Home Blog Page 77

Expat Guide: Moving to Porto

0

Thousands are relocating to Portugal every year and choosing the northern city of Porto as their home. With a growing international community, Porto is a welcoming city for expats. Offering a relatively affordable cost of living, quality public infrastructure, and a rich historical heritage, it is no surprise Porto is a chosen city for so many.

But moving to a new city can be frightening without the right preparation. Where will you live? What is the cost of living in Porto like? We have all the answers you need, even the questions you did not think about in this guide to moving to Porto.

Guide to Porto

Pros and Cons of Moving to Porto

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of moving to Porto is important. This way, you can make an informed decision about moving to Porto and know what to expect. Here are the pros and cons of moving to Porto.

Pros of Moving to Porto

  • Moderate weather
  • Affordable cost of living in comparison to other major European capitals
  • Large international community
  • Quality public healthcare
  • Delicious restaurants 
  • Tax benefits with the NHR tax regime 
  • Plenty of green spaces and beaches 

Cons of Moving to Porto

  • Despite moderate weather, rain is common
  • Overcrowndess due to tourism in Spring and Summer
  • Bureaucracy, long waiting times to get things done
  • “Slow-paced” lifestyle so stores might be closed on certain days 
  • Some places only take cash
  • Learning Portuguese is helpful

Cost of Living in Porto

Porto’s rent prices are 20% lower than in Lisbon and a whopping 65% lower than in London. While the cost of living is on the rise around the globe, Porto is a lot more affordable than cities in the United Kingdom and the United States.

Let’s take a look at the average monthly budget in Porto for expats without children, and families.

Cost of Living in Porto: Porto Monthly Budget

Cost of Living in Porto for a Single Expat – Less than €1300

  • Rent: You can get a one-bedroom apartment for €700, while these can cost up to €1000.
  • Utilities: Basic utilities including electricity, heating, water, garbage, internet, and phone data should cost around €140.
  • Transportation: A monthly pass costs around €35 which is a lot more affordable than renting a car and paying for fuel.
  • Eating out & leisure: Budget at least €150 for eating out in restaurants and exploring the city’s culture and nightlife. 
  • Healthcare: Once you are registered as a legal residence, health care will be mostly free under the national health service (SNS). However, if you need health insurance or for some reason are not eligible to access the SNS, private health insurance costs around €50 a month.
  • Groceries: A monthly grocery budget for one person costs around €200 a month.

Cost of Living in Lisbon for a Family of Four – €2000+

  • Rent: The average rent of a three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €1300 a month, but prices can reach over €1,800.
  • Utilities: Basic utilities including electricity, heating, water, garbage, internet, and phone data should cost at least €150.
  • Transportation: Transportation costs €35 per person so a monthly pass for a family of four will cost you around €140. If you prefer driving around the city, which might be more convenient for kids, fuel can cost anywhere between €150 and €250 a month, depending on the current gas prices.
  • Eating out & leisure:  Budget around €500 a month for activities with the kids such as going to the movies and museums, as well as eating out once a week. You can always spend less or more; that will depend on how you budget and your wishes.
  • Healthcare: Once you are registered as a legal residence, health care will be mostly free under the national health service (SNS). However, if you need health insurance or for some reason are not eligible to access the SNS, private health insurance costs around €50 a month per person. 
  • Groceries:  A weekly grocery shop will cost anywhere between €125 and €150 a week if you know the best spots to shop.
  • Education: Public schools are free, but if you want your children in an international school, this will cost you. Schools can be expensive if you opt for private international schools that are English-speaking. These can cost you anywhere between €4,000 and €15,000 a year per child.

Finding Housing in Porto

Renting in Porto

An apartment in Porto costs around €10/m2 to rent, making a 75m2 apartment cost around €750. You will find mostly furnished apartments, although unfurnished ones are also available. 

To find a place to rent as an international, it should be easier to enlist a rental agent. You can also just look up apartments yourself and do everything on your own, but keep in mind that agents often provide translators, making it easier to communicate with landlords

Here are some of the most popular property portals and real estate agencies in Portugal that can help you find a home in Porto:

  • ReMax
  • Spotahome
  • Custojusto
  • Century21
  • Imovirtual
  • Idealista

Take a look at our guide to renting an apartment in Porto for everything that you need to know, including contracts, tenant rights, tips, and more.

Guide to Renting an Apartment in Porto

Buying a Home in Porto

If you would prefer to purchase a home instead, there are plenty of real estate investment opportunities. However, prices are on the rise and have been for the past few years. It costs around €2,332/m2 to buy a house in Porto. This is a lot more affordable than Lisbon at around €5,000/m2.

If you need to get a mortgage, this is possible. Non-residents will only be offered loans up to 65-75% of the value of the home or the sale price (whichever is lower), while fiscal residents can borrow up to 90% of the sale price (whichever higher).

 International Guide to Real Estate in Portugal: Buying a House in Portugal

3 Best Places to Live in Porto

1. Ribeira

Located on the riverbank of the Douro, Ribeira is one of the most popular places to live in Porto. Ribeira has both a lively nightlife and delicious restaurants, as well as quieter areas to enjoy a walk.

Ribeira also offers views of the Douro river, Dom Luis I Bridge, and Vila Nova de Gaia, some of the best views in Porto. Ribeira is the most popular area amongst expats so you will find a strong international community here.

