Moving to Portugal full-time is an exciting milestone, whether it’s for retirement, a lifestyle change or to enjoy the sunshine all year round. But as magical as it sounds, there’s a big difference between holidaying somewhere and calling it your new home. That transition can catch people off guard and you may need to overcome homesickness after moving to Portugal.
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first or even experience a bit of homesickness. After all, you’ve said goodbye to familiar routines, local friends and your usual language. But there’s good news: with the right mindset and preparation, settling into life in Portugal can be smooth, rewarding and even fun.
This article covers the essential steps to help you adapt with confidence. From boosting your language skills to managing bureaucracy and making new friends, we’ll walk through it all – with realistic, friendly guidance designed for 2025 and beyond.
Contents
- Take your time to adjust
- Learn the language early
- Get ready for bureaucracy
- Stay connected right from the start
- Get involved locally
- Tap into the expat community
- Sort your official paperwork
- Embrace Portuguese food – and takeaways!
- Tie up loose ends back home
- Watch your spending early on
- Stay in touch with loved ones
- Coping with homesickness after moving to portugal
- Frequently asked questions
It’s very normal to deal with a little homesickness after moving to Portugal, it’s a big life change
Take your time to adjust
Every major change in life needs an adjustment period – especially when it comes to starting a life in a new country. Once the removals van has gone and your essentials are unpacked, carve out space for a breather. Explore your local area at a gentle pace, just like you would on a relaxing holiday.
There’s no need to rush into sorting paperwork or painting the living room in the first week. Spend some time sitting in the café down the road, wandering through the town square or taking an unhurried look around the shops. This helps you blend in, notice small details and ease into Portuguese daily life.
Being gentle with yourself in these first few weeks will give you the energy to handle more practical challenges later. If you dive headfirst into every task, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. By taking this slower approach, it’ll feel less like a major relocation and more like a natural beginning to your next chapter.
For a closer look at purchasing property in Portugal, claim your free copy of our Portugal Buying Guide:
Learn the language early
No matter how welcoming your new neighbours may be, relying solely on English will limit your confidence and independence. Even a modest amount of Portuguese will make a difference managing day-to-day activities, from shopping for groceries to understanding utility bills or visiting the pharmacy. Need to know where to start? Read our tips on how to learn to speak Portuguese.
Start practising before you move, using free language apps, lessons or online videos. Once you’re in Portugal, that classroom Portuguese turns into practical, real-life conversations. You’ll pick up expressions from shopkeepers, neighbours and friendly locals – it’s far better (and faster) than learning from a textbook alone.
Yes, you might feel silly at first. But most people you speak to will appreciate your effort and help you along. Don’t aim for perfection – aim for progress. Many expats find they learn more in two months of day-to-day interactions than from years of weekly classes back home.
If it’s available locally, joining a group language course can also be a great way to meet people while improving your skills.
Get ready for bureaucracy
This is the part where the holiday vibes fade – the paperwork. Portugal’s approach to administration is… slower than you might be used to. Queues at the town hall, forms that must be filled in person and multiple official copies can feel frustrating at first.
Understanding this in advance helps reduce stress. Things may take time, and rules aren’t always clearly explained. But remember: locals deal with this too.
Try to keep your documents organised from the start. You’ll need your NIF (Portuguese tax number), residency paperwork, healthcare registration and possibly car transfers. A folder with both digital and printed copies of your passport, proof of address and other essential documents will come in handy.
Often, a local accountant or legal adviser can speed things up and make sure nothing is missed. For expats unfamiliar with the system, it’s well worth the modest fee to avoid unnecessary trips to government offices or missed deadlines.
Stay connected to deal with homesickness after moving to Portugal
In those first few weeks, when your surroundings are unfamiliar, being able to look something up or chat with family back home is more comforting than you might expect. That’s why one of the first tasks to handle is setting up your mobile, internet service and get your utilities connected in Portugal. It’s one of the best ways to overcome homesickness after moving to Portugal.
Portuguese mobile plans are widely available and often cheaper than in countries like the UK or US. Companies such as MEO, Vodafone and NOS offer both contract and prepaid options. Expect to pay around €20 to €30 monthly for a plan with data and unlimited calls.
