Moving to Portugal from USA: Everything you need to know

More and more people are choosing to move to Portugal from USA, and it’s easy to see why. The country has become a top choice for those seeking a new chapter abroad.

For some, the attraction is year-round good weather. For others, it’s the chance to enjoy a slower lifestyle, affordable living, and easy access to the rest of Europe. 

If you’re thinking about making the move, one of the first things to consider is where American expats are settling. Finding the right community can make your transition smoother, help you feel at home more quickly, and give you the support you need as you start your new life.

In this guide, we’ll explain why Portugal has become such a popular choice for U.S. citizens, what the relocation process involves, and the best places to live once you arrive.

Why Americans are moving to Portugal

Here are some of the main reasons people are moving to Portugal from the US:

Safety and political stability

Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world, ranking 7th on the Global Peace Index. Crime rates are low, violent crime is rare, and even large cities feel secure. The country also maintains a politically stable, centrist climate that avoids the deep polarization seen in the U.S., making it an appealing choice for Americans seeking peace of mind.

Cost of living

Living costs in Portugal are about one-third lower than in the United States, making it the most affordable country in Western Europe. 

Daily expenses are roughly 28.4% lower than in the U.S., and a couple can live comfortably outside major cities on $2,500–$3,000 per month. 

Affordable and high-quality healthcare

Healthcare costs are a major reason many Americans choose to relocate. Portugal has a dual public–private system: the SNS provides essential care at little to no cost for residents, while private insurance and doctor visits are widely available at a fraction of U.S. prices. For Americans used to high premiums, this is a life-changing benefit.

Education and family benefits

Families find strong education options in Portugal. Public schooling is free, universities are affordable, and international schools are plentiful in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. While classes are taught in Portuguese, many children adapt quickly, and bilingual programs are becoming more common.

Visa-free Schengen travel

A Portuguese residence permit unlocks visa-free travel across 27 Schengen countries. For Americans, this means weekend trips to Spain, France, or Italy are simple and affordable.

Retirement paradise & remote work haven

Portugal ranks 1st in the 2025 Global Retirement Index, making it a top choice for retirees thanks to its cost of living, healthcare, and expat communities. At the same time, remote workers are drawn to its fast internet, co-working spaces, and visa options.

LGBTQ+ friendly and inclusive

Portugal is among the most inclusive countries globally, with strong anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ community. It offers a welcoming and safe environment for all.

Other factors Americans love

Portugal’s rich culture, history, and high English proficiency (ranked 6th globally) make daily life easier for U.S. expats. From Lisbon and Porto’s historic streets to Algarve’s coastal towns, Portugal blends old-world charm with modern comfort.

How to move to Portugal from USA

If you’re thinking about leaving the hustle of the U.S. behind, Portugal offers an appealing alternative with its sunshine, safety, and relaxed way of life. 

For shorter visits, U.S. citizens don’t need a visa. You can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you plan to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a residence visa and permit that align with your goals.

While the process may feel complex at first, moving to Portugal from USA is entirely achievable once you understand the steps. 

Here’s a complete breakdown of what the journey looks like.

Step 1: Research & plan

The first step is to be clear about your purpose for moving. Are you planning to retire, work remotely, start a business, or study? 

Your goals determine which visa pathway suits you best:

• Retirement or passive income → D7 Visa

• Remote work or freelancing → D8 Digital Nomad Visa

• Business or entrepreneurship → D2 Entrepreneur Visa

• Investment → Golden Visa

• Study or research → Student Visa

• Employment → D1 Work Visa or EU Blue Card

It’s also important to consider your income level, investment capacity, and lifestyle preferences. Touchdown’s free Eligibility Checker can help you quickly identify which visa option best matches your profile.

Step 2: Fulfill requirements to move to Portugal from USA

Once you’ve chosen your visa type, the next step is meeting the documentation requirements.

U.S. applicants are generally asked to provide:

• A valid passport.

• Proof of income, such as bank statements, pension letters, employment contracts, or dividend slips.

• An FBI criminal background check, apostilled at the federal level (state-level reports are not accepted).

• Proof of accommodation in Portugal (12-month rental contract, property deed, or invitation letter).

• Travel insurance valid in Portugal and covering at least the Schengen Area.