Ribeira, Porto. Photo by Maksym Kaharlytskyi (Unsplash)

2. Cedofeita

Cedofeita is a trendy neighborhood close to the most iconic monuments in Porto. Cedofeita is also located in the art district of Porto, filled with art galleries and concept stores, catering to a younger trendy crowd. 

This is the perfect place for a young creative to live in. You will also be close to the Crystal Palace Gardens and other green spaces. Cedofeita also has a great transport system and has seen demographic change with more expats motiving to the neighborhood.

Cedofeita, Porto. Photo by Pedro Menezes (Unsplash)

3. Foz do Douro

Foz do Douro is the perfect place to live if you want to be near nature, but not too far from the city. Located in Western Porto, Foz do Douro faces the ocean and features apartments with stunning views of the Atlantic ocean. 

There are has numerous green spaces such as Parque Serralves, as well as some of the best seafood restaurants in Porto. However, Foz do Douro is one of the most expensive areas to live in.

Foz do Douro, Porto. Photo by Pedro Saraiva (Unsplash)

Healthcare in Portugal

Under the WHO’s ranking of healthcare systems, Portugal takes 12th place. Featuring both a private and public health sector, the country offers universal health coverage through the Servico Nacional de Saude (SNS). 

The SNS occasionally charges low amounts for particular treatments and prescriptions, but most of it is free. Children under 18 and people over 65 can enjoy 100% free healthcare.

Who can access free healthcare in Portugal? 

All residents in Portugal can access universal healthcare. Therefore, when you move to Lisbon and receive your residency permit, you can register with your local health center and start accessing public healthcare. 

If you prefer to use private healthcare, many clinics and hospitals are available, with appointments costing around €40 to €50. However, certain doctors will charge higher prices at around €100, particularly specialists like dermatologists. 

To cover these costs, the average price for health insurance is around €50, but this can increase again depending on factors such as your age.

Guide to Healthcare in Portugal

Portuguese Visas

If you are moving to Portugal as an EU national, you won’t need a visa. However, if this is not the case for you, the most popular long-stay residency visas in Portugal are the Golden Visa, D7 Visa, and D2 Visa.

You need to be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national to be eligible for these. From being able to travel freely within the Schengen area, being able to study and work in Portugal, family reunification, and eventually being eligible for Portuguese citizenship, the benefits are huge!

Let’s take a look at an overview of each of the three visas. For a more detailed look at each visa take a look at our guides for each: Golden Visa, D7 Visa, and D2 Visa.

Types of Portugal Visas

Portugal Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa might be suitable for you if you want to make an investment in the country. One of the most attractive Golden visas in the world, it allows non-EU citizens to get a long-term residency permit and eventually citizenship.

This visa allows for family reunification where your family members are granted the same residency rights as you.

What type of investments can you make to be eligible for a Portugal Golden Visa? There are 5 types of investments with different capital requirements: real estate, investment fund, capital transfer, job creation, and donation. 

Portugal Golden Visa investment options

Take a look at our guide to the Portugal Golden Visa to find out about these 5 investment types and how to apply.

Guide to the Portugal Golden Visa

Portugal D7 Visa

The Portugal D7 Visa, also called the Retirement or Passive Income Visa is a lot more affordable, requiring no investment. This visa is also suitable for remote workers. 

This visa is for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who want residence in Portugal and have a reasonable passive income. This income can come from real estate, a retirement pension, a salary, etc.

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.

Guide to the Portugal D7 Visa

Portugal D2 Visa

The Portugal D2 Visa could be the right path for you are an entrepreneur, freelancer, or independent service provider from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland. 

The D2 Visa is suitable if you want to start a business or startup in Portugal, transfer your existing one to Portugal, as well as invest in a business in Portugal. 

You must show a viable business plan that will be evaluated in terms of its economic, technological, and cultural impact. You must also invest in the company’s share capital, which immigration firms advise should be at least €50,000. 

You must also show that you have the financial ability to sustain yourself while living in Portugal.

Guide to the Portugal D2 Visa

Learning Portuguese

While in Lisbon you do not necessarily need to learn Portuguese, in Porto, this will be useful. Many people won’t understand English, especially the older generation. 

If you are looking to learn Portuguese, it will take you at least 600 hours to learn to speak it fluently. It will be a bit harder if you only speak English, but if you know French or Italian, this is an advantage.

If you just want to learn the basics, here are some of the most important sentences to know:

Obrigado/Obrigada (Thank you)

Por favor (Please)

Bom dia (Good morning)

Boa tarde (Good afternoon)

Boa noite (Good evening)

Não falo Português (I don’t speak Portuguese)

Guide to Learning Portuguese

Portuguese Social Etiquette 

Portuguese social etiquette can be quite surprising to those coming to live for the first time. Here are the main takeaways to remember:

  • Greetings matter! It is customary to give two kisses on the cheek from left to right to friends, including friends of friends. These are called “beijinhos”. Men do not usually greet other men this way, only if they are family members.
  • If you are bumping into a neighbor on the stairs, it is customary to say “bom dia” (good morning), “boa tarde” (good afternoon) or “boa noite” (good night), depending on the time of day.
  • If you are invited into someone’s home for a meal, always bring something. You should ask beforehand if you should bring dessert or wine.
  • At dinner, it’s common for the host to say “bom apetite” or “bom proveito” to signal everyone can start eating.
  • The knife is held on the right hand and the fork on the left. Do not only use a fork to eat as this is considered rude. The smaller fork and spoon above your plate are for dessert. 

