Life in Portugal Has Changed (Year 3)

[@donnahougenesq7302]

There is so much change all over the world, all over. Changes in feelings, changes in money, changes in markets, changes in food. Just a lot of change everywhere.

[@publicminx]

the universe also continues to expand ... the sun continues to change h2o to helium on her way to die once in the future (dont panic, there is still some time left)

[@tutsecret499]

This earth is declining badly. Scaring. And countries repeating same mistakes that other countries made.

[@antonaaa3738]

you people fucking don't understand what you talking about

[@Kimllg88]

Absolutely true. Wordlwide monetizing of passports. Be careful and do research..ongoing. I can speak as I still have 2 other valid residencies going..which are also shifting. Nomad Capitolist channel had the hard info!!

[@izzytoons]

@@publicminx Silly, useless comment. Not all change is the same. There are changes that are happening now, such as the spread of right-wing extremism in Europe making it very uncomfortable to consider moving there, that are DIFFERENT, they are here and now, they affect life today, not billions of years from now, like the ones you toss out as reason not to be concerned anything here and now.

[@tharper3827]

Great video as always. We have been following you for 2 years now when Portugal came on our radar as a possible full time move. We did a 3 month stay in Cascais this past August, September & October. We went there with eyes wide open. We paid $6700 for the 3 months for a tiny studio apartment. I realize that we paid a premium due to the time of year & the fact that we had to book thru airbnb, but we were hard pressed to find anything that was less expensive. The place was just ok and our walk away was that the bar is very low for what passes as great accomodations in Portugal. We actually experienced that angst towards Americans while we were there. Let me say that I think it had less to do with being American & more to do with being a foreigner. The actions of our neighbor at the airbnb led us to draw conclusions that he wasn't to happy that the place was being used as an Airbnb. There is a weird dynamics going on in Portugal right now regarding housing. We spoke to many people about it & half of them blame the government & the other half said that the Portuguese people needed to look in the mirror, cause the people that own places chose to run them as Airbnb's instead of renting to locals. We found eating out was out of our budget, but I believe this is a worldwide issue right now post pandemic. Although we were not their long enough to see a rise in prices for groceries, we heard many, many locals complaining about it. Again I believe this to be a worldwide issue right now. We kept a spreadsheet of our spending for the 3 months while we were there. We live & vacation fairly frugaly & we were very surprised that the cost of living in Portugal was about the same for us in New Jersey (Union City, which is a 10 min commute to Manhattan) & a lot of it had to do with our accomodations. At the end of the day we decided to take a pass on the move to Portugal. Our top reasons why.....cost of living, language barrier especially with dealing with bureaucracy, everybody smokes & they smoke everywhere & this one really perplexed us, there was dog crap everywhere. Our search continues.

[@rickchandler2570]

Problem I’ve found with the language is I find it’s not that difficult to learn to read & write, but understanding a Portuguese person speak is certainly difficult. My problem is as soon as I hear a word I don’t know or understand, I immediately panic and my brain locks up. I’m getting better about asking them repeat and speak slower. That helps a lot here in Nazaré

[@MotoTavira]

I have the same issue. I lock onto a word or phrase and try and unwind it, while that happens they've moved along and I can't keep up. Also, out of context comprehension is really tough.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

So true, Rick! You're not alone! - Josh & Kalie

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Yup. I've started to just skip the word I missed keep listening and then make a mess of things or get the gist and keep up. About 5 minutes later after the conversation is over, my brain processes what was said and I get it. lol - Josh

[@rickchandler2570]

@@ExpatsEverywhere That’s a good idea. I’ll try that next time.

[@TheSimArchitect]

Brazilian Portuguese is much easier. I am a native speaker and I have difficulties while in Portugal, specially below Lisbon. Thankfully I stayed in the north of the country (between Porto and Viana do Castelo most of the time), it's a bit easier there and people are also nicer. I had a nice time there, but then you drive to Vigo and you see how much more lively Spain is. Sorry for my impression. I'd likely live in Portugal (since I am a citizen and I speak the language) and travel to Spain for leisure.

[@on2thenextthing]

Anti immigrant sentiment is in many countries due to the fact that people are moving around the world and there a lot more of us in 2023 versus 50 years ago. The pandemic accelerated this movement along with NHR, golden visas, digital nomads and such. We see the same thing in Vancouver, Canada as local people are pushed out of the rental and housing market by foreign investment, immigration, inflation, cost of living and so forth. It is however somewhat of a new reality though and is not exclusive to any particular country.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

We totally agree. We see it (online). - Josh & Kalie

[@andywang6743]

Ask your government and Trudeau/NDP supports why. Peace, order, good government 😂

[@publicminx]

@on2thenexxtthing: yep, this in combination with urbanization. people also complain about inner-country migration. the reality is that housing does NOT go up everywhere. usually not in shrinking towns/cities outside of the pulling successful metropolitan areas. interestingly most people who complain about housing costs and 'bad investors' etc. refuse to move to such regions - even if there is potentially still some work.

[@josephlane9074]

I'm moving there in early 2025 and my language process is to continue with some of these free language "learners" just to get a feel of things and not be totally in the dark upon arrival. Since I will be moving there as a retiree, I'm actually excited to take the government courses and get my certificate early while learning from locals, and getting to know people in my area. Unless I am reading things wrong, the government courses are basically free so win win.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Nice! Thanks for sharing. - Josh & Kalie

[@grizfan93]

Just be sure the language app you use isn't teaching Brazilian Portuguese. For example, DuoLingo and the Google translate app only use Brazilian Portuguese which has some significant differences. While not free, Memrise is really good and offers European Portuguese. I would imagine quite a few of these online language teaching systems will have Black Friday deals this month, too.

