Almost 50,000 students got into university in Portugal. However, there are 38 degrees available that no one wants to apply to at the moment.
This year’s first phase of the National Contest to Access Higher Education (Concurso Nacional de Acesso ao Ensino Superior – CNAES) had almost fifty thousand placements. The number is slightly lower than last year’s, but it represents 84% of the total number of applications. The remaining 16% will have to wait for the second phase.
Most of the 1,109 degrees available are completely full. There are only 305 degrees with spots available, of which 38 are completely empty.
Interestingly, one of the most wanted areas is also the one that no one wants. Most of the degrees without any application are connected to engineering. However, the ones that everyone wants are also connected to the field. The degree with the highest average entry GPA is Aerospatial Engineering.
Apart from the above mentioned, Medicine, Law, Architecture, and International Relations degrees are very popular. The average entry GPA for these degrees in the best Universities is above 18/20.
The spots that are still available will be disputed by the remaining 16% of the applicants. If there are any spots available after the second phase, there will be a third. The goal is that every degree is full, and every student is placed.
The Portuguese President of the Republic will enact the new version of the drug law after it has been validated by the Portuguese Constitutional Court.
After the decree was approved by the Portuguese Assembly of the Republic more than one month ago, the President decided to send it to the Constitutional Court.
According to him, the autonomous regions (in this case, Madeira) were not properly taken into account, and that could cause the proposal to be unconstitutional.
According to the court’s decision, the decree is not unconstitutional. The validation by the Constitutional Court means that the law will have to be enacted by the President, and come into effect.
What’s the new Portuguese drug law 2023?
This new version of the drug law introduces two big changes. First, it extends decriminalization to synthetic drugs. Second, it removes the possession limit that was acceptable for consumption.
These changes are supposed to guarantee the effectiveness of the drug law within the new drug paradigm, and at providing a better basis for distinguishing between users and traffickers.
However, some experts argue that this version will create a ‘gray area’ that will be difficult for the authorities. They believe that this new law creates a precedent that will contribute to the worsening of the current state of the country when it comes to drugs. Instead of better defining the line that helps distinguish users from traffickers, the new version of the law blurs it. According to them, both the police force, and the Portuguese courts will have a hard time.
If you’ve recently landed in Lisbon and are wondering how to make the most of your week, fret not – we’re here to help. Get ready to explore unforgettable events and experiences in this captivating city. Let’s take a look at the top events and activities in Lisbon between August 28 and September 3.
MEO Kalorama
Meo Kalorama, scheduled from August 31 to September 2 at Parque da Bela Vista, is a distinctive summer festival. It strives to blend together music, artistic expression, and ecological consciousness, bringing together artists who are enthusiastic about pushing boundaries and contributing to society.
The festival’s current roster features prominent acts such as Florence + The Machine, The Blaze, Arcade Fire, Dino d’Santiago, and others. Attendees have the option of buying individual daily tickets priced at 65 euros each, or they can opt for a comprehensive three-day pass at 160 euros.
Mariza at Festas do Mar
The second week of Festas do Mar is taking place this week from August 31 to September 3. A 30-minute train ride from Cais do Sodré, Festas do Mar is a long-standing Cascais tradition from the 1970s.
You’ll have the opportunity to listen to amazing musicians performing right by Baia Beach. This event is put together by the local government and is free to attend. In addition to the musical performances, you’ll also find a variety of local food trucks and even stalls selling handmade crafts.
This week’s lineup includes one of the most famous fadistas in Portugal, Mariza, who will be performing on Friday.
BaIa de Cascais where Festas do Mar takes place. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Unsplash)
Brunch Eletronik
Brunch Eletronik hosts a few events throughout the summer, including one this Saturday in Lagoa Branca, Tapada da Ajuda from 2 pm to 10 pm. This week’s line up includes Honey Dijon, I. Jordan, Gusta-vo and Luisa.
The electronic music festival is hosted outdoors, featuring plenty of food trucks with all kinds of cuisine options. We recommend buying tickets in advance as these sell out. There’s also a backstage access ticket with an exclusive bar, bathrooms, and stage access.
