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Portugal

Currency
Euro (€)
Languages
Portuguese (official)
Capital
Lisbon
Timezone
Western European Time (WET)
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Your guide to living and thriving in Portugal

Overview
Overview

Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula in SouthernEurope, is a country known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, andrich history. With a laid-back lifestyle, warm climate, and a growing digitalnomad community, Portugal offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity. Itswell-preserved cities, from Lisbon to Porto, are home to lively culturalscenes, iconic cuisine, and welcoming people.

Culture

Portuguese culture emphasizes family, tradition, and community. Festivals such as São João in Porto and Carnaval are celebrated nationwide, while Fado music and traditional cuisine, like bacalhau (salted cod), play a key role.

Do's and Don’ts

  • ✅ Do greet with a firm handshake or kisses on both cheeks.
  • ✅ Do try the local foods, especially pastries like Pastéis de Nata.
  • ❌ Don’t be late; punctuality is appreciated.
  • ❌ Don’t expect quiet; people in Portugal are social and friendly.

Government

Portugal is a democratic republic with a multi-party parliamentary system, where the president is the head of state and the prime minister is the head of government.

Social media

Popular platforms include Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, with a growing use of LinkedIn for professional networking.

National sport

Football is Portugal's most beloved sport, with deep cultural significance. Many Portuguese players have achieved international fame, and the country has a vibrant football fan culture.

5.0
RATING
It’s perfect for digital nomads
Digital nomad friendly
Fairly digital nomad friendly
Challenging for digital nomads
Not ideal for digital nomads

Easy visa options, vibrant communities, and co-working spaces.

Internet
4.0
RATING

High-speed internet widely available in urban areas.

Cost of living
4.0
RATING

Affordable compared to Western Europe, especially outside Lisbon.

Access to basic resources
5.0
RATING

Excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and amenities.

Weather
Lisbon
4:30 est
4.0
RATING

Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.

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LGBTQIA+ friendly
5.0
RATING

Very inclusive with strong legal protections.

English proficiency
4.0
RATING

Moderate to high proficiency, especially in urban and tourist areas.

Family friendly
4.0
RATING

Excellent healthcare, education, and green spaces, though limited English schools outside major cities.

Public transport
5.0
RATING

Excellent public transport, with reliable metro and train systems in Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities. The system is affordable, with buses, trams, and trains widely accessible and well-maintained.

Live
Live

Expat community

Portugal has a thriving expat community, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region. Digital nomads, retirees, and entrepreneurs find the country appealing due to its affordable living costs, sunny climate, and friendly visa policies.

Setting up a local bank account

To open a bank account, you’ll need a valid passport, proof of address, a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF), and possibly proof of employment or income. Major banks include Banco Santander Totta, Novo Banco, and Millennium BCP, which offer services tailored to expats and English-speaking staff.

Getting around

  • Public transport: Portugal has an efficient transportation network, with extensive metro, bus, and train systems in cities.
  • Purchasing vehicles: To buy a car, you'll need insurance and registration.
  • Driver’s license: For a driver’s license, residents can exchange licenses from select countries or pass a driving test if necessary.

Medical system

Portugal provides a mix of public and private healthcare. EU citizens have access to the National Health Service (SNS) with an EHIC card, while non-EU residents typically need private health insurance.

Work
Work

Visa eligibility

Non-EU nationals typically require a visa to work or reside, but options like the D7 Passive income visa and the Golden visa attract many expats.

Temporary residence

Visas for temporary residency include the Schengen visa (up to 90 days) and the D7 visa for retirees and passive income holders.

Permanent residence

After five years of temporary residency, one can apply for permanent residence or citizenship.

Digital nomad visa

Portugal offers a Digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to stay while working for international employers or clients.

Work culture

Portuguese workplaces are typically relaxed yet respectful of hierarchy. Work-life balance is valued, with socializing being an integral part of the work culture.

Job opportunities for expats

Expats often find work in teaching, IT, tourism, and customer service.

Freelancing & entrepreneurship

Portugal is very supportive of freelancers and entrepreneurs, with various co-working spaces, government incentives, and startup incubators. Expats can register as independent contractors (with an NIF number) to freelance legally. Starting a business in Portugal is relatively straightforward, requiring registration with the Portuguese commercial registry and an NIF number. Lisbon and Porto are major hubs for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and digital startups.

Tax considerations

  • Income tax: Portugal has a progressive income tax system, with expats eligible for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, offering significant tax breaks for the first ten years.
  • Social security: Social security contributions are mandatory for employees and self-employed individuals.
Hire
Hire

Discover everything you need to know to hire in Portugal smoothly and effectively. With over 30 years of experience, our parent company, CXC, has deep expertise in navigating local regulations and processes, ensuring you can engage workers in Portugal compliantly and confidently from day one.

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Metropolitans & attractions

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Metropolitans & attractions
Metropolitans & attractions

Major cities

  • Lisbon: The capital, known for its vibrant arts, tech scene, and historic architecture.
  • Porto: Famous for its port wine, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene.
  • Faro: Gateway to the Algarve, known for beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle.

Major attractions

Sintra: Fairy-tale palaces and lush landscapes.
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Douro Valley: Renowned wine region with scenic river cruises.
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Algarve Coast: Spectacular beaches and cliffs, popular with sun-seekers and surfers.
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No items found.
Metropolitans & attractions
  • Sintra: Fairy-tale palaces and lush landscapes.
  • Douro Valley: Renowned wine region with scenic river cruises.
  • Algarve Coast: Spectacular beaches and cliffs, popular with sun-seekers and surfers.
Population
10 million
Digital nomad visa
Available
Driving side
Right
Calling code
+351
Public Holiday
13 National Holidays
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