Stories
Estate planning in Portugal may not be as complex as in some European countries, but if you move to Portugal or buy Portuguese assets you still need to review and adjust your succession arrangements to suit the local regime. Ensure your estate will be distributed according to your wishes and as tax efficiently as possible.
Discover the latest trends on Portugal’s Real Estate Market: A Gem for Expats and Investors
Waiting times have already dropped at Lisbon and Faro airports.
Portugal’s non-habitual residence (NHR) programme will end on 31 December 2023. Prime Minister, Antonio Costa first made the announcement on 2 October and it has now been included in the 2024 Portugal State Budget.
When it comes to financial planning after a move to Portugal, ensuring proper tax management should be a top priority. Doing so will help you to avoid overpaying taxes unnecessarily or paying taxes in the wrong jurisdiction.
A free new guide for expats to healthcare in Portugal – Your Health in Portugal from Global Citizen Solutions (published in partnership with the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK and its Moving to Portugal shows) – is shining a spotlight on the country’s health credentials. It is also prompting wider discussion about the health-based merits of moving to Portugal.
Many British expatriates living in Portugal maintain savings and investments from the UK. While this inclination is understandable, you should review whether your assets are structured in the most tax-efficient way for your life in Portugal.
The foreign resident population in Portugal increased last year for the 7th consecutive year, totalling 781,915 citizens.
How much Portugal capital gains tax will you be liable for when you sell a property? Residents are liable to tax on their worldwide property but only on half the gain – 50% is tax free. You may also be eligible for one or both of exemptions available.
For the first time ever there will be a Michelin Guide solely for Portugal, with the Algarve being chosen to host the first Gala in celebration.
Portugal has long been regarded as a perfect country to retire to, and this claim to fame shows no signs of slowing down. In the 2023 Global Retirement Index, Portugal came up trumps, claiming the top spot due to its sublime climate, low cost of living, and excellent healthcare, amongst many other reasons.
The Portuguese government issued – after an extended public hearing period – the final draft of its controversial ‘More Housing’ (Mais Habitação) Bill on 30 March, which directly impacts on the country’s Golden Visa (GV) programme.
In the past seven years, Portugal has really geared itself up as the ideal place for businesses.
The Portugal Golden Visa may be coming to an end. The announcement by the Portuguese government came at a ministerial meeting on 16 February, where they presented a package of measures in response to the growing concerns around the national housing policy in Portugal. As part of this much wider package of proposed measures to reform Portugal’s housing market, the intention to apparently end the Portugal Golden was presented.
Portugal is the number-one destination in Europe for ease of residency. The Portuguese government is eager for foreign investment, offering a wide range of residency visa options designed to attract different types of people.
It will be another year of challenges, but Portugal is still on the radar. Here are chamber member's Bondstone predictions for 2023.
The region is already attracting remote workers and digital nomads. And a community is sprouting to create a series of structures to welcome, attract and keep them.
The Atlantic town of Nazaré has become a mecca for those brave enough to surf some of Europe’s biggest rollers, and gawping at their feats makes the perfect winter break
More ex-pats than ever are settling in Portugal thanks to its high quality of life, history and excellent education systems. Portugal's educational system has been ranked 24th in the world, according to the 2022 Best Countries for Education Report. Discover more in Global Citizen Solutions International Schools Guide.
Last Thursday (20th of October), the Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars, organised by the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK, returned to central London at the Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel.
Lisbon has just scooped multiple awards at the World Travel Awards 2022.
So, what is it about the Portuguese capital that makes it such a haven for Brits living overseas?
So, what is it about the Portuguese capital that makes it such a haven for Brits living overseas?
Portugal’s government has announced that important changes to working and student visas for non-EU residents heading for Portugal will begin from November.
Wellness has become increasingly important to second home buyers, according to the new Global Destinations for Second Homes report from Savills.
Lisbon has long been a hub for Europe’s tech scene, with its outstanding international connectivity, abundant conference venues and affordability.
Destination Portugal: In the run-up to the next Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars in London on 20th October 2022, Christina Hippisley tells luxury lifestyle magazine Abode2 why Portugal remains so popular as a residential destination.
The Telegraph Online reports on how more people are taking advantage of remote working by relocating somewhere warmer and cheaper.
TLE Chrystal and family recently enjoyed their first visit to the charismatic city of Lisbon where they were invited to stay at Martinhal Lisbon Chiado – Family Apartments. The apartments are an ideal base for a family friendly city break. Read on to discover more.
Christina Hippisley from the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK explains how foreign investors can also use the programme to make direct investments into fast-growing Portuguese companies.
If you own property or other assets in Portugal, it pays to be aware of the inheritance rules surrounding any will you make there. Here cross border tax planning specialists and Chamber members Blevins Franks highlight five key areas you need to know about.
