Life in Portugal: a analysis of the pros and cons

Why Portugal attracts people moving

Every year tens of thousands of people from different countries move to Portugal. Among them there are many Russian speakers - from Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Ukraine. The reasons are clear: the country is in the EU, the passport opens up the whole world, the climate is pleasant, the people are friendly.

But moving is not a vacation. Living in a country and vacationing there are two different things. We have put together a picture: what is really good, what creates difficulties and what to expect specifically for you.

The main advantages of living in Portugal

Portugal is a country with a set of real advantages that are difficult to find in one place.

EU membership and a strong passport

Portugal has been a full member of the European Union since 1986. After 5 years of legal residence, you can apply for citizenship and receive one of the world's strongest passports. With it - free movement across 27 EU countries, visa-free entry to the USA, Canada, UK and more than 180 countries.

NHR Tax Regime

For new tax residents, the NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) regime applies. It gives a flat 20% tax on Portuguese income and preferential taxation on foreign income for 10 years. For freelancers, investors and people with passive income, this is very profitable. Clarification: starting in 2024, the NHR program was updated and became IFICI (“NHR 2.0”). The main advantages remain.

Security - top 4 in the world

According to the Global Peace Index 2025, Portugal ranks 4th in the world. The rate of violent crime is extremely low. Women feel safe alone in the evening. Families with children live peacefully.

Mild climate all year round

Lisbon has more than 300 sunny days a year. In winter, the temperature rarely drops below +10°C. In the Algarve (south of the country) it is even warmer. For those who are tired of long northern winters, this changes the quality of life dramatically.

Cheaper than Western Europe

Compared to France, Germany or the Netherlands, life in Portugal is 20-30% cheaper. This applies to rental housing, restaurants, and groceries. The difference is especially noticeable in regions outside Lisbon.

English in cities

In Lisbon and Porto, most young Portuguese speak English. In restaurants, shops, banks - no problem. It’s worse in small towns, but even there you can get by at first.

Quality of life: food, nature, culture

Portuguese cuisine is varied and accessible. Atlantic fish and seafood of excellent quality. Wine costs 2-3 times cheaper than in Russia. Nature - from the Atlantic beaches to the mountainous regions of the Serra da Estrela. The country is small - in 3-4 hours you can drive from Lisbon to any point on the mainland.

cons: what creates difficulties

Portugal is not a perfect country. It has serious disadvantages that affect everyday life.

Bureaucracy and AIMA are the main pain

Previously, the migration service was handled by SEF. In 2023, it was abolished and AIMA (Agencia para a Integracao, Migracao e Asilo) was created. The transition period turned out to be chaotic. The queues for registration stretched for months. Documents are lost. Replies come with a delay. This is the main complaint of all foreigners in Portugal in 2024-2026. The situation is improving gradually, but slowly.

Portuguese is not Spanish

Many people think: “I know a little Spanish, I can handle it.” This is a mistake. Portuguese is more different from Spanish than it appears on paper. Pronunciation is difficult, there are many nasal sounds. For official documents, doctor, court - you need Portuguese. Language is learned, but it takes time and effort.

Low salaries for the local market

The average salary in Portugal is about €1,200-1,500 per month before taxes. This is one of the lowest rates in Western Europe. If you are going to work at the local market, count on this. If you work remotely or live on foreign income, the problem is not relevant.

Lisbon is getting more expensive quickly

Over the past 5 years, rent in Lisbon has doubled. Central areas are expensive. Finding a decent two-bedroom apartment in the center for less than €1,800-2,200 per month is difficult. The situation with affordable housing is a serious problem for the Portuguese themselves.

Traffic jams and public transport

Lisbon is a mountainous city with narrow streets. Morning and evening traffic jams are serious. There is a metro, but the network is small. Outside of Lisbon and Porto, public transport is poor - you need a car.