Culture shock comedy
This comedy stand-up show called “Are You an Alien in Europe?” is designed for expats in Portugal, starting on Monday at Lasharada. Delight in hilarious stories from comedians about unexpected cultural shocks, and add your own by sharing anonymously on paper for them to improvise on.
If you’ve just arrived in Porto and aren’t quite sure how to fill your week, worry not – we’ve got your back. We’re diving into the top things to do and events to check out, ensuring you have an amazing and unforgettable time in this vibrant city. Let’s take a look at the top events and activities in Porto between August 28 and September 3.
The World Battle
For those who love sports and dance, The World Battle 2023 is a global street sports and culture festival in Porto from August 30 to September 3. Athletes from 60+ countries will compete to earn points and a chance to represent their country in the 2024 Olympic Games. The event includes a big Breaking and Topstyle competition, as well as displays, a market, and dance workshops this week.
Anavitória concert at Casa da Musica
Performing in the iconic Casa da Musica on Friday, Anavitória is a duo known for their Brazilian music. Since releasing their first album in 2016, the duo has been accumulating achievements: sold-out concerts from north to south of Brazil, two Latin Grammys, tours in the USA and Europe, hits like “Trevo,” “Fica,” and “Pupila” among the most played songs on Brazilian radios.
Casa da Musica, Porto (Unsplash)
Jazz, Bossanova, and Tribute concerts
This event, called Café Concerto no Ateneu starts this week and has concerts on Thursdays (Jazz), Fridays (Bossa Nova), and Saturdays (Tributes). Located in the beautiful Nobel Hall of the Ateneu Comercial do Porto, you will get a unique experience in one of the most beautiful rooms in the city. A bar service is available during the show.
Photo by Chris Bair (Unsplash)
Make your own chocolate workshop
This Make Your Own Bar workshop is a fun event on Saturday where you can create your own chocolate bars. You’ll learn about making chocolate from scratch and make three personalized chocolate bars with your favorite toppings to take home. You’ll also get to taste seven different GLAD chocolate bars. This workshop will also teach you about where chocolate comes from, how it’s made, and how to tell good chocolate apart.
The Portuguese President of the Republic visited Ukraine this week to show Portugal’s support, and to be part of Ukraine’s Independence Day celebrations. Once there, he spoke Ukrainian and was the first Head of State to step foot on an actual trench.
According to what the President said in his speech during the celebrations, which was made entirely in the host nation’s language, without Ukraine´s legitimate protection, there will not be peace and security in Europe. Portugal’s position and support mirror that belief.
During the visit, the President visited a region on the outskirts of Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital. The region was completely devastated by the war. And even though it was reconquered by Ukrainian forces, it is yet to recover from all the devastation.
There is a recovery plan. However, the trench is set to remain as a reminder of the fight against Russian occupation, and the sorrow that came with it. When he was there, the Portuguese President did what no other foreign Head of State, or Minister, did. He went inside the trench.
According to Lesya Arkadievna, Deputy Governor for the Kyiv Region, the Portuguese President was the first visitor to step foot on the soil where the military and the civil population were actually fighting the occupants months before.
The visit had multiple objectives, but the main reason was to solidify the continuity of Portugal’s support. Speaking the national language and being inside the trench were unusual gestures that contributed to that purpose.
The Portuguese President of the Republic vetoed the program “Mais Habitação” (More Habitation), which was created to tackle the ongoing housing crisis.
According to a letter sent by the Portuguese Head of State to the President of the Portuguese Assembly of the Republic, the program is not enough to tackle a problem that has become dramatic, crucial, and very urgent.
Among the main reasons, the Portuguese President stated that the program is not credible enough when it comes to its short-term execution.
According to his words, the Portuguese State would not take direct responsibility when it comes to building viable housing solutions, and the program would not provide immediate solutions to those in need.
