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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
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9 good reasons to live in Évora

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9 good reasons to live in Évora

Évora, Portugal's jewel in the crown in the heart of the Alentejo region, is a city of timeless charm and serene atmosphere. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a unique combination of rich history, vibrant cultural traditions and a peaceful, welcoming environment. Évora attracts not only lovers of history and culture, but also those looking for a high quality of life, far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. With its pleasant climate, renowned gastronomy and proximity to nature, Évora represents an ideal lifestyle choice for many expatriates and Portuguese. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'm here to guide you through the many attractions of this town and help you discover why Évora is the perfect choice for a new life.

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How to activate and obtain Chave Movel Digital in Portugal: complete guide 2025

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How to activate and obtain Chave Movel Digital in Portugal: complete guide 2025

Obtaining Chave Movel Digital (CMD) is an essential step for easy access to online public and private services in Portugal. Tax sites (Finanças), social security, civil registry: there are many sites where you can use the Chave Movel Digital. In this article, I'll guide you through the simple and secure process of activating your CMD, an essential tool for anyone living in Portugal. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'm going to show you how to activate and obtain the Chave Movel Digital in Portugal.

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9 good reasons to live in Braga

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9 good reasons to live in Braga

While Lisbon and Porto regularly come up as the cities to move to in Portugal, there are many medium-sized towns that are well worth a visit. Braga is a Portuguese city in the north of the country, in the Minho region. If you're tempted by the idea of settling there, you should know that the city has many advantages, starting with a more affordable cost of living. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and here are my 9 good reasons for moving to Braga in Portugal.

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Top 9 places to enjoy a sunset in Lisbon

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Top 9 places to enjoy a sunset in Lisbon

Lisbon, the city of seven hills, is renowned for its breathtaking panoramas, where the sky takes on orange and pink hues at dusk. The golden light of the setting sun embraces the colourful facades, red-tiled roofs and sparkling waters of the Tagus, creating an enchanting spectacle. Every sunset in Lisbon is a celebration of the city's natural beauty and unique architecture, a moment when time seems to stand still. There are several spots to enjoy this magical experience, each offering a different and spectacular perspective. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'm here to reveal my 9 best places to enjoy an unforgettable sunset in Lisbon.

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How to apply for and obtain a Portuguese NISS number online as a foreigner in 2025?

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How to apply for and obtain a Portuguese NISS number online as a foreigner in 2025?

When you decide to move to Portugal, it is sometimes difficult to complete those administrative procedures that can become a vicious circle in which it is difficult to see the end. Obtaining a Portuguese social security number (NISS) is not easy and is one of the mandatory steps for any expatriate wishing to work in Portugal. Although the rules have been relaxed in recent years, applying for and obtaining a Portuguese social security number is still a complicated process. Obtaining a Portuguese national insurance number NISS for foreigners is not only a headache for people who want to work, but also for companies who want to hire them. What are the steps to follow to obtain a Portuguese social security number in Portugal if you are a foreigner? What is the process to obtain your Portuguese NISS number as an expatriate? I am Lisbob, the assistant for expats, and I tell you everything about the conditions to obtain the Portuguese social security number as foreigners.

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NHR status finally "extended" to the end of 2024, but....

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NHR status finally "extended" to the end of 2024, but....

In a sleight of hand worthy of a tax magician, Portugal's Socialist Party (PS) has launched what could be seen as a lifeline for future tax residents - but there's a catch! The regime for non-habitual residents (NHR), initially condemned to disappear in the State's draft budget for 2024, has been resurrected... but with conditions so strict that they deserve a standing ovation for their creativity. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'll tell you all about the 'extension' of non-habitual resident status in Portugal.

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Antonio Costa resigns, political crisis in Portugal

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Antonio Costa resigns, political crisis in Portugal

Political thunder in Portugal: Antonio Costa resigns and early elections are on the horizon. Could the end of RNH status be in doubt? I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'll tell you all about the resignation of the Portuguese Prime Minister.

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Top 9 of Lisbon's best markets to visit

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Top 9 of Lisbon's best markets to visit

Lisbon, Portugal's picturesque capital, is a city that appeals to expatriates not only for its sunny climate and historic charm, but also for its vibrant markets. These markets are epicentres of daily life, offering much more than just shopping: they are the pulse of local culture, places where you can taste the freshness of local produce, find unique objects and soak up the Lisbon atmosphere. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'd like to share with you my top 9 best markets in the Portuguese capital.

