Living in Portugal: the ultimate expat guide

Portugal is one of Europe's key historical countries, world famous for its rich and appealing history. It is indeed one of the most popular expat destination in Europe, both for European and non-European citizens. The country has seduced thousands of foreigners over the years by its soft and pleasant lifestyle.

In the past decades, Portuguese have been migrating from their country, and left Lisbon, the country's capital city, to discover Europe hoping for a better future. But the country has greatly developed since, becoming an important pole for European nationals and other foreigners seeking new opportunities, as well as a typical southern lifestyle.

To date, Portugal's population amounts to some 11 million inhabitants. Being part of the Euro zone, it is also a decision-member of many international organizations. In fact, Portugal is much more dynamic than one could think.

Major cities

Lisbon, Portugal's capital and richest city, is world famous for being an international economic pole. It hosts not only the country's main airport but also major maritime ports. But Lisbon is also surrounded by other notable cities, namely Agualva-Cacém, Amadora, Almada, Amora, Barreiro, Seixal, Montijo, Odivelas and Queluz.

Other important cities after Lisbon are Porto and its municipalities, namely Gondomar, Maia, Vila Nova de Gaia, and Matosinhos, as well Madeira Island and its major city, Funchal. In Azores, you will find Terceira, Horta, São Miguel, Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroismo which are found on three different islands, thus constituting an autonomous region.

If you intend to settle in Portugal, you should know that Lisbon is certainly not the best place to live in, although it is the country's economic center.

Economy

Portugal's economy is based on several sectors, namely agriculture, viticulture, marble, cork production, manufacturing industries, mechanical engineering, textile, construction, metallurgy, automotive, tourism, as well as the tertiary sector. The country has managed to survive to the world economic crisis through its export market. Its main economic allies are Europe, the United States of America, other Portuguese-speaking countries, as well as China and Nigeria.

In fact, Portugal's economy has benefited from a financial help program which has ended on May 17th, 2014. Portugal should gradually become one of Europe's focal points for expatriation in the coming years.

Politics

Portugal's political scene is no more stable than that of other European countries. In fact, 2013 has not only been affected by the economic crisis but also by numerous political events. Note that Portugal is a democratic Republic which allows its population to speak out.

Climate

Portugal enjoys a pleasant climate. It is popular for its sweet and soft temperatures as it is located in Southern Europe and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. But these can be quite high in summer. Winter experiences mild temperatures, but coastal regions often receive heavy rainfall. Moreover, the Algarve region has a micro climate with much sunlight.

Traveling to Portugal

You may travel to Portugal by various means: car, airplane, boats, buses, etc. The country has four international airports, namely at Lisbon, Porto, Faro and Funchal. You can also land in the following islands:

• Angra do Heroísmo ' TER

• Faro ' FAO

• Flores ' FLW

• Graciosa ' GRW

• Horta - HOR

• Pico - PIX

• Ponta Delgada - PDL

• Porto Santo - PXO

• Santa Maria - SMA

• São Jorge ' SJZ.

If you are traveling by boat, you are likely to land at Lagos, Aveiro, Porte de Vila do Conde, Praia da Victoria, Porte da Povao de Varzim, Vila Real de San Antonio, which is found near the Spanish border, or Angra de Heroismo.

Those who are traveling by land will have to transit by France and Spain before reaching Portugal, unless they are coming from North Africa. They will then have to pass through Morocco and Spain.

Useful link:

Europa.eu