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Guide to Renting an Apartment in Madeira

Lara Silva
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Guide to Renting an Apartment in Madeira

While both Lisbon and Porto are known for having a large expat community, Madeira is increasingly becoming a digital nomad location with thousands of international remote workers coming to the archipelago for a more relaxing (and affordable) life. Renting an apartment in Madeira is a lot more affordable than in Lisbon. An autonomous region of Portugal, the archipelago of Madeira offers the island experience for a low cost, 1,000 kilometers away from Lisbon. While renting in Lisbon costs 12.6 euros/m2, this only costs an average of 9.2/m2 in Madeira. You can easily get a large 90m2 apartment for less than 850 euros.

Guide to Madeira

Pros and Cons of Renting in Madeira

If you’re looking for apartments to rent in Madeira, let’s go through some pros and cons of renting there.

Pros of Renting in Madeira

  • Madeira has some of the best weather in Portugal.
  • You’ll find a laid-back environment, typical of island life that is not present in large cities.
  • You can engage in island hopping and visit the “deserted islands” a few kilometers away.
  • Cheaper than mainland Portugal.

Cons of Renting in Madeira

  • Far away from Lisbon and Porto where most jobs are offered. However, you can always work remotely as Madeira is super welcoming to digital nomads.
  • Can feel isolating to live on an island if you are used to the city life.
  • If you don’t speak Portuguese it could be an issue, learning Portuguese makes life a lot easier and is recommended.

How to Find a Place to Rent in Madeira

Although prices are rising in Madeira, the archipelago has a variety of housing options such as apartments and houses. You will mostly only find furnished apartments and landlords will not want to take the furniture out for you. To find a place to rent, you can choose to enlist a rental agent from a well-regarded agency. Here are some of the most popular property portals and real estate agencies in Portugal that can help you find a home in Madeira:

  • ReMax
  • Spotahome
  • CustoJusto
  • Century21
  • Imovirtual
  • Idealista
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3 Best Places to Live in Madeira

When looking for an apartment, the place you live in Madeira will affect your costs, convenience, and all-around quality of life. While many choose to move to Funchal and this is a great option, there are other areas that are quieter, but still vibrant. In fact, most of Madeira is booming with digital nomads and has been developed to house expats. Here are our 2 best places to live in Madeira.

1. Calheta

A municipality on the southwest of the island, Calheta features a large bay that provides stunning apartment views. Portuguese culture is all around Calheta as the municipality actually hosts three large traditional festivals throughout the years. Calheta is around a 35-minute drive from Funchal so having a car is recommended to get around. However, it is a lot quieter than Funchal, as well as affordable.

Photo by Ricardo Liberato (Flickr)

2. Ponta do Sol

Ponta do Sol is located next to Ribeira Brava and the name translates to “sun point” as this area gets sun all year long and is one of the warmest on the island. Ponta do Sol has some of the best beaches in Madeira. You will be located between Funchal and Calheta so this is a convenient location, but you can also enjoy some quiet. Ponta do Sol is definitely a digital nomad favorite with coworking spaces starting to show up in the area.

Photo by Reinaldo Photography (Unsplash)

3. Funchal

Funchal is the most expensive area to live in, but it is also the most convenient in terms of jobs and commerce. The closer you rent to the sea the more expensive rent prices are, but the views are worth it. Funchal is surrounded by green mountains that in the summer are filled with purple flowers. Funchal also offers a strong sense of community, especially between expats as you will find most around the area.

Photo by Dimitry B (Unsplash)

Guide to Funchal

House Rental Culture in Portugal

Adverts

Rental culture in Portugal can get quite confusing. When you’re looking for a rental online, you might be shocked to find that most adverts include little information. Many might just say “T1 available” without the price, maybe with no photo even. You will have to contact the person, usually via telephone rather than email to get more information.

Can you negotiate rent prices in Portugal?

Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, you can always negotiate in Portugal. In fact, this is expected. Don’t expect a major discount, but it never hurts to try. Whatever you can afford, try that number. However, similarly to Lisbon, during the summer months its oftentimes harder to negotiate as expats and tourists look for short-term rentals. The winter months are the easiest.

Don’t fall for it – Lack of Contracts

Making sure your tenant rights are protected must be a priority. In Portugal, it’s common for landlords to not give you a contract as they choose not to declare their rental income in order to not pay the tax for non-tourism properties at 28%. This is not legal. Even though you will probably get a discount of 28% if this is the case, it’s not worth the risk. You will have no protection against rent increases and will have no security over your deposit. If you need a rental contract for a residency permit, this is also a huge issue. We believe paying that 28% that a landlord will probably add to your rent to pay tax is worth the security.

Tenant Rights

If everything is in order and you have a legal contract, Portugal’s tenant rights are top tier. It’s very difficult for landlords to evict tenants on long-term contracts as the law often protects tenants over landlords. In fact, those living at a place for over 15 years that are over 65 years old or live with disabilities are so protected that their eviction is almost impossible. As a tenant, you will also be protected against harassment, discrimination, and offensive behavior. Moreover, if a landlord needs you to leave the apartment to undergo renovations, they must find you similar accommodation. Any necessary renovations will also have to be paid for by the landlord. Tenants also have the right to have three extra guests at home at any time, plus live with any family members and a partner. In other countries, this is sometimes highly regulated and you have a small number of people who can live in a home.

Rental Contracts in Madeira

What do you need for a rental contract?

You will need your Individual Tax Identification Number, known as a NIF, and your identification numbers to be set to sign your rental contract. A rental contract is called a Contrato de Arrendamento in Portuguese and establishes the duties and rights of both the tenant and landlord. Your rental contract should include:

  • The identification of the landlord and tenant, including date of birth, nationality, and civil status
  • The address of the house
  • The number and date of the house’s license
  • The rent amount and when it must be paid. It might also include whether the rent can be altered. If not, the rent will be altered in accordance with inflation rates.
  • The date of the contract

Keep in mind that while real estate agents can provide translators, rental contracts are usually in Portuguese. We recommend hiring a translator.