This presidential veto brings good news for those hoping to benefit from opportunities presented by the Golden Visa program. The current failure of the “Mais Habitação” program means that property investment from as low as 280,000 euros is still among the criteria to qualify for the Golden Visa for the time being.
According to Portuguese law, after the veto, the decree is supposed to be sent back to the Parliament for amendments. This bureaucratic procedure allows approximately 45 days before the President reassesses his decision.
Note, however, that after the 45-day period, the Government will be able to force its hand. If the law comes into effect, the criteria to qualify for the Golden Visa will be reduced, remaining open mainly for investment funds with a minimum investment of 500,000 euros.
Considering Portugal’s Golden Visa Program? Everything you need to know + how to qualify with 325,000 EUR
If you’re interested in finding out the latest details about the Golden Visa program and want to take advantage of the new opportunities. Signup for a live Q&A webinar with an expert from Holborn Assets that will answer all your questions. The event is scheduled for February 13 at 5 PM Lisbon Time (1 PM EST). The live webinar will cover the following:
Golden Visa basics, how to qualify, who can be included
New Investment Criteria for 2024
Golden Visa timeline and process
How to qualify with just 325,000 EUR – this exclusive offer includes investment loan financing to bridge the gap to reach the 500k minimum investment
With a thriving international community, Portugal is considered one of the best countries to move to in Europe for expats. Navigating the transition to life as an expat in Portugal can be an exciting journey, but it’s not without its challenges, especially when it comes to finance and taxes. It’s not uncommon for expats to make mistakes when moving to Portugal which could be easily avoided through expert advice. Let’s take a look at 9 mistakes expats make when moving to Portugal.
1. Not exploring before choosing a city
From the cosmopolitan city of Lisbon to a more calm and affordable life in the countryside of Alentejo, Portugal is a diverse country. Each location offers its own lifestyle, cuisine, climate, and even cost of living. A common mistake expats make when moving to Portugal is not visiting different cities beforehand and moving to a main city blindly.
While a holiday will never truly represent the real thing, exploring a wide variety of places in Portugal will help you better understand what life could look like and make the right choice.
This is what’s known as a “scouting trip”, a sneak peek into your future life in Portugal. This trip will help you choose the best city to live in Portugal for you, discover the everyday routine, and maybe even visit schools and houses. We recommend visiting as many cities as possible, and not neglecting areas such as the interior.
Lisbon. Photo by João Reguengos (Unsplash)
2. Lack of professional financial planning
A lack of financial planning often comes hand in hand with not getting professional financial advice. A move to a new country entails a significant financial burden, regardless of your income and lifestyle.
Expats often assume financial planning is unnecessary as they have always felt confident back home, but this is one of the largest mistakes made, often leading to larger issues down the road.
When moving to Portugal, it’s crucial that you carefully consider your finances, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Most importantly, expats need to understand their tax obligations in Portugal which to the average person, can be quite complex.
Many expats opt out of professional financial advice due to the cost, but it ends up costing them more in the long run as they miss out on substantial tax cuts and investment opportunities.
Want to become part of the large community of US expats in Portugal? Sign up for Holborn Assets’ live webinar on the challenges facing US connected clients moving or living in Portugal. Find out all about the financial perks of moving to Portugal and have all your burning questions answered. The event is scheduled for May 16 at 5 pm (Lisbon Time) / 12 pm EST. If you would like to schedule a one-on-one call instead, you can book one here.
The Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) program can save you a large amount of money on taxes as an expat. This tax regime offers reduced tax rates and even full tax exemptions on foreign-sourced income for the first 10 years of residence.
Introduced in 2009 to attract talent to Portugal, the NHR tax regime is available to all new tax residents in Portugal that were not Portuguese tax residents for the 5 years prior. To apply, you also need to stay in Portugal for at least 183 days a year and you need to obtain residency.
Expats working in Portugal under the NHR tax regime only pay a 20% flat rate on personal income tax, if their work is considered “high value”. Keep in mind that if the general rate was applied, someone making around over 50.500 euros a year would pay 45% in income tax.
