Everything You Need to Know: FAQs About Living in Portugal
Portugal, a country located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, is increasingly attracting international attention as an ideal destination for a high-quality life. With the rich history of the Portuguese Empire, diverse culture, and high living standards, Portugal has become one of the most favored countries for both tourism and settlement. Let’s join BSOP in exploring the fascinating aspects of this wonderful country.

What is Portugal?
Portugal is a country located in southwestern Europe, known for its beautiful coastline, mild climate, and rich culture. It is a member of the European Union and is famous for its high quality of life, safety, and friendliness toward foreigners. The capital of Portugal is Lisbon, a city full of history and culture.
What language is spoken in Portugal?
The official language of Portugal is Portuguese. However, many people, especially in major cities and tourist areas, speak English quite well. Portuguese and Spanish share many similarities, as both languages are derived from Latin. Portuguese people can often understand Spanish to a certain degree.
How proficient are the Portuguese in English?
Portuguese people generally speak English relatively well, especially in big cities and tourist areas. According to the EF English Proficiency Index, Portugal ranks highly among non-native English-speaking countries.
Is Portugal a monarchy?
No, Portugal is currently a republic. However, it was historically a powerful kingdom. The last monarchy ended in 1910 when the country transitioned to a republic.
What is the currency of Portugal?
Portugal uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Before adopting the Euro in 2002, Portugal used the Escudo.
Is Portugal expensive to live in?
No, Portugal is considered one of the most affordable countries to live in Western Europe. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Lisbon is about 42% lower than in New York, while still offering a high quality of life. Portugal is often ranked as one of the best places to live in Europe due to its combination of affordable living costs and high quality of life.
How is the real estate market in Portugal?
The Portuguese real estate market has seen significant growth in recent years, particularly in the northern region. Although house prices have risen, especially in major cities like Lisbon and Porto, they are still considered reasonable compared to many other European cities. Recently, the government has implemented measures to control housing prices, including restrictions on real estate investment through the Golden Visa program.
Is it easy to obtain a visa to live in Portugal?
Portugal offers a variety of visa options, including work visas, student visas, and the well-known Golden Visa program. The visa application process is relatively straightforward and transparent, especially for EU citizens. For non-EU citizens, the process can be more complex but is still considered more accessible than in many other European countries.
How can I settle in Portugal?
There are several ways to settle in Portugal, including:
- Work visa: If you have a job offer from a Portuguese company.
- Student visa: For international students.
- Retirement visa: For those looking to retire in Portugal.
- Golden Visa program: Despite recent changes, some investment options still grant residency.
Is Portugal safe for foreigners?
Yes, Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in the world. According to the Global Peace Index 2022, Portugal ranks 6th in global safety. Low crime rates and friendly locals create a safe environment for both locals and foreigners.
Is life in Portugal different from other European countries?
While Portugal is a modern European country, it retains its own unique culture and way of life. The pace of life is often slower compared to northern European cities. Portuguese people value time with family and friends, leading to a good work-life balance.
Is Portugal the best place to live in Europe?
Portugal is frequently ranked as one of the best places to live in Europe. International surveys often highlight its:
- High quality of life
- Affordable cost of living
- Mild climate
- Safety and friendliness
- Beautiful natural landscapes
However, the “best place to live” is subjective and depends on personal needs and preferences.
Conclusion
With its natural beauty, rich culture, and high quality of life, Portugal continues to be an attractive destination for both tourists and those seeking investment or residency opportunities. Despite significant changes to the Golden Visa program, Portugal still offers various opportunities for international investors to contribute to the country’s growth.
From the stunning southern coast to the wine valleys of the north, from modern cities to traditional villages, Portugal offers rare diversity in such a small country. With a growing economy, high-quality education and healthcare systems, and affordable living costs, Portugal is creating an ideal environment for a quality life.
As a team of many years of experience, GlobalCiti is planning to offer a comprehensive A-to-Z consultation for our valued clients. With the Golden Visa in hand, you hold the key to an open door to Europe.
Contact us today for more details and the best support!