Rental Deposits and Guarantors in Madeira

In Portugal, you will usually pay a two-month rent security deposit that will be given back to you at some point. The law does not stipulate when it must be paid back. But the deposit is not always enough, you might need a guarantor, known as a fiador. If you get one, all you need to pay in advance would be the two-month deposit. The guarantor has to be Portuguese and would pay your rent if you do not make payment. The guarantor must be able to financially do so, by showing payslips or tax returns. If you can’t get a guarantor you might need to pay 6 to 12 months’ rent in advance. Alternatively, sometimes banks act as guarantors for a fee through a service called Garantina Bancaria.

Want to move out of a rented apartment in Portugal?

You can move out of a rented apartment a third of the way through your contract. To move out, you need to go through the legal steps such as going through the inventory and giving an appropriately timed notice. If you have more than a year left on your contract, you must give 120 days notice. If you have less than a year left, usually 60 days is more than enough. You can also end your tenancy earlier if your landlord has breached your contract. The landlord can also get you to move out if they want to move in themselves, but they must let you know six months in advance. If the contract is open-ended, they must let you know 2 years in advance.

Apart from giving notice, you will also need to go through the rental inventory with your landlord. At the beginning of your tenancy, you would have gone through a list of household items with your landlord and listed them in an inventory. When you leave, the inventory and house will be reviewed to make sure not is massively damaged or missing. If so, you might lose your deposit or part of it.

Should you rent or buy a house in Madeira?

Buying is always better than renting if you can afford it. Madeira is the fourth most expensive place to buy a house and the fourth most expensive place to rent a house in Portugal. Homes continue to increase in value every year in Portugal, including in Madeira so if you can afford to buy it could be a sound investment. No one can know for sure if this will be the case for the next decade, but post-COVID the market value is supposed to grow even further.

Buying a house as an international is not as hard as it seems. You don’t even need to live in Portugal to purchase a house. All you need is an Individual Tax Identification Number which you get after opening a Portuguese bank account. Buying a house in Madeira might also make you eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa. The Golden Visa allows you to get permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 6 years. However, expect to have to purchase a house of around €500,000, but it depends on particular details.

For more information on how to buy a house in Portugal, take a look at our International Guide to Real Estate in Portugal.

Guide to Buying Real Estate in Portugal

Cost of Living in Funchal, Madeira

Funchal, Madeira is a lot more affordable than places in mainland Portugal, particularly Lisbon. According to Numbeo, you would need over €3,000 in Lisbon to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with €2,600 in Funchal, including rent. In fact, rent prices in Lisbon are over 40% higher than in Funchal. A family of four’s monthly cost in Funchal without rent is less than €1,900 and a single person’s monthly cost is less than €520 without rent. A 1 bedroom in the city center is around €600 to €700, while outside the city center prices are lower at €500 or less.

Guide to Renting in Porto

Guide to Renting in Lisbon

Guide to Renting in the Algarve 

Yellow alert in Portuguese districts due to cold weather and large waves

Lara Silva
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0
Yellow alert in Portuguese districts due to cold weather and large waves

The districts of Vila Real, Bragança, and Guarda are under yellow art on Monday and Tuesday due to the extremely cold weather, according to the Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA). The yellow alert ends at 9 am on Tuesday for the three districts. These districts have reached negative temperatures, with Saturday having been the coldest day with temperatures reaching -2ºC.

The IPMA told CNN that the cold temperatures are a result of a polar air mass arriving in Portugal, as well as other European countries. The cities of Lisbon and Porto are not heavily affected as temperatures in these cities remain mild.

A yellow alert has also been applied to Faro until Tuesday at 3 pm due to rough waters. Waves of 2 to 3 meters are predicted in the district.

The North coast of Madeira and Porto Santo are also expecting waves of 4.5 meters and are under yellow alert until Monday at 6 pm. The more mountainous regions of Madeira were on yellow alert until today at 12 pm due to winds of 95 kilometers an hour.

A Yellow Alert means that the weather conditions represent a risk for certain activities. Essentially, it means residents need to be careful during the alert period.

Expat Guide to Retiring in Portugal

Lara Silva
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1
Expat Guide to Retiring in Portugal

Is Portugal a Good Place to Retire?

Portugal is one of the best places in the world to retire, according to the International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index and Forbes. With a low cost of living and tax incentives, retirees come from all over the world to settle down in Portugal. Retirees can make use of the NHR regime, a quality healthcare system, and an all-around high standard of living. Portugal is also one of the safest countries in the EU, according to the Global Peace Index.

While in countries like the US and UK, life is fast-paced and at times stressful, Portuguese life allows retirees to put their feet up and enjoy every day without worry. With over 300 days of sun, can enjoy the climate in Portugal, offering warm summers and moderate winters.

Rich in cultural heritage, Portugal has some of the most iconic architecture, art, and music in Europe. You’ll also find that the country has high-quality cuisine that features Portuguese dishes such as seafood and meat dishes at affordable prices. In fact, all aspects of everyday life are affordable in Portugal, from rent to the price of groceries.

The country has a mix of cosmopolitan cities and isolated towns with stunning nature views, perfect for those who want a little bit of everything. From the vibrant culture in Lisbon to the slow-paced life in Algarve, retirees of every lifestyle will find their home in Portugal.

How to Retire in Portugal: Retirement Visa Requirements

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can retire to Portugal without needing to apply for a visa. All they need to do is register their stay with the Portuguese authorities. However, others must go through the bureaucratic process to reside and retire in Portugal. The two visas that non-EU/EEA/Swiss internationals can apply to so that they can retire in Portugal are the Portugal Golden Visa and the Portugal D7 Visa.

Portugal Golden Visa for Retirement

If you are not an EU citizen, the Portugal Golden Visa is a way to be able to retire in Portugal. Created in 2012, the Portugal Golden Visa allows non-EU citizens to qualify for a residency permit and eventually a passport in the country through investments. With a Portugal Golden Visa, you can live in Portugal and travel within most European countries without an issue. You are eligible for a Portugal Golden visa if you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national. You need to be at least 18 years old and have no criminal record.

