Emigrate to Portugal
Emigrate to Portugal: Find out the most important information for your stay here
Portugal is a southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain. For many who wish to emigrate to Portugal, the cultural and culinary influences are particularly appealing. Its location on the Atlantic Ocean has strongly influenced the country's culture: stockfish and grilled sardines are among the traditional dishes, the beaches of the Algarve are popular vacation destinations, and many buildings date from the 16th to 19th centuries, when Portugal was a leading seafaring nation. Emigrating to Portugal therefore offers the opportunity to live in a country with a rich history and beautiful landscapes.
Facts about Portugal
Capital City
Lisbon
Population
10.41 million
Surface Area
57,260.60 mi² or 92,152 km²
Continent
Europe
Official Language
Portuguese
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Emigrating to Portugal: An overview of the political system
Portugal is a parliamentary republic. After the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974 and the end of the Salazar/Caetano dictatorship, the Portuguese colonies in Africa gained their independence in 1975. The constitution of 1976 marked the return to democracy. The Portuguese President is elected by direct vote for a five-year term of office. He is commander-in-chief of the armed forces, can dissolve parliament, dismiss the government and is regularly consulted on important political issues. The government is headed by the Prime Minister. Portugal has been a member of the United Nations since 1955, a member of the European Union since 1986 and a member of the eurozone. Portugal is also a founding member of NATO.
Climate in Portugal: Important information for emigrants
Portugal has a temperate maritime climate, although there are regional differences. The north of the country is generally wetter and cooler than the south. The mountainous regions of the north-east have a much more continental climate with large temperature differences between the hot, relatively dry summers and the cold winters. The south, on the other hand, has a Mediterranean climate. In the summer months, temperatures often rise well above 30 degrees and there is little rainfall. In winter, on the other hand, there is plenty of rain and mild temperatures.
The Azores and Madeira have a special climate. The Azores are influenced by the Gulf Stream, which leads to mild and humid conditions all year round, accompanied by frequently changeable weather. On Madeira, the temperature differences between summer and winter are even smaller. Rainfall is rare in summer and temperatures can occasionally rise to 40 degrees due to winds from the Sahara.
Healthcare system in Portugal: Important facts for emigrants
Spain is a popular destination for working expats and retirees. As one of the largest countries in Western Europe, it offers expats a diverse natural environment and a variety of cultural experiences. Spain is characterized According to the WHO, Portugal's national health service ranks 12th in the world. A special feature is the free access for all Portuguese to basic healthcare services and operations in public healthcare facilities, apart from low co-payments and deductibles. Patients can also take advantage of subsidies for medication, dentures, glasses and cures. Preventive healthcare, including vaccinations, has improved in recent years. The medical care ratio in Portugal is 3.33 doctors per 1,000 inhabitants compared to 3.73 in Germany. Private healthcare providers are becoming increasingly important and are securing a growing share of the healthcare market.
Emigrating to Portugal: An overview of the economic situation and quality of life
Portugal's gross domestic product per capita amounted to 27,880.70 US dollars in 2023. The Gini coefficient of wealth describes the distribution of wealth. The indicator is an established, internationally comparable measure of wealth inequality. It is measured on a scale from zero to one. The higher the value, the greater the inequality. The Gini coefficient in Portugal was around 0.32 in 2022 (source: Statista).
One of the most appealing aspects of living in Portugal is undoubtedly the pleasant climate. For many looking to emigrate to Portugal, the warm summers and mild winters are particularly attractive as they provide an ideal environment for those who appreciate outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle. The picturesque landscapes, ranging from golden beaches to lush green mountains, invite diverse exploration and leisure opportunities. Another significant advantage of living in Portugal is the affordable cost of living. Compared to many other European countries, these are lower in Portugal, including the cost of real estate, utilities and transportation. Dining out and entertainment options are also inexpensive, so you can enjoy a high quality of life without straining your budget too much. Emigrating to Portugal therefore makes it possible to live in a country with beautiful nature and pleasant living conditions.
National holiday
Dia de Portugal
The date refers to the anniversary of the death of the national poet Luís de Camões, who wrote the national epic poem "The Lusiades".
Emigrate to Portugal - Entry Requirements
Entry is possible for German nationals with the following documents:
- Passport: Yes
- Temporary passport: Yes
- Identity card: Yes
- Provisional identity card: Yes, must be valid
- Children's passport: Yes
FAQs for emigrating to Portugal
Where can I find relevant information about my country of entry and the entry regulations that apply there?
We have compiled destination country information as well as entry requirements and customs information for many countries in the Relocation Service section of our website and are constantly expanding this section.
Can I use my own container that I already own for the move with DACHSER & KOLB?
For every removal, which we at DACHSER & KOLB always offer as a door-to-door (full service) removal, a container is rented for the duration of the removal. We therefore do not offer the option of using your own container.
Who is responsible for my move abroad and the services I need there?
As a FIDI member, we work abroad with selected, long-standing partners who work in accordance with our service standards.
Are my removal goods insured in the event of damage?
For every overseas move, we naturally cover transportation insurance at current value for the used household goods and personal belongings
What types of transportation do you offer for overseas relocation?
It is generally possible to carry out overseas removals via air freight or sea freight. In the case of sea freight, it is possible to ship the removal goods as additional cargo (“LCL shipment” with Liftvan) or with a container (FCL shipment in 20 feet, 40 feet or 40 feet high cube). We will be happy to discuss which option is best for you in a personal consultation.
When and how must the move be paid for and what is the payment deadline?
You will receive an invoice a few weeks after placing the order and pay the full amount directly in advance.
Do I have to pay taxes and customs duties on my removal goods?
Removal goods can be imported tax and duty-free into most countries if you have a valid residence permit. We will be happy to check the options for importing the removal goods for your desired destination country in a personal consultation.
Are you interested in moving to Portugal or another destination country?
Then do not hesitate and contact us today.
Alexander Brugger
Teamlead Customer Service & Sales - AIR&SEA
