Moving to Portugal: A Journey of New Beginnings

Mark Neethling

Relocating to a new country is a significant life decision that can be both exhilarating and daunting. For many, the choice to move stems from a desire to embrace a new lifestyle, often driven by reasons such as wanting to be closer to family, particularly children and grandchildren. This article explores my partner’s and my journey to Portugal, highlighting the importance of a positive motive, research, community integration, and the joy of realizing that we are once again “at home”.
Motivation is a powerful force. A positive motive such as living closer to loved ones can provide a solid foundation for your transition. This fosters a sense of purpose and excitement, making the challenges of relocation more manageable. In contrast, moving due to a difficult environment or personal struggles can lead to feelings of anxiety and doubt. While it is understandable to seek refuge from negative circumstances, focusing on the positive aspects can help cultivate a more optimistic outlook.
With adult daughters in the UK and USA, we realized that commuting regularly from the southern tip of Africa to visit was going to be costly and tiring. Although our lifestyle in Johannesburg, South Africa was good – toxic politics, high crime, and deteriorating infrastructure notwithstanding – we decided to look at alternatives. We drew up a set of qualifying criteria and started compiling a shortlist. To our surprise, Portugal emerged far above the other contenders. A peaceful life, affordability, good infrastructure, friendly people, and magnificent landscapes were a winning combination, outweighing the language challenge.
We went on a scouting trip to Portugal to confirm the outcome of our research. And then, on our return to South Africa, COVID happened! We used the seclusion of the COVID lockdowns to further prepare for our move. Selling our house, getting rid of appliances and furniture, arranging veterinary certificates and travel for our cat and our two Havanese dogs, and completing a myriad of other tasks gave our isolation a productive buzz. A detailed project plan emerged, with timelines and dependencies. As COVID restrictions started easing around the world we took the plunge and applied for our visas.
Portugal offers many visa options. Understanding the requirements, documentation, and timelines involved helped us make a smooth landing. Online forums and government websites can provide valuable insights here. Many expatriates share their stories on social media, offering tips on navigating the visa application process, finding housing, and settling into the local culture.
Upon our arrival in Portugal, one of the most effective ways to ease the transition was to connect with like-minded immigrants. We made a conscious effort to attend coffee groups and participated in Community Day Centre lunches with the OICV. These connections have provided practical advice, emotional support, and a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar environment.
While building connections with fellow immigrants was essential, integrating with the local Portuguese community was also important. One of the most effective ways to do this was by learning the language. We found Portuguese classes very helpful. Learning Portuguese not only enhances our daily interactions but also demonstrates respect for the local people. Engaging in conversations, whether at the market, café, or community events significantly enriched our experience.
Dealing with bureaucracy in a new country is challenging. Approaching it with a friendly and humble attitude is critical. Whether applying for residency, setting up a bank account, or registering for healthcare, patience and politeness go a long way. We consciously built rapport with local officials, which led to smoother interactions and a positive experience. Embrace the local way of doing things, while maintaining a friendly demeanor.
There came a moment a year in when we realized that we were starting to feel at home. This joyous feeling arose from a combination of factors: the friendships we had built, our growing language skills, and our familiarity with the local culture. The delight of discovering our favorite café, participating in festas, or simply lunching with friends has created a profound sense of belonging. As we settle, we have found that the bumps along the way only deepened our appreciation for our new home.
Moving to Portugal has been a journey filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and joy. By focusing on the positives, conducting thorough research, building a supportive community, integrating with the local culture, and approaching challenges with a friendly attitude, we have created a fulfilling life in Portugal. ■