The most important part is to engage in an investment. There are five types of investments you can make to qualify for a Portugal Golden Visa: a real estate acquisition, an investment fund, a capital transfer, job creation, or making a donation. An investment will cost you at least between €350,000 and €500,000. Not only will this visa allow you to retire in Portugal, but the Golden Visa also comes with tax incentives and allows you to travel around the Schengen area without any restrictions. The visa also offers family reunification, meaning your family members get all the same rights as you.

Guide to Portugal Golden Visa

You can take a look at our Portugal Golden Visa guide that goes through each investment and all the details you need to know. Wondering how the process of applying to a Golden Visa works?

Portugal Golden Visa Steps & Application Process: How to Get a Golden Visa

Portugal D7 Visa for Retirement

The D7 Visa was introduced in 2007 and is also known as the Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa. This visa is for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who want residence in Portugal and have a reasonable passive income. This income can be from a retirement pension, as well as a financial investment, real estate, and more. The minimum passive income required is €8,460 per year for the main applicant. For a spouse, you must add 50% to this (€4,230) and for a dependent child, you must add 30% to this (€2,538). Therefore, for a couple with one child, you would need around €15,300 a year to be eligible for the D7 Visa.

Beyond being able to reside and retire in Portugal, there are many benefits to the D7 Visa. You will be able to travel through Schengen Zone without a visa, access the health care system in Portugal, as well as put your kids in a public school. Moreover, the D7 Visa is a path to citizenship. Once you get your visa, you will have residence for a year. You can renew this every 2 years, and after 5 years, you may apply for permanent residency. If you pass a Portuguese language test, you can then also become a citizen.

The requirements to be eligible for a D7 Visa in Portugal are pretty straightforward. Here are the main eligibility criteria for the Portugal D7 Visa.

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
  • Minimum passive income of €8,460 per year (+ 50% for spouse and + 30% for dependent child)
  • Clean criminal record
  • Proof of residence address in Portugal (rental or purchase)
  • You need to spend at least 16 months in Portugal during the first 2 years.

Guide to Portugal D7 Visa

Let’s go through the step-by-step process of applying for a D7 Visa.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visa Requirements for Retiring in Portugal

Can I retire to Portugal as an EU citizen?

If you are an EU citizen, as well as an EEA or Swiss citizen you can retire in Portugal without a visa. However, you will have to get a Registration Certificate from the Portuguese authorities. After residing in Portugal for five years, you can apply for long-term residency with SEF. You will need to renew this every 10 years. You can also apply for Portuguese citizenship after living in Portugal for six years.

Can I retire to Portugal as a US citizen?

There are plenty of American retirees in Portugal so yes, you can retire to Portugal as an American citizen. As a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you will have o apply for either a Portugal D7 Visa or a Portugal Golden Visa. The most affordable visa is a Portugal D7 Visa where you only need a minimum passive income of €8,460 per year (+ 50% for spouse and + 30% for dependent child). For a Portugal Golden Visa, you need to make an investment of at least between €350,000 and €500,000. Take a look at our full guide for the Portugal Golden Visa here. These visas also allow you to get permanent residence after 5 years and eventually become a Portuguese citizen after 6 years once you pass a Portuguese language test.

Can I retire to Portugal as a UK citizen after Brexit?

UK citizens can retire to Portugal, even after Brexit, by applying for a Portugal Golden Visa or a Portugal D7 Visa, similarly to Americans. In fact, all non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can do so. The most affordable visa is a Portugal D7 Visa where you only need a minimum passive income of €8,460 per year (+ 50% for spouse and + 30% for dependent child). For a Portugal Golden Visa, you need to make an investment of at least between €350,000 and €500,000. Take a look at our full guide for the Portugal Golden Visa here. These visas also allow you to get permanent residence after 5 years and eventually become a Portuguese citizen after 6 years once you pass a Portuguese language test.

Retiring in Portugal: Taxes under the Non-Habitual Tax Regime

If you have a Golden Visa, a D7 Visa or are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you can retire in Portugal and follow the non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime where you transfer your tax residency to the country.

Guide to NHR Tax Regime

Here are the benefits of this tax regime:

  • Your pension income is taxed at a flat rate of 10%, including retirement savings and life insurance.
  • Income from “high value-added activities” in Portugal is taxed at 20%. This includes employment and self-employment income from activities of scientific, artistic, or technical character performed in Portugal. Still, you will pay the same income tax as ordinary tax residents for other types of domestic income.
  • You will only be taxed on your worldwide income after the first 10 years of residence.
  • Foreign interest, dividends, rents, and property capital gains can be exempted from taxation. You will also not pay an inheritance or wealth tax.

Here are the conditions to follow the non-habitual residency program:

  • You cannot have been taxed in Portugal during the five years before the application.
  • You must request a tax residence certificate which means you must live in Portugal for more than 183 days (doesn’t need to be consecutive) for 12 months, lived in Portugal for less than 183 days, but has bought property during those 12 months, or performs public functions in the name of the Portuguese state.
  • You must have the right to be in Portugal through a work visa, Portugal Golden Visa or by being an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
Photo by Amol Tyagi (Unsplash)

Does Portugal Tax Retirement Pensions?

Under the non-Habitual Residence tax regime, your pension income might be taxed at a flat rate of 10%, including retirement savings and life insurance. This applies if your pension comes outside of Portugal. However, if your pension comes from a country that has a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with Portugal, your pension is fully exempt from the income tax rate (IRS). Therefore, the collection of your taxes on your pension income would fall to the country where your pension comes from.

The following countries have a DTA with Portugal: Algeria, Austria, Andorra, Bahrain, Barbados, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Cape Verde, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, East-Timor, Estonia, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Georgia, Greece, Guinea-Bissau, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Ivory Coast, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malta, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Poland, Romania, Russia, San Marino, São Tomé and Principe, Saudia Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Qatar, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, United Kingdom, Ukraine, Uruguay, Venezuela, and Vietnam.

6 Best Places to Retire in Portugal

1. Algarve

The Algarve was selected as the #1 place in the world to retire by Forbes. This region is located on Portugal’s south-western tip and is surrounded by the Atlantic ocean from two sides. The Algarve has the best weather in the country due to its location in the South, as well as some of the best beaches in the country. The cities of Tavira, Faro, and Lagos are some of our top favorites for retiring, each highlighting a unique area of the Algarve, while all having stunning long stretches of golden sandy beaches. The Algarve has a huge retiree community, with people from all over the globe. During most of the year, the Algarve has a slow-paced environment without overpopulation. However, the Algarve does get quite busy in July and August, as the Portuguese travel South for vacation, as well as international tourists. Take a look at our guide to Algarve here.