Voted Europe's Green Capital in 2020, the city of Lisbon is the perfect example of how investing in sustainable and ecological methods of transport pays off.
Chamber member Global Citizen Solutions shares key information on Portugal's work visa.
Chamber member Marcos Drummond, from Vic Properties, explains why Portugal is ripe for The Great Wealth Transfer, as parents leave their assets to their Millennial children, turning them into alpha-buyers of property and other wealth preservation items such as investments.
by Carolina Maia 18th July 2022
As it’s revealed the royals will be splitting life between Comporta and London, Luciana Bellini delves into what life will be like in the new celebrity hot spot on the Portuguese coast
A recent report by JLL, Portugal’s leading real estate advisors, analyses the senior care home sector in Portugal.
by Carolina Maia 28th June 2022
Applications for the so-called 'gold visas' have resumed and several new requests for Investment Residence Permits (ARI) have already been presented, the Portuguese Association of Real Estate Developers and Investors (APPII) announced on Friday, the 17th of June.
Chamber member and Lisbon real estate specialist Jose Cabral analyses why the Lisbon riverside area of Marvila is an excellent long and short term investment
by Carolina Maia 21st June 2022
A new report by Get Golden Visa predicts a “golden visa frenzy” as Americans look to work remotely abroad and escape inflation. The data doesn't lie.
A recent study has revealed the best places in Europe to raise a family, and Portugal has come out on top, making moving to Portugal with kids a popular choice, thanks to the increase in remote working, good international schools and an excellent safety record.
Lisbon’s tech scene is bustling and the city is one of Europe’s fastest-growing tech ecosystems, making a name for itself as Europe’s Silicon Valley.
by Carolina Maia 29th April 2022
Retirees are drawn by a low cost of living, healthcare, a sunny climate and tax incentives
The Cascais Tourism Association has launched a new promotional campaign dedicated to digital nomads, called “It works for you” which features a promotional video that talks about “remote work, combined with leisure and lifestyle”.
by Carolina Maia 13th April 2022
In 2022 the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program tops the Global Residence Program Index, again.
This index— published as part of the 2022 edition of the annual Investment Migration Programs report — offers a systematic analysis and comprehensive benchmarking of the world’s most important residence and citizenship by investment programs, providing the gold standard in this field.
This index— published as part of the 2022 edition of the annual Investment Migration Programs report — offers a systematic analysis and comprehensive benchmarking of the world’s most important residence and citizenship by investment programs, providing the gold standard in this field.
by Carolina Maia 9th February 2022
Didi Taihuttu, patriarch of the so-called “Bitcoin Family,” says the family is setting down roots in Portugal, Europe’s ultimate crypto tax haven.
Foreign citizens and remote workers can now apply to the Portuguese government’s Interior+ Programme
by Carolina Maia 30th January 2022
The Interior + Programme, which grants support to workers who decide to move to Portugal’s interior, has been extended to also include foreign citizens who wish to settle in these territories.
Our Chamber Corporate member Antonio Rosa from Blacktower Financial Management Group in Portugal presents his insight of the major trends on the stock market
Aisha Preece, the founder and owner of OutandBeyond, explains why Portugal is so attractive to digital nomads.
by Carolina Maia 3rd December 2021
The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative was launched to advance the role of tourism in safeguarding rural villages, along with their landscapes, natural and cultural diversity, and their local values and activities, including local gastronomy.
The 2021 list includes Portuguese villages of Castelo Rodrigo and Cumeada.
The 2021 list includes Portuguese villages of Castelo Rodrigo and Cumeada.
Low-cost carrier Ryanair is set to open a new operational base at Madeira Airport (FNC) in Portugal, involving a $200m investment, in the third quarter of 2022, with around ten new routes will be introduced, with 40 new weekly frequencies.
EU tax harmonisation – why are the 27 Member States still uncompliant after 10 years?
‘A man’s culture is essentially the sum of his memories,’ wrote José Manuel Melim Mendes in his bilingual book Memories of Porto Santo and Madeira. If so, the collective mental culture of Madeira island is surely one of kaleidoscopic richness: aquamarine waves, violet hydrangea, emerald forests and purple cumulonimbus.
by Carolina Maia 18th October 2021
The readers of Condé Nast Traveller have voted Portugal the Best Country in the World in the magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Moving abroad is exciting and fun, but it isn’t always sunshine and rainbows.
Pre-movers and people who have recently moved, listen up! In this article, you’ll receive insights and tips for a smooth start and joyful life in Portugal.
There are many reasons people make the move to a foreign country. Whether they choose to stay full-time or part-time, they are motivated to pack things up and make a new start. Having worked with internationals living abroad for over two decades, I’ve seen people make the move because they want to have a new experience, break with the old or – not so common but still valid – they feel a pull.
