As political landscapes evolve, many consider moving abroad for stability and new opportunities. Portugal, with all its allure, has become a favoured destination for North Americans, as well as other countries scattered around the globe. However, this significant relocation requires careful preparation amidst political changes. For example, both the United States and Portugal will hold elections in 2024. Here's how to ready yourself mentally and physically if you are looking to move, and specifically a move to Portugal:

1. Stay Informed:

   • Keep up with global politics, especially Portuguese politics, through reputable news sources to understand potential impacts on your move. Try to look for viewpoints from both the right and the left to get a sense of where the general population might be and if it aligns with you.

2. Build a Support Network:

   • Join expat communities online or through social media platforms to connect with others who have made similar moves. There are lots of folks who have gone through what you are planning and you may find comfort in knowing you are not alone.

3. Financial Planning:

   • Utilize online tools to track exchange rates and current estimates on living expenses based on local cost of living data. Keeping in mind what your lifestyle and personal preferences are, some of these sites will give a pretty solid guideline for common expenses. Many clients don’t have the current information on property prices and rental rates as these will play largely into your budget planning. This is where we can help you navigate what’s happening in the real estate or rental market.

4. Learn Portuguese and Cultural Norms:

   • Take advantage of language learning apps and online cultural guides to familiarize yourself with Portuguese language and customs. Even with a high level of English spoken across the country, having some basic Portuguese will help with the transition and also increase enjoyment and appreciation when living here.

5. Prioritize Health and Well-being:

   • Find the right healthcare coverage and consider going with private healthcare in Portugal. The costs are typically much less what one would be paying compared to the United States. Also check in with online expat forums or healthcare directories if there are specific needs that may fall outside of core services.

6. Practice Mental Toughness:

   • Enhance resilience with mindfulness apps or online support communities for expats facing similar challenges. Making a move this significant will take a crack at your mental health. Keep focus on your “why” and take each step as it comes. Although we specialize in buying property, our clients have mostly been foreign buyers, who has more or less made this move, so we do have many experiences we can share when you are ready to embark on your property buying journey.

7. Prepare in Your Home Country:

   • Before moving to Portugal, one must have their NIF numbers and a Portuguese bank account. Consider these low-risk assets as there’s not a significant investment if you chose not to move to Portugal later but is a must have to make the move. Try easystarteurope.com to get yourself setup and ready to go.

By leveraging available online resources, as well as the services that we offer, you'll navigate any changes to the political landscape and transition to Portugal with confidence.

If you have any questions or topics you'd like us to cover, leave them in the comments below or book a call with us. We're here to help!

Até já,

Mia and Rafael