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Blog • Europe • 26 Apr 2024
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Many of us in the UK are drawn to Portugal's sunshine and relaxing lifestyle. The country offers a rich culture and friendly people. Moving there can be complex, especially after Brexit, with more legal steps needed. Yet, with good planning and help, moving to Portugal can still be done.
It's important to know the international relocation costs when moving to Portugal. The average cost to move a 3-bedroom house to Portugal in 2024 is usually between £4,500 and £7,000 from standard UK providers. Many factors can change the removal services pricing and your budget.
Things that affect moving costs include:
It's key to get a clear cost breakdown for your move. This info is vital for budgeting and setting the right expectations. At Deliver1, you can see these exact costs broken down within our easy to navigate customer portal, so you'll never get any unexpected shocks.
When planning an international move, we first figure out our move volume calculation. This tells us how much stuff we're moving. It's key for planning costs and shipping methods. Knowing how much space our things will take helps pick the right lorry. This avoids paying for space we don't need.
We start by checking every room, deciding what comes to Portugal with us. From tiny trinkets to big furniture, everything counts. A checklist for each room helps. It's not just for estimating size but also for packing order. This list is super helpful for the move and talking with movers.
Cutting down clutter is a big part of moving prep. It's more than just lowering the volume; it's about figuring out what matters. Letting go of old things makes room for new experiences. We can sell, donate, or recycle what we don't need. This makes the move simpler and cheaper, helping us start anew in Portugal.
If you're planning to move to Portugal, considering air freight, container shipping, and road transit to Portugal is crucial. Each mode affects your moving timeline and budget differently.
Air freight means getting your stuff fast, like being in the fast lane. It's perfect for quick moves but costs more. It suits small shipments or must-have items that you need right away.
Container shipping is the cheaper option, taking the sea route. While it's slower, you can send a lot more for less. It's ideal for moving big household loads without spending a lot.
Road transit to Portugal offers a bit of both worlds. It's not as fast as air or as cheap as sea, but it's versatile. You can plan multiple stops, which is great for complicated moves.
Your choice should reflect what's most important to you. Choose air freight for speed, sea transport for saving money on big moves, and road transit for its flexibility. Think about what you value most and plan accordingly.
Think about more than just moving your stuff. The season matters a lot too. The peak moving season hits in summer when everyone wants to move. That makes prices go way up. Choosing an off-peak relocation saves money and cuts stress.
Skipping summer’s high costs means moving in autumn or winter. Demand drops, so you might get discounts. Outside the busy season, movers offer better deals and more attention.
Moving off-peak is smart for your wallet and stress levels. Movers have more free slots, sticking closer to your moving timetable. Let's look at how off-peak times stack up against peak season:
Season | Availability | Average Cost Savings | Additional Benefits |
| Summer (Peak) | Limited | None | Faster settling (school holidays) |
| Autumn (Off-Peak) | High | Up to 20-30% | Lower traffic, cooler weather |
| Winter (Off-Peak) | High | Up to 20-30% | Less competition for services |
| Spring (Varies) | Moderate | Up to 10-15% | Mild weather, pre-summer rush |
Avoiding the busy season isn’t just about saving money. It’s also about less stress. Planning an off-peak move gives you a smoother experience.
After Brexit, those thinking about moving to Portugal face new rules and visa needs. Understanding these changes is important for a legal and easy move. To assist, we will look at how the EU settlement scheme has changed and its impact on Brits wanting to move to Portugal.
Since the UK left the EU, understanding the different visas and their requirements has become more important. Whether for work, living permanently, or even long holidays, you'll need the right paperwork. This was not needed before Brexit.
Visa Type | Duration | Purpose | Key Requirements |
| Temporary Stay Visa | Up to 1 year | Short-term work, study, or family visit | Passport, proof of income, health insurance |
| Residency Visa | 5 years, renewable | Settling long-term | Passport, criminal record check, accommodation proof |
| Work Visa | Subject to contract | Economic activity/employment | Employment contract, qualifications, labour market test |
Now that we're no longer part of the EU settlement scheme, each visa application is individually assessed. Whatever the reason for our move - be it a new job or the charm of Portuguese culture - having the correct documents is critical. It will make moving to Portugal easier.
Starting a new life in Portugal is exciting. You must prepare well. This includes having a detailed emigration checklist. It will help sort your documents, understand Portugal's residency process, and arrange healthcare.
We start by getting all important documents ready. A good set of documents is crucial. You'll need up-to-date passports, birth and marriage certificates if needed. Don’t forget your financial records, such as income proof and tax clearances. An International Driving Permit is also key for driving in Portugal.
It's crucial to understand how to register as a resident in Portugal. After moving, you should register with the local municipality soon. This helps avoid legal issues. You'll apply for a registration certificate that allows you to legally live in Portugal. We'll help you gather the needed documents for a smooth registration.
Setting up healthcare is a vital step. Healthcare in Portugal is not fully free for foreigners. So, getting good health insurance is a must. Also, sign up for Portugal's Health Service and get an EHIC card for EU travel.