Invest in a portable broadband hotspot or mobile data SIM while you get your permanent home network installed – especially if you’re in a rural area.
Staying online also helps when you’re feeling isolated. Video calls, social media and WhatsApp updates keep you linked to your old life while you build a new one. Sharing photos of your new village or a sunset by the sea reminds your friends why you made the move.
Get involved locally
Once the practical tasks are under control, it’s time to dive into your local community. This is where Portugal really shines. Whether you’ve settled in a remote town or a beachside suburb, you’ll find friendly faces, lively markets and festivals galore.
Make an effort to shop in small independent bakeries or butcher shops. Ask questions, greet people with a cheerful “bom dia” and take a genuine interest in Portuguese culture and customs. Even if your accent is bumpy, people will usually respond warmly.
Check noticeboards at nearby cafés or town halls for local events or language exchanges. Many villages also run evening classes in arts, crafts or dancing. These aren’t just ways to fill time – they’re your best route to making meaningful, long-term connections.
If you have a dog, an allotment or a love for football, you’ll likely find others eager to chat. Portugal has a slower pace of life that naturally encourages social interaction – lean into it.
Tap into the expat community to lessen homesickness after moving to Portugal
You don’t have to choose between being “a local” and speaking to other expats. The truth is, having both circles can be extremely helpful – especially in your early months.
Expats in Portugal have often been through the same challenges you’re facing. They’ll have tips on how to register with your local health clinic, which mechanics speak English or how to chase up a delayed electricity bill. That kind of real-life advice is invaluable.
Look for active Facebook groups for your region, such as “British Expats in Algarve” or “Americans in Central Portugal.” You’ll find everything from meetup invites to pet sitters and news alerts.
For face-to-face connections, consider joining AFPOP (the Association of Foreign Property Owners in Portugal) or look into community associations based around hobbies or shared interests.
These groups aren’t just about practicalities – they offer friendship, laughter and a feeling of home when you’re halfway through navigating life in a new land.
Sort your official paperwork
It may not seem like a cure for homesickness after moving to Portugal, but getting the frustrations of initial bureaucracy out the way lets you focus on living. Once you’ve had time to get your bearings, you’ll need to turn to Portugal’s official procedures. If you’ve already got a short list of the most urgent tasks – fantastic.
Top priorities often include:
- Getting your NIF tax number, required for most transactions
- Registering for healthcare with your local health centre
- Setting up utility accounts (water, electricity, internet)
- Switching your driving licence if needed
- Registering your residency with SEF or AIMA
The earlier you tackle these, the easier it gets later. Some tasks, like residency registration, are time-sensitive and doing them late can complicate your stay.
Treat it like a to-do list. Stay patient – it’s very common for things to take longer than expected. Keep hard copies of all your documents to hand and take note of which officials were helpful for future visits.
If bureaucracy ever starts to feel like it’s winning, remember why you’re here – and take a deep breath.
Embrace Portuguese food – and takeaways!
You probably already know how delicious Portuguese cuisine is. But once the initial novelty wears off, there will be days when you just can’t face cooking after a day of paperwork, errands or home repairs.
Luckily, Portugal does takeaways well. In bigger towns you’ll find international options – Indian, sushi or pizza – but some of the most comforting meals can be picked up straight from a “pronto a comer”.
These cook-and-go delis offer tasty local dishes like bacalhau com natas (creamy cod), arroz de pato (duck rice) or grilled chicken with piri-piri. If you’re in a rural area, you might need to collect your food rather than have it delivered – but it’s another reason to speak Portuguese and get to know the owners.
Finding reliable takeaway spots near your home will become one of your favourite tricks for stress-free days. You’ll also realise how nice it feels to eat well without breaking your budget.
Tie up loose ends back home
When you’re busy launching your new life, it’s easy to forget about the admin you left behind. But what’s happening back home can affect your finances, pensions or legal status in more ways than one.
Make sure you’ve redirected your post. It’s easy to set up with most national postal services and can save you from missing something important.