[@nancywillette5368]

I took the class, 150 hours. Three times a week for 3 hours for 3 plus months. It was hard but, in the end, worth it. I am applying for citizenship at this time.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Congratulations, Nancy. - Josh & Kalie

[@BryanColterAstrology]

where can I find info about this class?

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

@@BryanColterAstrology there are plenty of programs. Some are paid and others are free provided by the government. Information is kind of dependent on where you're living. You can email Kalie as she's starting to make a list of these classes. - Josh

[@JonesTravelers]

We really liked this video since your experience closely aligns with ours. We haven't had any change impact our way of life in Portugal. We have been tracking every penny spent since arriving in Lisbon in December 2021. Shannon breaks down the cost of dining out versus dining in per person for instance and the cost of groceries per unit. Our costs haven't budged overall and that maybe due to our better understanding of shopping sales and dining at places we know are cheaper. We spent October back in the US and were floored by the cost increases of the staples we use to purchase back in 2021 compared to here in Portugal. Happy to be home in Lisbon!

[@peterferreira1025]

Very informative video. As a Portuguese-Canadian who now spends half the time in Portugal and someone who has lived the immigrant experience, I believe portuguese are very acomodating and appreciate the expats amongst them. The economic reality over the decades have seen many emigrate to other countries. Last year alone saw over 70 thousand young professionals leave portugal for better pastures. I for one hope expats continue to enrich our multicultural society in Portugal.

[@MathinusG]

That's a very unhealthy no. To loose your young workers and professionals will impact badly. Where do the young Portuguese go to?

[@peterferreira1025]

At present, most are destined to France, Germany, Belgium. Prior to Brexit many were going to the UK the US/Canada to name a few. The educated youth are leaving at an alarming rate. Given Portugal's population, this trend will most certainly be a major problem.

[@Muhayyo666]

@@peterferreira1025I’m from Afghanistan and I didn’t know Portugal was this poor. I love this country that I even support the national football team. I hope this country rises and be strong economically , I hope the same as well for my country Afghanistan. I heard Portuguese people are social and kind . Cheers mate !

[@shawnm2405]

Multi cultural society is exact reason Portugal has been deteriorating for decades now. What a shame

[@rebecalozanogarcia9069]

THANK YOU FOR SAIYING INMIGRANT EXPERIENCE,.

[@MathinusG]

Hi, you've been very pragmatic and calm about the changes in Portugal. I've noticed a 30% jump in property prices and rents. That's if you can get them. Add to that living cost and the D7 change and it's pushed Portugal to a level which makes me reconsider it as a long-term option. Just across the border in Ayamonte Spain you can rent a T3 with a pool in the complex for the same price as a T1 in Portugal. The Portuguese government has shown a consistent lack in ability to forward plan and solve their socio economic and housing problems. It's a pity.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

This is a phenomenal comment. Yes, we're quite pragmatic about it because we're seeing prices jumping in a lot of other countries that would be interesting to live in. To be honest about the shout out to Ayamonte, Spain. I'd literally have to Google Ayamonte, Spain to know where it is so I'd guess that if someone where to look at a town that lacks name recognition in Portugal that's on the border with Spain, you'd find low prices for a T3 with a pool. Thank you for the comment! Alright, I'm off to Google where Ayamonte is... - Josh

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Okay I'm back. Ayamonte being right across from VRSA it does appear that VRSA has a massive lack of inventory and it's a couple hundred euro less for a like for like property. - Josh

[@cal9112]

Ayamonte watch out for the herds of English speaking "expats coming and destroying everything 😢

[@bogdanpopescu1401]

no government ever has solved the housing problem; the best one can hope from the government is not to destroy the market incentives; and not to create inflation by running deficits and covering them by money printing

[@RudeBiscuit]

​@@bogdanpopescu1401 China is kind of showing a fix with them having more housing than they have population.

[@alexgray1905]

Good video, great synopses of what is going on in Portugal at the moment. We have been in Portugal since January and our path getting here was significantly simpler since we have dual citizenship, US and EU. Never the less, I can tell you some "intersting" stories. Our settlement journey is still developing.

[@portuguesehydrangea4818]

Do tell!! We recently got our dual citizenship and hope to live part time in the Azores in the relatively near future.

[@SQExplores]

Hello Josh and Kalie, I have been watching you for a while and thank you for your content. Portugal has become one of my favourite countries, I visited Lisbon and Porto in 2017, and Madeira in 2018, 2022 and 2023, and I will be visiting the Azores and Madeira next year in the spring. So your videos about Portugal are of great interest to me. I know that housing has become a major issue in Portugal, along with other countries like Canada, where I live. So I am really interested in hearing your comments on housing, anti-foreigner sentiment and all the other trends you mentioned. Keep up the great work!

[@Nomad_783]

rule nr.1 as expat - you dont fight ther landlord. you can ask them for a reconsideration and negotiate a better deal but if you start coming up with laws and rules then he will kick you out anyway. better to swallow a 10% increase (not 5.6%), than having a fight and losing the place and then go out to the market for 20-30% higher due to inflation. if they asking 20-30% more than you can leave and you will find something anyway for that price.