• Portuguese NIF and bank account documents.

• A cover letter explaining why you want to move and how you’ll support yourself.

Important for U.S. citizens: Some documents emitted in the US might need an Apostille. Birth and marriage certificates also require apostilles under the Hague Convention.

Step 3: Obtain a portuguese tax number (NIF) & bank account

The NIF is essential as it helps you to rent property, open a bank account, sign contracts, and apply for your visa.

Most Americans apply for their NIF remotely through a lawyer or relocation service before moving. Once you have your NIF, you must also open a Portuguese bank account.

Touchdown handles NIF registration and bank account setup for U.S. applicants, making the process simpler and ensuring everything is in place for your visa application.

Step 4: Apply for the appropriate Visa in the U.S.

Next, submit your visa application through the VFS (a company that the Portuguese embassy uses to process the initial visa request) that serves your U.S. state of residence.

• Book your consulate appointment early. Wait times can be 2–3 months.

• Visa fees: D7/D8 visas generally cost €90–€120; Golden Visa fees are higher (€618 analysis + €6,179 permit per applicant).

• Application: Submit your completed form and supporting documents.

• Interview: Some consulates conduct short interviews to understand your relocation plans and verify financial stability.

Step 5: Travel to Portugal and obtain your residence permit

If approved, you’ll receive a four-month entry visa that allows you to travel to Portugal. Within that period, you must attend an appointment with AIMA.

At the appointment, you’ll:

• Provide biometrics (photo and fingerprints).

• Pay the residence permit fee, approximately €80–90.

• Receive a residence card (valid for 2 years).

Portugal visa options for U.S. Citizens

Portugal offers several residency pathways, each suited to specific personal and professional objectives. Every visa comes with its own requirements and advantages, so it’s important to explore your options carefully and choose the one that best fits your circumstances. 

To make the right decision, many Americans also consult with an immigration or tax expert before applying. At Touchdown, our immigration lawyers and relocation specialists can help you evaluate the options, understand the requirements, and choose the pathway that aligns best with your goals.

Here’s a breakdown of the main visa routes for Americans:

D7 visa (Passive income / Retirement Visa)

The D7 visa is best suited for retirees and financially independent individuals with stable passive income from pensions, rent, dividends, or royalties. You don’t need a job offer or business setup to qualify. 

Successful applicants can live in Portugal full-time, access public healthcare and education, and travel freely within the Schengen Area.

Income requirement: €870/month (≈ €10,440/year) plus 50% for a spouse and 30% for each child.

Validity: 120-day entry visa, followed by a 2-year renewable residence permit.

D8 visa (Digital nomad / Remote work Visa)

The D8 visa is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and online business owners earning income from outside Portugal. For example, if you are working remotely for a U.S. company, you can qualify by providing proof that your role is not tied to a physical office in Portugal. This visa is renewable, counts toward citizenship, and family members can apply alongside you.

Income requirement: Four times the Portuguese minimum wage (≈ €3,480/month in 2025), plus suggested savings of €10,440.

Validity: 4-month entry visa, then a 2-year renewable residence permit.

D2 visa (Entrepreneur Visa)

The D2 visa is aimed at entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals who want to launch or relocate a business in Portugal. Applicants must present a viable business plan, demonstrate sufficient funds, and complete steps like securing a Portuguese NIF and bank account. This visa connects you with Portugal’s startup ecosystem and the wider EU market.

Requirements: Business plan, proof of funds, NIF, Portuguese bank account, and company registration.

Validity: Generally a 4-month entry visa, followed by a 2-year renewable residence permit.

Golden Visa

The Golden Visa offers residency through investment and is popular among high-net-worth Americans seeking flexibility. It does not require prior residency, and the minimum stay obligation is just seven days in the first year and 14 days every two years thereafter. This makes it an attractive “Plan B” for securing EU residency while continuing life in the U.S.

Investment requirement: From €250,000 (cultural projects) to €500,000 (funds, scientific research, or job creation). Real estate no longer qualifies.

Validity: Renewable residence permit tied to your investment.

Student visa

The Student Visa is for Americans enrolled in study programs in Portugal that last longer than 90 days. It allows you to live legally in Portugal during your education, with the possibility of transitioning to a work or residence visa after graduation.

