As political landscapes evolve, many consider moving abroad for stability and new opportunities. Portugal, with all its allure, has become a favoured destination for North Americans, as well as other countries scattered around the globe. However, this significant relocation requires careful preparation amidst political changes

Rafael and I have decided to approach 2024 (the auspicious year of the Dragon) head on with a renewed strategy and a clear vision. We shared what we wanted to change in our new year’s resolution and now we are laying out what we want to achieve.

What about pending golden visa applications?

Any pending applications will be converted into a D2 special entrepreneur visa. Golden Visa applications can still be submitted and the pending ones will be converted to these D2. Also regarding the proof of stay, it will continue to be seven days per year on average.

The D7 visa is for non-EU citizens who wish to reside in Portugal and have sufficient financial means to do so. These financial means can be presented in the form of passive income, for instance rental income, financial investments, pensions, or dividends.

Before you start your apartment search, you need to determine your budget and preferred location. Lisbon has many different neighbourhoods, each with its own charm and vibe, but they are all very different, so it's important to research and visit if you can.

Portugal is considering ending the golden visa program as it seems to have fulfilled its intended purpose. Antonio Costa said: “There are programs that we are currently re-evaluating and one of them is the Golden Visa program, which has probably already fulfilled its function and for which there might at this point no longer be any justification for keeping it.”

Some of the local etiquette that I wanted to share include tipping or not, what to do when ordering water, along with things like the bread basket before your meal.

In Lisbon, we don’t just appreciate the food with our mouth, we are also able to feast with our eyes. Check out some of these places that have unique visual appeals along with delicious food!