[@richardabel2402]

The Portuguse government is pretty smart. They got all these foreign people to move to Portugal. Now that they got them there, they can tax them as much as they want. 😂

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Not really. They've already said that people that have NHR status will keep it. - Josh & Kalie

[@pbohearn]

They also got people from foreign countries in Europe, and further abroad to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in order to obtain a residential visa who have been stuck in the process for two years, having given their money over to the Portuguese government, but never receiving their residential visa. This is a nightmare for people who did this in good faith. a government who takes the money and I think does a bait and switch. It’s embarrassing for them. It’s shameful and it just reminds you of what a dilapidated place this is.

[@richardabel2402]

​@@pbohearn"They", being politicians, can change the rules or do whatever they want.

[@karatequantum1095]

isnt that normal tho

[@tiagov.mendes4422]

​@@pbohearnyou didn't give the money to them, honestly.

[@tatianaschoenfield9819]

It seems many people are escaping from other countries because of the pressures and stress coming from the much rising cost of living and now the Portuguese are being overcrowded in their space… Regarding becoming conversational in the Portuguese language, it takes a lot of practice, practice and practice 😅, but it’s rewarding …

[@winstoncat6785]

Wish you all the best and every success for the future. Not easy anywhere in Europe atm. Hope Portugal stays nice for you.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thank you. Portugal has been great so far! - Josh & Kalie

[@IronMike-gz8np]

Yeah, you are right Josh. Everything is changed in Portugal.

[@AndNowIWrite]

I've given great thought to learning Portuguese phrases, but have realized I won't understand if they answer back! I can comprehend what I read in Portuguese and living in different regions over four years has helped with the different dialects and that the following words are universal; "Hey" "Okay" "Whoa" "No" and sign language helps too!

[@FlanPoirot]

the differences is mostly pronunciation and some words, I don't know what's stopping you from learning

[@jimsykes6843]

It's like this everywhere. It's just global inflation, not Portugal per se. My partner and I were in Germany for a year and just moved back to the U.S. and we're amazed at just how expensive things are in the U.S. now. A $12 meal is now a $17 dollar meal. Groceries that cost $80 are now $120.

[@larryalesi6356]

I'm still not deterred and planning to land in Braga in 2 years. I think that the government will do something to replace the NHR. I don't think that they really want to lose the stream of cash that the retirees were adding to the economy. If so I'll work around it. Some will choose Greece or Italy at 7% taxes, that's what I've been seeing. For the short term property may get a bump down in price. I'm seeing that starting now too (Panic Sellers).Thank you for your video's you two are doing a great job! ****2025 Braga or Bust****

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

For for you, Larry! Wayta commit. :-) The problem with Greece and Italy is the locations you have to live are fixed, right? Thanks for the positive comment. - Josh & Kalie

[@larryalesi6356]

Yep they restrict where you can live.

[@nevinbeaver1111]

Hey Josh and Kallie, Jen and I just bought a home outside of Anadia. We are so incredibly happy!😊

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

That is awesome! We're very happy to hear that! Congratulations. - Josh & Kalie

[@nevinbeaver1111]

We actually used Raphael's services. He and his team are fantastic!@@ExpatsEverywhere

[@TheSimArchitect]

Portuguese don't like Brazilians or Americans or anybody else because immigration made their housing prices insanely high while their incomes didn't go up to match and they're frequently outpriced (they like people going there to spend on tourism, but not to move there). I visited Portugal a year ago and even though some things like food, restaurants, fuel and utilities are cheaper than in The Netherlands, I felt affordable houses are too expensive with prices comparable to ours, unless you get something falling apart you need to gut and rebuild and that's far away in a small city. I think you have good health care there, but I didn't use much of it. Taxes are insanely high unless you fit very specific criteria for your income to not be taxed under the NHR. Portugal was a good deal before the pandemic. It was very cheap to live there and you could purchase a house there for a fraction of what you'd pay in a richer European country. With the current situation I don't feel it would be sensible to move there unless there's a war, as you're near the border of the continent and Portugal is unlikely to participate much in a conflict. Once you acquire an EU citizenship you might feel tempted to move north and it might be a good idea... I am a dual Portuguese Citizen but born and lived most of my life in Brazil. Didn't feel Portugal was the best deal for me yet, but I keep my eyes open and there's always the possibility. But only if it's considerably cheaper than living in a more developed European country. Sorry. 😬

[@on2thenextthing]

I thought taxes in Netherlands were worse. Not the case?

[@zepedro6666]

@@on2thenextthing Netherlands have higher taxes then Portugal

[@TheSimArchitect]

I thought so too, but it's not the case. Unless your situation gives you some sort of benefit, of course. #NotTaxAdvice LOL@@on2thenextthing

[@TheSimArchitect]

Not really. In most cases, at least. Not only income but VAT is also higher in Portugal. There's some exceptions of course, depending on your situation or things like road tax and fuel/energy tax.@@zepedro6666

[@pbohearn]

Yes, but their care for the elderly is one of the best in the world

[@OurContinuingAdventure]

Another great post! Obrigado. Citizenship and the language requirement - we (Ross and Kathleen) are taking the government offered class for A1 and A2 certification offered at our local high school. And right, it is a commitment. 50 classes, each 3 hours long, twice a week, for 9 months. The goal is to not have to take the exam. Just present our certification. About cost of living. We continue to maintain a spreadsheet of everything we spend and we continue to average around 2000 euros per month since arriving in Porto in February of 2022. That's for everything. Fortunately our rent is extremely reasonable and will always be the major part of our montly expenses.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thanks, Ross and Kathleen! And thanks for sharing. - Josh & Kalie

[@BryanColterAstrology]

where can I find information about this class?