Pre-movers and people who have recently moved, listen up! In this article, you’ll receive insights and tips for a smooth start and joyful life in Portugal.
There are many reasons people make the move to a foreign country. Whether they choose to stay full-time or part-time, they are motivated to pack things up and make a new start. Having worked with internationals living abroad for over two decades, I’ve seen people make the move because they want to have a new experience, break with the old or – not so common but still valid – they feel a pull.
Figs on the Funcho runs as a B&B establishment with winding pathways for easy waterside access for kayakers, paddle boarders, wild water swimmers and fishing enthusiasts. A range of painting, walking holiday and cookery packages are on offer. Its idyllic riverside setting overlooking the Barragem do Funcho makes it ideal for large events including weddings and birthday celebrations and with high speed fibre optic, it is perfect for business events or digital nomads who are nature enthusiasts and seek the 'home-from-home’ modern comfort accommodation option.
by Carolina Maia 9th September 2021
Our Chamber Corporate member Antonio Rosa from Blacktower Financial Management Group in Portugal answers some typical questions from those thinking of moving their financial and day to day lives to Portugal.
by Namrata Majithia 4th August 2021
Portugal’s recently released census data shows that the country has lost 214,286 citizens since 2011.This may not sound like a great deal, but for a country that has been steadily shrinking for years it is a “disaster”, warns TV pundit and former leader of the PSD party Luís Marques Mendes. Unless something changes radically, Portugal is on course for a situation in just a few decades time where the Social Security system will simply break down.
by Namrata Majithia 2nd August 2021
This is the third in a series looking at the rules and tax implications of retiring abroad post-Brexit, including to Spain, France, Portugal, Canada and Australia.
Does an obsession with a region and frequent visits constitute us as insiders? I'm not sure! It quickly feels this way, given our adventures and exploration of the country.
by Namrata Majithia 5th July 2021
In recent years, the Alentejo has captured the world’s attention—an agricultural region that people like to compare to Tuscany, with dusty wide-open landscapes under epic skies that some have likened to African savannas. It’s also rich in history, and home to some of Portugal’s best wines and gastronomy.
If you’re in a same-sex relationship and are looking for somewhere new to relocate to, Portugal could be the place for you.
by Namrata Majithia 25th June 2021
With reduced taxation, excellent infrastructures, competitive operational costs, safety and quality of life, Madeira is positioned to provide investors with a unique package of benefits, offering a wide range of solutions to enhance the efficiency and performance of various forms of investment.
by Namrata Majithia 16th June 2021
On the Atlantic coast, Gordon dives into the rich heritage of Portuguese cuisine, influenced by trade routes and its own ingredients’ simple flavors.
Expatriates often prefer to keep UK investments like Premium Bonds, ISAs, savings accounts, bonds and shares, but do they make financial sense once you are a resident in Portugal
by Namrata Majithia 27th April 2021
Among the cork trees and rolling hills of this vast rural region, you’ll find some of Portugal’s choicest produce, from rich reds and black pork to sumptuous olive oil. Here, we bring you five unique producers to visit when travelling in Alentejo.
by Namrata Majithia 20th April 2021
Want to buy in the Lisbon region? Check these 1 minute real estate top tips!
How to expand your business into Lisbon. Hear from a few experts on the benefits, plus unmissable hotspots!
by Namrata Majithia 29th March 2021
Each year, hundreds of Brits flock to Portugal, particularly to the Algarve, in search a sunnier life. Many buy properties outright. Others use mortgages to finance their real estate. In this article, we’ll go into the minutiae of the Portuguese lending market and the best way to go about getting a mortgage in Portugal.
The impact of Brexit on British homeowners in Portugal who have chosen not to adopt resident status – implications for them and Portugal’s economy.
Living in the Algarve for 20 years while having more than 25 years worth of experience in advising expats has helped Gavin Scott to become one of the most well known and respected financial consultants in the Algarve and Portugal.
Sometimes, a holiday is just a holiday, but sometimes it’s the start of something else entirely…
by Namrata Majithia 13th February 2021
People thinking about Vilamoura might first and, in all likelihood, only think about the marina and the hotels, bars and restaurants surrounding it. But there is much more...
by Namrata Majithia 8th January 2021
Contrary to all the post-Brexit ‘scaremongering’ – including high profile stories of Brits being ‘blocked’ from travelling back to homes in southern Europe – Portugal remains wide-open to citizens of its ‘oldest ally’: still offering residencies to those seeking to live outside UK – even when they want to bring their extended family with them.
f you’re already living in Portugal, or thinking of moving there permanently, you need to review your estate planning to ensure your legacy will pass to your chosen heirs without an unnecessary tax bill.