Porto-Lisbon 2 hour train coming in 2028

0

Plans to improve the train connection between Porto and Lisbon are underway. By 2028, people can travel by train between Porto and Lisbon in one hour and 59 minutes. By 2030, the travel time between Porto-Lisbon will be one hour and 19 minutes. Construction begins in 2024. 

This will triple the number of train trips between Porto and Lisbon to 77 services a day, rather than the current 25. As of now, the train between Porto and Lisbon is over 3 hours long. 

The project is divided into two phases. Phase 1, between Porto and Soure will cost 2.95 billion euros, of which 1 billion come from European funds. Phase is divided into two other phases: Porto-Aveiro for 1.65 billion and Aveiro-Soure for 1.3 billion. 

This first phase begins in 2024 and should be finished at the end of 2028. There will be new stops in Porto-Campanha, Vila Nova de Gaia, Aveiro, and Coimbra. 

A new bridge will be built between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia to hold the new line, as well as a road for vehicles below.

Phase two will cost 1.5 billion euros, building the route between Soure and Carregado. Phase two will start in 2026 and should be finished in 2030. When it is completed, Porto and Lisbon will be connected in 1 hour and 19 minutes without stops. 

The government also wants to build a route between Braga and Valenca until 2030. This will cost 1.25 billion euros and also depends on construction in Spain. 

Guide to Social Security in Portugal

0

Social Security in Portugal

When you get sick in the US, you will likely lose your income. Parental leave is nonexistent and can have an even larger impact on someone’s social and financial well-being, particularly women. In Portugal, this is not the case! You can get sick, lose a job, and have a child without falling into complete financial distress. 

This is because of Portugal’s Social Security System, known as Seguranca Social. While many pensions are too low in the context of the cost of living, Portugal’s Social Security System is well-rounded and tackles several social issues. 

The Portuguese Social Security system secures citizens’ basic rights and ensures equality in opportunities, providing support measures such as unemployment allowances, paternal leave, and other financial support.

Who can access social security in Portugal?

The Social Security system is valid for Portuguese and foreign citizens who make contributions. To work in Portugal, you must have a Social Security Number (NISS). If you already have a Portuguese citizen’s card, your NISS is on the back of the card.  

Whether you can access certain pensions and leaves depends on your income, the amount of time you have contributed, and other factors. However, basic rights such as parental and sick leave are always guaranteed, regardless of your tax bracket. 

Social Security Payments in Portugal

For Social Security to function in Portugal, individuals must make their contributions. If you are working in Portugal, either employed or self-employed, you will have to pay social security, which will one day assure you a retirement pension and other benefits. 

Employees pay 11%, while their employers pay 23.75% to 34.75%. In this case, the amount for social security is automatically deducted by your employer. An employer is also responsible for registering its employees with Social Security. 

If you are self-employed, you are responsible for making your payment which is higher at 21.4%. You must pay your contributions between the 10th and 20th of the month following the month to which the contributions concern. There are a few specific exceptions for those on self-employment. 

Self-employed social security contributions can be paid via:

  • ATM
  • Treasury Office of Social Security
  • Home banking
  • Social Security Direct Debit

Guide to Taxes in Portugal

Unemployment Benefits in Portugal

Portugal’s Social Security system has multiple types of unemployment benefits. Unemployment benefits usually pay 65% of your earnings. However, the minimum monthly rate is €439, and the maximum is €1,097. 

Residents can access the main unemployment benefit if they have lost their job or come to the end of a contract. However, you must be registered as a job-seeker and have worked for at least 360 days in the 24 months before you lost your job. 

Another type of unemployment benefit is the social unemployment benefit. You might qualify after either your regular unemployment benefit has run out or you do not meet the conditions for unemployment benefit. You need to have worked for 180 days in the one year before becoming unemployed.

In Portugal, you also have a partial unemployment benefit. To access this, you need to have already received unemployment benefits and begin working in a part-time or self-employed job. The earnings from this job must be lower than the amount of the unemployment benefit. 

Guide to Working in Portugal

Parental Leave in Portugal: Parental and Maternal Leave in Portugal

If you are employed in Portugal, you have the right to parental leave, both men and women. Self-employed people are also eligible. However, you must have paid social security contributions for a minimum period of six calendar months, whether consecutive or aggregate.

In Portugal, you have initial and extended parental leave. The parental leave period is up to 120 (100% income) or 150 consecutive days (80% income). Both parents can take the period between 120 and 150 days at the same time.

Mothers MUST take at least six weeks off right after childbirth, and there is a 20 working day compulsory leave for fathers.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema (Unsplash)

After that, the 120 days or 150 days may be extended by 30 days in the case of shared leave. However, to do so, each parent must take leave of 30 consecutive days or two periods of 15 consecutive days after the mandatory maternal leave of 42 days. 

If the initial parental leave is not shared, benefits can be granted to the father if the mother works. 

If the childbirth takes place before the 34th week of pregnancy, the parental leave is increased by the total duration of the hospital stay plus 30 days after discharge. 

In the case of a miscarriage or voluntary abortion, the mother might have paid leave between 14 and 30 days, depending on a doctor’s advice. In the case of stillbirth, a mother is granted 120 days of paid leave. 