[@OurContinuingAdventure]

Here you go: www.acm.gov.pt/-/como-posso-frequentar-um-curso-de-lingua-portuguesa-para-estrangeiros- @@BryanColterAstrology

[@spyhunter66]

Heya guys! We visited Portugal again a few months ago, for a short visit to the Algarve (Faro and Lagos). It was the first time we've experienced anti-American or anti-foreigner sentiment (multiple times, sadly). We still had a great time. Also the housing crisis has really hit here in the UK. When we were first looking to move there in early 2022 there were TONS of properties available for rent. As our actual move date approached, those properties dried up and we were very fortunate to find a place that met our needs. I get alerts every day on new properties, and in our 9 months here, only a handful have come up. Rent prices are through the roof! It's insane.

[@5BlackQueen]

I have been here for 7 years and now those changes are starting to be stressful especially burcracy and as you said most of the laws and changes are all in portuguese, I am italian but had hard time to learn the portuguese language , my son needed to renew his residency permit that expired last year and we hardly could get an appointment and when we finally did and traveled to Aviero Sef from november we still WAITING!! The overall feeling in portugal has changed a lot and now it less pleasant for us to live here Thank you for talking about this with honest review

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thank you for sharing. There’s been a recent shake up that’ll be a positive one for your son’s renewal case. - Josh & Kalie

[@tanyabee2253]

You can take practice CIPLE tests online to see how hard it would be…

[@retireearlyandtravelthewor8507]

Thanks for your video. Very informative. I must say I have missed watching your videos and seeing you both again brings back some good memories. I think your videos were some of the fist videos we started watching when we started our planning of retiring and traveling the world. Our first long term stay was in Portugal down in the Algarve in Quarteira. Thanks again for your video and look forward to seeing whats next.

[@thecyberseer]

Josh, you feeling burden is not irrational, when the entire environment around you is being impacted, you will inevitably be impacted. You get that because men think ahead even if it's just instinctual. 😄

[@martypoll]

A perspective from another country, Thailand, about #7 policy instability. It is interesting to hear your comments on this. I hear all the time that Thailand is constantly changing the rules. Often it is just it mistaking policy proposal talk with actual change which often doesn’t materialize. It is interesting to me to see that this type of thing is similar elsewhere and may just be inherent to expat living.

[@lifeisgoodafter60]

Totally awesome job with this video. I really enjoy how you guys balance each other and the frankness that’s transparent through this video.

[@2clarityin30]

Things are changing including the expected 6.94% approved rent increase for 2024 which is very high compared to last year's approved rent increase of only 2%.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Yeah, it feels like a lot. - Josh & Kalie

[@aciangi]

Great video! Like you mentioned, the various changes feel unsettling (we too have been grandfathered in on most things) so my heart goes out to those who are in the midst of/impacted by them. Re: the language test vs. class question, skill-wise my husband and I are the opposite of the 2 of you (but my Portuguese still needs a LOT of work) so I think I’m #teamtest v. classes. Time will tell 😊

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thank you! Agreed regarding the people in the midst of it that are impacted. Team test! Team test! Team test! :-) - Josh & Kalie

[@BocaJoeKay]

great video, and thanks for sharing your perspectives. another item to add to your list of government policy changes includes the need to obtain a Portuguese drivers license. If you are under 65 and have a valid license from specific countries, you do NOT need to exchange that license and are legally eligible to drive in Portugal. With the price of fuel so high, I can't imagine how the uber and lift folks make money!

[@GeraldFigal]

With all of the policy changes recently, being 3-ish years away from retiring to Portugal is starting to look like a good thing. My FOMO is calmed.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Very true and things swing in roundabouts. - Josh & Kalie

[@kimquimby681]

Great video. Yes, we so take a class! Can’t wait!!!

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thanks, Kim. Thanks for sharing. - Josh & Kalie

[@HemiKaos]

the new laws regarding gold visa do not affect the ones who already have the golden visa, also you got 10 years to use it anyways,

[@RicKallaherPhotography]

Helpful vid, thanx! - I bought my apartment in Lisboa in 2021 with the plan to move this year. Of course now with the tax change I am suffering high anxiety - though I understand that as I can prove intent prior to the end of 2023 I am okay to apply this year. Other than that I'm studyiing Portuguese every day for a couple of hours and, like Josh, I don't really feel it is anywhere near as difficult as people think. It's more a matter of dedication and practice practice practice. That said, like Kalie, I get really bad test anxiety so would probably opt for a class prior to testing for citizenship - except of course that it's down the road and by then I hope to feel much more 'at home' in Portugal.

[@TheDeadbone1961]

NHR is a game-changer. Our immigration attorney flagged it as a possibility six months ago, so it's not a complete surprise, but our (middle-class) tax burden would hit ~28%.

[@wendylmorris3872]

Informative video, Kalie and Josh. As always, honest and to the point! 😊👍

[@sulemanpiracha8123]

Nice analysis Katie and Josh, we have been traveling to PT since 2018 and have seen prices of Grocery gone up significantly. The real estate prices have sky rocketed. Making local friends is difficult for us because we did not move permanently (at least not yet) and because of our age (my wife and I are retired). We love to be in Portugal though and looking forward to our next visit.

[@entresolysombra5245]

I've got a duplex-apartment (T+ 3-4, 2 balconies and 2 terrasses) in Alcochete, 25minutes from Lissabon away (on the other riverside and I enjoy Lissabonlights at night from the windows and terrasse), but I want to sell it as I prefer to stay in Africa. So... if you're interested, tell me and you may visit it cheaper as with "inmo-sellers".

