ExpatsEverywhere Presents: Let's Move to Portugal

What if the way you think about your new country is shaping your entire experience of living abroad? In this episode, Josh talks with Kinga, a psychologist and mindfulness expert who has lived and worked in 58 countries, about the mental health challenges of moving abroad and adapting to a new culture. They explore why some expats struggle to feel at home, how our mindset can influence whether we feel accepted by locals, and why learning the language and stepping outside your comfort zone can make such a difference.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brainhealthinternational 

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In this episode, Kalie catches up with Virginia to talk about what it’s really like living in Braga, Portugal, after three years abroad. From the rising cost of housing and everyday expenses to schools, healthcare, and family life, Virginia shares how life in northern Portugal has changed and what expats should know before making the move. They also discuss Portugal’s citizenship changes and how they’ve affected Virginia’s family, the pros and cons of raising children in Braga, and the need for a backup plan because of the citizenship changes. 

The Portugal Brief: https://theportug...

In this episode, Josh and Kalie dive into the current Portugal immigration process, including VFS visa appointments, required documents, housing requirements, and how long it can take to move to Portugal. They also discuss the cost of living, D7 and D8 visas, taxes, scouting trips, and some of the best places to live in Portugal.

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Cassie shares her experience moving from the US to Porto, navigating Portugal’s immigration bureaucracy, and waiting nearly two years for residency. She also talks about the challenges her daughter faced with her residency application, hiring a lawyer, healthcare in Portugal, raising a family abroad, living in different Porto neighborhoods, and building a new life and business in the city.

Her company, Double-Edged Press (https://doubleedgedpress.com/). She and her husband started a publishing and author services company with the goal to publish Portuguese and expat authors. You can email her at cassandra.huneke@gmail.com 

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In this episode of the ExpatsEverywhere Podcast, Liz shares her journey from the US to Porto, Portugal, on the D2 entrepreneur visa. She explains the challenges of starting a business in Portugal, finding housing, and navigating the visa process, while also sharing how she and her husband turned their love of food into a growing Nashville hot chicken business.

Uniplaces website: https://www.uniplaces.com/pt 

Liz’s website: https://hearthharborfood.com/ 

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Looking for the best small towns in Portugal to live in? In this episode, Josh and Kalie explore 10 charming Portuguese towns including Loulé, Tavira, Vila Real, Lagos, Nazaré, Ericeira, Tomar, Óbidos, Vizela, and Chaves, sharing what expat life is really like in each one. They cover cost of living, lifestyle, transportation, expat communities, amenities, and the biggest pros and cons of choosing a smaller town in Portugal. Plus, they discuss why going too small might not be the best choice for first-time expats. 

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This episode follows Vivian’s journey from a failed first attempt at moving abroad to building a fulfilling life in Portugal after years of living across Europe and Southeast Asia. 

✅ Move Abroad Services. Vivian’s personalized 1:1 help for people who need a plan (and possibly a partner) to get from a full house to an empty one before they move abroad: ftbhomeorganizing.com/move-abroad-services

✅ We Are Not Taking the Whole House With Us. Vivian’s free email series for people planning a move abroad who are staring at everything they own and wondering h...

In this episode, Josh and Kalie explore medium-sized cities in Portugal, focusing on their infrastructure, lifestyle, and suitability for expats and residents. Discover hidden gems beyond Lisbon and Porto, with insights into local culture, transportation, and real estate.

1. Porto metro area

Póvoa de Varzim, Maia, Santa Maria da Feira, Ermesinde, Vila do Conde, Santo Tirso, Gondomar (https://youtu.be/e_3ZGM1hRws?si=M334JbFAYLtobvs4), Senhora de Hora, Valongo

2. Lisbon metro area: Sintra (https://youtu.be/OxOpeJwcOxI?si=zhUzU5EsmFRsqeaE), Vila Franca de Xira, Odivelas, Loures

3. Esposende

In this episode of the “Let’s Move to Portugal Podcast”, Brent shares what really happened after he moved to Portugal—from buying a home in a city he’d never visited to struggling with the language and navigating the realities of building a new life abroad. Along the way, he reveals some surprising lessons he wishes he’d known before making the move.

Brent's podcast channel: Destination Eat and Drink
https://open.spotify.com/show/3lSoO0nLmDHMTIGdyAgFWG 

Brent's website: destinationeatdrink.com 
Socials: @destinationeatdrink on facebook and instagram

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Helen shares her inspiring journey of moving from Ukraine to Portugal with just one suitcase and €700, revealing how she navigated Portuguese bureaucracy, learned the language, built a successful creative business, and eventually became a Portuguese citizen in a remarkably short six months. This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone considering moving to Portugal, including insights on the cost of living in Lisbon, renting as a foreigner, integrating into Portuguese culture, and what life is really like for expats in Portugal. 