Photo by Ines Göhringer (Unsplash)

2. Alentejo

On the way to Algarve from Lisbon, the region of Alentejo is where many spend their summers. From gorgeous beaches, golden plains, and rolling hills, this region provides locals with both the farm life experience and beach vacation. The Alentejo is known for its production of regional tapestries, leather, cork, as well as of local wine, making it one of Portugal’s top wine destinations. A great place to retire in Alentejo is the city of Evora. This small city might not be an expat hotspot, but it is the perfect place for a countryside life that is affordable. Evora has an incredible cultural heritage, with its historical center being classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the presence of 400 historical buildings in the city. The typical Portuguese sidewalk (“Calçada Portuguesa”) fills the narrow streets of Evora and makes it a beautiful city to live in. If you prefer the beach life to the country life, we recommend Zambujeira do Mar or Vila Nova de Milfontes. Take a look at our guide to Alentejo here.

Photo by José Guimarães (Unsplash)

3. The Azores

Between Lisbon and New York lies an archipelago called the Azores, made up of 9 islands. The Azores are a part of Portugal and are located 850 miles west of what the Portuguese call the “mainland”. Millions from all around the globe travel to the Azores every year to discover the beautiful landscapes and unique cultural heritage of each island. However, the Azores is also the perfect place to retire if you are looking to live surrounded by nature. The Azores is a top place for American retirees in particular, as the archipelago is actually the birthplace of many Americans. About a million North Americans were born or descend from the Azores, four times the current population of the islands! Our favorite islands in the Azores are Pico, Flores, and Faial, as well as São Miguel for a more cosmopolitan island. Take a look at our guide to the Azores here.

Photo by Martin Munk (Unsplash)

4. Madeira

Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal, an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, 400 kilometers to the north of the Canary Islands. The archipelago includes the islands of Madeira, Porto Santo, and the Desertas. Around 250,000 people live on the island and the capital is Funchal, one of the best cities for retiring in Madeira. The retirement community in Madeira is quite large, with expats coming from all over the world, but mostly from the US and UK. Madeirenses enjoy some of the best weather in Portugal as it is located in the African Plate, making Madeira the perfect place to retire for a slow-paced island life.  Madeira is also a great place to purchase a house in terms of pricing. Take a look at our guide to Madeira here.

Photo by Julia Solonina (Unsplash)

5. Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital, is the city with the most expats in Portugal. Although it’s not a retirement hotspot like the Algarve, not everyone wants to retire in a small town, surrounded by nature. If you are looking to retire in a major city, while still being close to nature such as quality beaches and mountain trails, Lisbon is a great option. The birthplace of Amália Rodrigues, the iconic Fado singer, Lisbon is rich in culture, history, and striking views. The city has heavily invested in public infrastructure and has quality schools, transportation, and hospitals. The capital has a thriving nightlife scene, with affordable bars and clubs. Lisbon is also only 20 minutes away from beaches, and 30 minutes away from the picturesque towns of Cascais and Sintra.

Photo by Franky1st (Pixabay)

6. Porto

Porto is the second-largest city in the country after Lisbon, 280 kilometers north of the capital. Porto’s beauty is in the fact that the cosmopolitan city lies along the Douro river. The city is home to the best wine in the country, street art and gorgeous architecture. Porto is one of the world’s top 100 cities with the most international visitors and over 1 million tourists visit Porto every year. If you are looking to retire in a cosmopolitan city that is less populated than Lisbon, Porto could be your next home. You will also be close to the Douro Valley, a landscape of vineyards that has been classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, as well as the beautiful Peneda-Gerês National Park, the only national park in Portugal. The beach in Matosinhos is also just a 20-minute drive away.

Photo by Simon Brissette (Unsplash)

Cost of Living in Portugal: Is it Expensive to Retire in Portugal?

Retiring in Portugal is not expensive as it has one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe. In fact, moving to Portugal to retire is one of the most affordable options, rather than moving for work as the average annual salary is under €20,000. With a low tax on retirement pensions and various tax incentives, a low cost of living comes as an added bonus. You’ll spend around €1,300 – €1,750 a month in smaller towns and around €1,750 – €1,925 in larger cities. Let’s go through the average cost of living in the two most populated cities, Lisbon and Porto, as well as the common regions for retirement of Alentejo and Algarve. The islands of the Azores and Madeira are also a great place to retire.

Cost of Living in Lisbon, Portugal

According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly costs for a family of four in Lisbon are €2,024.31 without rent. A single person’s estimated monthly costs are €579.70 without rent. 

  • Three-course meal for 2 people at mid-range restaurant €35
  • McMeal at Mcdonalds €7
  • Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) €2
  • Water €1.12
  • Marlboro cigarettes (20) €5
  • Monthly transportation pass €40
  • Gym membership €35
  • International primary school €8,995.47 yearly (anywhere from €5,000 to €15,000)
  • Rent for 1 bedroom in city center €865.95
  • Rent for 3 bedrooms in city center €1,091.41
  • Buying a house, price per square meter in city center €4,728.21
Photo by Jessica Arends (Unsplash)

Cost of Living in Porto, Portugal

According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly costs for a family of four are €1,938.31 without rent. A single person’s estimated monthly costs are €552.88 without rent. 

  • Three-course meal for 2 people at mid-range restaurant €34
  • McMeal at Mcdonalds €6.50
  • Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) €2
  • Water €0.90
  • Marlboro cigarettes (20) €5
  • Monthly transportation pass €30
  • Gym membership €30
  • International primary school €6,277.57 yearly (anywhere from €4,200 to €7,500)
  • Rent for 1 bedroom in city center €670.59
  • Rent for 3 bedrooms in city center €1,184.06
  • Buying a house, price per square meter in city center €2,935.25
Photo by Ekin-Fidel Tanriverdi

Cost of Living in Evora, Alentejo

Rent in Evora is around 45% cheaper than in Lisbon, according to Numbeo.

