The British should consider retiring in Portugal for a variety of reasons. First, the country offers a warm and sunny climate, beautiful landscapes, and a lower cost of living than many other European countries. This means that retirees can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Additionally, Portugal is known for its welcoming culture and friendly locals, and many Portuguese people speak English, which can make it easier for British retirees to adapt and integrate into their new home.
Let's look in detail at 9 reasons to retire in Portugal.
Portugal is renowned for its warm and sunny climate, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape colder climates and enjoy a more relaxed, outdoor lifestyle. With temperatures that average in the mid-60s to low-70s (°F) throughout the year, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this enchanting country.
In Portugal you'll be blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine per year and able to venture outside for most of the year. Great if you are moving with kids as you can head to the beach pretty much anytime and try your hand at surfing, paddle, boarding, golf, or any other outdoor sport that you so desire.
Whether it's the warm, sunny beaches of the Algarve or the mild, Mediterranean climate of Lisbon, Portugal is a place where visitors can expect to see plenty of sunshine.
Another highlight of the Portuguese weather is its lack of extreme temperatures. Unlike many other countries that experience hot, humid summers or cold, harsh winters, Portugal's climate is mild and temperate, making it an ideal place to live or visit year-round.
In addition to its warm and sunny climate, Portugal is also home to a number of microclimates that provide a range of different weather conditions. Whether it's the cool, misty mountains of the interior or the arid plains of the Alentejo, each region of the country has its own unique weather patterns that are well worth exploring.
In conclusion, the good weather in Portugal is one of the country's defining characteristics, and it's something that visitors are sure to appreciate and remember long after they've gone home.
Portugal is widely recognized for its political stability. The country has a democratic political system that has been in place since the 1974 Carnation Revolution. Since then, Portugal has had a series of stable governments that have worked to maintain political and economic stability in the country.
This has allowed Portugal to build a reputation as a reliable and safe place to do business, attracting foreign investors and companies to the country. The Portuguese government has also implemented measures to improve the quality of life for its citizens, with policies aimed at reducing poverty, improving education and healthcare, and promoting social inclusion.
Furthermore, Portugal has a strong commitment to human rights and civil liberties, with laws and institutions in place to protect the rights of its citizens. Overall, Portugal's political stability has helped to create a favorable environment for economic growth and development, making it an attractive destination for tourists, investors, and those seeking a safe and stable place to live.
Portuguese cuisine is a true gem of the culinary world, with a rich history and a diverse range of flavors that will satisfy any food lover's palate. It is heavily influenced by the country's long history of exploration and trade, as well as its proximity to the sea and its abundant fresh seafood.
One of the most famous dishes in Portuguese cuisine is bacalhau, or salt cod. This fish has been a staple in Portuguese cuisine for centuries, and there are said to be over a thousand ways to prepare it! It can be grilled, baked, fried, or served in a variety of stews and soups, and is often paired with potatoes, onions, and olives.
Another classic dish is cozido, a hearty stew made with a variety of meats and vegetables, often including beef, pork, chicken, and various types of sausage. This is a popular winter dish, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.
Seafood lovers will also be thrilled with the many options available in Portuguese cuisine. Grilled sardines are a popular street food, while caldeirada is a fish stew made with a mix of seafood, including mussels, clams, and prawns. And let's not forget about the famous Portuguese shrimp and garlic dish, gambas à la guilho, which is simple yet incredibly flavorful.
Finally, no discussion of Portuguese cuisine would be complete without mentioning the country's delicious pastries. The most famous of these is the pastel de nata, a creamy custard tart with a crispy, flaky pastry crust. These can be found in just about every bakery in Portugal, and are an absolute must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Let's not forget the non-habitual residence scheme where, if structured correctly, you can gain generous tax benefits for a 10-year period. Perfect for Americans moving to the country.
The Non-Habitual Residence Scheme (NHR) in Portugal is a tax program that was introduced to attract high net worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and foreign professionals to the country. The scheme provides these individuals with a special tax status, which allows them to take advantage of Portugal's favorable tax regime for a period of ten years.
Under the NHR program, qualifying individuals are exempt from paying Portuguese tax on certain types of foreign-sourced income, including pensions, rental income, and certain professional services. Additionally, the program also offers a reduced tax rate on other types of income, such as dividends and capital gains, making it an attractive option for those looking to minimize their tax liability.
To qualify for the NHR program, individuals must be resident in Portugal for 183 days or more per year, and they must not have been tax resident in the country in the preceding five years. Additionally, the individual must prove that they have no intention of remaining in Portugal beyond the ten-year NHR period.
One of the standout features of the NHR program is its simplicity and ease of use. Individuals who wish to take advantage of the scheme simply need to apply through the Portuguese tax authorities, and once they have been approved, they can start enjoying the benefits of the program immediately.