Other benefits of the NHR program include exemptions for dividends, capital gains, and rental income.
The best way to navigate an NHR program application is to have experts do it for you, including the process of acquiring a residency visa, obtaining a NIF, and more.
4. Not researching fees and charges
When moving to Portugal, it helps to research different options on costs and fees related to services such as banking, insurance, and investments. There is a large range of prices out there, so you want to make sure you get the fairest deal.
You don’t need any surprises when it comes to unexpected fees and charges, so finding a financial expert that can guide you will make sure you avoid this.
5. Not considering the cost of living
Portugal is often hailed as an affordable country with a low cost of living. Those coming from abroad, in particular, will find their purchasing power goes a long way in Portugal. The cost of living in Portugal is around 40% lower than in the United States.
However, its affordability is highly dependent on where in Portugal you are planning to move to. Cities like Lisbon and Porto are becoming increasingly more expensive, particularly when it comes to property prices.
Photo by Ibrahim Boran (Unsplash)
6. Forgetting to get a Portuguese bank account
Many expats put off opening a Portuguese bank account or think it’s unnecessary to open one at all. If you want a smooth move, opening your bank account should be one of the first things you do after you’ve obtained your fiscal number (NIF).
From paying bills to getting a sim card, having a Portuguese bank account will make your life much easier.
A lot of banks also allow you to open your bank account remotely through a firm that will also request your NIF for you. This way, you have your bank account ready to go even before you move.
There are multiple national and international banks operating in Portugal, including private national banks, regional cooperative banks, and public retail banks. Here are the most popular banks in Portugal:
Caixa Geral de Depósitos
Novo Banco
Banco BPI
Barclays
BNP Paribas
Activo Bank
Banco N26
ATM. Photo by Eduardo Soares (Unsplash)
7. Not learning about the Portuguese tax system
The Portuguese tax system is incredibly complex, especially for newcomers. It’s important that you learn about the tax system to make sure that this move is right for you financially. Not only income tax, but it’s also important to consider property tax, inheritance tax, social security payments, and more.
We have a comprehensive guide on the Portuguese tax system, but the best way to ensure tax efficiency relating to your specific case is to talk to a professional.
8. Underestimating Portuguese bureaucracy
Portugal’s bureaucracy is oftentimes hard to navigate, especially if you are applying for residency or a specific tax regime. It is a common trait of Portuguese society, as well as in other European countries like Spain.
The relaxed pace of life in Portugal can result in long waiting times, especially in public services like healthcare and obtaining important documents. Even simple tasks can involve filling out unnecessary forms and making numerous calls to different entities.
When planning your move, don’t underestimate the way in which bureaucracy might affect it. Whether you’re buying a house and waiting on documents or trying to apply for a visa, processes can take their time. This is particularly true if you are doing everything on your own, especially in another language.
Photo by Scott Graham (Unsplash)
9. Not getting private health insurance
As a resident, you will be able to access the Portuguese public health care system. Because of this, many expats make the mistake of not getting private health insurance. It’s important to note that the public system is overloaded and you might wait weeks for certain appointments.
Therefore, having private healthcare insurance will make your life easier and ensure you get the care you need. Without insurance, appointments in the private sector can cost over 100 euros and you could spend hundreds of euros on basic blood work, for example.
You can opt for national or international private health insurance and the cost will depend on the amount of coverage, as well as your age. The average price for health insurance is around €50, but again this can increase depending on various factors.
The first State of the Nation debate in Portugal took place 30 years ago and the concept was, to a large extent, inspired by the United States’ “State of the Union” address.
This political debate takes place every legislative session, at the Portuguese Assembly of the Republic. This year’s State of the Nation was the second debate of the current legislature. Note that each legislature has four legislative sessions, corresponding to the four-year electoral cycle.
The form of the debate is the following: the Prime Minister opens the debate with an intervention about the current state of the nation; the parliamentary groups, or political parties, ask some questions; a generalized debate takes place; the Government (Prime Minister and Ministers) closes the debate.