Guide to Having a Baby in Portugal

Same-sex Parental Leave in Portugal

Unfortunately, most of the language used in the parental law refers to a “mother” and “father.” However, in 2019, the parliament officially stated that LGBT+ couples have parental leave rights.

Two men and two women who have a baby (through adoption or biologically) will be paid for 120, 150, or 180 days, either at 100% or 80% depending on the amount of time.

LGBT Guide to Portugal

Child Benefits in Portugal

Portugal’s Social Security system also includes plenty of family benefits for children and young people. These are available for children up to 16 years old, as well as those between the ages of 16 and 24 if they are in further education or have a disability.

These benefits are only available if a family has moveable assets worth less than around €100,000 and earns below a certain amount.

If a parent is in the first income bracket (up to around €7,100) with a child under three years old, they will get around €150 a month. 

Photo by Charlein Gracia (Unsplash)

Sick Pay in Portugal

Known as the subsidio de doenca, sickness benefits in Portugal are available for both employees and self-employed people.

However, you need to be working for at least six months before, and if you are self-employed, you would need to have paid your social security for three months before getting sick. 

Sick pay in Portugal is unlike parental leave, where depending on the number of days, you can get up to 100% of your pay.

You will actually get paid a larger percentage the longer you are sick. If you have a sickness and cannot work for over 365 days, you will get 75% of your income.

However, for the first 30 days of sickness, you will only get 55% of your income. Between days 91 and 365, you can claim 70% of your income.

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya (Unsplash)

Orphan & Widow Pension in Portugal

If a spouse or parent dies, Portuguese residents can claim benefits, including both a Survivor’s Pension and a Widow/Widower’s and Orphan’s Pension. You need to have been making contributions for at least 3 years, but eligibility also depends on your income. Spouses can claim 70% of the pension, while children can only claim up to 40%.

Retirement Pension in Portugal

The Portuguese Social Security system ensures you will get a retirement pension if you contribute throughout your life. The official retirement age in Portugal is 66 years and 7 months in 2022 and 66 years and four months in 2023. You also need at least 15 calendar years of remuneration and social security contributions. However, keep in mind that the pension age is set to rise.

Nevertheless, if you seek to retire earlier, this is possible. You can retire in Portugal from the age of 55 if you have made at least 30 years of contributions. Still, your payments will decrease for every extra year you receive your pension.

Guide to Retiring in Portugal

Social Integration Income (RSI) in Portugal

Known as the Rendimento Social de Insercao (RSI), this benefit is granted to people and families in serious social or financial need and at risk of social exclusion. It is meant to help with basic needs to integrate individuals into society.

To be eligible, a household’s monthly income must not exceed the Social Integration Income (RSI) value, and the main applicant must be registered as a job-seeker. Over 130,000 families in Portugal receive the RSI. 

The main holder gets €188.68 which is 100% the value of the RSI. Each child receives around €93.34, 50% of the value of the RSI. Moreover, other adults besides the holder receive €130.68. Therefore, a family of two adults and two children receives around €500. A single mother with one child receives around €280. 

Cost of Living in the Azores: Sao Miguel Monthly Budget

0

The largest and most populated island in the Azores, São Miguel is known as the Green Island due to its beautiful forested terrain and large lakes. Many visit the island and fall in love with it, leading them to seek to move here short-term or more permanently.

The island has around 140,000 inhabitants, with 45,000 people residing in Ponta Delgada, the island’s largest city.

Is it expensive to live in the Azores? What is the cost of living like in the Azores? Every island in the archipelago is different, but generally, it is more affordable than living in most places in mainland Portugal, especially Lisbon and Porto.

Consumer prices, including rent, are around 17% lower in Ponta Delgada, the capital of Sao Miguel, than in Lisbon. Restaurant prices are around 6% lower, and grocery prices are almost 4% lower. 

If you’re considering Sao Miguel as a permanent or temporary home, let’s take a look at the average monthly budget for expats without children, families, and digital nomads in the capital of Ponta Delgada.

Guide to Sao Miguel

Cost of Living in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel for an Expat

The monthly budget for an expat in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel is less than €1000.

A one-bedroom apartment costs around €600. If you are looking for a larger apartment, this could cost around €900. 

A monthly transportation pass is around €40 or less for buses. Utilities cost around €100, including phone data and cable TV which is a lot cheaper than in mainland Portugal. 

For exploring the island and eating out at your favorite restaurants, budget around €150 a month. You can easily spend less or more, depending on your lifestyle. 

Groceries for a single person average out at around €40 a week.

Health care could add to your monthly budget in Sao Miguel. EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card can use the National Health Service (SNS) for free for up to 90 days in Portugal. This allows them time to get registered as legal residents to continue using the public health system.

However, non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.

Even if this is the case, they must purchase private health insurance to cover medical care before arriving in Portugal and becoming a legal resident.

 

Cost of Living in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel for a Digital Nomad

The cost of living in Faro for a digital nomad is at least €950 a month. This is the case if you sleep in a hostel’s dorm and cook most of your meals. If not, expect to need at least €2,200 a month in Ponta Delgada. 

How did we get from 950 to over 2000? Well, if you opt for the budget option of a shared dorm in a hostel, expect to only need to pay €15 a night, so around €450 a month. However, a private Airbnb would cost you at least €1200.