[@junzhang2087]

Top tax bracket is 48%. With NHR gone， its crazy.

[@amerlinphycian8132]

The top bracket in Portugal is the low bracket in US, so you pay 48% tax for almost all your income. Nobody will want to move there anymore. The rental market will crash, followed by real estate.

[@grizfan93]

@@amerlinphycian8132 - that comment makes no sense. the 48% rate kicks in around €78K. You are delusional to think any of that will happen. Try harder.

[@amerlinphycian8132]

€78k in US tax for a couple is 11.45%. for people making way above that income, how much more they have to pay? For people making less than that, without NHR it can affect their life quality significantly, with the prices going up, how attractive Portugal still is to expats? I wish I was delusional, so my dream would not be shattered.

[@grizfan93]

@@amerlinphycian8132 have you actually looked into what your taxes would be like, post NHR? Like actually booked some time with a Portuguese accountant and ran the numbers? Because if all you have is comparing US federal income tax rates to Portuguese tax rates, then you are being delusional. By that I mean you are not taking a rational, measured look to your overall cost of living. Income taxes are just one (albeit very important) aspect to that. Income taxes are higher. VAT is higher. Property taxes, healthcare, transportation and other expenses are lower than many places in the US. If that is what it took to shatter your dream, it probably wasn't going to happen anyway. Or, you could dig deeper into the numbers and try to get a realistic understanding of your total cost of living.

[@monicavivendoemla5537]

I don’t think I will live in Portugal, but spending time there. I am a Brazilian, living in the U.S. and my challenge is improving English. But, I think I need to learn Portuguese from Portugal. The don’t like so ,Uchoa my variation of the language. Even, they consume all Brazilian culture music, cinema and soap tv.

[@lost_porkchop]

As someone born and partially raised there, I can say that the place is constantly changing. I visited this year after nearly two decades and couldn't believe the amount of change since my twenties. The people, the culture, everything! .....the only constant is food - we love food 😂

[@diradeb]

🎉❤ so many amazing vegan places too. Even vegan analogue pork chops😅😅

[@lost_porkchop]

@@diradeb Interesting, but I haven't had good experiences with replacements....."and for that reason, I'm out"

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thanks for sharing. - Josh & Kalie

[@myitaliantherapyginafiore4414]

YES INSTABILITY. I was coming to buy a small farm this winter then they pulled the NHR. I was planning on buying a property in 2023/2024 then apply for Visa after I sell my US property end of 2024. With the pulling of the NHR it's just too inconsistent. I am still coming but for a shorter time. I am not sure what is happening right now. As of just today I see they are keeping NHR for another year. I don't know what that means. I don't like the feeling of pressure and then what is next. So I am backing off for about 6 months to see what happens. You guys inspired me to begin my own channel to share my process while I am over there this winter. Still a wait and see until middle of next year. Keep us up to date. Thanx for all of your information. Cheers. Gina in Upstate New York Working on an 1857 Renovation moving to Porutgal

[@lisebuntschuh8334]

I have lived in PT for almost 10 years and I am patiently waiting for my citizenship to be approved. I took classes so I would not have to pass the test. What I did was hire a private PT teacher who worked at a school -but taught me privately in my home. Because it is Portugal it as affordable and worked with my schedule. She provided the tests in my home - and i got my certificate. It was super easy and no test anxiety! hope you sort it out!

[@stellak4734]

Hello, why are you waiting 10 years for a citizenship? Isn’t it around 5 years or am I mistaken?

[@so_what_else_is_new]

Besides the changes you noticed done by the Portuguese gov. there's also the fact that they are bound by the European laws and these laws change faster then you can read. Im a dutch guy living in Belgium for a long time and i want to move to portugal to get as gar as possible of the centre of legislation. Then i buy a sailing boat that is seaworthy as plan C...😉

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Keep us posted with your plans. We'll follow your journey! - Josh & Kalie

[@so_what_else_is_new]

@@ExpatsEverywhere Shure, but it may take a while for me to move, because I have issues to finish here first.😊

[@charmerci]

I was in Porto for a couple of days but I had to leave and I wanted to meet you guys. Oh well. There's 7500 Americans, 44000 British and 220000 Brazilians in Portugal. The AL situation is the unknown of how it affects housing.

[@paoemantega8793]

Things are inflated. It's because of the money printing... it's actually the definition of inflation.

[@budadams412]

Definitely planning on doing the class. I feel I learn better that way. But I do hope to take other lessons to support my path to learning the language. 👍🏻

[@suzannederringer1607]

The dramatic rise in rents and the rapid bureaucratic change are the reasons I crossed Portugal off my List, in the past year or so. Not moving to Portugal. There's too much uncertainty for a single woman on a small pension.

[@kathyw9439]

As always, I greatly appreciate & value your perspectives. As a prospective 2024 mover, we are considering all options. I also see the changes with some discomfort, but feel fortunate that we have another 10-12 months to see how things shake out. BTW, your NHR podcast episode also excellent and thought provoking. If we had an early 2024 date in mind, I would be putting on the brakes. We will spend a full 90 day tourist visa before applying anywhere. I realize not everyone has this option, but if you can afford to do this it’s much cheaper than an expensive course reversal after signing a 12 or 24 month lease.

[@cyberstroler2436]

Thank you. Always an informative listen. Tchau!

[@legacyholistichealth]

As a full time entrepreneur who home schools, I would definitely take the class with my teen son.