Gray winters in the north

Porto and the north of the country are rainy. From November to March it is cloudy and damp. This is not the Algarve. If you are moving for the sun, it is better to look to the south or Lisbon.

Specifics for Russians and CIS residents

The Russian-speaking diaspora in Portugal has grown significantly after 2022. Now there are several tens of thousands of Russian speakers living in the country. This created an infrastructure: Russian shops, communities, Russian-speaking lawyers.

Visa issue

Russian citizens enter Portugal with a Schengen visa. Taking into account the restrictions of 2022-2023, visas are issued, but not always quickly. We recommend checking the current situation with the consulate.

Residence permit D7 - the main option

To move without investment, the D7 visa is most often chosen (passive income or remote work). Requirements: confirmed income of €820 per month per applicant, housing in Portugal, clean history. Details about the residence permit through investment program are on the page Portugal residence permit.

NHR tax regime for Russian speakers

NHR (now IFICI) is especially beneficial for those who receive income from Russia or another country outside of Portugal. In most cases, this income is taxed at preferential rates or not at all in Portugal - depending on the tax treaty between the countries. Russia and Portugal have an agreement to avoid double taxation. Consult with a tax lawyer - each case is individual.

Banks and transfers

It will become more difficult for a foreigner to open an account in a Portuguese bank after 2022. Banks check the source of funds. Some banks (CGD, Millennium BCP) work with clients from Russia, but require a large package of documents. A NIF (Portuguese tax number), residential address and proof of income are required.

Diaspora and adaptation

Lisbon and Porto have active Russian-speaking communities on Telegram. Finding friends, getting recommendations for housing, a doctor, a school is real. The first time is easier than it seems.

Cost of living in Portugal 2026

Specific figures for the main expense items. Data is current for 2026.

Renting a home

Food (supermarket)

Restaurants and cafes

Transport

Housing and communal services and Internet

Other expenses

Budget for a family of three

Modest living in the region: €2,500-3,500 per month. Comfortable life in Lisbon: €5,000-7,000 per month. Premium level in Lisbon with car and international school: from €10,000 per month.

Where to live: cities and regions

Portugal is a small country. But the choice of where to live greatly affects the quality and cost of living.

Lisbon

The capital and main center of attraction. Good infrastructure, jobs, airport, international schools. Cons: highest housing prices, traffic jams, tourist crowds in the center. Best areas to live: Almada (across the river), Oeiras, Cascais (suburbs), Belem.

Porto

Second largest city. 20-30% cheaper than Lisbon, more authentic, better transport links with Europe (many low-cost routes). Minus - the climate is wetter, winters are grayer. Good areas: Foz do Duro, Mattosinhos, Vila Nova de Gaia.

Algarve (south)

The sunniest region. Ideal for those who value climate and proximity to the sea. Housing prices are lower than Lisbon, but rising. The infrastructure is good. The downside is that it is a tourist region and crowded in summer. Best cities: Faro, Tavira, Lagos.

Serra de Sintra and surroundings of Lisbon

Sintra, Cascais, Setubal are picturesque places 30-60 minutes from Lisbon. An excellent option for families with children: quiet, safe, prices lower than the capital.

Alentejo and inland regions

The cheapest to live. Rent from €400-600 per apartment. Quiet, beautiful nature. But there is almost no work, the infrastructure is weaker. Suitable for people with remote income who value silence and space.

Climate: what awaits each season

Portugal is a country with a mild Mediterranean climate. But it varies greatly depending on the region.

Lisbon is the sunniest capital of Europe. Snow is rare, occurring once every few years. There is less rain than in Porto. Summer is hot, but dry - easier to bear than the humid heat of a continental summer.

The Algarve is ideal for those traveling for the sun. The beach season lasts from May to October. In winter it is warm and sunny - +15-18°C.

The best months to move: April-May or September-October. Comfortable temperature, fewer tourists, easier to rent accommodation.

