How to move to Portugal for permanent residence through the purchase of real estate: instructions for investors

Golden beaches, year-round sunshine and a leisurely pace of life – sounds like a dream? The pros of living in Portugal seem obvious, but the country has challenges as well as benefits. For those considering a move, it’s important to know the ins and outs, from the cost of living to the Portuguese ‘saudade’.

Why move to Portugal

Many people consider moving to Portugal because of its rich culture, climate and gastronomic traditions: what makes the perks of living in the country so attractive to foreigners? Affordable living, a warm climate and friendly locals create excellent conditions for emigration.

Portuguese culture and mentality

The pros of living in Portugal for Russians are travelling to a world where every day is filled with a sense of “saudade”. This unique concept combines a light sadness and a deep love of life. The Portuguese live unhurried lives and appreciate the simple pleasures of family dinners, walks by the ocean and cafés.

The locals are some of the most hospitable people in Europe. They are open to communication and treat foreigners with respect. They will always help you get your bearings, explain the way and invite you for a cup of coffee. In Portugal, holidays are not just days on the calendar, but a real event. For example, the St Anthony’s Festival in Lisbon turns the city into a colourful carnival with grilled sardines and music until dawn.

Climate and nature of Portugal

300 days of sunshine a year and ocean breezes create a unique climate. The perks of living in Portugal include warm summers and mild winters. The mountains and vineyards to the north and the beaches of the Algarve to the south. This natural palette allows everyone to choose their perfect place to live.

The north of Portugal welcomes rainy winters and cool summers. Here are the cities of Porto and Braga, surrounded by the green hills and vineyards of the Douro Valley. Nature lovers will appreciate hiking trails in the Peneda Gerês National Park.

Central Portugal offers a mild climate with warm summers and moderate winters. In cities such as Coimbra and Aveiro, temperatures reach +30°C in summer and rarely fall below +10°C in winter.

The south of the country is famous for the beaches of the Algarve, where summers are hot and dry. Temperatures in July and August often exceed +35°C. The region’s calling card is its rocky bays, sandy beaches and cosy fishing villages.

The pros of living in Portugal

Government support, affordable healthcare and low cost of living make the country attractive to emigrants.

Social benefits and affordable healthcare

The SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) public health system provides quality services for all residents. Most health services in public hospitals are free or require a token fee. For example, an appointment with a general practitioner costs about 5 € and a consultation with a specialist costs up to 20 €. A residence permit is required to receive medical care, which allows you to use all the benefits of the SNS system.

Private clinics offer faster service and a high level of comfort. For example, a consultation in a private clinic will cost 70-100 €. Medicine is of European standards and Portuguese doctors are renowned for their competence.

The advantages of living in Portugal for families are obvious: affordable medicine, free education and a safe environment for children.

Housing and property in Portugal for families and retirees

The pros of living in Portugal include being able to buy a home at relatively affordable prices compared to other European countries. The average cost of a flat in Lisbon is 3,000 € per square metre, in Porto it is around 2,500 €, and in smaller towns and rural areas you can find options from 1,000 € per square metre.

Buying a home for a family

Portugal offers excellent conditions for families. Property in Portugal is an opportunity to choose a house or a flat in quiet suburbs with developed infrastructure and green areas. Cities such as Cascais, Setubal and Coimbra are ideal for living with children thanks to quality schools, parks and sports grounds.

Features of family housing:

1. Houses with gardens and swimming pools on the coast.
2. Flats in modern residential complexes with car parks and playgrounds.
3. Developed infrastructure: schools, shops, hospitals in walking distance.

Real estate for pensioners

Real estate in Portugal for retirees – cosy flats and villas in regions with mild climate. The southern region of the Algarve is famous for its comfortable residences for seniors, which offer medical services, social programmes and the opportunity to enjoy nature all year round.

Popular regions for retirees:

1. The Algarve has a warm climate, sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
2. Lisbon and its surroundings – convenient transport and a high level of medical care.
3. Madeira is an island paradise for those seeking seclusion and stunning views.

The pros of living in Portugal for retirees include low taxes on pensions and the ability to receive medical care to European standards.