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How to buy or sell a car in Portugal, new or second-hand vehicle ?

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How to buy or sell a car in Portugal, new or second-hand vehicle ?

Your took the decision to become an expat in Portugal, now is the time to think about what you will do your vehicle. Portugal is fiercely protecting its domestic market and heavily taxing vehicles coming from abroad, European countries being no exception. Although some may qualify for an exemption from the ISV tax, the rules are often unclear and changing so despite a certain attachment and sometimes a significant investment, many expatriates decide to sell their car in former country to buy another in Portugal. Here again the rules are sometimes vague, and we must be careful that the act of buying or selling a vehicle is done in the rules to be protected, whether a new car or a second-hand one. How to buy a car in Portugal ? What are the steps to sell your vehicle ? What to check for when buying a used car in Portugal ? Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal gives you all the details to buy and sell your car serenely.

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Portugal announces the end of NHR status

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Portugal announces the end of NHR status

It was a move that was bound to happen sooner or later! Portugal has just announced the end of Non-Habitual Resident status, which gave tax breaks to foreigners moving to the country. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'll tell you all about the end of non-habitual resident status.

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9 good reasons to live in Caparica

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9 good reasons to live in Caparica

If you're looking for a peaceful, welcoming place to settle down, Caparica is an ideal choice. Located not far from Lisbon, this town offers a warm, sunny climate, dream beaches, a high quality of life and other advantages that make Caparica a destination to consider when choosing where to live in Portugal. To motivate you I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'm revealing my nine good reasons why I recommend you consider Caparica for your next living destination.

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9 good reasons to live in Cascais

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9 good reasons to live in Cascais

Located on the Atlantic coast, Cascais is a charming Portuguese village some 25 kilometers from Lisbon. It offers a peaceful and pleasant living environment, with mild temperatures all year round, sandy beaches, a rich cultural life and delicious cuisine. But that's not all: Cascais is also considered one of the safest cities in Europe, and offers a wealth of outdoor activities for nature lovers. To help motivate you, I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'll be revealing my 9 good reasons for moving to Cascais in Portugal.

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Top 8 scams and traps to avoid in Portugal

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Top 8 scams and traps to avoid in Portugal

When moving to a new country, it is unfortunately not uncommon to be a little too naive and trust everyone. It is said that after moving abroad, the word "pigeon" will be visible in the middle of your forehead. Whether it's in real estate, restaurants or other areas, Portugal, like other countries, has some well-honed scams that can cost you dearly. To help you avoid the pitfalls and not get caught out I am Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I reveal my top 8 scams in Portugal.

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Everything about Non-Habitual Resident Status NHR in Portugal, Complete Guide 2023 : Conditions, Taxes and Evolution

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Everything about Non-Habitual Resident Status NHR in Portugal, Complete Guide 2023 : Conditions, Taxes and Evolution

The resident-non-habitual NHR status is a fiscal regime that was created in 2009 by the Portuguese Government. It is a tax system that grants a 20% tax rate or a total exemption on the taxation of income of expatriates who choose to live in Portugal, for a period of 10 years. And this is not just about retirees ! In order to get the famous tax scheme, it is necessary to prepare well. In total more than 23,000 people benefited from this tax regime. Of course, certain conditions must be met in order to benefit from the non-habitual resident NHR status in Portugal, and becoming a resident is one of them. The NHR scheme is granted to both active and retired people if they meet certain criteria. What is the NHR status ? How do you qualify for NHR in Portugal ? What are the conditions to qualify for NHR status in Portugal ? What are the tax benefits of non-habitual resident status ? How to get NHR status ? Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about the non-habitual resident NHR tax status in 2021.

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How to denounce and report a landlord or trader to the Finanças in Portugal?

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How to denounce and report a landlord or trader to the Finanças in Portugal?

In Portugal, there are unfortunately many situations in which one may wish to report abusive behaviour. A landlord who has not issued an invoice or a contract, a trader who practices tax evasion... it is possible to denounce, anonymously if necessary, a person or a company that violates Portuguese law. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I tell you all about how to denounce a landlord and report or a trader to the Finanças?

