The number of Russian expats in Portugal continues to rise as the country gains popularity among people from all corners of the globe. In 2023, Portugal's foreign population grew by 33.6%, reflecting its increasing appeal to both investors and expats.
Several factors contribute to the influx of Russians moving to Portugal, including its excellent weather, relaxed lifestyle, business and real estate investment opportunities, and straightforward entry and residency processes. With a diverse community from around the world, Portugal is becoming an even more attractive destination for those considering a move.
Attractive Lifestyle for Russian Expats
There are several attractions in Portugal that cannot be enjoyed in Russia. From sun-soaked beaches and a thriving outdoor lifestyle to relaxed visa programs and even the legality of certain online activities, Portugal offers a host of opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere. For example, while online casino gambling is illegal in Russia, Portuguese authorities have legalized it in nine cities, with the largest being Póvoa de Varzim. This legal status is one of the key reasons Russians are drawn to Portugal.
Another factor attracting Russians to Portugal is the country’s favorable weather conditions. With its Mediterranean climate, Portugal is one of Europe’s warmest countries, enjoying mild temperatures year-round and over 300 days of sunshine annually. Despite its small size, Portugal experiences climate variations, with southern regions averaging 16-18°C, and northern regions around 10-12°C. The Azores and Madeira islands tend to be warmer and wetter due to their location.
Portugal is also known for its safety, ranking as the sixth safest country according to the Global Peace Index 2022, with a remarkably low violent crime rate. Additionally, the World Population Review ranked Portugal as the third safest country globally. This, along with the friendly and welcoming nature of the Portuguese people, adds to the country's charm and appeal for Russian immigrants.
Lastly, Portugal’s high-quality yet affordable healthcare system is another highlight. Residents have access to free public healthcare through SNS, while those seeking quicker services and enhanced amenities can opt for private health insurance to access private clinics—offering first-rate medical services at lower costs compared to other Western countries.
Portugal’s Residency Programs
Portugal offers various immigration schemes, and those planning to live in the country must apply for residency to avoid fines. The available visas provide applicants with clear routes to both residency and Portuguese citizenship with straightforward immigration procedures which makes visa processing easy. Russians who wish to move to Portugal can have access to popular visa options such as:
- Portugal Golden Visa Program: A channel for both property buyers and other investors
- Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8): Designed for remote employees seeking to reside in Portugal.
- Portugal D7 Visa: Appropriate for pensioners, including people with passive income.
- Portugal HQA Visa (high-skilled): Created for professionals and specialists with in-demand skills.
- Portugal D2 Visa (Entrepreneurship): Tailor-made for people who wish to launch businesses in the country.
- Portugal Citizenship by Descent: Exclusively for people with one parent or grandparent as Portuguese.
The accessibility of a Portuguese visa makes Portugal a highly sought-after destination for individuals who do not hold EEA, EU, or Swiss passports but wish to reside in the European Union. Additionally, with only five years required to become eligible for Permanent Residence and Citizenship, Portugal continues to be a top choice for Russian immigrants.
Real Estate Investment
Russian expats who move to Portugal find it relatively easy to acquire property, thanks to the country’s thriving and budget-friendly real estate market, offering a wide variety of appealing options. There are no restrictions on immigrants owning property, allowing them to choose from a range of options, whether it's a charming countryside barn, a modern flat in Lisbon, or a serene beachside villa. Whatever their preference, Portugal provides abundant choices to suit diverse tastes. Additionally, Portugal’s real estate market enjoys a level of price stability, with minimal fluctuations. This stability makes it an attractive option for those seeking long-term real estate investments.
Russian immigrants can be found across Portugal, though they are especially concentrated in Lisbon, which sits along the Atlantic Ocean. As Portugal’s largest city, Lisbon offers an affordable cost of living and excellent public transportation. Its cozy cafés, vibrant food scene, and rich culture foster strong connections between locals and expats, making it a thriving hub for the Russian community.
The Algarve Coast is another popular destination for Russian expats, known for its stunning beaches and mouth-watering seafood. Retirees are drawn to Faro, a sunny coastal retreat that offers a relaxing lifestyle. Inland Viseu also attracts many expats with its excellent weather, high quality of life, and strong healthcare system, making it an ideal location for those seeking a friendly and peaceful community. Porto, situated along the Douro River, is another hotspot for Russian immigrants. Known for its charming streets, delicious cuisine, and world-famous Porto wine, the city provides an immersive experience for expats who wish to enjoy a rich Portuguese lifestyle.
Integration and Community
In recent years, Portugal has attracted a large number of expats, transforming the country into a vibrant community of both immigrants and locals. Growing clusters of individuals and families from the UK, United States, France, Brazil, Russia, Spain, and other nations now populate different regions of Portugal, creating a unique blend of cultures that enriches daily life.
No matter where a Russian expat chooses to live in Portugal, there is a good chance they will encounter fellow Russians nearby. The international communities formed across the country are incredibly welcoming. While English is widely spoken in Portugal, in cases where language barriers arise, there is always someone available to assist as an interpreter. Portuguese communities boast a rich cultural diversity that enhances the quality of life, making the country an appealing destination for individuals and families alike. This openness has led many Russians to settle in Portugal with ease and confidence, enjoying the warmth and unity of their new surroundings.