Medicine: public and private

Portugal has a two-tier healthcare system. There is a public one (SNS - Servico Nacional de Saude) and a private one.

State Medicine (SNS)

Once you hold residence you are entitled to use state medical services. An appointment with a family doctor (medico de familia) is the basis of the system. Plus: accessible and inexpensive. Cons: queues. You can wait 2-4 months to see a specialist via SNS.

Private medicine

Most foreigners use private clinics. The quality is good, the queues are minimal. Main networks: Luz Saude, CUF, Hospital da Ordem. Visit to a therapist - €60-100. Specialist - €80-150. Blood tests - €30-60.

Insurance for residence permit

When applying for a residence permit, medical insurance is required. Annual insurance with basic coverage - from €600-800. With good coverage (including hospitalization) - €1,200-1,500. After gaining access to SNS, some refuse private insurance, but most foreigners retain it.

Emergency assistance

Calling an ambulance and emergency care in public hospitals is free for everyone - including tourists. The ambulance arrives quickly.

Education and schools

Families with children are an active part of those moving to Portugal. The education system here is diverse.

Public schools

Free for resident children. Training in Portuguese. The level is uneven - there are good schools in good areas. For a child without a language, the first months are difficult, but children adapt quickly. After a year or two, the children speak Portuguese fluently.

Private Portuguese schools

Cost: €3,000-8,000 per year. Better discipline, smaller classes. Training in Portuguese. A good option for children who are learning a language.

International schools

There are several international schools in Lisbon and Porto. Training in English or another language. Cost: €10,000-20,000 per year. Top schools in Lisbon: CAISL (American), St. Julian's, International Preparatory School. Diplomas are recognized worldwide.

Higher education

Universities in Portugal are included in European rankings. University of Lisbon, NOVA University, University of Porto are strong educational institutions. Training in Portuguese. The cost for foreigners is €3,000-7,000 per year. Diplomas are recognized in the EU.

Security: facts and reality

Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world. This is not marketing - this is data.

Global Peace Index 2025: 4th place in the world. Numbeo Crime Index for Lisbon: 35/100 (low). For comparison: Moscow - 47/100, Barcelona - 44/100.

What's really happening

Pickpocketing is a major problem in the tourist areas of Lisbon (Alfama district, metro, tram 28). Take care of your phone and wallet in a crowd. Violent crime is rare. It is safe to walk on the streets at night.

Safety for women

Women in Portugal feel free. You can walk alone at night, ride the subway, travel alone. Harassment and street harassment are significantly lower than in many other countries.

Families with children

The Portuguese are very warm towards children. Going to a restaurant with a child is the norm. They are friendly on the street. Playgrounds, parks, safe yards are a common occurrence even in cities.

Taxes in Portugal for foreigners

The tax system is an important part of the decision to move. Let's look at the main points.

Standard personal income tax rates

The regular personal income tax (IRS) is progressive. Rates: up to €7,703 - 13.25%; €7,703-11,623 - 18%; €11,623-16,472 - 23%; €16,472-21,321 - 26%; €21,321-27,146 - 32.75%; €27,146-39,791 - 37%; €39,791-51,997 - 43.5%; €51,997-81,199 - 45%; over €81,199 - 48%.

NHR/IFICI Regime - Major Benefit

There is a special regime for new tax residents in Portugal. Portuguese income in qualifying sectors: 20% fixed. Foreign income (dividends, pensions, rent): in most cases not taxed in Portugal - if taxed in the country of source. Validity period: 10 years from the date of obtaining resident status. Important: the regime must be requested upon your first tax return. Consult a Portuguese tax advisor (contabilista) before moving.

VAT (IVA)

Standard rate: 23%. Reduced for food: 6%. For restaurants: 13%.

Property tax (IMI)

Annual property tax: 0.3-0.8% of the cadastral value. The cadastral value is usually lower than the market value. For an apartment in Lisbon worth €400,000 - about €1,200-2,000 per year.