Helen’s website: diariesbyhelenv.com

Book a call with John here- http://www.c...

Portugal’s citizenship and immigration laws have changed—and if you’re considering moving abroad, these updates matter. In this episode, immigration lawyer Diogo Capela breaks down the new citizenship timelines, what changed for D7, D8, and Golden Visa holders, how permanent residency works, and what options still exist moving forward. We also discuss legal challenges, family scenarios, residency rights, and whether Portugal is still worth considering as a long-term plan. Whether you already live in Portugal or are exploring your options, this conversation helps make sense of what’s changing and what isn’t.

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In this episode, Mark shares the biggest mistakes he made when moving from Florida to Portugal—including unexpected tax bills, housing challenges, costly planning oversights, along with practical lessons on sequencing your move, managing finances, and building a successful life abroad.

New Portuguese Law Update: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dafKcTVHTys 

NHR 2.0, officially called IFICI (Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation), is Portugal’s replacement for the old NHR regime, aimed at attracting highly qualified professionals working in eligible research, technology, innovation, startup, and export-oriented sectors. It gener...

In this episode, Diogo Leal shares insider knowledge on Portugal’s real estate market, including how to avoid costly land-buying mistakes, navigate municipal bureaucracy, secure financing, and choose the best locations for development. He and Josh also discuss why foreign investors often seek professional guidance, the growing debate around foreign investment in Portugal, and the realities of building versus renovating in today’s market.

https://www.findlandportugal.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/findlandportugal/ 

Use the code “ExpatsEverywhere” to receive a 10% discount on their services. 

Governing bodies mentioned:

https://c...

In this episode, Josh catches up with Dallas to explore how the realities of moving abroad have evolved, from Portugal residency requirements to the growing need for stable mailing addresses, banking access, and secure communication tools for expats. Drawing on nearly a decade of firsthand experience, Dallas shares practical lessons, common pitfalls, and emerging solutions that can help international movers protect their financial access, maintain compliance, and avoid costly mistakes before and after relocating.

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In this episode, Maya shares her family’s journey through Portugal’s education system while raising their daughter in the Algarve. She discusses the pros and cons of public, private, and international schools, highlighting challenges such as language barriers, uneven teaching quality, and school strikes. After trying different options, her family ultimately found that an international school provided the right environment for their daughter to succeed both academically and socially.

The episode also touches on her role as a buyer-focused real estate advisor in Portugal, as well as broader cultural observations, including how practices like tipping introduced by f...

French expat and real estate advisor Maya shares her family’s experience moving to Portugal during COVID and explains how life in the Algarve differs from the idealized version many foreigners expect. She and host Josh discuss Portugal’s evolving housing market, cultural integration, and the distinct lifestyles across different Algarve regions.

A1/A2 completely online course for certificate: https://www.ciplemaster.com/ 

They have offered our viewers 15% off if you use the code: ExpatsEverywhere

Maya's website: https://thebuyersagentportugal.com/ 

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Thinking about visiting or moving to Sofia, Bulgaria in 2026? In this episode, we break down our honest first impressions of Sofia after spending time in the city and compare it to Porto and Lisbon, Portugal. We cover the real cost of living in Sofia, rent prices, food prices, transportation, weather, friendliness of locals, and whether Sofia is still one of Europe’s best affordable cities now that Bulgaria has joined the Eurozone.

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Schedule a free 15-minute intro call with John, our trusted financial advisor:

http://www.calen...

Thinking of visiting Bucharest, Romania or wondering how it compares to Portugal? In this episode, we break down our first impressions after visiting Romania for the first time and share what surprised us most about Bucharest in 2026. From cost of living and housing prices to cafes, transportation, safety, food, and daily life, we compare Bucharest to Porto and Lisbon so expats, digital nomads, and travelers can better understand what to expect.

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Schedule a free 15-minute intro call with John, our trusted financial advisor:

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Tom shares how he decided to retire early during COVID and, after researching several countries, chose Portugal for its safety, lifestyle, and natural beauty. A visit in 2021 convinced him to settle in the Algarve, where he bought land and built a home with the help of professionals to navigate local rules. He highlights Portugal as an excellent retirement destination, especially for outdoor living and a relaxed lifestyle. He also reflects on challenges in the building process, including finding trustworthy builders and managing costs. 

Can You Still Live in Portugal for €1,500/Month? (Reality or Myth in...

This episode follows Eran’s journey of relocating his family to Spain after carefully evaluating options like Portugal, highlighting the complex planning involved in moving abroad with kids. He shares how detailed research, covering schools, housing, costs, and lifestyle, helped them make informed decisions. Inspired by this process, he created a tool that uses AI to simplify relocation by providing personalized, structured guidance. The discussion also touches on common expat challenges, unreliable information, and shifting immigration trends.

https://www.reloplanner.com/ 

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Schedule a free...