According to this year’s balance, things seem to be improving.
Immigration has been increasing since 2015. The economy is currently one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe. The poverty rate dropped, and inflation is dropping. There is more employment, more qualified people, and bigger pensions. Banks are generating more profit. The state is reviewing part of the education portfolio and is allocating more money to culture.
However, not everything is as good as it seems.
The standard of living of the average Portuguese citizen is among the lowest in the EU. Around 1.7 million people live with less than 551 euros per month, and 16,4% are at-risk of poverty. Even though salaries increased, real income has decreased. This is the amount of money an individual, or an entity makes after adjusting for inflation.
Because of inflation, Portuguese citizens have 3.5% less purchasing power. In the meantime, the price of food products surged.
Moreover, the housing market grew 94% in seven years and houses are now among the most expensive in Europe (i.e. Lisbon’s price per square meter is currently above 5000 euros, more expensive than in Milan, Barcelona, and Madrid).
Meanwhile, the average net monthly salary in Portugal is one of the lowest in the EU (1,025 euros), and the tax rate is one of the highest (i.e. 54% for the top personal income tax rate). To add to that, interest rates for most mortgages increased because of Euribor.
Education and culture are key. Ongoing education strikes suggest that education workers are unhappy. There are fewer and fewer people wanting to work in education. The public perception of that kind of work is distorted. That is reflected in the minimum GPA required (2.5/5) to get into higher studies in education. Younger generations are being affected by this. They have less classes and less qualified teachers.
Employment has been increasing because of non-qualified workers. Qualified people leave. The number of Portuguese emigrants in 2023 is above two million. People are not particularly happy (world happiness report, score of 6/10). There are more individuals, less quality of life, less money, expensive houses, expensive food, high credits, and high taxes.
Both banks and the state are improving the accounts at the expense of Portuguese citizens. They are the ones that pay the interest rates, the high taxes, and the fines with their already low income.
Those looking for a better life, emigrate. Data shows that in 2022, around 7% of the Portuguese population did that. There are more people wanting to leave the country, than those wanting to come back. Why? Because of the current state of the nation.
If you’ve landed in Porto and are still uncertain of your week’s agenda, we’ve got you covered. We will delve into the top things to do and events to attend, ensuring an incredible and memorable week in Porto. From performances to a night out, get ready for a unique experience in Porto. Let’s take a look at the top things to do in Porto between August 21 and 27.
Ecstatic Dance Experience
On Thursday, join this ecstatic dance experience based on M.O.V.E, an acronym for Moving Organically Your Vital Energy. This is a body practice created by Marise Cardoso which draws inspiration from various practices like Yoga, Moving Meditation, Ecstatic Dance, and more.
This body practice involves a blend of music, somatic movement, self-expression, meditation, breathwork, and sound healing. The goal is to help you release the stress and anxiety of life, combining all these elements within a two-hour Moving Meditation session.
The organizers ask for a contribution between 10 to 20 euros, and a meal is provided after the session for 10 euros.
Night out at Plano B
Ready for a classic Porto night out? Then head to Plano B on Saturday for an incredible line up including Bons Rapazes, Kulture Brothers, and Pedro & Valério. Plano B is not just a club, but also represents an interdisciplinary space divided into two levels, each possessing its distinct ambiance.
The main area, the Cubo club room, showcases top-tier global house and techno DJs.The Palco room is the designated space for a diverse array of concerts spanning genres like jazz, rock, electronic, and experimental music.
Doors open at 10 pm and close at 6 am.
Plano B. Photo provided by establishment.
Pedro Abrunhosa concert
Pedro Abrunhosa is a famous singer from Porto that will be playing at Festas da Carvalhosa on Saturday in Paços de Ferreira. Multi-platinum in practically all his albums, Pedro Abrunhosa has been honored with all the major national awards: three Golden Globes, Bordallo Press Award, four Blitz Awards, Gold Medal of Cultural Merit by the Municipality of Gaia, and more. The concert starts at 10 pm and takes place outdoors, perfect for a late August night.