Requirements: University acceptance letter, proof of funds (~€870/month), health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

Validity: Covers the length of your study; renewable.

Work visas

U.S. citizens planning to work in Portugal generally need employer sponsorship. The D1 Visa is the most common route, granted to foreign nationals who already have a confirmed job offer from a Portuguese company and intend to live in the country as residents.

Other pathways include the EU Blue Card/D3 Visa for highly qualified professionals, job seeker visas (which give up to six months to find work), and self-employment visas for freelancers and consultants working in Portugal.

Note: Most visas allow you to include dependents such as a spouse or partner, children, and parents. Family members can access healthcare, education, and in some cases the right to work, but you’ll need extra documentation and higher income to qualify.

Getting permanent residency and citizenship in Portugal

Many Americans move to Portugal with a long-term future in mind. Beyond the immediate appeal of the climate and culture, the country provides a clear pathway to residency and, ultimately, citizenship. 

For those wanting to immigrate to Portugal from U.S., the steps below outline how residency and citizenship work.

Permanent residency in Portugal

After five years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for a permanent residence permit. This allows you to stay in Portugal indefinitely, with rights similar to citizenship, including access to healthcare, education, and work.

• Residency requirements: You must maintain your visa and renew your residence permit during the five-year period (for example, renewing a D7 or D8 permit after the initial 2 years and then 3 years).

• Absence limits: In general, you cannot be absent from Portugal for more than six consecutive months or eight months total during each residency period.

• Application: Permanent residency applications are filed with AIMA. You’ll need to provide proof of legal residence, financial stability, accommodation, and a clean criminal record.

Citizenship in Portugal

Once you’ve lived legally in Portugal for five years, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship by naturalization. This has traditionally been one of the shortest timelines in the EU, making Portugal highly attractive to expats.

Citizenship Requirements

To qualify for Portuguese citizenship, you must:

1. Have lived legally in Portugal for at least five years.

2. Be 18 years or older.

3. Demonstrate basic Portuguese language skills (A2 level).

4. Have no criminal record.

5. Not be considered a threat to national security.

Timeline & Process

• Application: Submit your citizenship application to the Central Registry Office. This can be done in person or by mail.

• Verification: Authorities verify your documents and may request additional information from police or immigration services.

• Approval: After review by the Ministry of Justice, a final decision is issued.

• Issuance: New citizens receive a Portuguese ID card and passport. The full process takes takes 12+ months once submitted.

Portugal and the United States both allow dual citizenship. This means U.S. citizens can hold Portuguese citizenship without giving up their U.S. passport. Dual nationality allows you to enjoy the full benefits of EU citizenship: visa-free travel across Europe, the right to live and work anywhere in the EU, and access to social benefits; while retaining your rights as a U.S. citizen.

How much money do you need to move to Portugal?

When planning your move to Portugal from USA, it’s essential to understand the financial thresholds for each visa, as well as the everyday costs of living. Setting realistic expectations about income, savings, and lifestyle expenses will help you prepare for a smooth relocation.

Income & savings thresholds for each visa

While the exact financial criteria vary by visa, the main requirement is proving you have reliable means of support and, in many cases, showing funds in a Portuguese bank account.

For example, under the D7 Visa, you must demonstrate passive income of at least €870/month (≈ €10,440/year). Consulates also require an extra 50% for a spouse and 30% per dependent child. Many applicants are also asked to deposit the equivalent of one year’s income locally.

With the D8 Visa, remote workers need to show monthly earnings of around €3,480. As with the D7, it is common to provide proof of at least a year’s savings to strengthen your application.

The D2 Visa does not come with a fixed monthly threshold. Instead, applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support their household and deliver on a viable business plan.

Moving costs & budgeting for your relocation

Relocating comes with one-time expenses and ongoing living costs:

Upfront moving costs

Your first expenses will include flights, shipping personal belongings, visa application fees, and securing housing. Most expats also need to pay the first month’s rent plus a deposit before moving in. 

Renting or buying property

Housing will be one of your largest ongoing expenses. In Lisbon, a one-bedroom apartment generally costs €1,200–1,500/month, while in smaller cities or rural areas the price can fall to €400–600/month. 