In this conversation, Josh and Kalie reflect on their past experience living in Madrid and how their perspective has changed over time. When they first lived there in their twenties, they loved the energy and excitement of a big European capital, but now they feel they prefer smaller cities and a slower lifestyle. Throughout the conversation, they compare Madrid to cities like London, Lisbon, and Porto, noting differences in size, transportation, cost of living, and lifestyle. They talk about how Madrid has improved over the years with better infrastructure, more international residents, and better English spoken, but they also...

In this conversation, Justin Scott shares his journey of investing in real estate in Portugal, particularly in Porto and Amarante. He discusses the challenges faced in property management, the importance of quality service, and his transition to starting his own property management company, Hidden Gem Property Management. Justin emphasizes the potential of the Portuguese real estate market and offers insights for new investors, highlighting the significance of location and customer service in the short-term rental market.

Hidden Gems channel: https://www.youtube.com/@hiddengemsuncoveredpodcast

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This podcast episode explores the financial fears many Americans, especially expats in Portugal, are facing in 2026, from currency fluctuations and stock market uncertainty to political anxiety in the U.S. The speakers explain that fear and emotional decision-making are often bigger risks than the market itself, and emphasize the importance of long-term planning, diversification, and understanding currency risk when living abroad. 

Link for webinar with Kalie:

https://www.greenoceanglobal.net/webinar/synchronizing-your-post-portugal-reality-how-to-plan-your-life-with-kalie-from-expats-everywhere

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In this conversation, Steve shares his transformative journey of moving to Portugal after the loss of his wife. He discusses his background, the research he conducted before relocating, and how his previous experience in Brazil helped him adapt to life in Portugal. Steve emphasizes the importance of community engagement, language learning, and the cost of living in Aveiro. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of living abroad, highlighting how this experience has reshaped his perspective on life and relationships.

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In this episode, the founders of Slate & Key explain how the company grew from their Expats Everywhere platform as listeners began asking for hands-on relocation help instead of DIY resources. Kalie describes their personalized, “white-glove” approach to guiding clients through Portugal’s complex immigration process, including visa backlogs, changing rules for visas like the D7, D8, and D6, appointment challenges, and key concerns like housing, healthcare, and taxes. She emphasizes that every relocation is unique and that having an expert guide helps make the move smoother and less overwhelming.

Slate and Key | The Key to You...

This conversation explores the tax policies in Italy and Portugal, focusing on the basic tax structures, ways to minimize tax burdens for foreigners, available deductions, filing requirements, common mistakes made by expats, and final thoughts on navigating the tax systems in both countries. Experts Nick and Rui provide insights into the complexities of taxation for new residents and the importance of professional guidance.

Rui's website: https://goalseek.pt/
Nick's website: https://www.italiantaxes.com/

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In this episode, Jeanne shares her inspiring journey of moving from the United States to Portugal with her family. After a year of planning, including selling their home and navigating the complexities of moving abroad, they settled in Caldas da Rainha, a town known for its artistic community and proximity to Lisbon. Jeanne also delves into her experiences with the Portuguese language, sharing the challenges and triumphs of learning it through classes and a study group. She highlights the significance of language in building relationships and feeling at home in a new country. Additionally, she introduces her innovative language...

In this episode, Daniel Daly shares his journey into real estate investment in Portugal, detailing how he transitioned from having no knowledge to acquiring multiple properties in just a year. He talks about the idea of lifestyle alignment, emphasizing choices that support the kind of life he wants to build rather than focusing purely on money. Daniel discusses his extensive research process, which led him to choose Porto as his primary investment location due to its favorable market conditions, accessibility, and vibrant culture. He also discusses the importance of surrounding himself with a strong, trustworthy local network to make...

In this conversation, Kalie and James Muscat discuss the recent presidential elections in Portugal, the structure of the government, and the implications for foreigners living in the country. They explore the political landscape, including the rise of the Chega party and the election of Antonio Seguro as president. James emphasizes the importance of immigration and the need for moderate policies moving forward, while also addressing concerns about the polarization of politics in Portugal.

💼 Green Ocean Global | Financial Advisory for Expats

Schedule a free 15-minute intro call with John, our trusted financial advisor:

http://www...

This episode dives into the side of moving abroad most people overlook: the psychological shift. Siddartha breaks down the four ways people respond to a new culture—and why true integration, not assimilation, is what actually leads to long-term fulfillment. They explore the hidden crossroads many expats hit around year two and again years later, moments that quietly determine whether life abroad thrives or unravels. The takeaway is clear: moving countries will change you—having the right framework helps you turn that change into growth instead of burnout.

