Blog by Bleisured – February 18, 2025
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into why Portugal should be your next home, how to plan your move, and how to find the perfect place to live without the usual stress. Moving abroad may feel overwhelming, but with the right insights and support, it can also be the most rewarding decision of your life.
Why Move to Portugal in 2025?
Relocating to another country is a big decision, but Portugal makes it an easy one. Here’s why thousands of expats—and counting—are calling it home:
- A High Quality of Life at Affordable Prices
Portugal offers one of the highest standards of living in Europe, without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re dining out, grocery shopping, or paying rent, you’ll find it surprisingly affordable:
- Dinner for two at a nice restaurant? Around €40-€80.
- Monthly rent in Lisbon? €1,200–€2,200 for a centrally located apartment—far cheaper than London or Paris.
- Monthly transportation pass? Between €30–€50, and free for students.
- Healthcare in Portugal in ranked among Europe’s best, with affordable public and private options. Private health insurance costs around €50–€100 per month.
For families, Portugal also offers affordable childcare, top-rated international schools, and free healthcare options through its national health system.
If you’re moving with kids, neighbourhoods like Cascais and Estoril near Lisbon offer excellent schools and a safe, family-friendly vibe.
- A Safe and Welcoming Environment
Portugal ranks 6th on the Global Peace Index (2024), making it one of the safest countries in the world. Whether you’re walking the cobbled streets of Lisbon or hiking along the Algarve’s cliffs, safety is rarely a concern.
The Portuguese people are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
Tip: Learning basic Portuguese can go a long way in making daily interactions easier, although English is widely spoken in major cities.
- Tax Incentives & Investment Options
For professionals and retirees alike, Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax program is a game-changer. It offers reduced tax rates for the first A10 years of residency—an attractive option for freelancers, remote workers, and investors.
If you are thinking about diversifying you investments, Portugal’s real estate market is thriving, offering excellent value for money whether you’re purchasing as an investment or a primary home.
If you are looking as an investor, or as a tenant, contact our trusted partner Bleisured, and find out your possibilities!
- The Ultimate Remote Work Destination
Portugal has embraced the rise of remote work, offering fast Wi-Fi, plenty of coworking spaces, and even a digital nomad visa (D8). From vibrant Lisbon to laid-back coastal towns, you’ll find the perfect balance of productivity and relaxation.
Need a fully equipped, work-friendly apartment? Bleisured’s properties are designed to make remote work easy, offering high-speed internet and ergonomic setups in central locations.
- Year-Round Sun and Outdoor Adventures
Portugal is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Surfing in the Algarve, hiking in Sintra, wine tasting in the Douro Valley—adventures are endless. Plus, with over 300 days of sunshine per year, the weather rarely disappoints.
If you are a surfer pro or interested on start learning how to surf, check our favourite beach spots around Portugal!
How to Move to Portugal: Your Step-by-Step Plan
- Research you Ideal Location
Portugal has a place for everyone, whether you’re after city buzz, seaside relaxation, or countryside tranquillity.
- Lisbon – A Capital Full of Opportunities
Lisbon blends historic charm with modern convenience, making it ideal for professionals, families, and investors. With stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and a growing startup scene, Lisbon is the heart of Portugal’s urban life.
Rentals in the city average between €1,200 and €2,200 per month for 2-bedroom apartments—more affordable than other European capitals like Paris or London. Its public transport system is reliable, and international schools make it appealing for expat families.
- Porto – Tradition Meets Modern Living
For those looking for a quieter yet equally vibrant city, Porto offers a more affordable alternative to Lisbon. Known for its wine, riverside views, and rich culture, Porto is popular with artists, students, and entrepreneurs.
You can expect to pay €900 to €1,500 per month in rent for a well-located apartment. Porto’s slower pace and lower costs make it a favourite for remote workers and creatives.
- The Algarve – Sun, Sea, and Relaxation
The Algarve is a dream destination for retirees and beach lovers. Famous for its beaches, cliffs, and relaxed vibe, it offers year-round sunshine and a slower pace of life.
Rental prices here vary but, expect to pay €1,000 to €3,000 per month for larger properties. It’s also one of the most popular spots for short-term holiday lets, making it a good option for property investors.
Some other popular places you might enjoy are:
- Cascais and Estoril – Upscale coastal town near Lisbon, perfect for families.
- Coimbra – A historic university town with affordable housing.
- Madeira – An island paradise with tax incentives for businesses and remote workers.
Insider Tip: If you’re unsure where to settle, Bleisured offers flexible mid-term rentals so you can explore neighbourhoods before committing.
- Secure Housing Before You Arrive
Finding a home in Portugal can be challenging. The most common platforms are Airbnb for short-term stays and idealista for short to long-term stays. The best case is to work with a property management service, regardless of the length of your stay, a company with local knowledge can make your life easier.
If you are looking into moving to Lisbon, we can recommend working with Bleisured, they offer completely furnished apartments in the best areas of Lisbon. With apartments available for mid- to long-term stays, and full-services included, such as Wi-Fi and cleaning, is a good options for expands and families.
- Required Documents
Relocating to Portugal means ticking a few boxes before you arrive, but don’t worry—it’s more straightforward than you might think.
For EU Citizens
If you’re an EU citizen, you can move freely to Portugal without a visa. Once you arrive, you’ll just need to:
- Register your residency at the local town hall.
- Obtain a NIF (tax indentification number)—this is crucial for opening a bank account or signing rental agreements.
- Arrange health insurance or register with Portugal’s public healthcare system.
For Non-EU Citizens
Things are slightly more complex for non-EU nationals, but Portugal offers several visa options to suit different needs:
- D4 or D6 Visa – Designated to students.
- D7 Visa – Ideal for retirees or those with passive income.
- D8 Visa – Designed for digital nomads and remote workers.
Visa applications can take several months, so it’s best to start the process early—ideally 6–8 months before your planned move.
- Find Schools and Community Resources
If you’re moving with children, Portugal offers excellent education options, including:
- International schools with English curricula (ideal for expat families).
- Public schools for a more local experience.
Settling into a new country is also easier when you connect with local and expat communities through social groups, language classes, and networking events.
Why Portugal Feels Like Home—and How We Can Help
The hardest part of moving abroad is often finding a place to live that feels like home. At Bleisured, we help you skip the stress by offering move-in-ready apartments in prime locations across Lisbon. Whether you’re staying for a few months or settling in long-term, our properties are designed to make life easy, with modern furnishings, high-speed internet, and maintenance services included.
Start Your New Life in Portugal Today
Portugal isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s the perfect place to build a life. From affordable living and sunny weather to excellent schools and career opportunities, it has everything you need to thrive. Whether you’re searching for your dream home or planning a smart investment, 2025 is the perfect time to take the leap.
Our trusted partner Bleisured can simplify the process and help you find a place to call home. Get in touch and discover what Lisbon has to offer you!
Feel free to check Bleisured’s page – at bleisured.com