Buying property averages €2,000–3,500 per m², and you’ll need to factor in additional taxes and fees such as IMT, stamp duty, and notary or registration charges.

Everyday living expenses

Day-to-day costs in Portugal are generally lower than in the U.S. A month’s worth of essentials for one person generally costs €200–€300. Utilities for a medium-sized apartment generally range from €100–150/month. Dining out remains budget-friendly, with local restaurant meals averaging €10–15, and a public transport pass costing around €40/month.

Can you live in Portugal on $1000 a month?

In smaller towns, a frugal lifestyle of $1,000/month is possible, though it requires careful budgeting. In Lisbon or Porto, however, living costs are higher, and a single person should budget at least €1,500/month to live comfortably.

Banking & taxes

When budgeting your move to Portugal, taxes are one of the most important areas to understand. Moving to Portugal as an American, you’ll need to comply with both U.S. and Portuguese tax systems, but the U.S.-Portugal tax treaty helps prevent double taxation.

The U.S.-Portugal tax treaty

The treaty sets out which country has the right to tax different types of income:

• Employment income: Taxed in the country where the work is performed.

• Pension income: Taxed in your country of residence (Portugal). Under Portugal’s former NHR program, this was often taxed at a reduced 10% rate.

• Dividends, interest, and royalties: May be taxed in both countries, but the treaty lowers withholding tax rates.

• Dual residents: If you qualify as a resident in both countries, tie-breaker rules decide your tax home based on permanent residence, financial interests, or nationality.

This means most Americans in Portugal can claim foreign tax credits in the U.S. for taxes already paid in Portugal, helping to avoid paying tax twice on the same income.

U.S. Tax filing requirements for expats

Even when living in Portugal, U.S. citizens must continue filing annual tax returns with the IRS.

Common forms include:

• Form 1040: Required for all U.S. citizens, reporting worldwide income. You may also use Form 2555 (FEIE) to exclude up to $130,000 of foreign-earned income, or Form 1116 (FTC) to claim credits for Portuguese taxes paid.

• FBAR (FinCEN 114): Must be filed if the total value of your foreign financial accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the year.

• Form 8938 (FATCA): Required if your foreign assets exceed $200,000 (for single expats abroad).

• Form 8833: Filed if you are claiming specific benefits under the U.S.-Portugal tax treaty.

Tax planning tip: Cross-border tax rules can be complicated, and the right approach often depends on your income type, investments, and family situation. 

Book a consultation with Touchdown’s tax lawyers, who can walk you through your obligations and help you take advantage of the right opportunities before you move.

Best places to live in Portugal for U.S. Citizens

American expats have settled throughout Portugal, with larger communities concentrated in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.

Each region has its own personality, lifestyle, and price tag, so the best choice depends on whether you’re looking for big-city buzz, coastal calm, or something in between.

Lisbon

Lisbon combines history, modern infrastructure, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. The capital is home to major employers, buzzing coworking spaces, and some of the best international schools in the country. It’s a natural fit for digital nomads and professionals who want access to a global hub while enjoying sunshine and seaside views.

• Why Americans like it: English is widely spoken, making it easier to transition. There’s also a vibrant U.S. expat community.

• Cost: Higher than elsewhere in Portugal, expect to pay €1,200–1,500/month for a one-bedroom in the city center.

Porto

Portugal’s second-largest city feels smaller and more laid back, yet it’s packed with culture, food, and tech opportunities. With world-famous wine, tiled façades, and a growing expat scene, Porto is an appealing alternative to Lisbon.

• Why Americans like it: The cost of living is about 10.9% lower than in Lisbon. Many also enjoy Porto’s slower, more relaxed pace of life.

• Watch out for: Cooler, wetter winters and fewer international schools compared to the capital.

The Algarve

With more than 300 sunny days a year, the Algarve is the go-to destination for retirees and those seeking a slower pace. Towns like Lagos, Tavira, and Faro offer affordable healthcare, golf courses, and strong English-speaking expat communities.

• Why Americans like it: A welcoming atmosphere, with expats making up 30% or more of the population in some towns.

• Watch out for: Seasonal tourism can push up short-term rental prices, and smaller towns may feel quiet in the off-season.

Cascais

For families and professionals who want the perks of Lisbon without living in the city, Cascais offers seaside living just 30 minutes away. It’s known for its international schools, safe neighborhoods, and yacht-lined marina.