  • Three-course meal for 2 people at mid-range restaurant €28
  • McMeal at Mcdonalds €7
  • Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) €1.50
  • Water €1.15
  • Marlboro cigarettes (20) €5
  • Monthly transportation pass €22.50
  • Gym membership €48
  • International primary school €4,000 yearly (anywhere from €2,400 to €5,600)
  • Rent for 1 bedroom in city center €450
  • Rent for 3 bedrooms in city center €783.33
  • Buying a house, price per square meter in city center €966.67
Photo by Frank Nürnberger (Unsplash)

Cost of Living in Tavira, Algarve

According to Numbeo:

  • Three-course meal for 2 people at mid-range restaurant €30
  • McMeal at Mcdonalds €5.50
  • Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) €2.70
  • Water €0.95
  • Marlboro cigarettes (20) €4.75
  • Gym membership €35
  • Preschool €400 monthly (International primary schools not available)
  • Rent for 1 bedroom in city center €615.17
  • Rent for 3 bedrooms in city center €800
  • Buying a house, price per square meter in city center €2,000
Photo by Mitchell Orr (Unsplash)

Cost of Living in Ponta Delgada, the Azores

According to Numbeo:

  • Three-course meal for 2 people at mid-range restaurant €30
  • McMeal at Mcdonalds €6.75
  • Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) €1
  • Water €0.55
  • Marlboro cigarettes (20) €4
  • Monthly transportation pass €39
  • Gym membership €33.75
  • Preschool €300 monthly (International primary schools not available)
  • Rent for 1 bedroom in city center €491.67
  • Rent for 3 bedrooms in city center €800
  • Buying a house, price per square meter in city center €2,637.16
Photo by Parker Hilton (Unsplash)

Cost of Living in Funchal, Madeira

Funchal is around 5% cheaper than Lisbon and rent is around 35% cheaper. According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly costs for a family of four are €1,886.40 without rent. A single person’s estimated monthly costs are €529.0 without rent. 

  • Three-course meal for 2 people at mid-range restaurant €32
  • McMeal at Mcdonalds €6
  • Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) €2.50
  • Water €1.08
  • Marlboro cigarettes (20) €5
  • Monthly transportation pass €35
  • Gym membership €40
  • International primary school €6,000 yearly (anywhere from €2,400 to €13,000)
  • Rent for 1 bedroom in city center €617.86
  • Rent for 3 bedrooms in city center €1,066.67
  • Buying a house, price per square meter in city center €2,125
Photo by Reinaldo Photography (Unsplash)

Is it Cheaper to Retire in Portugal or Spain?

According to Numbeo, the cost of living in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon is cheaper than in the Spanish capital Madrid. You would need around €3,060 in Lisbon to have the same standard of life that you can have with € in Madrid (with rent). A 3-bedroom apartment outside the city center costs €1,109 in Madrid and €1,087 in Lisbon. Restaurant and grocery prices in Lisbon are around 20% lower than in Madrid.

40 year mortgage loans given to only those 30 and below

Lara Silva
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40 year mortgage loans given to only those 30 and below

If you’re over 30 and want to buy a house in Portugal through a mortgage loan, we have bad news. On Friday, April 1, 2022, the Bank of Portugal’s recommendation to limit the maximum duration of new mortgage loans comes into place. Only those 30 and below are now eligible for a 40-year mortgage loan.

This means that those over 30 in Portugal, including residents and non-residents, will not be able to enjoy more affordable monthly mortgage payments and will have to pay off their property in a shorter time. 

Clients over 35 years old can receive a mortgage loan of a maximum of 35 years. Clients between the ages of 31 and 35 can receive a mortgage loan of a maximum of 37 years. Only those 30 or below can get a mortgage loan of a maximum of 40 years.

Let’s go through some numbers. If you are looking to buy a €200,000 property, a 30-year mortgage loan would cost you €643,28 a month, while a 40-year mortgage loan would cost you €505,71, a difference of €137,57 (with a 1% interest rate).

This new limit will not change existing mortgage loans but only apply to new ones starting on Friday. The average age for accessing a mortgage loan in Portugal is 33,2 years old. Portuguese banks offer mortgages to both residents and non-residents, making it easy for internationals to purchase property through a mortgage loan. However, non-residents must pay a minimum deposit for a mortgage of 30%, while for residents this stands at 10% – 15%, depending on the situation.

Guide to Real Estate: Buying a House in Portugal

Algarve Wine

Goncalo Costa
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Algarve Wine

Did you know that the southernmost region of Portugal, besides having wonderful beaches, weather, golf courses, and landscapes, is also part of the Portuguese wine country? Even though tourism is the region’s main industry, there is a small space for wine production in the region’s economy in the far south of the country in Algarve.

The region is filled with history, being the one region in Portugal that stayed longer under Moorish control. Now, it’s known as the tourism capital of Portugal and now, to you, as a very unique wine region!

The Algarve wines are predominantly red, although some fresh white wines are produced, and made from both the Portuguese and international variety grapes. They are produced usually by co-operatives, but there are also some independent producers who are catching on.

These wines are traditionally high on alcohol volume, due to the region’s warm and maritime climate. The same climate that attracts tourists from all over the world is the one that makes these vines be more productive and have the alcohol volume it has.

So why not enjoy your vacation here, enjoy the incredible beaches and weather accompanied by a wonderful glass of Algarve wine?

Algarve Wine Tasting

History of Algarve Wine

Even though it is not so known, the history of the Algarve wine is as old as the history of Portugal itself. It dates back to the Phoenicians and Greek settlers in the region, who brought Greek wine to the region.

Later, they started to cultivate a native variety of a wild grape and this tradition stayed until the Romans came. These people decided to expand the production enormously, something that can be found, for example, on the ruins of Milreu (or Estói), which would have produced approximately 20.000 liters of wine per year!

When the Roman Empire fell, it’s believed that grape production fell immensely, but it carried on, with archaeological evidence and several texts from the Islamic period referring to the importance of grapes, raisins, and wine to the region.

After the conquest of the region by the Portuguese, grapes, and wine became once more one of the main parts of the Algarve economy.