Cancel old utility bills, mobile contracts and any subscriptions that are no longer relevant. Inform your bank of your move, and check with your home country’s tax authority to avoid surprise letters or penalties.
Double check that your online accounts – especially your banking and government services – are linked to your new contact details. Using a password manager and secure VPN may also be a good idea for managing digital life from abroad.
A checklist helps keep everything manageable – and ticking tasks off is surprisingly satisfying.
Watch your spending early on
Portugal is famously affordable compared to many countries in western Europe, but it’s still easy to underestimate costs at the start. Between initial shopping trips, fees, and the enthusiasm of exploring every restaurant, your budget can evaporate quickly. That kind of stress can impact your enjoyment of your new home, and any doubt about your move can fuel feelings of homesickness after moving to Portugal.
Even though the cost of living in Portugal is lower than the UK, you should keep track of your spending for the first few months. You’re setting a baseline for your “new normal”. Knowing what it actually costs to run your household will help you plan effectively, especially if you’re retired or working remotely.
Use budgeting apps or a spreadsheet. Factor in everyday living costs like utilities, internet, fuel and groceries – and leave space for the occasional treat too. It’s your new life, after all.
There’s a lot to love about the Portuguese lifestyle: easy lunches, warm evenings and markets full of fresh food. Keeping your finances in check will ensure you can enjoy these things long term without compromise.
Stay in touch with loved ones
Feeling settled doesn’t mean leaving your old friendships behind. On the contrary, maintaining those connections often provides the emotional foundation for your new start.
Let people know your Portuguese address. Invite friends and family to visit once you’re more settled, and keep a running list of recommended day trips and local restaurants to explore with them.
Meanwhile, use video calls, shared photo albums or messaging apps to stay up to date. You might be 1,000 miles apart, but sending a quick photo of your neighbour’s cat sprawled in the sun keeps bonds strong.
Time differences in Portugal are generally manageable, especially with the UK or other parts of Europe. It’s never been easier to plan a virtual coffee catch-up or surprise message on a rainy day.
Coping with homesickness
Here’s the quiet truth: everyone gets homesick sometimes. Whether it’s over something as small as your favourite tea brand or missing a family birthday, those pangs are normal and don’t mean you’ve made the wrong choice.
Instead of fighting it, accept those moments and let them pass. They’re just reminders of a life you lived – not signals to abandon your new one. The more you settle, the easier it becomes to find joy without losing touch with where you came from.
And if it helps, imagine inviting your old friends to share what you’re experiencing now: a fresh view out your window, time to pursue a hobby or a neighbour who brings you fruit from their garden. These are the reasons you came – and they’re only just beginning.
Ready to begin your journey?
Settling into life in Portugal takes patience, planning and a bit of courage – but it will reward you tenfold. For tailored help at every stage of your move, from property buying to living abroad, get in touch with a property consultant at Your Overseas Home today.
Frequently asked questions about settling into life in Portugal
Is it hard to settle into life in Portugal?
Not necessarily. While there are cultural and bureaucratic differences to adjust to, most expats find that Portugal’s friendly people, relaxed pace and supportive communities make it easier to settle over time.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to live in Portugal?
It helps a lot. Even a basic understanding improves your confidence and ability to handle daily life. Most locals appreciate the effort, and learning Portuguese will help you integrate faster into your new community.
How do I deal with Portuguese bureaucracy?
Portugal’s bureaucracy can be slow and paper-based, so it’s best to be patient, organised and keep physical and digital copies of all key documents. Hiring a local adviser or accountant can help simplify complex processes like getting a NIF, registering for healthcare or transferring vehicle ownership.
How do I make friends and meet people in Portugal?
Start with your local community: shop locally, join a language class, attend cultural events and say “bom dia” often. You can also join expat groups online and in person. Many areas have Facebook groups, clubs and social meetups tailored to newcomers.
What should I do first after moving to Portugal?
Top priorities include getting your NIF (tax number), setting up utilities, registering your residency, signing up for healthcare and sorting your mobile/internet connection. Take things step by step and allow time to adjust emotionally and practically.