Feira do Livro Porto (Book Fair)
Friday kicks off the annual Feira do Livro in Porto, a large book fair founded in 1930 that lasts until September 10. The fair is hosted within the picturesque 19th-century Crystal Palace Gardens.
This annual event serves as a platform for authors to showcase and introduce their literary creations, while also providing visitors the opportunity to acquire books spanning various genres.
In this particular edition, a special tribute is paid to Manuel António Pina, a noteworthy Portuguese journalist, and author who was bestowed with the esteemed Camões Award.
The doors open at 12 am and close at 12 pm on Friday.
Books. Photo by Tom Hermans (Unsplash)
Torna-Viagem at Casa da Musica
Casa da Musica is more than just a concert hall. With its bold lines, geometric shapes, and contemporary design, the building is one of Portugal’s best pieces of modern architecture and design.
Heading here for a concert is a great way to integrate a musical and design experience for a memorable night.
On Wednesday, listen to the musical project called Torna-Viagem, including Catarina Valadas (voice, flute, and percussion), Laura Felicio (piano, voice, and percussion), and Telma Sousa (chordophones, percussion, and voices).
This night of music includes “popular” Portuguese music, a traditional genre, as well as the voices, percussion, and guitars of Afro-American and Brazilian sound.
If you find yourself in Lisbon and are unsure about how to spend your week, don’t worry – we’ve got everything sorted for you. We’ll explore the best activities and gatherings to participate in, guaranteeing an unforgettable week in Lisbon. From a techno festival to stand up, prepare yourself for an adventure in the vibrant city of Lisbon. Let’s take a look at the top events and activities in Lisbon between August 21 and 27.
Brunch Electronik
Brunch Eletronik hosts a few events throughout the summer, including one this Saturday in Lagoa Branca, Tapada da Ajuda from 2 pm to 10 pm. In 2022, 250,000 were a part of Brunch Electronik. The electronic music festival is hosted outdoors, featuring plenty of food trucks with all kinds of cuisine options.
This Saturday’s lineup includes Solomun, Matt Guy, Pole Position, and Kokeshi. We recommend buying a ticket as soon as possible as the early birds ticket is already sold out.
Somersby Outjazz
Every Sunday during summer, the most stunning green spaces of the city host an event where jazz, soul, funk, and hip-hop come alive. Every month, the location changes to a different green space in Lisbon.
This Sunday’s edition will close the August location which takes place in Parque Urbano do Jamor. The line-up includes Johnny Sublime & Homes and Camboja Selecta.
This event is free to attend, but you cannot enter the park with outside drinks, these must be purchased inside. Dogs are allowed in on a leash.
Parque Urbano do Jamor. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
Festas do Mar 2023
A 30-minute train ride from Cais do Sodré, Festas do Mar is a long-standing Cascais tradition from the 1970s. This year’s editions is sarting between August 24 and 27, and then running as well from August 31 to September 3.
You’l have the opportunity to listen to amazing musicians performing right by Baia Beach. This event is put together by the local government and is free to attend. In addition to the musical performances, you’ll also find a variety of local food trucks and even stalls selling handmade crafts.
This week’s line up includes Matay and Pedro Abrunhosa (August 24), Milhanas and Miguel Araujo (August 25), Mariana Dalot and Diogo Picarra (August 26), and
English Stand Up Comedy
Stand-up in Lisbon isn’t always just in Portuguese. This Stand Up in English event on Saturday takes place at Lux Lounge Lisboa from 8 pm and is affordable at 5 euros only.
You will get to enjoy a few drinks and food at a nice bar in Arroios while listening to good old-fashioned stand-up for around two hours.
Microphone. Photo by Bogomil Mihaylov (Unsplash)
Opera Fest
Opera Fest is the new opera festival in town, running from August 18 to September 9. A great event this week is the Sour Angelica + Rigor Mortis show on Saturday and Sunday. This opera is sung in Italian and Portuguese, with subtitles in English available.
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