Can British citizens still move to Portugal after Brexit?

Yes. UK nationals can relocate to Portugal under various legal pathways, including the D7 passive income visa (suitable for remote workers and retirees), the Digital Nomad Visa, or through investment routes. The process is more structured than pre-Brexit EU movement, but very manageable with proper guidance.

What is the NHR regime and does it still apply?

Portugal's Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) tax regime offered significant tax benefits for new residents qualifying under specific criteria. The original NHR scheme was revised and replaced by IFICI (also called NHR 2.0) from 2024, targeting specific professional categories. It's worth speaking to a Portuguese tax advisor about what applies to your situation.

How long does it take to relocate to Lisbon?

Most people who plan carefully complete a move within six to twelve months of seriously deciding. Key timelines include NIF registration (same-day possible), bank account opening (a few weeks), residency appointment scheduling (can take several months), and property search (varies widely by budget and flexibility).

Is Lisbon expensive compared to other Portuguese cities?

Lisbon and its wider metro area command the highest property prices and rents in Portugal, though they remain significantly more affordable than major Western European capitals. Porto is the next most expensive, with Central Portugal and the Alentejo offering substantially lower costs.

Do I need to speak Portuguese to live in Lisbon?

Lisbon is among the most English-friendly cities in Europe — most professionals, shopkeepers, and younger residents speak English well. That said, learning Portuguese improves daily quality of life and is genuinely appreciated. Most expats recommend starting lessons early and treating it as part of settling in.

Can Lisbonos help me find a property as a foreign buyer?

Yes. Lisbonos specialises in helping international buyers navigate the Portuguese property market — from initial search through legal and financial processes. Our team understands the specific needs of foreign buyers and can guide you through each stage of the process.

From London to Lisbon: One Couple's Relocation Story

The Breaking Point

How and why this expat couple made the leap from London

Freelance graphic designer James and marketing consultant Sarah were in their mid-30s. They had saved some money, bought a nice flat in Hackney, and had started a family. But they had been trapped in a cost-price descent: even though they were getting better at their jobs, their income had failed to keep pace with housing costs in London. They were paying half of their combined monthly salary just to rent and service a decent two-bedroom apartment in a good part of town. The breaking point was late November, when they rolled over their lease for a third time. One of them finally cracked, reminding the other of all the conversations they’d had about what they were getting out of life. It was time to consider a bigger move – abroad.

Why Lisbon?

By this stage, the couple had spent a lot of time reading about Portugal – and been put off by seemingly complex bureaucracy and high house prices. But in the spring they took a long weekend trip to Lisbon. “Within three days, we realised that this was possible,” says Sarah. “We spent a few days in Lisbon, found an apartment, and looked at the cost – and it was literally a third of what we were paying for less house in Hackney. And I mean less house: you wouldn’t put a cat in the box-like attic bedroom in our place. But in Lisbon, you had a river view, or a view of the castle, or a fantastic terrace – and space to store all your boxes and to work from home.” The light also played a role. “You can go out of a café and it hits you in a way that you just don’t get in London, and I think that really touched us,” says James.

The Search — What Actually Happened

The Bureaucracy: Honest AccountThe Unexpected PartsThe Finances — What ChangedAdvice for Anyone Considering the MoveWould They Do It Again?.