US family considering move to Portugal looking for advice from others who’ve done it

[MilesFromHome]

After visiting Portugal recently and falling in love with Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, we are considering relocating our family there. I work remotely in finance, speak Spanish fluently (I'm working on Portuguese), have a wife, and three children under ten are still learning. No EU ties.

Although we are aware that there will be bureaucracy, taxes, and adjustment, we adored the people, lifestyle, and affordability. arranging for the kids to visit again soon.

I would be interested in hearing about schools and family life from other US families who have made the move and have no ties to the EU. If savings align, we're aiming for late 2025 or early 2026. I would appreciate any advice!

 

[Joydon]

Sounds like an exciting plan! Portugal's lifestyle and affordability are amazing but I'd suggest looking into international schools for your kids and connecting with US expat families for smooth transitions

 

[TheExpert]

It's a beautiful idea and many families have done it, but schooling will depend on where you land, places like Lisbon and Porto have international options, though they can be expensive but I dont know if I'm talking to a millionaire so that's that and yeah bureaucracy is real, so start early with visa planning

 

[SlobberKing]

After visiting Portugal recently and falling in love with Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, we are considering relocating our family there. I work remotely in finance, speak Spanish fluently (I'm working on Portuguese), have a wife, and three children under ten are still learning. No EU ties.

No EU ties is totally fine! Many US families make the move via the D7 visa.
and, be prepared for a lengthy visa application process before you move, and then residency card processing once you're there. Gathering all documents (apostilled birth certificates, FBI background checks, etc.), yep, takes time

 

[HIMYM]

No EU ties is totally fine! Many US families make the move via the D7 visa.
and, be prepared for a lengthy visa application process before you move, and then residency card processing once you're there. Gathering all documents (apostilled birth certificates, FBI background checks, etc.), yep, takes time

Yeah, this is what I was gonna say. Well for me I haven't had this experience but I've heard other people made the jump with the D7 visa and they're living happily in Portugal or some nearby countries there as well.

 

[mapmisreadmaster12]

It's great to hear that things have worked out for others. The D7 route really seems like a solid option. I can see why it might be appealing.