• Why Americans like it: Access to top schools such as St. Julian’s and the American International School of Lisbon, plus a safe and family-friendly environment.

• Watch out for: Traffic along the Marginal road can be heavy in summer, and the area is popular with tourists during peak season.

Braga

Braga is a smaller city where tradition meets technology. It’s popular with families and retirees who want authenticity, affordability, and a quieter pace while still having good access to Porto.

• Why Americans like it: Rents and childcare costs are about 20% lower than Lisbon, and it’s only 45 minutes from Porto Airport.

• Watch out for: English is less common outside the center, so learning Portuguese is essential for smoother integration.

Coimbra

Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, Coimbra has an intellectual energy and affordable lifestyle that appeals to students, researchers, and budget-conscious expats.

• Why Americans like it: Low cost of living with a strong cultural and academic scene.

• Watch out for: Limited career opportunities outside academia, meaning professionals may need to commute to Lisbon or Porto.

Culture in Portugal

Portuguese culture is shaped by centuries of history and modern European influences. Family, food, and community remain central, and newcomers will notice how social life often revolves around shared meals, local festivals, and neighborhood traditions. 

While English is widely spoken in the main cities, making the effort to learn a few Portuguese phrases shows respect and helps with everyday interactions.

Portugal is also recognized as one of the most progressive countries in Europe, with strong anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, and a welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community.

If you plan to move to Portugal, you’ll find several active communities where you can connect with fellow expats, share experiences, and get practical advice.

• Expats Portugal Forum: An online hub with discussions on visas, healthcare, and cultural life.

• Americans & Friends in Portugal (Facebook): A Facebook group with 30,000+ members sharing advice on visas, housing, and schools.

• International Women in Portugal: Weekly brunches and groups with more than 120 members.

• Americans in Portugal Meetup: Monthly events with 200+ participants, from networking to language exchange.

• Internations Portugal: Active in Lisbon and Porto, offering professional and social events.

• Lisbon Digital Nomads: Coworking days, talks, and socials for remote workers.

Education in Portugal

Portugal offers a range of educational options for expat families. International schools are the top choice for U.S. citizens who want continuity with American or British-style curricula. 

Leading schools include the Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL), St. Dominic’s International School near Cascais, Oporto British School in Porto, and Nobel Algarve British International School in the south. 

For higher education, Portugal’s public universities offer EU-recognized degrees at a fraction of U.S. prices. Popular institutions include the University of Lisbon, University of Porto, and University of Coimbra. Many courses are now offered in English, making them an affordable and globally respected option.

Public schools are free for residents and provide a good standard of education, though instruction is primarily in Portuguese. Some urban schools now run bilingual programs supported by the government and British Council. The school year runs from September to June, with holiday breaks at Christmas, Easter, and summer.

Family life in Portugal

For American families, Portugal is a very welcoming place to settle. The country is known for safe neighborhoods, accessible healthcare, and a strong sense of community. 

Children can grow up bilingual thanks to both public and international schooling options, and families often find it easy to integrate through sports, local events, and neighborhood networks.

Everyday life offers plenty for families to enjoy together. Outdoor activities are a big part of Portuguese culture. Cities and towns are dotted with parks and playgrounds, while community centers host cultural events, youth sports, and holiday fairs. 

Family time is highly valued in Portugal, and expats often remark on how welcoming locals are to children, making it an easy country in which to feel at home.

Healthcare and insurance in Portugal

Portugal’s healthcare system is considered one of the best in Europe, with average life expectancy at about 82 years. Care is delivered through the public Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) and a strong private sector. For expats, this balance means high-quality treatment at much lower costs than in the U.S.

Residents with a valid visa and residence permit can register with the SNS by obtaining a Cartão de Utente (user card) at their local health center. Once registered and making social security contributions, you’ll have access to low-cost or free services including doctor visits, hospital care, maternity, and preventive medicine. Some areas like dental and certain diagnostic tests may require additional payment.

Many expats also choose private insurance, both to cover gaps and to shorten wait times. Premiums are far more affordable than in the U.S. Golden Visa applicants must maintain private coverage, while many Americans use international policies during their first year before switching to local insurance. 