Renting a desk at a co-working place in Ponta Delgada costs around €100. Transportation costs around €40. 

Budget at least €200 for leisure such as eating out, bars, and tourists to discover the island.

Food can easily max out your monthly budget. If you want to save and have a kitchen at your disposal, a weekly shop shouldn’t cost more than €40.

However, if you plan to eat out, an affordable meal is around €8. This would set you back around €700 in a month.

Cost of Living in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel for a Family of Four

This last Azores monthly budget for Sao Miguel is the most expensive because let’s be honest, so are kids. Expect to spend at least €2000 a month for a family of four in Ponta Delgada.

However, if you need health insurance for the entire family and your two kids will attend private school, you will spend over €3000.

A three-bedroom apartment in Ponta Delgada will set you back around €900. However, prices can go up to €1200, depending on the apartment type and amenities. 

Budget around €160 a month for monthly transport passes. However, it is more convenient for a family of four to own a car and drive around the island. Fuel will cost you anywhere between €150 and €250 a month. 

Utilities cost around €120 and include electricity, heating, water, etc. However, this can be much higher in the winter or depending on your family’s consumption.

Groceries for a family of four in Ponta Delgada should cost around €100 a week, so budget at least €400 a month.

If you need to purchase health insurance for the whole family, this will cost you at least €200 a month.

However, you might be eligible to use access to healthcare for free, even if you are not an EU resident. Non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.

While public schools are free, private schools can cost anywhere between €300 and €500 depending on the establishment and age of your child. You could pay around €1000 a month for two kids just for education. 

Guide to the Azores

10 Best Paid Jobs in Portugal

0

Despite the delicious food and sunny weather, Portugal is not all rainbows and butterflies. A downside to living in Portugal is the low salaries. The average gross monthly salary in 2020 in Portugal was around €1,300 a month.

However, a few in Portugal make good money, with some top roles making over six figures a year. The best paid job in Portugal right now is a general director in the private health sector. 

Let’s take a look at the 10 best paid jobs in Portugal.

Keep in mind that these yearly salaries amount to 14 months. In Portugal, the 13th and 14th salaries are mandatory, representing extra summer and Christmas pays.

Therefore, a €120,000 yearly salary does not amount to €10,000 a month, but instead, around €8,500 a month. 

Expat Guide to Working in Portugal  

10 Best Paid Jobs in Portugal

1. General Director in the Private Health Sector

€120,000 – €150,000 per year

A general director in the private health sector is the best paid job in Portugal. A general director of a hospital oversees the general administration of a private hospital with the health of patients in mind. 

These professionals make anywhere between €120,000 and €150,000 per year before tax. This is around €8,500 to €10,500 a month. 

2. Chief Information Officer (CIO)

110,000 – 140,000 per year

A Chief Information Officer supervises a company’s IT organization, managing and implementing computer technologies. 

These professionals make anywhere between €110,000 and €140,000 per year before tax. This is around €7,800 to €10,000 a month. 

3. Commercial Director

€100,000 – 150,000 per year

Commercial directors are well paid in Portugal. These professionals are responsible for planning, developing, and implementing commercial strategies to generate revenue for a company.

These professionals make anywhere between €100,000 and €150,000 per year before tax. This is around €7,100 to €10,700 a month. 

4. Shared Service Center Director

€95,000 – €120,000 per year

A shared service center director is primarily responsible for planning and controlling the functions within a shared service center and organizing the performance of the available services.

These professionals make anywhere between €95,000 and €120,000 per year before tax. This is around €6,700 to €8,500 a month. 

5. E-Commerce Manager

50,000 – 75,000 per year

An e-commerce manager grows an e-commerce business. They are responsible for managing orders, improving the customer experience, and evaluating the needs of customers. 

These professionals make anywhere between €50,000 and €75,000 per year before tax. This is around €3,500 to €5,300 a month. 

6. Software Engineer

€45,000+ per year

A software engineer designs, creates, and maintains computer systems and applications. Sometimes addressed as software developers, the salaries in Portugal vary.

However, the salary of a software engineer tends to start at €45,000 per year before tax, so around €3,200 a month. Nevertheless, it can reach six figures, depending on various factors such as experience, the company they work for, whether they are freelancing, etc. 

7. Cybersecurity Specialist

€45,000 – €60,000 per year

A cybersecurity specialist monitors, detects, and responds to cybersecurity risks and threats. They look for any potential attacks and solve these, keeping systems safe. 

These professionals make anywhere between €45,000 and €60,000 per year before tax. This is around €3,200 to €4,200 a month. 

8. Machine Learning Specialist

€40,000+ per year

A machine learning specialist is specialized in developing machine learning, a niche in computer science that focuses on developing algorithms that “learn” from data to make predictions. 

Similarly to a software engineer, salaries tend to start at €40,000 a year but can go higher. This is around €2,800 a month before tax.

9. Big Data Specialist

€35,000 – €50,000 per year

A big data specialist reviews, analyzes, and reports on big data stored and maintained by an organization. 

These professionals make anywhere between €35,000 and €50,000 per year before tax. This is around €2,500 to €3,500 a month. 

10. Digital Marketer

€35,000 – €45,000 per year

A digital marketer uses digital channels such as company websites and social networks to generate leads and build brand awareness. 