Documents for legal residence

To live in Portugal you need a residence permit. Main options:

D7 visa - passive income

For people with proven income outside Portugal: pension, dividends, rent, income from remote work. Minimum income: €820/month per applicant, €410 per dependent. Submitted at the Portuguese consulate of the country of residence. Duration: the visa is issued for 4 months, then you need to enter and obtain a residence permit through AIMA.

D8 Visa - Digital Nomads

For remote employees of foreign companies. The requirements are similar to D7, but the income must be from a foreign employer. Minimum income: €3,480/month (4 minimum wages in Portugal).

Residence permit through investment

Investors are considering faster and more reliable ways to obtain a residence permit. More details about the possibilities are on the page Portugal residence permit through investment.

Path to Citizenship

After 5 years of legal residence - the right to apply for Portuguese citizenship. Requirements: knowledge of the language (A2 test), clean history, proof of residence. Citizenship gives you an EU passport and all the rights of an EU citizen.

NIF - the first step

The NIF tax number (Numero de Identificacao Fiscal) is needed for everything: renting an apartment, opening an account, medicine, filing documents. You can get it from the tax office (Financas) or through a representative before moving. This is the first thing to do.

The best living conditions: who is Portugal suitable for?

Portugal is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's perfect for some people and not for others.

For whom Portugal is a great choice

• People with remote income or passive income live on foreign money in a country that is cheap by EU standards.
• Investors and entrepreneurs - the NHR regime provides 10 years of tax benefits.
• Families focused on Europe - EU passport in 5 years, education, security.
• Pensioners - climate, safety, good medicine, low cost of living in the regions.
• Those who value safety - top 4 in the world - this is a real quality of life every day.

Who should think

• Those who plan to work in the local market - salaries are low, competition with locals.
• For those who are not ready to learn Portuguese, it is difficult in small towns and government institutions without the language.
• Who is waiting for a fast bureaucracy - AIMA works slowly, you need to be patient.
• Anyone who wants to live only in Lisbon with a budget of €2,000/month per family will find it difficult.

Comparison with other EU countries

Reality check: what those who moved say

We have collected typical reviews and observations from people who have lived in Portugal for a year or more. Not advertising reviews - real patterns.

The first 3-6 months are the most difficult

Opening a bank account takes 1-2 months. Registration at AIMA - 2-4 months waiting period. Finding long-term housing is highly competitive, especially in Lisbon. The first period requires a reserve of time, money and patience.

After a year it becomes easy

The tongue begins to go in. Acquaintances appear, understanding of the system, proven doctors and masters. Bureaucratic issues have been resolved. Most note that after a year and a half, life becomes very comfortable.

Climate changes how you feel

Almost everyone who moved from Russia notes that the sun and warmth greatly affect their mood and energy. Depressive winters are a thing of the past. This is not a small thing - it is a basic quality of life.

Portuguese are friendly but closed

Superficially - very friendly. Deep friendships with locals are built slowly and require language. The Russian-speaking community compensates for this at the initial stage.

Self-study resources

Current cost of living data: Numbeo - Portugal. AIMA official website for migration issues: aima.gov.pt.

Bottom line: is it worth moving?

Portugal deserves a reputation as one of the best countries to move from the CIS. But with open eyes.

The pros outweigh the cons for most. Security, climate, EU, tax breaks, path to a passport - these are real advantages. The country offers a high quality of life at relatively affordable prices.

The disadvantages are surmountable. Bureaucracy is a first year pain, not a constant nightmare. You learn a language - especially when you live in an environment. The high cost of Lisbon is decided by choosing another city or suburb.

The key question is your source of income. If you live on foreign income or work remotely, Portugal is almost ideal. If you plan to work in the local market, study the real salaries in your field.

The next step is a specific plan for your situation. What type of residence permit is right for you, how to structure taxes, what you need to prepare before moving - this is individual. We discuss such issues during consultations.