The NHR program has been highly successful in attracting high net worth individuals and entrepreneurs to Portugal, and it has helped to bolster the country's economy by providing it with a steady stream of investment and talent. Additionally, it has also made Portugal an attractive destination for those looking to retire abroad, with its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and excellent quality of life.
Portugal offers a variety of activities and experiences, including golf, sailing, and wine tasting. With its mild climate, beautiful coastline, and stunning vineyards, Portugal is a perfect place for those who enjoy outdoor activities and exploring local culture.
Golf is a popular activity in Portugal, with the country boasting over 70 world-class golf courses, many of which are located in the Algarve region in the south of the country. The Algarve is a golfer's paradise, offering beautiful courses set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery. The region is also home to several golf resorts, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts.
Sailing is another popular activity in Portugal, particularly along the country's extensive coastline. The Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto are all excellent sailing destinations, with a range of marinas and ports that offer boat rentals and sailing excursions. The Portuguese coastline is known for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and hidden coves, making it a perfect place to explore by boat.
Wine tasting is a must-do activity in Portugal, as the country is famous for its excellent wines. Portugal has several wine regions, including the Douro Valley, which is home to some of the world's best-known Port wines. Wine tasting tours are popular in the Douro Valley, and visitors can explore the beautiful vineyards, taste the local wines, and learn about the history and culture of winemaking in the region.
The relationship between Portugal and the Schengen area may be of interest to UK citizens considering retirement in Portugal. The Schengen Area is a zone of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders, allowing for the free movement of people, goods, and services. Portugal is a member of the Schengen Area, and as such, British citizens with residency in Portugal can enjoy visa-free travel to other Schengen countries.
This may be particularly enticing for British citizens who wish to travel frequently or maintain connections with family and friends in other parts of Europe. The ability to travel without the need for additional visas or border checks can make it easier and more convenient for retirees to maintain their social connections and explore other parts of Europe.
Furthermore, the freedom of movement provided by the Schengen Area can be beneficial for business and investment purposes. Entrepreneurs and investors who wish to conduct business in other parts of Europe can do so with ease, without having to navigate additional visa requirements or border checks.
Portugal offers a lower cost of living compared to the United Kingdom, which makes it an attractive destination for many people. The cost of food, housing, transportation, and entertainment are all generally cheaper in Portugal than in the UK.
For example, according to Numbeo, a website that compares cost of living in different countries, the cost of groceries in Portugal is approximately 37% lower than in the UK. In addition, the cost of housing in Portugal is significantly lower, with rental prices often being up to 50% lower than those in the UK. This means that retirees and expats can afford to live in more spacious and comfortable accommodation for a lower cost.
Transportation costs are also lower in Portugal. The country has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and trains, which are often significantly cheaper than in the UK. Taxis are also more affordable, making it easier and more affordable to get around the country.
In terms of entertainment, Portugal offers a wide range of options for much less than in the UK. Dining out, going to the cinema, and attending cultural events are all more affordable in Portugal than in the UK, which means that retirees and expats can enjoy a rich and fulfilling lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Portugal offers a lower cost of healthcare compared to the United Kingdom, which can be a major consideration for retirees and expats. The country's public healthcare system is generally considered to be of a high standard, and private healthcare options are also available at a lower cost than in the UK.
One reason for the lower cost of healthcare in Portugal is the country's lower cost of living in general. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are paid less in Portugal than in the UK, which helps to keep the cost of healthcare services lower.
In addition, the Portuguese government has implemented policies that make healthcare more affordable for everyone. For example, all legal residents of Portugal are entitled to free or low-cost healthcare under the National Health Service (SNS). The SNS covers a wide range of healthcare services, including doctor's visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.
Private healthcare options are also available in Portugal, often at a significantly lower cost than in the UK. Many private healthcare providers offer competitive prices for procedures such as dental work, elective surgery, and specialist consultations. Private health insurance is also more affordable in Portugal, which can help to further reduce the cost of healthcare for retirees and expats.
The short distance between Portugal and the UK is a significant advantage for British citizens considering retirement in Portugal. The two countries are relatively close geographically, with a flight time of around two and a half hours from the UK to Portugal. This proximity makes it easy for retirees to maintain close ties with family and friends in the UK while enjoying the benefits of life in Portugal.
For many British retirees, the ability to maintain close connections with family and friends is a key consideration when choosing a retirement destination. Portugal's short distance from the UK means that retirees can visit family and friends frequently and easily, without the need for long and expensive flights or extended periods away from home.
In addition, the short distance between Portugal and the UK can also be beneficial for practical reasons. For example, retirees who need to return to the UK for medical treatment or to deal with administrative issues can do so relatively easily and quickly. This can be particularly important for retirees who may have health issues or other needs that require frequent travel.
The short distance between Portugal and the UK can also make it easier to maintain a sense of cultural familiarity for British retirees. The two countries share many cultural similarities, including a love of football, a passion for good food and wine, and a rich history and cultural heritage. This can make the transition to life in Portugal less daunting for retirees, as they can feel more at home in a familiar cultural context.