[@virtualworldsbyloff]

My regular milk just practically doubled in 1 year, 0,48€ to 0,84€, toilet paper pack went from 3,49€ to 4,35€... But Portuguese food is still very affordable due to white label brands, I remember London where I worked for 1 year in 2011 and as soon as you divert to some fine cheese or cookies you find it prohibitive... Public transports monthly pass has stayed 30€ Lisbon and 40€ Big Lisbon for the last 5 years, no one pays 1 travel tickets (only missinformed Tourists), that is an absurd waste of money... There is also 3 day and 7 day pass

[@richard9492]

We currently live in Canada. My wife was born in Brazil (Japanese Brazilian) so first language Portuguese. We visited Portugal for 4 weeks back in 2017 and loved every minute. I think cost of living was normal back then. BTW, beautiful video and so informative, thanks for sharing your experiences. I can just imaging how happy you guys must feel living in such a civilized country now, considering the demonic and horrendous events going on in the U.S. at present, no need to state details here; the world knows. Bravo to both of you for making such a brave and important decision for yourselves and most importantly for the future of your beautiful daughter.

[@AquarianConspiracy]

I am one of many,that- like you,are concerned

[@CostaRicanInMontreal]

Inflation has affected every single country in the world. Prices have gone up a lot in the US and Canada too. So why would it be any different in Portugal?

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

We understand what you mean but it is a bit of hyperbole to say it's affecting every single country in the world. Check out this map. www.ft.com/content/088d3368-bb8b-4ff3-9df7-a7680d4d81b2 Also, Kalie said it's happening "everywhere" ;-) Check 01:33 for that. - Josh & Kalie

[@quoiquedon7002]

Thank you very much for very useful information. My family is currently going through the first renewal of Golden Visa and up to now everything is going smoothly. Our renewal was done through on-line process. One annoying thing is that all my family members have different expiration dates of Golden Visa card. So the renewals are being done one by one.

[@Wee_Catalyst]

As someone who’s aiming for Portuguese citizenship I am very interested in the class over the test, as this was how I got my motorcycle license and much preferred it to how I got my main driving license with just individual practice and then the test

[@therehastobesomethingmoore]

So many changes going on in many countries that are possible retirement places…. Costa Rica and Ecuador both show big increases in crime…. Big changes like inflation in Turkey…. Argentina with their challenging dual blue dollar economic system…. Sometimes I think we are better off just slow traveling 3-6 months in one country, then off to another place. Still looking at Guatemala, Colombia, Peru, maybe Argentina…. We are cool weather lovers so no beach places.

[@Mr.DJones]

Thank you for your time and posting. Great video. I hope your daughter becomes bi/trilingual. After reading a lot of comments, it is interesting that nobody seems to blame themselves for not creating a better retirement income and not saving enough, but instead, blames the country's government for not being affordable. We all know that prices for everything will go up with time and this factor should be implemented before moving (ie: Let's say I make US$2600 a month, at this time that is borderline acceptable to live in the country I am looking into. But maybe not enough in 5 years. Equalling, I shouldn't move there). If Portugal becomes unaffordable it's not the government's fault but the fault of the person who now can't afford it. I've just started looking into Portugal. If I decide to move there, I will work hard on learning the language before moving. I tried Equador, but too much petty crime, smog, and graffiti, and the food was pretty dull. :) Thank you for your time and best of luck to everyone. Side Note: I do not work for the Portuguese government. :)

[@lf1666]

Yeah. The reality of life sets in!!! Don’t move because you erroneously think it’s cheap It needs to fit your lifestyle !!! Of course!!!!’

[@jeaninehuston7820]

Great video!! I agree with everything you've said. 1. Our landlord raised our rent 100€ per month this month with no notice! Oh, by the way your new rent will be 100€ next month. Not when the lease renews in the new year!! You really are stuck if you don't have another place to live/move to. 2. We have been priced out of the market to purchase a place, with the budget that we set before we moved here in 2021. We are just waiting for the bubble to pop. 3. The groceries have most definitely gone up. Portugal is NOT the super inexpensive place to live or retire as it is so often portrayed in articles amd videos. Feels like Portugal is keeping up with the inflation all around Europe. 4. I would also love to have a small car in times of rain, cold, and heat. It also gives you freedom to go to places that are not on bus, train or flight routes/locations. Busses are great but you are beholden to their time schedules. I've noticed since moving here there is a lot of wasted time waiting for transportation, that you've either missed or it could be late, or just not show up at all. There is also the issue that holidays have so few busses scheduled that you could be out of luck and need to take a Bolt anyway. 5. Speaking of Bolt, we have seen an increase in their costs per ride as well. What used to cost around 3€ is now around 6€. 6. The continued changes in the laws and regimes really makes me feel anxious and unstable as well. 7. I definitely have a more difficult time with the language than Dave has. He uses an app that he is loyal to every day. I do not. 8. When becoming a citizen, does that change your tax status? Do you lose your NHR status? Cia looks like she's grown again, and just keeps getting more amd more adorable!!! 😊 Hugs to Pincho!! 🐾 🤎

[@jeaninehuston7820]

I definitely would choose to take a class for the path to citizenship. 😉

[@CClarinet123]

Rent raises have to be communicated with 30 days notice.

[@davejohnstone1359]

Language... I'm not sure about the free government course. It's a massive investment in time, with very basic material, and at the end of it, you can't communicate. If you put the same effort (time-wise and a bit of discomfort exam-wise) into one of the other paid teaching and other resources I think you would set yourself up so much better to be able to communicate and integrate more deeply.