Checklist Item | Details | Action Steps |
| Passport and Legal Documents | Valid passports and necessary legal certificates. | Gather all documentation and check the expiration dates. |
| Financial Records | Proof of income, tax documents and bank statements. | Ensure financial records are up-to-date and accessible. |
| Residency Registration in Portugal | Registration within the local Portuguese municipality. | Complete the Certificado de Registo application promptly upon arrival. |
| Healthcare Coverage | Insurance policies and registrations for health services. | Research and secure health insurance; register with the SNS and obtain an EHIC card. |
Moving to Portugal is more than just changing locations. It's like joining a dance with the Portuguese lifestyle. This experience is rewarding but also requires effort. We need to learn the nuances of cultural adaptation. These include shared meals and spirited talks in small village squares.
Being part of this new culture means understanding how important status is. People respect both seniority and each other's feelings. This balance is crucial in social situations. Whether we're at work or with family, showing respect is key to fitting in well.
The table below shows how British and Portuguese cultural habits compare:
Cultural Aspect | United Kingdom | Portugal |
| Business Etiquette | Formal and reserved | Personal and status-conscious |
| Family Dynamics | Independence-centric | Interdependence and solidarity |
| Approach to Time | Punctuality is paramount | Flexible and event-centric |
| Climate Adaptation | Moderate seasonal changes | Sun-drenched lifestyle adaptation |
The table shows some clear differences between the two cultures. Yet, living in Portugal teaches us about the joy of this sunny way of life. It means the Portuguese way — valuing family and enjoying every moment — becomes part of who we are. Adapting to a new culture isn't just about fitting in. It's about letting its values and traditions become part of us.
The cost of living in Portugal draws many UK expats. This sunny country has financial benefits, especially for everyday items. Yet, the housing market has its own challenges. It varies between city and countryside.
We look at consumer goods pricing in Portuguese towns and cities. Groceries like milk and bread are cheaper than in the UK. But remember, salaries in Portugal can change how far your money goes.
The real estate market varies greatly between urban and rural areas. Lisbon and Porto have high prices due to demand. Countryside living is cheaper and offers more space for peaceful living.
Location | Average Rent for 1-bedroom Apartment | Average Price per Square Metre to Buy |
| Lisbon (City Centre) | €1,000 | €4,500 |
| Lisbon (Outside of Centre) | €650 | €3,000 |
| Porto (City Centre) | €750 | €3,200 |
| Porto (Outside of Centre) | €500 | €2,500 |
| Rural Areas | €400 | €1,500 |
In summary, Portugal's cost of living is appealing to UK folk. But regional price differences are real. Knowing about consumer goods pricing and real estate market details is critical.
Embarking on a new life in Portugal means adjusting our wardrobes for sunny days. The Portugal weather, warm from the Mediterranean climate, guides us. We switch heavy coats for linens, and boots for sandals. This is how we match our clothes to the local weather and culture.
Adapting smoothly requires thinking about our daily outfits. For the warm Portuguese days and cooler nights, here are some clothing considerations:
A quick guide helps us decide what to pack for each season in Portugal:
Season | Essential Clothing Items | Recommended Accessories |
| Spring | Light sweaters, Long sleeve shirts, Light trousers/jeans | Scarves, Comfortable closed-toe shoes |
| Summer | T-shirts, Shorts, Dresses | Wide-brimmed hats, Sandals |
| Autumn | Cardigans, Light jackets, Layering options | Light scarves, Waterproof footwear |
| Winter | Warm sweaters, Coats, Trousers with thermal lining | Gloves, Warm hats |
Enjoying the Portugal weather fully means smart clothing considerations. It's about blending functionality with style, characteristic of the Mediterranean climate. It’s key to dress comfy and stylish, ready to embrace the Portuguese charm and warmth.
Jumping into life in sunny Portugal means getting our finances in order first. It's key to open a bank account there. We chose banks like Santander Totta or Novo Banco. They help a lot with daily money matters. These banks are good for people moving from abroad. They make it easier to handle our money in a new place.
Planning our finances well is crucial for a smooth move. Dealing with a new currency and tax system needs careful planning. With a local bank account, we avoid high conversion fees. This step is more than convenience. It's about joining the local economy and understanding how money moves in Portugal.
Having an easy banking experience is very important. We suggest looking at banking options that fit your life in Portugal. This could be for everyday spending, buying property, or saving money. Choosing the right bank makes living in Portugal much more pleasant. With the right bank, we can enjoy our new life in this beautiful country.
Moving from the UK to Portugal offers a delightful blend of cultural richness and relaxed living, despite the complexities of Brexit. With meticulous planning and expert guidance from specialised companies like Deliver1, navigating the legal and logistical aspects of your relocation can be streamlined for a smoother transition.
Portugal's welcoming climate and community are compelling draws for UK expats. The transition requires understanding the latest regulations and preparing for the financial aspects of moving. Deliver1's tailored services ensure that every aspect of your move is handled with precision, reducing stress and allowing you to focus on the excitement of your new life.
As you embark on this journey, remember that a successful move to Portugal isn't just about transporting belongings—it's about immersing yourself in a new culture and making it home. With the right support and preparation, your Portuguese dream is well within reach. Embrace this new chapter with enthusiasm and confidence, knowing that you've made all the right moves for a fantastic start in Portugal.
We love hearing from you-so please get in touch with any questions or queries.
We love hearing from you-so please get in touch with any questions or queries.