From those days until ours, there have been many changes. Wine production has faced lots of bad times. However, in the 1940s, wine cooperatives were created. These companies played a huge role in modernizing the wine production in the region and elevated its standards.

In the 1960s, the government also started a huge expansion of infrastructure. This new infrastructure, in the Algarve region, created a boom in tourism, making the region what it is now, and this, in turn, created an interest in wine production there.

All of this created the perfect conditions for the Algarve to be recognized as a Vinho de Indicação Geográfica Protegida (I.G.P) or Protected Geographic Indication and, in the 1990s, for the creation of the 4 DOCs.

Today, there are over 2.000 vineyards and 30 producers in the region, all dedicated to making this unique wine.

Guide to Algarve

Climate and Terroir in the Algarve

The Algarve wine region is separated, in its easternmost part, by just 200km from Tangiers and is right on the border with the Alentejo, being protected by the Monchique Mountains. This means that the region has a warmer climate, which is perfect for fruit production since it makes the fruit juicier and sweeter. It does the same for wine production, but this makes the wine have a higher alcoholic volume.

This is because the climate accelerates the vine growing season, which makes the grapes juicier and sweeter before they achieved their full flavor potential. The grapes juice is, thus, filled with sugar, which will eventually turn into alcohol, at the end of the season. The wine becomes high in alcohol, but low in acidity (which would be perfect to have in this type of wine), tasting kind of baked, due to the vines staying all day and night in the hot climate.

As for the soil, it’s very diverse. It’s usually sandier near the coastline, there are also clays rich in limestone and even soils rich in schist. These last ones are the best, even though they are rarer since these regions also receive rain coming from the ocean and have a higher temperature variation.

Grape and Wine Types

The Algarve region is divided into four subregions: the DOC Lagos, DOC Portimão, DOC Lagoa, and DOC Tavira, all of them with their own unique wines.

DOC Lagos

  • Geographical Area: Parts of the municipalities of Aljezur, Vila do Bispo and Lagos.
  • Grape Types
    • Red Wines: Negra Mole, Trincadeira, and Castelão (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes), plus Alicante-Bouschet, Aragonez, Bastardo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Monvedro, and Touriga Nacional.
    • White Wines: Arinto, Malvasia Fina, and Síria (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes), plus Manteúdo, Moscatel Graúdo and Perrum.
  • Wine Characteristics
    • Red Wines: Velvety, light-bodied wines, with a fruity aroma and a low acidity. They age well, starting with a ruby color and acquiring a topaz hue.
    • White Wines: With a color between the citrine and straw, these wines are very delicate and smooth, with a characteristic aftertaste of warm area wine.

DOC Portimão

  • Geographical Area: Parts of the municipality of Portimão
  • Grape Types
    • Red Wines: Negra Mole, Trincadeira, and Castelão (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes), plus Alicante-Bouschet, Aragonez, Cabernet Sauvignon, Monvedro, Syrah and Touriga Nacional.
    • White Wines: Siria (Roupeiro) and Arinto (with at least 70% of the vines being from these grapes), plus Manteúdo, Moscatel-Graúdo, Perrum and Rabo-de-Ovelha.
  • Wine Characteristics: Extremely similar to the Lagos red wines, with all the same characteristics.

DOC Lagoa

    • Geographical Area: Parts of the municipalities of Albufeira, Lagoa, Loulé and Silves.
    • Grape Types
  • Red Wines: Negra Mole and Trincadeira (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes), plus Alicante-Bouschet, Aragonez, Cabernet Sauvignon, Monvedro, Castelão, Syrah, Moreto, Touriga-Franca, and Touriga Nacional.
  • White Wines: Siria (Roupeiro) and Arinto (with at least 70% of the vines being from these grapes), plus Manteúdo, Moscatel-Graúdo, Perrum, Sauvignon and Rabo-de-Ovelha.
    • Wine Characteristics
      • Red Wines: They are velvety, warm, and fruity wines that evolve really well and can last a long time. Just like the other two DOCs, these red wines also age well, starting with a ruby color and, with time, gaining a topaz tone.
      • White Wines: More of a citrine color, compared to the other wines, being robust and smooth. They have a good body and are capable of evolving really well.

DOC Tavira

    • Geographical Area: It encompasses parts of the municipalities of Faro, Olhão, Sao rás de Alportel, Castro Marim, Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António.
    • Grape Types
      • Red Wines: Negra Mole, Castelão, and Trincadeira (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes) plus Alicante-Bouschet, Aragonez, Cabernet-Sauvignon, Syrah and Touriga Nacional.
      • White Wines: Síria and Arinto (with at least 70% of the vines being from these grapes), plus Diagalves, Manteúdo, Moscatel-Graúdo e Tamarez.
    • Wine Characteristics: Similar to the first 2 DOC wines.

Algarve Wine Suggestions: Best Algarve Wine 

On the XIII Concurso de Vinhos do Algarve (13th Algarve Wines Contest), in 2021, these were some of the highest ranked wines, considered of outstanding quality:

  • Dona Niza
  • Paxá Negra
  • Marquês dos Vales
  • Lagoa
  • Helwigus
  • Quinta da Tôr
  • Vida Nova
  • Herdade Barranco do Vale
  • Quinta da Penina
  • Villa Alvor Negra
  • Quinta do Rogel

2 Best Algarve Wine Tours

1. Tour and/or Wine Tasting – Authentic Algarve Flavours by Quinta da Tôr

Try the authentic Algarve wine on this family farm! You will have access to the farm’s pool with a view to the amazing vineyards, where you can enjoy the taste of this high quality (and high in alcohol volume) wines. You can try all the different wines they produce there while making the most of your trip to the Portuguese holiday capital, in a calm, familiar, and sharing environment.

Book Quinta da Tor Wine Tasting 

2. From Lagos: Small-Group 4-Hour Wine Tasting Tour

This is a full trip around Algarve in a minivan, where you will visit the countryside of the region and the ancient Moorish village of Silves. See the amazing Algarve oranges, ancient Cork trees, and of course, the vineyards, where you will be able to try the wines from the different farms you will visit, as well as the production and wooden barrel rooms to understand the whole process.