[@Nubianette]

The cost of living increases in California are even worse. Buying the same items, my groceries went from $80 to $125 per week. I used this opportunity to go on a diet, and shop differently, so I got it back down to $80-ish. In Portugal, I see would spend less because the costlier variety isn’t there (as far as I saw). Most people I know, aren’t moving to Portugal to be fancy, but to have a nice life, integrated with the Portuguese community, and friendly, likeminded people in general. The anti foreigner chitter chatter is media inflammatory posts to get readers. Of course, people are concerned how migrants are changing their country, but from what I’ve seen, the Portuguese people aren’t over reacting, as a whole. But, they need to get on their government, when it comes to housing and the rotting buildings.

[@paulineverriere8054]

Same in Canada…

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Agreed (re anti foreigner sentiment). Great job with the grocery haul. We've basically done the same to be fair. - Josh & Kalie

[@pauls3075]

Every month media outlets tell us the 'new superfood is ...' and every month the media tell us the 'Americans are flocking to ...' it is all nonsense designed to sell advertising space from clickthrough's.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

That's very true, Paul. I think that's what Kalie was alluding to when she made her "media" comment. - Josh & Kalie

[@HamzaDaoui]

Great video! Thank you

[@turtlemurtlek]

Honestly it's the same in the US at least where i live in salt lake city. Rent for a 2 bed was like $1500-1600 pre pandemic. They are now $1900+. Eating out used to be $10ish dollars for an entree. Now its at least $15. Everything is going up literally everywhere

[@sbkpilot1]

Interesting observation.. I wonder what happens when the 10 year period starts rolling off for all those who came in under NHR. Will there be a mass exodus due to the sudden ridiculously sharp increase in taxes? Or will people stay regardless, will be interesting to see

[@wcdanger6921]

Before taking the class, I'd learn if the class has exams. If you have to pass ten exams in the class, it may be more stressful for you than testing when you apply.

[@mradventurer8104]

Nice one. Regarding your question about language: I would probably take classes BUT before that I would try to fully immerse myself in the language for say 1, 2 months when arriving to have a basic knowledge.

[@billc38]

Really enjoying this informal update ... very helpful! We are retired and moving to Braga next year. We'd take the language class rather than the test, but we are planning to take the class anyway to more quickly become a part of the community, not for citizenship.

[@seankalleyart2065]

It is a beautiful country, and living outside the major cities or the Algarve pushes you to learn Portuguese, and integrate faster. You just have to do to lack of English speaking. Outside of the usual Bureaucracy every country has in their own unique way, the pace and peacefulness found here is a breath of fresh air everyday. Did not know you could take a class for the passport or permanent residency over the test, so thank you for the information. And yes groceries have gone up for sure.

[@theushistorian]

Any revised projections as to when the Portuguese housing market will drop?

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Predictions? Not really, we made a video a few months back at the consensus was there might be a slowing or plateauing but not a crash. - Josh & Kalie

[@AO-jm5ep]

It depends on the government, in Germany we only needed two weeks from 300,000 EUR to unsaleable or from 800,000 EUR to 540,000 EUR for example. You need a so-called Green Party, I can recommend Mr. Habeck if you want to buy cheaply.

[@MissRed92837]

Cost of living, food, healthcare, taxes, etc went up globally. That’s just the times we live in. I’m leaving the US by the end of this year. Most probably my new home will be Mallorca, Spain.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

You're exactly right, Noemi. Best of luck in Mallorca. It's a nice city. - Josh & Kalie

[@AO-jm5ep]

@@ExpatsEverywhere Mallorca is not a city.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

@@AO-jm5ep You're right. When we hear Mallorca, we think Palma de Mallorca. - Josh

[@tinglestingles]

I feel regional dialects are a big thing, listening to people from Madiera, Porto, Lisbon and in The Algarve - can be incredibly challenging for me.

[@stellak4734]

Finally something honest for a change.

[@wildbill6366]

Portugal was so 10 years ago when it was a good deal. Now the hype all the people moving there all the video blogs all the KZbin channels and all the sheep have made it expensive. There are so many better choices all over the world I spent a few months in Portugal it was nice but it did not even get into my top five.. no doubt the sheep will keep coming and the government will keep being as bureaucratic as always.

[@GuilhermeS123]

Great! Stay out of Portugal.

[@annh.8290]

Yep, change happens, it's the same here in the Netherlands, we have been here for almost 8 years, and just since covid there have been lots. As for citizenship, I'd take the test, and if it doesn't work out take the class, though I don't know what the cost is, it just make more sense to me if you have that option.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thanks for sharing. - Josh & Kalie

[@jondeanpt]

We moved to Cairo 2 years ago and our cost of living as gone up by 65%. Imports are a nightmare for example two ribeye Angus beef steaks are $35. My 3 bed was cheap @$900 a month and now it’s $1500. Still cheap but this is Africa and should be cheaper than a UK town.

[@michaelhaardt5988]

#7 is something I see in Germany a lot during the last two years and I agree with your perception of it.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Interest! What are you seeing? What changes have happened? - Josh & Kalie

[@michaelhaardt5988]

@@ExpatsEverywhere Mostly four things: There is great uncertainty on a coming substantial increase in property taxes. Starting 2024 there is a ban of installing (including replacement) of gas and oil heats that was introduced last minute with remaining uncertainty per county. Then we have a housing crisis due to uncontrolled immigration of refugees. Finally the energy taxes were increased like crazy and will be increased again 2024. The cost of life just skyrockets.

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

@@michaelhaardt5988 Thanks for sharing! - Josh

[@tatianaschoenfield9819]

@@michaelhaardt5988It is terrible to watch how the German government works against their own citizens.