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In this episode, Kalie from ExpatsEverywhere interviews Dr. Lynae Brayboy, who shares her journey of moving to Portugal and establishing OvomCare, a fertility clinic in Cascais. Dr. Brayboy discusses the advantages of Portugal's fertility laws, which allow for greater freedom in reproductive choices compared to the U.S. She highlights the serene environment of Cascais, which is conducive to patients undergoing fertility treatments, and explains how the clinic caters to a diverse clientele, including many expats. Dr. Brayboy also touches on her personal experiences with living in Berlin, and the differences in the culture. The episode concludes with Dr...

In this conversation, Josh and Jonny from Millennials with Money discuss the shifting appeal of Portugal and Spain for expatriates, particularly focusing on the impact of recent legislation on immigration and property investment. They explore the cost of living in both countries, the cultural preferences of expatriates, and the importance of personal finance in navigating life abroad. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by digital nomads and property investors in the current economic climate.

Episode on Jonny's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0kwLlTg1Ug 

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In this conversation, Josh and Nick Robinson discuss Nick's journey to Portugal, his experiences living in the Algarve for over 25 years, and the changes he has witnessed in the region. They explore cultural adjustments, the impact of tourism, the evolving demographics of the Algarve, and the social dynamics between locals and expats. The conversation also touches on political sentiments regarding immigration, the economic contributions of foreign residents, and the lifestyle in the Algarve, highlighting both the challenges and the beauty of living in this region.

Algarve Addicts Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@AlgarveAddicts/featured 

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In this conversation, Caline discusses the profound impact of living abroad and traveling, emphasizing the importance of cultural richness and the lessons that come from embracing diversity. She encourages listeners to explore beyond their immediate surroundings and to appreciate the wealth of knowledge that different cultures offer.

Connect with Caline: 

https://www.calinemalek.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/calinebynature/?utm_source=ig_embed 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/caline-malek/ 

https://x.com/CalineMalek 

19 Surprising Reasons Americans are Happier in Europe video: https...

In this conversation, Elena Hebert shares her journey of moving from Russia to the US then to France with her family, discussing the challenges and rewards of raising bilingual children in a new culture. She emphasizes the importance of planning, language learning, and adapting to a different lifestyle while navigating the complexities of parenting abroad. The discussion also touches on the cultural differences in raising children and the impact of language on identity.

Connect with Elena: https://lgelena.com/ 

https://open.spotify.com/show/3ltdGxfdTgmC8MeeH2B6HN?si=12f89eb3660148bc&n...

In this conversation, Josh and Kalie explore the differences and similarities between Portugal and Slovakia, focusing on various aspects such as culture, food, weather, cost of living, and social dynamics. They share personal experiences and insights, highlighting the appeal of both countries for potential expats. The discussion emphasizes the unique characteristics of each location, making it a valuable resource for those considering relocation.

Video on starting the citizenship process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZ2bSBXVgx4 

Comparing Portugal and Spain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pj_efjOu0Fw 

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Ryan and Liz share their journey of moving to Portugal, their love story that began in an airport, and the challenges and joys of expat life. They discuss their experiences in Lisbon and Setubal, the impact of COVID-19 on their perspective of having a stable place to call home, and the importance of community and connection. They also provide insights into the cultural adjustments required when living in a new country and offer advice for future expats. 

Ryan and Liz’s podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2MsdgenOQ9Uy9BB66P4gAD?si=o0sVO...

In this conversation, Ana Caramujo from Savvy Cat Realty discusses the complexities of the real estate market in Portugal, focusing on ethical practices, market dynamics, and the challenges faced by expats. She shares insights on the Algarve and Lisbon markets, the competitive rental landscape, safety concerns in various neighborhoods, and emerging opportunities in the Silver Coast and Northern Portugal. Ana emphasizes the importance of transparency, working with buyer agents, and being cautious of rental scams, providing valuable advice for both buyers and renters in the Portuguese real estate market.

Places mentioned: Lisbon, Porto, Braga...

In this conversation, Josh and Kalie explore their experiences in Croatia and Portugal, focusing on Zagreb and its comparisons to Portuguese cities like Porto and Lisbon. They discuss the Schengen shuffle, cultural insights, cost of living, food, and the unique attractions of Zagreb. The conversation highlights the differences in lifestyle, community, and travel experiences between the two countries, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of their journey.

Restaurant: https://pithos.hr/en/#rakije

🏡 Book a free call at https://savvycatrealty.com/ and have them on your side planning your move to Portugal today.

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In this conversation, Jade Navega shares her journey of moving to Portugal in 2018, discussing the challenges of adapting to a new culture, making friends, and navigating the immigration process. She reflects on the significant changes in Porto over the years, including the rise in property prices and the impact of gentrification on local communities. Jade highlights the growing specialty coffee culture and the importance of supporting local businesses. She emphasizes the opportunities for entrepreneurship in Porto and how living abroad has transformed her life, making her feel content and connected to her community.

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