Is it hard to move to Portugal from the USA? How Touchdown can help

Moving to Portugal from the USA can feel complex at first, but with the right guidance it’s entirely achievable. The country’s clear visa pathways and welcoming expat community make the transition easier than you might think.

Touchdown is Portugal's leading relocation platform. Backed by a veteran team of expert lawyers, we simplify the entire relocation journey by providing everything you need to set up and thrive in your new home. 

Here’s how we help Americans like you make the transition smooth and stress-free:

• Initial planning and eligibility: Use our free Eligibility Checker to quickly identify which visa you qualify for. We then schedule a 1:1 consultation with our immigration lawyers to review your profile and guide you toward the right pathway.

• Document preparation & legal review: Our legal team ensures all your documents, including FBI background checks and translations to proof of income, to meet immigration standards. We also help you secure consulate appointments and track your application.

• Dedicated immigration lawyer: You’ll work with a lawyer who understands the nuances of U.S.–Portugal relocations, providing personal support from visa approval through residency and citizenship.

• NIF & bank account setup: Touchdown assists with obtaining your Portuguese tax number (NIF) and opening a local bank account. We partner with trusted banks to ensure fast onboarding and compliant setup.

• Tax planning: Our in-house legal experts evaluate your situation for favorable tax regimes such as IFICI (NHR 2.0), helping you structure income efficiently and avoid double taxation.

• Support after you land: Once in Portugal, we help schedule your AIMA appointments, review lease agreements, update your NIF, and guide you through healthcare registration, schooling, and tax filing.

With Touchdown, you’re not navigating the move alone. Our platform and legal team guide you through every step, making relocation simple and stress-free. Book an appointment today to take the first step toward your new life in Portugal.

Moving to Portugal from USA FAQs

Is it cheaper to live in Portugal or USA?

Yes. On average, the cost of living in Portugal is about one-third lower than in the U.S. Groceries, healthcare, and housing are more affordable, though Lisbon and Cascais can still feel expensive compared to smaller cities.

What does it take to move to Portugal from USA?

You’ll need to choose a visa pathway (such as the D7, D8, D2, or Golden Visa), prepare the required documents, apply through a Portuguese consulate in the U.S., and then register for residency once you arrive. Touchdown’s Eligibility Checker can help you see which visa best fits your profile.

Is it worth moving to Portugal from the U.S.?

Many expats say yes. Portugal offers a high quality of life, affordable healthcare, lower costs, and a welcoming community. The trade-off is slower bureaucracy and a smaller job market, but for retirees, remote workers, and families, the benefits often outweigh the challenges.

What is the best bank in Portugal for Americans?

Major Portuguese banks such as Millennium BCP, Novo Banco, and Caixa Geral de Depósitos are popular with expats. Some U.S. banks also operate locally, making it easier to transfer funds. To open an account, you’ll need a NIF (tax number) and proof of address.

Touchdown has partnered with Novo Banco to help you apply for a  bank account online and secure premium services, including a dedicated account manager and full homebanking access.

Do U.S. citizens pay taxes in Portugal?

Yes, if you qualify as a Portuguese tax resident (183+ days per year or a habitual residence). Residents pay Portuguese taxes on worldwide income. At the same time, Americans must still file with the IRS. The U.S.-Portugal tax treaty and credits like the FEIE or FTC help prevent double taxation.

How much money do you need to move to Portugal?

For visas like the D7, you’ll need to show at least €870/month in passive income, plus 50% for a spouse and 30% per child. Remote workers under the D8 must earn around €3,480/month. Beyond income, plan for upfront moving costs of $4,000–$6,500 and monthly living expenses of €1,000–€1,500 for a single person outside Lisbon.

Is healthcare accessible for U.S. expats in Portugal?

Yes. Once you have residency, you can register for the public system (SNS) which offers low-cost care. Many expats also take out private insurance, with annual premiums between €400–€1,200 per adult. Private hospitals and English-speaking doctors are widely available in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.

What is the downside to moving to Portugal?

The main challenges are slower bureaucracy, limited job opportunities in some sectors, and the need to learn Portuguese outside major cities. Housing costs in Lisbon and Cascais have also risen significantly. Still, for many Americans, the lifestyle and affordability outweigh these downsides.