Cost of living: how to plan a budget

The pros of living in Portugal are closely linked to the affordability of living. Starna remains one of the most inexpensive countries in Western Europe. The average monthly budget for a family of four is around 2000-2500 € and for a single person 1000 €. The main living expenses are:

Housing:

1. Rent a flat in Lisbon from 800 € per month.
2. Rent a flat in Porto from 600 €.
3. In smaller towns, from 400 €.

Transport:

1. Public transport pass – 40 € per month.
2. A litre of petrol is €1.80.

Products:

1. Bread— 1 €.
2. Milk — 0.90 €.
3. A kilo of meat — 8-10 €.

Peculiarities of life in Portugal for different categories

Portugal for life attracts young people because of its vibrant cities, affordable education and rich cultural life. Lisbon and Porto are considered technological centres where start-ups and creative industries are actively developing.

Opportunities for young people:

1. High quality education at the Universities of Lisbon and Coimbra.
2. Co-working centres and startup incubators for those who dream of their own business.
3. Nightlife: clubs, bars and festivals are open until morning.

For families: education and security

The pros of living in Portugal for Russian families are safe cities, quality education and affordable medicine. Children can study in Portuguese schools or international educational institutions.

Conclusion

The pros of living in Portugal create a picture of comfortable, affordable and fulfilling everyday life. The country is suitable for different categories of emigrants: from young professionals to retirees. With careful preparation, moving to Portugal can be the beginning of a new, amazing chapter of life under the southern sun.

Considering Lisbon for a move? Portugal’s capital city offers a number of advantages to Russians, from its warm climate and rich history to its European standard of living and relatively easy adaptation. Lisbon is a city where majestic architecture, breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the dynamism of modern European life meet, intertwined with a measured southern pace. It offers good opportunities for living, business and investment.

In this article we will tell you in detail about life in Lisbon for Russians. Our material will help to thoroughly understand all the details: from the cost of living to the prospects of buying property.

Pros and cons of living in Lisbon

Living in the capital of Portugal has many advantages. Lisbon is famous for its mild Mediterranean climate. In summer the temperature stays between 28-30 °C, and in winter it rarely drops below 10 °C. The city has wide beaches that are open all year round. Lisbon is an ideal place for lovers of surfing and other water sports. The city’s infrastructure is developed at a high level. Metro, buses, trams – all types of transport operate on schedule. Lisbon Airport accepts flights from all over the world, which is convenient for travellers.

The cost of living in Lisbon is relatively low compared to other European capitals. For example, renting a one-bedroom flat in the city centre costs 900-1200 euros a month, and a meal in a middle-class restaurant costs 15-20 euros. The city also offers opportunities for quality education. Study in Lisbon takes place in world-renowned universities such as Universidade de Lisboa and Universidade Nova de Lisboa. There are many international schools with instruction in English, which is convenient for families with children.

The disadvantages of living in Lisbon

The pros and cons of living in Lisbon go hand in hand. The disadvantages include bureaucracy and a lengthy paperwork process. For example, it can take several months to obtain a residence permit (VNG).

Another disadvantage is high income and property taxes. For example, property tax in Lisbon varies from 0.3% to 0.8% per year of the assessed value of the dwelling. Traffic congestion and traffic jams can be a problem during rush hour. The narrow streets of the historic centre are not always suitable for modern transport. In addition, tourists flood the city in the summer, which increases prices for services and rentals.

Peculiarities of buying property in Lisbon

Property in Lisbon attracts Russian buyers due to the variety of offers. In the city you can find both old flats with high ceilings in the districts of Bairro Alto and Alfama, and modern flats in the Park of Nations. The cost per square metre in the central areas ranges from 4000 to 7000 euros, and in the suburbs you can find housing at prices from 2500 euros per square metre.

Lisbon is divided into the old and new city. The old city has historical architecture, narrow streets and famous trams. The new city offers modern residential complexes, shopping malls and business centres. Buying property in these areas is suitable for investment and personal residence.

