Copyright belfastlive
Countless people harbour dreams of relocating to Spain . With its balmy weather , delicious cuisine and lively culture, the nation appears to tick every box for potential emigrants. However, whilst expatriate figures remain steady in Spain, it's the neighbouring country that's witnessing a remarkable surge in numbers due to remote workers and pensioners. Portugal's expat population has rocketed by 150% since 2018, despite Brexit complications and the COVID pandemic. What exactly makes this nation such an attractive proposition? And with 70% of expats settling in Portugal for five years or longer, what aspects of the lifestyle do they find so appealing? A significant factor driving people from the UK to choose Portugal over Spain is cost-effectiveness. In a recent TikTok clip, one woman exposed the harsh realities of Spanish living, declaring: "Basically, you're working to survive". Rental prices fluctuate nationwide, with the typical one-bedroom flat costing €972, though many expat-favoured cities command considerably higher fees. Spain is also considering a 100% property levy for non-EU citizens, meaning purchasing property before obtaining residency could double your costs, , reports the Express . Rising prices have also impacted Spanish grocery bills. Shopping expenses have climbed 38.5% more costly since 2019, with salaries failing to match the increase, making everyday expenses increasingly burdensome. In contrast, Housing Anywhere labelled Portugal "one of the most budget-friendly countries in Western Europe", stating that living costs for an individual totalled just €1,285 per month. Numbeo, a platform allowing cost of living comparisons between nations, suggests Portugal's overall expenses are 37.9% below those of the UK, presenting an appealing prospect for pensioners. Portugal has also drawn more expatriates due to its Digital Nomad Visa. Introduced in 2022, this programme targets remote employees seeking to reside in Portugal whilst maintaining employment with overseas firms. A twelve-month visa is available, alongside a longer-term alternative that may result in permanent residence. Candidates must demonstrate earnings of €3,480, equivalent to four times the minimum wage. However, those planning retirement in Portugal, or living from passive earnings such as property rental, face considerably reduced income requirements of €870 monthly, matching the nation's minimum wage. Conversely, Spain provides a non-employment visa for retirees, requiring income at 400% of the Public Income Index (IPREM), which stands at roughly €30,240 annually as of 2025, with an extra 100% of the IPREM needed for each dependent relative, resulting in elevated income thresholds for pensioners. Undeniably, the allure of Spain lies in its sunny climate and stunning beaches. Comparing the weather between Spain and Portugal can be challenging given Spain's vast size and varied regional climates. Portugal typically enjoys hot summers and mild winters, with the north being slightly cooler and receiving more rainfall. While Spain continues to attract those who can afford it, Portugal is increasingly becoming a favoured choice for the budget-conscious. Offering a lower cost of living yet still abundant sunshine, Portugal could indeed be a viable alternative.