A digital marketer in Portugal makes between €35,000 and €45,000 a year. This is around €2,500 to €3,200 a month before tax.

125 euro support to be paid to families in Portugal

0

The Portuguese government announced on September 5 a financial measure to help mitigate the impact of raising prices. A 50 and 125 euro one-time support will be paid to eligible families starting October 20 via bank transfer.

125 euros will be provided to the main adult, and 50 euros will be sent for each dependent up to 24 years of age. In the case of incapable dependents, there is no age limit.

Citizens do not need to apply for this measure as this will be sent automatically, according to the Ministry of Finance.

Residents with a gross income up to 2,700 euros per month are automatically eligible. However, they must have had a maximum of 37,800 euros (gross) declared in income tax in 2021.

This does not apply to those who were unemployed in a portion of 2021. These are still eligible for 125 euro support if they started working at some point that year. 

This yearly maximum amounts to a 14-month salary in Portugal, which includes a summer and Christmas salary. 

If the payment is not possible on October 20 “due to a lack of information or an invalid IBAN, the financial authorities will repeat the transfers monthly for half a year,” says Fernando Medina’s office. 

However, to ensure the payment runs smoothly, people can update their “IBAN in the Finances Portal. 

This 50 euro measure will support 2.2 million children and young people until the age of 24, costing 110 million euros. Both supports will include 8 million people with a total budget of 840 million euros. 

Buying a Car in Portugal

0

Making such a large purchase in a new country comes with its challenges. If you are planning on buying a car in Portugal, it’s essential to make sure how to get a fair deal and follow the legal requirements. 

There are plenty of questions to consider. Are you planning on purchasing a new or used car? What’s a good place to purchase a car in Portugal? Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about buying a car in Portugal.

Guide to Driving in Portugal

Who can buy a car in Portugal?

If you are looking to buy a car in Portugal, you must first figure out if you’re eligible to do so. There are quite a few restrictions to purchasing a car in Portugal. You will need the following:

  • Proof of residence in Portugal 
  • Identification document
  • Portuguese tax identification number (NIF)

Where to buy a car in Portugal

Before you choose where to buy your car in Portugal, consider whether a new one is right for you. Buying a used car will save you money! Luckily, in Portugal, you can buy both new and used cars online and in car dealerships. 

Online

In the last few years, buying a car in Portugal online has been growing in popularity. However, there is a larger risk involved in doing so. Still, there are plenty of great sellers out there, and you can usually negotiate the price. 

You just need to make sure you are taking the right steps to ensure a fair purchase. Before even seeing the car, ask the seller about the maintenance history and the number of kilometers on the car.

Car Dealership

The old-fashioned way is sometimes best! You will find car dealerships that sell new and used cars all over the country. You will get to test-drive the vehicle, which is not usually allowed when you buy a car online. 

The good thing about buying a car from a dealership is that you are usually offered more after-sales support, including maintenance. If you buy a second-hand car at a dealership, you will have a minimum 12-month guarantee. 

Major car companies have dealerships in Portugal, such as BMW, Toyota, Renault, and more. 

Car Prices in Portugal

While Portugal is known for its relatively low cost of living, car prices are quite high. The average price for a car in Portugal in 2020 was €32,444, up almost €5,000 in 5 years.

While buying a used car is more affordable than a new one, they are still expensive compared to other European countries. On the 2017 Global Used Car Index, Portugal ranked as the 9th most expensive country as cars depreciate more slowly in Portugal. 

Despite high averages, there are still affordable second-hand cars out there, many under €5,000. 

Porto. Photo by Vita Marija Murenaite (Unsplash)

Documents After Car Purchase

When you sell your car in Portugal, you need to make the official change of ownership within 60 days. This is done by completing the Transferencia de Propriedade or the verbal contract of purchase and sale. This document will include information about the vehicle and the new owner. 

Both the seller and buyer will also have to go through the declaration of sale and purchase of the car. This form indicates the individuals involved in the registration process of the vehicle.

Registering the car with IMT is very important and mandatory for all vehicles in Portugal. You can register the car with the Institute of Registries and Notaries (IRN), either online or at a citizen’s shop. 

You will then receive your registration certificate, known as the Documento Unico Automovel, which needs to be in your car at all times. 

Driving in Portugal

To drive a car in Portugal, you must be over the age of 18. However, to rent a car, you must be over the age of 21. You can drive in Portugal with your driving license if you are an EU or American national.

An International Driving License is required if you stay longer than six months. If you do not have an EU or American license, you should obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive.

If you’re not quite ready to purchase a car in Portugal, consider renting a car to explore the country. Prices will vary on time of year and type of car. If you do not drive stick, beware that automatic car rentals are more expensive. 

Madeira. Photo by Danilo Santos (Unsplash)

Azorean-Americans: The Azorean Refugee Act

1

The first wave of Azorean immigration to the United States happened as early as 1870. Most of the Portuguese immigrants were men from the Azores who were recruited to work on American whaling ships.

Later on, after World War II, many Portuguese fled the right-wing dictatorship of Antonio Salazar, settling in mainly New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Maryland.

However, what was considered a second large wave of Portuguese immigration occurred in the late 50s from the Azores archipelago. It all began in 1957 with a series of volcanic eruptions in the Azores, leading to the large population of Azorean-Americans in the US today.

