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Marc Martin - Portugal
Why So Many Expats Leave Portugal After 1 Year

Everyone dreams of moving to Portugal. The sunshine, the sea, the lifestyle — it all looks perfect.

But here’s the truth no one tells you: a surprising number of expats pack up and leave after just one year. Why? What goes wrong? And could it happen to you? In this article, we’re revealing the 9 most common reasons why expats give up on their Portuguese dream — and how to avoid the same fate. I’m Lisbob, the expat assistant — and I tell you what others won’t. Let’s get started. 

Why So Many Expats Leave Portugal After 1 Year
Culture & Tradition, Tips, Finance
Marc Martin - Portugal
The Real Cost of Living in Portugal vs. ...

Portugal has become a popular destination for expats, known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and affordable lifestyle. But is the cost of living really as low as people expect? From housing and groceries to healthcare and entertainment, here’s a breakdown of the real cost of living in Portugal compared to common expectations. I’m Lisbob, the expat’s assistant, here to help you understand what to budget for and avoid surprises!

The Real Cost of Living in Portugal vs. Expectations
Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 misconceptions expats have about Portugal

Moving to a new country is thrilling, but it comes with its fair share of misconceptions, especially about a place as wonderful as Portugal. Whether it's the myth that everyone speaks English or the belief that the cost of living is low everywhere, these misconceptions can shape unrealistic expectations and lead to surprises. Let’s set the record straight by debunking the top 9 myths about moving to Portugal. Ready to get the real scoop? I’m Lisbob, your trusty expat assistant, and I’m here to guide you through the truth about living in Portugal. 

9 misconceptions expats have about Portugal
Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 Things to Consider Before Buying Property in ...

Buying property in Portugal can be an exciting investment, but it’s essential to approach it with careful planning and awareness of the local market. From legal requirements to hidden costs, here are five key things to consider before buying property in Portugal. I’m Lisbob, the expat’s assistant, here to guide you through what to know so you can make an informed decision!

9 Things to Consider Before Buying Property in Portugal
Tips, Visa, Freelancer
Marc Martin - Portugal
Portugal D8 Visa for Digital Nomad: Your ...

The Portugal D8 Visa offers digital nomads, remote workers, and freelancers the opportunity to establish residency in this picturesque country. Available to non-EU residents, this visa provides a pathway to living in Portugal for a minimum of one year. As a digital nomad visa, the D8 allows you to immerse yourself in a country that caters to the needs of remote professionals. Portugal, known for its stunning coastal views and vibrant nomad community, is an ideal location for those looking to blend work with the exploration of new cultures.

 

Embrace the freedom of remote work that aligns with the lifestyle of a digital nomad. In Portugal, you can enhance your career while enjoying the flexibility to work from anywhere within its borders—from the historic streets of Lisbon to the sunny beaches of the Algarve. Join Portugal’s growing community of digital nomads and experience life in a country that supports your professional and adventurous lifestyle. This article will outline the specifics of the D8 visa, including application requirements and highlight top Portuguese destinations that cater to the needs of remote workers.

Portugal D8 Visa for Digital Nomad: Your complete guide

IRS

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Income Tax in Portugal (IRS) in 2026

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Income Tax in Portugal (IRS) in 2026

As an employee, self-employed worker or retiree living in Portugal, you will have to pay income tax, called IRS. This is also true for other types of income, and like in other countries, Portuguese income tax is progressive and is directly withheld at source by the employer who then pays it to the State. In 2026, there are 9 tax brackets ranging from 12.5% to 48%, and they start from the first euro earned, with certain possible tax deductions. What are the tax brackets in Portugal? How do you calculate income tax? I am Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I tell you everything about income tax in Portugal in 2026. 

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How to file and submit your online IRS income tax return in Portugal, step by step

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How to file and submit your online IRS income tax return in Portugal, step by step

Since few years the IRS income tax declaration is entirely online in Portugal. The automatic IRS option is undoubtedly an option that greatly facilitates this obligation since it allows you to validate your declaration in a few clicks. If you want, you can trust fiscal authorities and let the declaration fill in automatically : you will just have to validate the declaration at the end of the process. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about how to complete your automatic IRS tax return online, step by step. Because the sooner you validate and submit your return, the sooner you will receive a refund if you are entitled to it.

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Working in Portugal ? Here is why your net salary will drop from January

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Working in Portugal ? Here is why your net salary will drop from January

The Portuguese Parliament approved the new fiscal law 2018 that includes the end of the system of payment of the subsídios of Ferias and Natal spread over the year and this from January 1th. At the end of the year the net amount received will be the same but the effects for the first months of the year will be more or less important depending on your income and which option you choosed regarding subsídios. The net amount that you will receive at the end of January will be lower than last year (if you have opted for the spread of the payment of subsídios). This measure also applies to public employees and retirees in 2018.