How to get your Certificate of Residency CRUE (Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia) In Portugal in 8 steps

How to get your Certificate of Residency CRUE (Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia) In Portugal in 8 steps

Living in Portugal, it can not be improvised. There is the project, the dream, the excitement, the sun all year long, the feet in the water and the dolce vita, but there is also and above all formal steps to be taken to give you the right to stay in the country. The Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia, more commonly known as CRUE, is one of the most important official documents to have as an expatriate in Portugal. You will be asked for many other administrative procedures and procedures. In order not to waste time and nerves, it is important to know in advance how to get your European Citizen Resident Certificate. How to get a CRUE Certificate of Residency in Portugal ? What are the documents needed to apply for a Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia ? Lisbob, the expatriate's assistant in Portugal, shows you how to get your certificate of residency and finally live the life you dream of !

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9 Administrative Procedures and Formalities to go to live in Portugal

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9 Administrative Procedures and Formalities to go to live in Portugal

When expatriating to a new country, a certain number of administrative steps must be taken in order to fully settle in and become an expatriate. This is even more true in Portugal where different authorities issue different important documents, and where it is sometimes difficult to do the administrative steps in the right order. Procedures to become a resident, tax identification number, pet registration, car registration, there are many mandatory steps for those who want to live in Portugal and it is not easy to know how to live in Portugal and be in order. Moving to Portugal entails a number of obligations towards the various state bodies and it is important to comply with these obligations in order to avoid any problems. Any self-respecting expatriate must take these administrative steps in order to settle down fully. What are the administrative formalities and steps to complete to live in Portugal? How can I make sure that I am compliant and that I follow the steps to register to live in Portugal? I’m Lisbob, the expats assistant, and I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about the administrative steps to take when you decide to live in Portugal.

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Compulsory insurances for house staff and personal assistance in Portugal

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Compulsory insurances for house staff and personal assistance in Portugal

If you make the decision to live in Portugal, then you may have to hire house staff. Unfortunately, it is not unusual that these activities are not declared. This is of course illegal, because any paid activity must be registered with the relevant authorities. It is also dangerous for the concerned employees because they are exposed to difficult situations in the event of illness, loss of employment or work accident. Fraudulent employers may face heavy fines and can even be sentenced to imprisonment. It is therefore strongly recommended, for the well-being of all, to declare your employees to the competent authorities.Personal care services are quite developed in Portugal: taking care of your home, your parents, your children, your garden or even you is a common practice. There are, however, rules to follow if you decide to call in domestic staff. The hiring of personal care professionals in Portugal must be done in accordance with the law. What are the compulsory insurances for house staff in Portugal ? Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you everything about personal assistance.

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End-of-work bonus and severance pay in Portugal : everything you need to know in order to calculate and know your rights in case of job contract termination

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End-of-work bonus and severance pay in Portugal : everything you need to know in order to calculate and know your rights in case of job contract termination

Everything that has a beginning to an end and a contract of employment in Portugal, even for an indefinite period, may one day be completed. The termination of the employment contract may entitle the employee to compensation, depending on the type of dismissal. When one leaves voluntarily or not his work at. Portugal it is important to know if one can benefit from end of contract benefits. In fact, Portuguese law sets award criteria and calculation methods for end-of-contract bonuses, whether you decide to leave your job or your employer decides to terminate your professional relationship. How to calculate the Portuguese end of contract bonus ? How to know these rights to severance benefits in Portugal ? Lisbob, the assistant of expats in Portugal, tells you all about end of contract bonuses and severance pay.

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List of the best beaches for topless, naturism and nudism in Portugal and the rules to follow

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List of the best beaches for topless, naturism and nudism in Portugal and the rules to follow

In recent years, the number of supporters of topless or nudism has increased in Portugal. For a long time, the topless, nudism and naturism are no longer considered as marginal practices, and places favorable to total exposure to the sun have blossomed. However, we must be careful to respect the practices of nudism in Portugal, and especially not to go wrong place! There are 8 official places recognized by the authorities and others that are less so. What are the best beaches for topless and nudism in Portugal ? What are the rules and practices to respect for naturism on Portuguese beaches ? Lisbob, the assistant of expats in Portugal, tells you all about the best beaches to do topless or nudism on Portuguese sand.