How the process of buying a property works

There are several steps required to purchase a home. First, a preliminary contract is signed with the seller. The buyer pays a deposit of 10% of the cost of housing. Then the object is checked for legal cleanliness. After that, the parties sign the main contract at a notary.

The following documents will be needed for the transaction:

1. Buyer’s Passport.
2. Portuguese Tax Number (NIF).
3. Extract from the land registry.
4. A document of the appraised value of the property.

Once the contract is signed, the buyer pays property transfer tax (IMT), which ranges from 2% to 8%. Notary fees and title registration are also required.

How to get a residence permit in Lisbon through buying a property

One of the ways to get a foothold in Lisbon is to participate in the Golden Visa programme. An investor buys a property worth 500,000 euros or more and receives a residence permit for 1 year with subsequent extension. After 5 years, it is possible to apply for permanent residence and, subsequently, for Portuguese citizenship.

The best neighbourhoods in Lisbon to live in

Lisbon is divided into several interesting neighbourhoods for living and investing. Among them stand out:

1. Bairro Alto is the historic centre, famous for its narrow streets, bars and restaurants. A great choice for nightlife lovers and active leisure travellers.
2. Alfama is the city’s oldest neighbourhood with stunning views of the Tagus. It is home to old buildings, fado clubs and cosy cafés. The cost of accommodation is higher than average due to its popularity with tourists.
3. Parc des Nations is a modern neighbourhood with new residential complexes, waterfront and developed infrastructure. A great option for families and investors looking for modern housing.
4. Ajuda is a quiet and inexpensive area where you can find flats priced at 2500-3000 euros per square metre. Suitable for those who prefer to live away from the tourist flows.
5. Cascais and Estoril are suburbs of Lisbon offering luxury villas and flats by the ocean. The cost of real estate here starts from 5000 euros per square metre.

Family neighbourhoods and infrastructure

For families with children, proximity to schools and kindergartens is important. Living in Lisbon with children for Russians is comfortable due to the presence of international schools such as Carlucci American International School of Lisbon and St. Julian’s School. These schools offer programmes in English and a high level of education.

The infrastructure of neighbourhoods such as Oeiras and Almada includes parks, playgrounds and sports complexes. Transport links allow quick access to the city centre.

Features of life in Lisbon for Russians

Life in Lisbon is made easier for Russians thanks to the loyal attitude of the Portuguese towards foreigners. Many locals speak English, which makes communication easier. Portuguese culture combines southern emotionality and European openness.

Russian communities are actively developing in Lisbon. Russian-speaking doctors, lawyers and business consultants work in the city. There are shops with familiar products and cafes offering Russian cuisine.

Language barrier and obtaining documents

Knowing Portuguese makes it much easier to adapt. Language courses are available in language schools and online. In order to obtain a residence permit or permanent residence permit, it is necessary to pass a basic language proficiency exam (A2).

The process of obtaining a visa to Portugal for Russians requires the preparation of a number of documents, such as a certificate of income, health insurance and proof of residence. After moving in, an application for a residence permit is submitted. After 5 years one can apply for a residence permit and subsequently for Portuguese citizenship.

Cost of living in Lisbon

The cost of living is lower than in other European capitals such as Paris or London.

Rental Housing:

1. One bedroom flat in the city centre – 900-1200 euros per month.
2. A two-bedroom flat – 1400-1800 euros.

Products:

1. Bread costs 1 euro.
2. A litre of milk is €0.90.
3. Chicken fillet – 6 euros per kilo.

Transport:

1. A monthly pass is 40 euros.
2. Taxi around the city – 10-15 euros per trip.

Utility payments and taxes

Utilities cost an average of 100-150 euros per month for a 70 square metre flat. This includes electricity, water, gas and internet. Property taxes in Lisbon include an annual IMI tax (0.3%-0.8% of the value of the property). When buying a home, the IMT tax is paid, which is up to 8% of the value of the property.

Conclusion

Life in Lisbon for Russians combines comfort, warm climate and European standard of living. The city offers opportunities for business, investment and quiet living. Moving requires careful preparation, but the advantages – a mild climate, affordable housing and developed infrastructure – make Lisbon an attractive choice for many Russians.