Book Lagos Wine Tasting 

Take a look at our guide to Portuguese wine here. 

⬇️Please share your favorite wines from Algarve in the comments below ⬇️

Socialist-majority government takes office in Portugal

Lara Silva
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Socialist-majority government takes office in Portugal

António Costa has been sworn in as Prime Minister of the XXIII Constitutional government by the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Wednesday at Palacio Nacional da Ajuda.

The new socialist-majority government includes 17 ministers and 28 secretaries of state. For the first time ever in the history of Portugal, the majority of ministers are women, 9 out of 17. The cabinet is 20% smaller than usual.

António Costa has been sworn in as Prime Minister of the XXIII Constitutional government by the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Wednesday at Palacio Nacional da Ajuda.

The new socialist-majority government includes 17 ministers and 28 secretaries of state. For the first time ever in the history of Portugal, the majority of ministers are women, 9 out of 17. The cabinet is 20% smaller than usual.

Prime Minister Antonio Costa’s speech stated that the state budget is ready to once again be voted in parliament, one that did not pass and led to the January 2022 General Election.  If the Socialist Party had not won a majority, it would be close to impossible to pass their proposed state budget since all other parties were against it. Now, with a majority, the same state budget that was once rejected is likely to pass.

The Prime Minister also thanked the former government for reducing the deficit below 3%, for their work to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, for responding to the climate crisis, increasing the investment in research and investigation, as well as increasing the number of undergraduate students, and much more.

He said: “Today we are a more qualified country, more sustainable, more innovative, and less unequal”. He also reminded those watching that the European Commission found that Portugal is the most qualified to reach carbon neutrality.

In the 20-minute speech, PM Antonio Costa also stated:

“We have a duty to innovate, to modernize, to guarantee decent employment and create wealth, to progress together, with inclusion… Only by committing ourselves to social dialogue, mobilizing civil society, and welcoming the positive contributions of other political parties can continue to advance”.

São Jorge registers largest earthquake on Tuesday

Lara Silva
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São Jorge registers largest earthquake on Tuesday

The earthquake was registered at 9:56 PM local time on the island of São Jorge in the Azores. According to CNN Portugal, the earthquake was also felt in Terceira, Pico, and Faial. CIVISA recorded the earthquake with a magnitude of 3,8 on the Richter scale, making it the largest earthquake since the beginning of the crisis on March 19. The epicenter of the earthquake was in the ocean, one kilometer away from Velas.

According to the scale of Richter, a 3,8 earthquake is still considered “minor”. Beforehand, the largest earthquake since the crisis began had been on March 19 with a magnitude of 3,3.

The island of São Jorge has now recorded over 20,000 earthquakes since March 19, over 200 of which have been felt by the population. Only a few days ago, there had been a record of 12,000 earthquakes since March 19.

The number of total earthquakes is over double of all earthquakes recorded in the whole of the Azores in 2021.

The island’s volcanic alert has been raised to level 4 of 5, meaning there is a threat of a volcanic eruption. The last volcano eruption was in 1808 in Velas, São Jorge.

Guide to Sao Jorge Island, the Azores

Sines

Ivan Ivoylov
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Sines

Birthplace of the great Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, who “discovered” the peppery treasures of India, Sines is a fishing town in Alentejo, where you can indulge in Portugal’s briny charm and take pleasure in its unique architecture and cultural traditions. What is more, here you can explore not only the region’s unique cultural heritage but also have a nice swim on Sines’s alluring beaches or munch on the delectable Alentejano food. 

8 Best Things to Do in Sines

1. Head to the Sines castle

One of the best places to go in Sines is the 15th century Sines Castle perched on a hilltop. From its fortified walls, you can see the gob-smacking panorama of the Atlantic, and sense the allure of far-off lands beyond the horizon. The fortress’ prime function was to defend the scenic Sines harbor, emphasizing the utmost significance of sea and sea trade for Portugal.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

2. Go to the Vasco da Gama Statue

Travel to Sines to pay homage to its most famous inhabitant and explorer, Vasco de Gama. Here you can find a somewhat squarish sculpture of his, facing the sea next to the western tower of the castle. Take a selfie with the intrepid traveler who pioneered the expansion to the East, first commercially then territorially, making himself a de-facto father of the cosmopolitan highly globalized present, we are all finding ourselves in. 

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

3. Pay a visit to the Sinese Museum

Housed in the ancient Sines castle, right in the downtown, the Sines Museum is a must-visit to sense the soul of the place. Make your way to the Museum of Sines for you to participate in the multimedia experience narrating the unique trajectory of Vasco de Gama’s life. The art-house’s stunning exhibits feature a necklace and earrings of a woman buried as long back as in the 3rd century BC and the Visigothic masonry unearthed at the site. 

4. Visit the Porto of Sines

One of the best places to go to see in Sines is Sines Fishing Port. Known for their abundant catch, the fishermen of Sines are veritable local heroes. It is thanks to them that your mouth-watering dourada at a cozy local restaurant tastes so well. 

5. Head to Porto Covo 

Sines is located not far away from Porto Covo, a picture-perfect small seaside town known for its tranquil ambiance and cheerful locals. Here you can find a pretty city square, surrounded by gridded streets of whitewashed one-storeyed houses. The locale also boasts some of Alentejo’s best beaches like Praia Grande de Porto Covo.

Photo by Pedro Farto (Unsplash)

6. Go to Praia do Buizinhos

One of the best places to go in Sines is Praia de Buizinhos, a great place to bask in the sun and splash in the water. The beautiful cove, known for its pellucid waters is hemmed by cliffs and is one of the most snap-worthy locales in Portugal. It is a great place to take delight in sunsets with your significant other. 

7. Make a trip to Forte do Pessegueiro

Forte de Pessegueiro is a great spot to see what ancient Sines and its environs were like. The ramshackle fortifications date back to the rule of the Philippine dynasty when Portugal was under Spanish control. Surrounded by a moat, you need to get through a tunnel to arrive here. Below, is a sun-lit beach while across the channel can be found the ruins of Forte do Santo Alberto, put up in the same period. Head here for a unique Medievalish vibe and delight in the tangy sea breeze of the Atlantic.  

