In recent years, Portugal has been recognized for itsGolden Visa, D7 Retirement Visa, D8 Digital Nomad Visaand other policies that have attracted a large number ofimmigrants.. The warm climate, livability, and lower cost of living have made Portugal one of theA popular choice for European immigrants. However, not everyone is satisfied with immigrant life.
"Immigration to PortugalRegret?" There is no simple answer to this question. In this paper, we are going to look at this question through theExperiences shared by real immigrantsto help you understandImmigration to PortugalThe advantages and disadvantages of the program and a practical guide to avoiding the pitfalls to help you make a more informed decision.
1. Why do some people regretImmigration to PortugalWhat's the matter? Have you thought these questions through?
Despite the overall friendly environment in Portugal, some immigrants are still disappointed. Here areA few common reasons for regret::
(1) Language barrier, English is not everything!
- In big cities such as Lisbon and Porto, young people speak better English, but small towns, government offices, hospitals, etc., thePortuguese is the mainstream.The
- real case: When Mr. Zhang, an immigrant, opened an account at a bank, he found that the counter staff did not speak English, causing him to take twice as long to complete the procedure.
✅ Guide to avoiding the pit: Pre-migration.Learning basic Portuguese, download Google Translate, or hire a translator to assist with critical matters.
(2) Buying a home to invest in? Taxes are higher than you think!
- Many people think that Portuguese real estate investment is a sure thing, but ignore the fact thatHigh tax and maintenance costsThe
- Purchase is subject to6% - 8% of property transfer tax (IMT) + 0.3% - 0.8% of property tax (IMI) per yearThe
- the rental market is not as strong as expected, and in some areas the short-term rental market is oversaturated.Lower than expected return on investmentThe
✅ Guide to avoiding the pit::
- Research the market thoroughly before buying a home, prioritizing areas of high rental demand, such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
- Calculate all taxesTo avoid the expense of subsequent "surprises".
(3) Inefficient healthcare system, waiting in line for six months?
- Portugal has a universal healthcare system (SNS) that is inexpensive, but public hospitals areLonger waiting timeAppointments with specialists may require3-6 monthsThe
- Private medical care is faster but more expensive, and general outpatient careEuro50-100, surgery costs thousands of euros.
✅ Guide to avoiding the pit::
- Take out private health insurance (€40-100/month) to reduce waiting times.
- Choose a general practitioner (family doctor) within the SNS network and get priority referrals in case of emergency.
(4) Income mismatch and limited job opportunities
- Lower local wages in Portugal.Median monthly salary of only 1,200 eurosand fewer high-paying jobs.
- Starting a business requires overcoming the tediousTax and legal proceduresThe
- Some sectors are restricted by the Portuguese language, making it difficult for expatriates to enter.
✅ Guide to avoiding the pit::
- Working remotely is the best option, D8 visas are suitable for digital nomads with a more secure remote income.
- Before starting a business.Consult a specialized lawyer or immigration consultantLearn about company registration and tax policies in Portugal.
2. Why do people still find Portugal an ideal place to emigrate?
Of course, Portugal remains a favorite destination for many immigrantsdream home, here are their real-life experiences:
(1) Pleasant climate and slow pace of life
- Warm climate(around 30°C in summer and not less than 10°C in winter), suitable for outdoor activities.
- Less stress in lifePortugal is more peaceful and relaxing than fast-paced cities like London and New York.
Ms. Lee, an immigrant::
"I used to live in London and it was very stressful catching the tube and working late every day.Immigration to PortugalAfter, I started going for daily walks on the beach and enjoying real life."
(2) Relatively low cost of living
- PortugueseRent, food, transportationCosts are cheaper than in Western European countries.
- A regular restaurant lunch.10-15 euros, the same level of restaurant in Paris is 30 euros or more.
- monthly ticket for public transportation40-50 euros, much cheaper compared to London (€180).
✅ People who are suitable for immigration::

- Remote workers (D8 visa)
- Retired Persons (D7 Visa)
- Families seeking a slower life
(3) Friendly immigration policies such as golden visa, D7, D8, etc.
Portugal Immigration PolicyRelatively relaxed, mainstream immigration methods are available:

- Golden Visa: Residency can be obtained by investing 500,000 euros in real estate or funds (after 2024 the policy will be tightened and only fund investments will be feasible).
- D7 Retirement Visa: Passive income (e.g. rent, pension) exceeding €820/month is eligible.
- D8 Digital Traveler Visa: Long-term residency is granted to teleworkers with an annual salary of 28,000 euros or more.
✅ Guide to avoiding the pit::
- Golden visa policy may be further adjusted after 2025It is recommended that applications be made as early as possible.
- D7 visas remain a popular choice, but proof of stable income is required.
3. Conclusion:Immigration to PortugalDo you regret it?
if youLooking to escape the fast-paced city life for sun, sand, food and low-cost livingHowever, Portugal is an excellent choice! But if youNeed good pay, fast medical care or don't speak Portuguese, then it may be no less challenging.
✔ Suitable for immigrants:
✅ Remote workers/digital nomads
✅ Retirees
✅ People who seek a slow, low-cost life
❌ People who might regret it:
❌ Dependent on high paying local jobs
❌ High dependency on public health care
❌ People unable to adapt to a Portuguese-speaking environment