Portugal is widely considered the cradle of Port wine and Fado music. The country is also famous for its rugged coastlines, historic sites, favorable climate, and diverse cuisines.
And while it’s not the wealthiest nation in Europe, Portugal’s economy has maintained reasonable stability over the years. So, it’s understandable why thousands of tourists troop to this beautiful South European country annually.
Below are the top reasons to visit, live, or work in Portugal.
1. Unhindered Access to European Union Countries
Portugal is a European Union (EU) member. When you obtain Portuguese citizenship, you become a citizen of all EU member states.
European Union citizens have equal rights, including unrestricted access to all member countries.
Portuguese citizenship grants the freedom to live, study, work, and even get married in other EU member states. Investors also enjoy favorable cross-border trading policies.
Even more exciting is that there are several ways to obtain Portuguese citizenship. Besides the traditional methods like birth and naturalization, interested applicants can pursue the golden visa route. Stay abreast of Portugal Golden Visa news to learn more about how this special visa program works.
2. Hassle-free Travel Across the Schengen Area
A Portuguese passport doesn’t only offer access to all European Union countries. It also lets you travel visa-free to nations that are part of the Schengen Area.
The Schengen Area comprises most European Union countries, except for Ireland and Cyprus.
Member states can freely cross their mutual land, sea, and air borders without being subjected to bureaucratic visa requirements or immigration checks.
3. Visa-free Entry Into International Destinations
Portugal has one of the strongest passports in the world. According to the VisaGuide Passport Index, the Portuguese passport was ranked 14th globally as of March 2024.
That means holders can visit 159 countries visa-free. And these aren’t just nations in the EU or Schengen Area. They also include prime travel and business destinations like Japan.
Portuguese passport holders can also visit the United States and Canada with minimal restrictions. You only need to complete a travel authorization electronically.
4. Access to a Robust Healthcare System
Becoming a legal Portuguese citizen grants you free access to the country’s robust public health system. That includes free treatment in public hospitals, community healthcare centers, nurseries, and even palliative care facilities.
It doesn’t matter if you’re ailing from an acute bacterial disease or a terminal illness. You’re assured of near-100% medical coverage, provided you’re up-to-date on your Social Security Fund contributions.
Out-of-pocket medical expenses that Portuguese citizens meet are usually unrelated to the diagnosis and treatment. Examples include transportation fees and, in some cases, emergency medical transfers.
5. World-class Education System
High school education is free and mandatory for all legal Portuguese citizens. That means parents literally pay nothing to have their kids learn up to 12th grade. But that’s not the end of the world for aspiring academicians.
Portugal also boasts some of the world’s leading universities and colleges. While not free, tertiary education in Portugal is far more affordable than in many developed countries, including the United States.
Public universities charge less than 1,500 Euros annually for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Needy but eligible students can also apply for scholarships.
Moreover, earning a college diploma or university degree in Portugal offers a competitive advantage in the global job market. The country’s membership in the European Union means your academic credentials are automatically admissible in any EU state, provided that you graduated from an accredited institution.
6. Affordable Cost Of Living
The cost of living in Portugal is considerably lower than in many EU countries, notably Germany and France. That’s primarily due to the country’s favorable healthcare and education policies.
Besides, housing is relatively affordable in Portugal for legal citizens and residents. Whether you buy or rent a property, the cost is remarkably cheaper than in many EU nations.
Groceries are also cheaper and accessible in Portugal. Food markets around the country abound in fresh farm produce, which is understandable since agriculture is one of Portugal’s principal economic activities.
Clothing, detergents, and personal care products are cheaper in Portugal than in neighboring countries.
7. Friendly and Hospitable Locals
Portuguese people are warmly welcoming of foreigners. As an expat, you’ll easily settle into most Portuguese neighborhoods, be it in a suburban estate or rural outpost.
Portugal also prides itself on its low crime rates. Cases of xenophobic violence are almost unheard of, and the country is notably safer than neighboring Spain.
Just be sure to steer clear of common crime hotspots, especially if cruising through Lisbon and other major cities. Remember to keep your valuables out of reach to avoid becoming victims of opportunistic crimes.
8. Favorable Weather
Portugal has a pleasant climate that makes it suitable for visiting all-year-round.
Summers aren’t excruciatingly hot while winters aren’t numbing cold. Springs and autumns are even more manageable.
While citizens of some countries have to go vacationing elsewhere when the local weather becomes unbearable, Portuguese nationals can comfortably brave all four seasons. The fact that the country teems with natural attractions is all the more reason to spend the entire year unpacking its gems.
Wrap Up
Becoming a Portuguese citizen provides immense social, political, and economic benefits. And as you shall find, the process of applying for a Portuguese passport is uncomplicated. Simply fill the required paperwork factually, pay any applicable fees, and you’re good to go.