Capelinhos Volcanic Eruption – Azoreans flee

Azoreans sought refuge in the US in the aftermath of the Capelinhos volcanic eruption on the island of Faial, which occurred on September 27, 1957.

While no one was killed, the eruption that lasted for 13 months caused massive destruction on the island. This period spawned 300 seismic events, destroying 300 houses. Over 2,000 people were evacuated to the US and Canada.

This was the most recent volcanic eruption in all of the Azores. Today, you can visit the Capelinhos lighthouse and Visitors Center at the volcanic site in Faial

Capelinhos Volcano site. Photo by Photo by Rui Amaro (Unsplash)

What was the Azorean Refugee Act of 1958?

The Azorean Refugee Act of 1958 was created in direct response to the Capelinhos eruption in Faial. Senators John F. Kennedy and John Pastore co-sponsored the act, which was then signed by President Dwight Eisenhower. 

The Azorean Refugee Act made 1,500 visas available to the Azorean victims of the volcano eruption in 1958. Four years later, in 1962, an extension was granted, allowing even more Azoreans to immigrate to the United States.

Azorean-Americans: 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act

The 1965 Immigration Act further increased Portuguese immigration to the United States, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. This law stated that those with legal or American relatives in the United States could become a legal resident with their sponsorship.

Prior to that, the National Origins Formula was in place. These were a series of immigration quotas used from 1921 to 1965 that restricted immigration from the Eastern Hemisphere on the basis of national origin.

This was in place to preserve American homogeneity and proved racially discriminative, only allowing immigration from Western and Northern Europe.

While the 1965 Immigration Act still had per-country and total immigration limits, relatives of US citizens were exempted from these restrictions.

Therefore, it is no surprise that in the 70s and 80s, many Azoreans were able to move to the United States through relative sponsorships who had been there from the late 50s – early 60s.

Photo by Fabian Fauth (Unsplash).

Portuguese-Americans in the United States

According to the United States Census from 2000, there were 1,176,615 Portuguese-Americans, the majority being of Azorean descent. In 2019, 1,371,153 people in the United States reported Portuguese ancestry. 

As of 2020 figures, most Portuguese-Americans live in the states of California, Massachusetts, Florida, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and New York, in that order. 

Portuguese-Americans are the fifth largest ethnic group in Rhode Island and the eighth largest group in Massachusetts. 

Portuguese-Americans are also the fourth largest ethnic group in the State of Hawaii. Portuguese immigration to Hawaii happened in the late 19th century. Labor contracts paid for the migration of entire Portuguese families. However, the conditions were not favorable. 

Portuguese Embassies and Consulates in the USA, UK, and Canada  

Is the Azores in Portugal?

The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, located between Lisbon and New York. An archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are around 850 miles west of mainland Portugal. The archipelago is located 1,200 miles southeast of Newfoundland, Canada, and 930 miles northwest of Morocco. 

There are nine islands of the Azores and three main groups in an islet cluster. These are Flores and Corvo to the west, Graciosa, Terceira, Sao Jorge, Pico, and Faial in the center, and Sao Miguel and Santa Maria to the east. 

The islands cover more than 600 kilometers, and all have volcanic origins. However, some islands have never recorded volcanic activity since they were settled centuries ago. 

The Azores. Photo by Martin Munk (Unsplash)

Travel Guide to the Azores  

Lisbon on the list of worst delayed airports in the world

0

Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon is one of the worst delayed airports in the world, taking 4th place in a CNN Travel ranking. 43% of flights at Humberto Delgado Lisbon Airport were delayed during the summer. 

CNN based its rankings on data by FlightAware between May 27 and September 5, “the largest data platform on flights worldwide.”

Here are the airports with the most delays in this time frame in the world:

1. Toronto Pearson International Airport: 51.9%
2. Montreal-Trudeau International Airport: 47.8%
3. Frankfurt International Airport: 44.5%
4. Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon): 43%
5. London Gatwick Airport: 42%
6. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport: 41.6%
7. Munich International Airport: 40.1%
8. Manchester Airport: 39%
9. Athens International Airport: 38.5%
10. Vancouver International Airport: 37.8%

However, Portugal did not make the list for having an airport with the most canceled flights in the world. The following airports made the list:

1. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (China): 29.8%
2. Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (China): 15.6%
3. Beijing Capital International Airport (China): 14.7%
4. Nanjing Lukou International Airport (China): 14.4%
5. Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (China): 9.5%
6. Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (China): 9.1%
7. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Indonesia): 8.3%
8. Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (China): 8.2%
9. Newark Liberty International Airport (US): 6.7%
10. LaGuardia Airport (US): 6.7%

Santana, Madeira Travel Guide

0

Located along the northern coast of Madeira island lies the municipality of Santana, named after Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary. Santana is inhabited by less than 9,000 people and covers an area of 96.2 km2.

In 2011, Santana became a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO due to its diverse ecosystem. Santana features rich landscapes with unique cultural and environmental value, including a mountainous environment that occupies river valleys. There are 120 kilometers of biosphere walking routes to discover. 

Santana features a unique architectural style known mainly for the traditional Santana houses in red, white, and blue, with thatched roofs. Its unique style comes from its isolation. Santana was not accessible by sea and land, so the locals preserved its characteristics without outside influences.

This Santana Madeira Travel Guide has everything you need to know about visiting Santana, from the six parishes to the best things to do. 

