difficult to transition to the longer working hours and different expectations for childcare," said one in Portugal.

"The bureaucracy is frustrating at times but eventually as your life chills out so does your reaction. You have to just roll with it sometimes and be patient. Leave lots of time for health, financial related issues," explained one expat in Tavira.

"If you plan to stay in Portugal for a while, you will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. You will need to apply for a Long Term Residence Visa at the Portuguese Embassy or consulate in your home country. Depending on your length of stay, you may also need to apply for a Residence Permit once your visa is approved. Additionally, you may need a Temporary Residency Card if you plan to stay in Portugal for more than three months," said one person in Portugal.

"My wife and I had appts on 2 different dates. We brought all our papers and got there when they just opened and asked if they could take my wife. We got a very stern NO! Then the guard asked if my wifes appt was at the same center which it was. He left us for a moment and came back and said they would process both of us. I would go to the center where your appt is and ask if they could take you. Have a good reason and hope you get a good response," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Albufeira.

"Yes. I ordered a take away dinner from a cafe ahead of time and misunderstood the time to pick it up. When we arrived to pick up our meal, all the food was gone, we were too late! They called someone who was in charge and referred to me as the "foreign lady," estrangeira. I was surprised at myself that I was hurt and offended to be called such, even though I am! It shows how badly I want to fit in, but don't," said one person in Vila Nova de Gaia.

"It is important to show respect for Portuguese culture by avoiding certain activities that could be considered rude or inappropriate. When visiting, it is best to dress conservatively, avoid discussing religion or politics in public, and maintain eye contact when engaging in conversation. Likewise, visitors should avoid pointing with their finger and try to learn some basic phrases in Portuguese, as a gesture of respect. Additionally, it is important to remember that physical contact between strangers, such as shaking hands and hugging, is not common in certain parts of Portugal," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Portugal.

"Connect with other expats to obtain physician references and sources of private insurance so you can benefit from their research and experience. Bring copies of your medical records with you. Quality of care can be very high in Portugal's major communities. Costs are much lower, by about half, and prescriptions range from a tenth to a half of the costs in the US," wrote one digital nomad living in Cascais, Portugal.

"The weather is generally very good, access to goods and services makes it easy to live here. Covid has impacted everything of course which has made things more difficult. Health care is accessible and affordable. Learning the language has taken longer but English is often understood. There's access to lots of outdoors activities like cycling, hiking, water sports, which is important. There is an old world charm and a lot of history to learn about. Also access to other places in Europe make this location good. Previously lived in several countries in Asia. Europe also closer to the US for trips back- when possible again," remarked one member in Lisbon.

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the relaxed lifestyle and warm climate that Portugal has to offer. They also enjoy the low cost of living, with affordable housing and food, as well as the country's rich culture and history. Additionally, the country's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to get around. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and bureaucracy to be challenging. Additionally, the country's limited job opportunities can be a deterrent for some," explained one expat living in Portugal.