If you are thinking of moving to Portugal, keep in mind that you will have trouble integrating entirely unless you have a good grasp of the local language. You can start your relationship with the Portuguese language via an online course. Not only are online courses very convenient -- you choose how to organize your time, and review challenging grammar exercises as many times as you like -- but you can continue your study, no matter where you are and how often you have to travel. Another advantage is that these courses are often free. www.learningportuguese.co.uk is a user-friendly website where you can find tons of exercises for both beginners and advanced users. What is particularly … [Read more...] about Where to learn Portuguese
Portugal Expat
Visas and residency permits for Portugal
Schengen Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, made up of a group of 25 European countries that have abolished all border controls between them. The countries are: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. With a Schengen visa, you are able to travel freely amongst these countries. Who requires a visa for Portugal? In order to enter you may need a visa and a passport, or just an identity card. Nationals from the EU, Switzerland, Andorra, and Liechtenstein will only need their identity cards. … [Read more...] about Visas and residency permits for Portugal
Moving to Portugal: A guide to get you started
If you've just landed in Portugal, it's tempting to start exploring, but there are some essential tasks to get through first. Our Getting Started section offers a wealth of important information and advice. Visas and permits If you haven’t done it already, sorting out your residence permit is an essential first step. Opening a bank account Another essential step is opening a bank account. Visit our Banking section for details on banking in Portugal and to keep up to date with news from the financial world. Finding a home So you have your visa and bank account. Now you need to find a place to stay. Read Expatica’s guide to where to live in Portugal. Should you rent or buy? Expatica … [Read more...] about Moving to Portugal: A guide to get you started
Tax tips for expats in Portugal
One of the biggest shockers that you will ever encounter as an expat living in Portugal is the tax system, so make sure you give it your full care and attention. If you live in Portugal and get your pension from England you are liable for tax in both countries. Also, if you do not declare it to the tax man in Portugal they actually have the right to kick you out of the country. So make sure that you are legit with your tax from the moment go! The tax system is also very different to England, so expect to have to learn a new tax system once you become an expat in Portugal. The rate of personal income tax in Portugal is below the national average of its fellow EU countries but it … [Read more...] about Tax tips for expats in Portugal