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

8. Swim on the Praia de São Torpes

Head to Praia de São Torpes, where you can splash around in the Atlantic without feeling the chill of it. Close by the beach’s sun-lit sand, and rolling waves are the lush foliage of the South-West Alentejo Natural Park, one of the best places in Alentejo for hiking. 

What Makes Sines Special

Apart from its maritime heritage, Sines is one of the best towns in Portugal to take a stroll.  The town is split into two parts. In its upper part, you can walk around the beautiful Sines castle and lose yourself in the maze of scenic narrow lanes lined with white-washed uniquely Alentejano buildings. In the lower part lies the town’s beauteous harbor known as Praia de Vasco de Gama, and the embankment where you can see the mind-blowing panorama. Look around the fishing port of Sines to gaze at the vessels soon heading for a new catch, bobbing serenely on the waves. 

Best Time to Visit Sines

The best time to visit Sines is between March-April and August-September. In late spring Sines is one of the best places to go on a hiking trip, for example in South-West Alentejo National Park. You can also walk around the town itself to marvel at its beautiful edifices. If you’re a swimming lover, head to Sines in late summer and early autumn. August to September is the nicest for swimming and profiting from the never-ending sunshine and the town’s unique siestas. 

Where to Eat in Sines

One of the best places to eat in Sines is the hillside part of the town where the warren of narrow lanes harbors some of the town’s best eateries. Head here for a non-pareil dinner in Restaurante O Castelo, or go down to the ocean board to eat the delectable Portuguese fare at O Bejinha, one of the best places in Alentejo to delight in its mouth-watering seafood. 

3 Best Hotels in Sines: Where to Stay in Sines

The scenic downtown of Sines offers quality and affordable accommodation to all kinds of travelers. Keep in mind that if you opt for the properties located close to the harbor you can always walk to the ocean and take not only its gob-smacking vistas but also the luring smell of briny. Here are the three best hotels in Sines, only a few minutes away from the beach.

1. Hotel Veleiro

A two-minute walk from the beach, Hotel Veleiro overlooks the bay of Sines. Most rooms have a balcony so that guests can enjoy the views, as well as private bathrooms. You can also enjoy the breakfast buffet overlooking the bay. Hotel Veleiro offers a 24-hour front desk, as well as laundry and cleaning services.

2. Casa do Medico

A one-minute walk from the beach, Casa do Medico has a restaurant, a bar, a shared lounge, and even private parking. Guests can enjoy a well-rated buffet breakfast from the terrace, as well as a 24-front desk and room service.

3. Hotel Dom Vasco

A seven-minute walk from the beach in a residential area of Sines, Hotel Dom Vasco features a large swimming pool, a gym, and a green garden. Each room has a video games console, satellite TV, and a private balcony. You can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet with a complimentary drink.

Conclusion

Sines is one of the best places to indulge in the maritime charm of Portugal and fall in love with the Portuguese beaches, architecture, and people. Head to the birthplace of Vasco de Gama and prepare for your own adventure of a lifetime. 

Portugal qualify for World Cup 2022

Lara Silva
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Portugal qualify for World Cup 2022

Bruno Fernandes scored the 2 goals against North Macedonia on Tuesday night in Porto’s Estadio do Dragao, ensuring Portugal a 2022 FIFA World Cup spot. The Portuguese player scored at 32′ in the first half and at 65′ in the second half, defeating North Macedonia 2-0.

This will be the eighth time Portugal makes it to a World Cup and the sixth in a row. Portugal played in 1966, 1986, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018.

Portugal’s manager Fernando Santos told the press in Porto:

“I have already won two competitions and I dream a lot of winning a third. I have to congratulate the players for the fantastic attitude they had. In the first 10 minutes, we couldn’t get it right, I said that this North Macedonia team knew how to play. It was not what was thought of them.”

Bruno Fernandes said:

“This game will stay in our memory because we made it to the World Cup. It was a very important match, the fans were impeccable. The atmosphere was spectacular today – people realized what we needed”.

Last week, Portugal eliminated Turkey in the UEFA World Cup playoff seminal final defeating them 3-1 in Porto on Thursday. Otavio, Diogo Jota, and Matheus Nunes score the three goals.

So, who has already qualified for the World Cup 2022, along with Portugal?

Qatar, Germany, Denmark, Brazil, France, Belgium, Croatia, Spain, Serbia, England, Switzerland, Netherlands, Argentina, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Ecuador, Uruguay, Canada, Ghana, Senegal, Poland, Morocco, Tunisia, and Cameroon.

⬇️Please share your thoughts on the game in the comments below ⬇️

Order of Physicians defend end of face mask mandate within 2 weeks in Portugal

Lara Silva
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Order of Physicians defend end of face mask mandate within 2 weeks in Portugal

The head of the Portuguese Ordem dos Médicos (Order of Physicians) Miguel Guimarães stated on Monday that the government should end the mandatory face mask measure within two weeks. Guimarães told TSF radio that masks are no longer necessary in both outdoor spaces and close areas like shopping malls and public transport. This would mean children and young people would be able to return to school, after Easter break, without having to wear a mask.

However, the government recently extended the state of alert to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic until at least April 18. This means that until at least this date, masks are mandatory in indoor spaces and all other COVID-19 restrictions remain in place.

Back in February 2022, Guimarães stated that the COVID-19 pandemic should be over by Spring, on March 20.

Representing the Ordem dos Médicos (Order of Physicians) Guimarães also told TSF on Monday that Ukrainian doctors are authorized to work in Portugal without speaking Portuguese. This must still be negotiated with the government, but a diploma has been published by the Order that recognizes the professional abilities of Ukrainian doctors.

Guimarães says that this is an “exceptional” measure in order to integrate Ukrainian professionals and that Ukrainian doctors should learn Portuguese. He urges the government to provide Portuguese courses to these doctors.

Jorge Roque da Cunha, the Secretary-General of the Independent Union of Doctors has supported this initiative.

The Ordem dos Médicos (Order of Physicians) is a public entity that serves as the regulatory body for medical fractionates in Portugal, established in 1898.

Entering Portugal: Covid Restrictions & Current Measures

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