Golden Visa: Residency by Investment Booklet

Portugal is generally considered a very safe country to live in or visit, with a low crime rate and a friendly, welcoming culture. The Algarve is a safe and welcoming region for expats or digital nomads. Portugal has one of the most effective immigration authorities and border services (SEF) to ensure the safety of its residents. Being part of the Schengen region, Portugal must abide by safety rules imposed by the European Union. Overall, it has been ranked as one of the top 3 safest countries in the world by the Global Peace Index in recent years, and it is generally perceived as safer than many other parts of Europe.

The cost of living in Portugal is generally lower than in many other parts of Europe, including the UK and the US. However, it can vary depending on the specific location and lifestyle. According to Numbeo's Cost of Living Index, Portugal ranks in the middle of the scale in terms of the overall cost of living compared to other European countries.

Portugal's National healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), is universally accessible and funded through taxation and contributions. It offers high-quality care with well-trained professionals and modern facilities. Private healthcare is also available. National healthcare is the most effective in treating immediate acute healthcare issues and emergencies. GP services, regional healthcare centres, and a strong and robust private healthcare ecosystem exist.

Portugal's education is mandatory from ages 6-18, spanning public and private schools. Higher education is provided by universities and polytechnics, aligning with the Bologna Process. The country boasts high literacy and values education. Private schools, accredited and following the national curriculum, often have smaller classes, more resources, and might offer multilingual education. Fees differ, so researching schools via one of our experts is advised. Private tuition for Portuguese exists, but many in wealthy areas speak English.

Popular cities and regions in Portugal for affluent expats to settle down include Lisbon and neighbouring areas such as Cascais, Oeiras, and Sintra, which are west of Lisbon. The Algarve region has some of the most exclusive places to live for affluent expats. Porto, neighbouring Vila Nova de Gaia, and the emerging Silver Coast region is also starting to attract people looking for an uplifting and upmarket lifestyle in Portugal.

When considering the weather, it's also worth noting that Portugal boasts one of Europe's highest amounts of sunshine, with an average of 2500-3200 hours of sunlight annually. The sea temperature can also be a factor for those who enjoy water activities. Sea temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in the winter to 20°C (68°F) in the summer, depending on the region. Although a small country, Portugal offers various climates due to its geographical positioning and topography.