Here our Chamber members Blevins Franks (www.blevinsfranks.com) explain more
Here our Chamber members Blevins Franks (www.blevinsfranks.com) explain more
How Michelle from The Nomad Escape is swapping the 9-5 to build a retreat for remote workers in Portugal
by Namrata Majithia 2nd December 2020
‘Work is Where the Home is’ , and its editor Hayley, are on a mission to inspire remote workers who are curious about relocating. From Ibiza to Lisbon and Marseille to Tbilisi, every other week Hayley delivers interviews with tastemakers, adventurers and the wild-at-hearts who have chosen to live (and work) in some of the most interesting and colourful places in the world.
Fancy social distancing in the sun?
Zoe Dare Hall from The Times reports on where to buy property on the Portuguese islands of the Azores
Zoe Dare Hall from The Times reports on where to buy property on the Portuguese islands of the Azores
Guardian food writer Kevin Gould so loved the country’s famed shellfish he recently set up his own restaurant in Olhao, the clam capital of the Algarve
This is welcome news for wine enthusiasts forced to spend more time at home over the next few weeks and, excitingly, Portuguese wines are the star attraction in Series 3.
The United Kingdom is no longer a Member of the European Union as from January 31st 2020.
With the entry in force of the Withdrawal Agreement on 01 February 2020, the EU legislation in matter of the free movement of EU citizens is still applicable during a transitional period (until December 31st 2020).
With the entry in force of the Withdrawal Agreement on 01 February 2020, the EU legislation in matter of the free movement of EU citizens is still applicable during a transitional period (until December 31st 2020).
Learn more about the perks of remote working in Portugal - from two professionals who’ve already made the move
More than half of Brits would ‘work from anywhere’ in the world as remote working soars due to pandemic.
The Sun newspaper reports on the latest survey of 2,000 adults who are working from home - or from a temporary new home, like Portugal.
The Sun newspaper reports on the latest survey of 2,000 adults who are working from home - or from a temporary new home, like Portugal.
by Namrata Majithia 1st October 2020
Relocating from NYC to Portugal’s surfing Mecca of Ericeira Meet the remote worker who made the leap
by Namrata Majithia 25th September 2020
Kate Shifman was working as a Director at a large media agency in Manhattan before she relocated to Ericeira, an old fishing town 48 kilometres north of Lisbon...
by Namrata Majithia 14th September 2020
For those of thinking of moving to Portugal, here’s something different to consider.
The Algarve Daily News recently reported on the uplifting story of Portuguese woman Carla Fowler (nee Magalhães Oliveira), who, together with her British husband Simon and their cat Dobby, has just made landfall in Vilamoura, - the very port they departed from 2.5 years ago - after sailing 22,000 nautical miles and visiting 45 countries around the world.
The Algarve Daily News recently reported on the uplifting story of Portuguese woman Carla Fowler (nee Magalhães Oliveira), who, together with her British husband Simon and their cat Dobby, has just made landfall in Vilamoura, - the very port they departed from 2.5 years ago - after sailing 22,000 nautical miles and visiting 45 countries around the world.
by Namrata Majithia 3rd July 2020
Chamber member José Cabral is a property finder specialising in the Lisbon area. He is also a property writer and commentator (www.ahouseinlisbon.com) with a monthly column in Dinheiro Vivo, Portugal’s well-known weekly economic newspaper and website.
Here he explains how Covid-19 might affect national house prices.
Here he explains how Covid-19 might affect national house prices.
Chamber members Elegant Group, who own the Martinhal brand of luxury family hotels and villas, are hoping to reopen their hotels in July.
by Namrata Majithia 20th April 2020
Eventually, COVID 19 will be contained, and global markets and economies will recover. But the experience of having lived through this challenging period will leave us with a reinforced and maybe a reinvented understanding of what matters most in life.
Get to know the new rules for investors and immigrants imposed by COVID-19 with this Q&A organized by the immigration department of Chamber Corporate Members Caiado Guerreiro.
On January 29, 2020, the European Parliament approved the agreement on the exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM). On January 31, 2020, the agreement entered into force and the United Kingdom left the European Union. However, a transition period was established, lasting until December 31, 2020. In this document, we analyze some of the most relevant aspects of the agreement relating to residence and social security, trade, financial services, intellectual property, jurisdiction, applicable law, insolvency, and taxation.
We asked one of our Chamber members, lawyer Cristina Silva Dias from Silva Dias Legal in Lisbon, to answer a few of the most common questions the Chamber has been receiving since Brexit became a reality on 31st January 2020.
by Namrata Majithia 10th June 2019
Lisbon is a market in transition. Gone are the days where you can double your investment within two years, regardless of location. But does that mean it’s impossible to find value? No. Buyers just have to be clearer on their objectives from the outset and developers are recognising this shift.
by Namrata Majithia 5th March 2019
Official information that British people moving to and living in Portugal need to know, including EU Exit guidance, residency, healthcare and driving.