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Settling in to your life in Portugal

Settling in to your life in Portugal After you have bought your new Portuguese property and moved to Portugal, it might take you a while to feel settled in your new surroundings.

However, there are steps you can take to make your new area feel like home in no time.

Portugal is a very friendly place, and English is widely spoken in the main cities and tourist hubs, but it is always useful to try and learn some basics - and it'll help you to integrate with the local community even faster.

How can estate agents help you settle in?

Many of the estate agents well versed in selling to overseas buyers will provide help in matters far beyond the home purchase process, from how to register for utilities, to how to find tradesmen with to help fix it up and healthcare and schools. Some agents are UK expats themselves, and will have gone through the same process so understand that a little hand-holding can go a long way.

Meeting people

Even if your agent doesn’t have a dedicated 'after sales' department, you’ll find plenty of people ready to help, from expats already based on your street or development (do go and introduce yourself), to various societies and forums (such as expatsportugal.com). You might also want to join in with social media locally, like designated Facebook groups. After a quick search of your new region in the Facebook search bar you're sure to find a number of groups to get involved with!

On the Algarve, if you play golf, you’ll quickly find yourself part of an expat social scene. Bars and restaurants organise golf days, followed by dinner and drinks. There are many other ways to meet people to - from theatre, biking, bowls or running clubs on the Algarve, to pure social clubs. There is a very active side to a life lived mainly outdoors, and expats do always say how much healthier they feel after a move to Portugal.

FAQs: Settling in to your life in Portugal

Is it easy to settle in Portugal as a foreigner?

Yes. Portugal is known for its welcoming atmosphere, large expat communities, and high quality of life. Many newcomers find it easy to integrate, especially in regions such as the Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto where English is widely spoken.

Do I need to speak Portuguese to live in Portugal?

While many locals speak English, especially in urban and tourist areas, learning Portuguese will help you settle in more easily, deal with administration, and connect with your community. Even basic knowledge is highly valued by locals.

What is the cost of living like in Portugal?

The cost of living is generally lower than in the UK and other Western European countries. Housing, utilities, and food are affordable, though costs vary by region. Cities like Lisbon and Cascais are more expensive than rural areas or smaller towns.

Are there large expat communities in Portugal?

Yes. Portugal has well-established expat communities, particularly in the Algarve, Silver Coast, and Lisbon. These networks make it easier to find support, socialise, and access English-speaking services.

How is healthcare in Portugal for expats?

Healthcare in Portugal is high-quality and affordable. Residents can access the public health system (SNS), while private healthcare and insurance options are also widely available at lower costs than in many countries.

Is Portugal safe for expats?

Yes. Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates and a relaxed lifestyle. This makes it especially popular with retirees and families.

What cultural differences should I expect when moving to Portugal?

Life in Portugal is generally slower paced, with an emphasis on family, community, and enjoying outdoor living. Lunch hours may be longer, and many businesses close on Sundays. Adapting to local customs will help you feel at home more quickly.

How long does it take to feel settled in Portugal?

This varies by individual, but most expats report feeling settled within the first year. Joining local clubs, learning the language, and participating in community activities all help speed up the adjustment process.

Settling in to your life in Portugal Download our guide