Guide to Madeira

The 6 Parishes in Santana, Madeira

Santana is a municipality with six parishes: Santana, Faial, Sao Jorge, Sao Roque do Faial, Arco de Sao Jorge, and Ilha. 

1. Santana

Santana town has the highest points on the island with some of the best views. It is perhaps the most popular among tourists due to its traditional Santana homes. These houses have thatched roofs, small windows, and multi-colored exteriors. Santana also features a church in honor of Saint Anne. 

Santana traditional houses. Photo by Florian Meißner (Flickr)

2. Faial

Faial parish was created in 1550. Faial was one of the first to be populated on the north coast along with Sao Jorge and features a tree native to the Macaronesian forest. Faial is known for the beach of Foz da Ribeira do Faial. 

Fortress of Faial, Santana. Photo by Nikola Majksner (Unsplash)

3. Sao Jorge 

Sao Jorge has less than 1,500 inhabitants and was first developed from the Calhau de Sao Jorge area in the 16th century. This parish features the Levade Rei trails through forests and farmland, as well as the Cabanas de Belvedere, a viewpoint with beautiful views of the island. 

4. Sao Roque do Faial

Founded in 1848, Sao Roque do Faial is a small area with around 700 locals. It is named after a patron of a chapel, leading to the creation of a church in the 16th century that was centuries later destroyed by the sea. Sao Roque do Faial features a trout farm, a forest park, and unique trails. 

Sao Roque do Faial. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

5. Arco de Sao Jorge

Named after the arched-shaped mountains that surround it, Arco de Sao Jorge is the smallest parish in Santana, with only 3.5 km2. Arco de Sao Jorge features the Rose Garden of Quinta do Arco, a garden with the largest collection of roses in Portugal. It is also home to the Museum of Vine and Wine, an interactive museum about wine culture. 

Arco de Sao Jorge, Santana. Photo by vincent gressard (Flickr)

6. Ilha

Ilha is the most recent parish, only founded in 1989. It’s called island in Portuguese as it is surrounded by water on all sides. Only about 250 people live here in an area of 15.4 km2. The area is known for the natural reserves of Alchado do Marques ao Caldeirao Verde and the waterfalls. 

4 Best Things to do in Santana, Madeira

1. Discover the traditional Santana houses

The traditional Santana Houses are an iconic staple of the town which you can see in the Center for Traditional houses. The houses were built by locals from straw produced on the local plantation. The houses are triangle shaped, with red, blue, and white accents. 

Locals no longer live in these houses, but they are open to visitors. You will be able to see inside, including the quaint kitchens and where the locals kept their products. Many of the houses have been restored into shops for you to buy souvenirs. 

Photo by Daniela Turcanu (Unsplash)

2. Visit the largest rose garden in Portugal

Quinta do Arco is located in Arco de Sao Jorge. A tourism project, this farm features a hostel surrounded by a natural green environment. However, it is mostly known for its extensive rose garden.

This rose garden is the largest rose collection in all of Portugal. There are over 1,000 species of roses of distinct colors. This sea of flowers makes for unique photographs from ancient to contemporary roses.

Keep in mind that the rose garden is closed between January and March. 

Quinta do Arco. Photo by Toprural (Flickr)

3. Enjoy the Madeira Theme Park

The Madeira Theme Park, known as the Parque Temático da Madeira in Portuguese, is one of Madeira’s most famous tourist attractions. Founded in 2004, the theme park covers over 7 hectares and introduces visitors to Madeira.

From the island’s history to the science behind the area, the theme park spans every topic you can think of. Various attractions are geared toward young people and the elderly, including multimedia pavilions, Santana houses, a labyrinth, a lake, and more. You will also find a restaurant, bar, and souvenir shop on site. 

4. Explore the UNESCO Laurissilva Forest 

Queimadas Forest Park is a Laurissilva forest that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area has a rich biodiversity and a large variety of trees, many of which are indigenous to the area such as the Fringila coelebs madeirensis and the Fringila coelebs madeirensis.

There are also popular hiking trails at Queimadas Forest Park, leading to different parts of the island and passing through beautiful streams. One of the most popular hikes is the Caldeirao Verde Levada trail (PR9). You will also find the Casa de Abrigo das Queimadas, a gorgeous cottage-like home that is open for visitors. 

Casa de Abrigo das Queimadas. Photo by Julia Solonina (Unsplash)

Book Santana Tours

Transportation in Santana: How to get around Santana

You can get to Santana from Funchal by public transport with a 1-hour bus that costs less than 5 euros. If you choose to drive, it’s only a 40-minute ride.

In Santana, there is a limited bus service. You will find buses riding between Santana, Sao Jorge, and Arco de Sao Jorge. There are around five services a day for each route. 

There is also a bus running from Galego and Porta da Cruz to Santana. However, these last two routes only have one to three daily services. 

Therefore, relying completely on buses in Santana is not the best option. We recommend renting a car as, without one, you won’t be able to travel to most places freely. 

Book Car Rental in Portugal

Top Picks in Santana, Madeira

Santana Restaurants

  • Sabores da Ritinha
  • Cantinho da Serra
  • Bragados Santana
  • Serra e Mar
  • Marcel’s Bistro

Santana Hotels

Santana Valley Tours

Apply to be featured on Portugal.com's Travelogues
Join our FB group Portugal Travel & Living for all things Portugal