Why Move to Portugal?
Portugal offers a number of advantages such as
Good weather. The summers in some areas are not that hot and the winters are not that wet and cold. In the summers you could expect the temperature during the day to be around 28 degrees, Although the temperatures can get to 40 degrees and the winter months can see 12 -14 degrees in most parts of Portugal. As many say that the sun shines 300 odd days of the year in Portugal.
Safety. The Global Finance magazine ranked Portugal fourth safest country in the world in 2019 and the most peaceful country in the world in 2020. Portugal has a very low crime rate. This could be because the Portuguese people are very kind, warm and like to share specially towards immigrants.
Language: Most people speak English in the cities. In some rural areas where the population is older you may find that they do not speak English but that should not stop You. You can always learn Portuguese.
Cost of Living. Most Immigrants to Portugal would agree that the cost of living is relatively much cheaper than most European countries, the US, the UK and even some countries in the Middle East. You can find websites that help you compare the cost of living. A google search should pull up some information.
Health Care. Medical care in available to all citizens and residents in public hospitals free of charge and is fairly good. That said if you prefer faster appointments and higher level or quality of service you may always use the private clinic service. Get a private health insurance that could cover most or part of the treatment could surely help. You will have yo do some reacher to find the company that will meet your needs. Overall Portugal has a fairly good health system and spend 9% of its GDP.
Entertainment/recreation. Portugal won 26 World Travel Awards in 2020 so there is options for everyone to find what they are looking for. You have the Atlantic Ocean to Fish, Swim and Dive in. You have places Like Nazare which is known for surfing and has a record to have the highest waves in the World. Surfers travel from all over the world to experience it. You have beautiful beaches in Portugal. You have mountain ranges which make greens paths and hiking great, . One of the highest peaks of Portugal is Serra de Estrela which is snow capped during the winters and has a ski resort and attracts not only Portuguese people but Tourist. You have Castles and forts to visit and lots more. You always have festivals(festas) in Portugal and good food and some of best wines. Bottom line there is always something to do in Portugal.
Education. Portugal is known to have a fairly high quality secondary and higher education. Portugal has some of the best universities in Europe and degrees from these universities are recognised in Europe and the world making it easier to work in the European Union. Most courses are available in the Portuguese and English and English is taught in Schools.
Taxes. Everyones favourite topic of discussion :-). If you are a resident of Portugal (and have not been a resident of Portugal in the last five years) You can apply for NHR. What this means is the you are exempt from paying taxes on income earned abroad. Provided it has been taxed at source. NHR status allows and investor to reduce the amount payable in income tax. The income tax for skilled professionals such as entertainers, engineers, programers artist and scientist have a reduced rate of 20%
In order to be eligible or rather obtain NHR status one must be living in Portugal for over 183 days of the year and renting or buying a property. This status is granted for up to ten years.
Moving to Portugal is made easier through either purchasing Real Estate in Portugal or through Portugal's Golden Visa & D7 Visa Programmes.