[@joshransom]

Prices have increased everywhere due to inflation.

[@littletravelmonkey6727]

Golden visa investors come to portugal not because they love portugal, they come for the residence visa that only need to stay in portugal for 7 days per year to qualify.

[@CandycaneBeyond]

I live just outside Chicago and before pandemic I used to see apartments around $1000, now they are going for $1800, almost doubled. There's no logical reason for this.

[@jeffrosenberg8456]

Great video!

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thanks! - Josh & Kalie

[@ameripeans1586]

Great video.

[@ninarosaphotography2039]

Well when I came to USA I did the class. So I think why not to tajá a class. It’s much better to given you confidence. Also show some respect to the country you’re living. That’s the way I Think. I teach Portuguese in USA for 17 years. Portuguese is more difficult because there are so many different ways of conjugating verbs. And also the combination of person pronouns, genders and plural or singular nouns. Verbs, adverbs and adjectives in sentences always have to be combined with the subject, either with or articles So let's say that the subject is the main one in the sentence and its actions, which are verbs, must have a certain complicity.

[@jamesjamesl]

Hi Josh and Kalie! Long time followers of your channel. My wife and I have been planning to relocate from the US to Portugal. We toured earlier this year for an about a month and our intention is to buy property and reside in Portugal for the long term. However, with the recent changes in the NHR (which we didn't really care for the 10 year limit anyway as it is too short), can you give a bit of insight on taxes from passive investment income that is US based? I know we will still need to speak to an expat tax consultancy, but just in general we have real estate rental income, dividend income from stocks and interest income from cash (T-bills, Savings accounts). I know that there is a double taxation treaty with US, but does the recent changes affect this double taxation treaty at all? We would be OK with paying slightly more taxes, but not a double taxation of an additional 28% in Portugal, which would be a deal breaker for us (and I imagine most people). Thank you! James

[@aske___4533]

you can f* off with your money, want to live here pay taxes like the others

[@hi-te9bl]

is there any foreign language that English spoken mourners find easy to learn? Any language is hard to learn is require commitment which English speaking countries don't put in, its all in the mind set.

[@user4name]

what about the upcoming 40%-50% taxes in 2024 income tax such as crypto and etc?

[@antoniocarvalho6160]

IF YOU GO TO PORTO DON'T MISS SEEING THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BOOKSTORE IN THE WORLD, AS WELL AS THE CAFE IF IT'S NOT THE MOST BEAUTIFUL, IT WILL BE THE SECOND!

[@MamaLlama007]

I would take the class, more info would seem helpful to me.

[@sh4969]

Chile Patagonia, first you pay no tax if you buy a farm, $37.00 a month for full medical coverage, you pay no tax on cars or no insurance unless you want to. You learn to have speak Spanish to level 2 , there about 2 million people in Chile I think South of Chile is better than Queenstown in NZ. More beautiful and untouched.

[@Elad316]

Don't know why, thought you were living in Lisbon.. I'm also from Porto. Love life here! Saw you guys in the street in Santa Catarina, but was too shy to come and say hi 😌

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

We're 100% tripeiros. We do meetups here in Porto. If you ask Kalie to get on her monthly newsletter, she'll keep you informed of when and where those will be. Please, next time you see us, say hi! - Josh & Kalie

[@Elad316]

@@ExpatsEverywhere cool. sure thing!

[@antoniocarvalho6160]

IN PORTUGAL TO ENTER A UNIVERSITY, IN MEDICINE, THEY ONLY ENTER WITH A MAXIMUM GRADE OF 19 OR 20, WITH 18,... PRACTICALLY DO NOT ENTER! THEN IT'S 5 - 6 YEARS OR MORE! THE SYSTEM IS DIFFICULT, THAT'S WHY MANY GO TO OTHER COUNTRIES, IN NURSING THEY ARE ALSO VERY DEMANDING

[@DittersGustav]

Anti Foreigner sentiment happens more torwards people from developing countries for sure.

[@marg3153]

Happening all over Europe!

[@PedroLamyLaranjeira]

I am Portuguese born, and went to the USA when I was 22, 44 years go, and now I have double nationality. For the last 3 years I pass always less than 180 days in the house that belonged to my parents and now is mine. What I find in Portugal that makes me think of the US is three things. 1. the burocracy of "Financas". They are able to turn me nuts, You ask one person he tells you something, when you return the new person tells you those documents were not necessary and what you need is something different. Taking care of inheritance has been out of this world. 2 Banks with hidden fees and the requests for documentation, and oppening an account and adding a spouse or child to the account they must be present. 3 Support with services, they take 2 weeks to return to your email and if you call, you have to pay the call and then they will send someone to your house. But on the day they should come they call canceling and changing to another day. But everything else, it is great! The town of my family is Ovar ( 33km south of Porto) and 5KM from the ocean and Ria. Great fresh fish and everybody knows me...

[@ABOVETHECLOUDS007]

Hi what if I buy my own condo out right and it’s all paid for then that means there is NO raising the rent right? Cause it would be mine so why would I need to pay more after it’s all paid for, also when owning a condo there if there is any not just apartments, are there HOA fees? Thanks

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

You could definitely buy your condo outright and many people have done that and continue to do that. There are HOA fees for most condos and apartments. - Josh & Kalie

[@resourcefulqueen5109]

Groceries have gone up in the USA also. It is called inflation. The US Federal government is working to manage inflation.

[@kastrelo]

In which city do you live in Portugal?

[@MyLatinLife]

Good intel!

[@ExpatsEverywhere]

Thank you. - Josh & Kalie