What You Need to Know Before Moving to Portugal—And Why You Shouldn’t

What You Need to Know Before Moving to Portugal – Two and a half years ago, I made what I believed would be a life-changing decision: relocating to Portugal. Like many, I was drawn in by glossy advertisements, promises of a relaxed lifestyle, golden visas, and a welcoming expat community. Fast forward to today, and I can confidently say that moving to Portugal has been the biggest financial and emotional mistake of my life.

If you’re asking yourself, “What do I need to know before moving to Portugal—and why shouldn’t I?”, then pay close attention. This country is plagued by bureaucracy, corruption, racism, economic stagnation, and a system designed to exploit foreigners rather than welcome them.

1. Bureaucracy and Corruption: A Never-Ending Nightmare

When considering what you need to know before moving to Portugal—and why you shouldn’t—start with its bureaucracy. Portugal’s system is deliberately slow, inefficient, and corrupt. Whether you’re dealing with property permits, taxes, or basic residency paperwork, expect endless delays, hidden fees, and officials who take pleasure in making your life difficult.

My Experience: I invested €1.6 million in two properties in Porto, planning to renovate and rent them. Instead, I’ve been trapped in a web of permits, inspections, and sudden rule changes. Every step forward is met with another obstacle.

Latest Blow: On July 25, 2025, the police (NPA) contacted me because someone reported me for having a caravan and storage container on my own land—despite prior approval. This is how Portugal operates: they lure you in with promises, then change the rules to trap you.

The system isn’t just broken—it’s designed to exploit foreigners. If you’re bringing money, expect to be treated like a walking ATM.

2. Racism and Unwelcoming Locals

Another critical answer to “What do I need to know before moving to Portugal—and why shouldn’t I?” is its deeply insular culture. Portugal is not the tolerant, open-minded paradise it claims to be. Locals are resistant to outsiders and often openly racist.

Language Barrier: Despite speaking four languages, I’ve found Portuguese nearly impossible to master. Locals refuse to speak English, making daily life frustrating.
Hostility Toward Immigrants: Portuguese blame foreigners for their economic struggles, resenting anyone who isn’t local—regardless of their contributions.
Closed Social Circles: Making friends with locals is nearly impossible. They stick to their own groups and view outsiders with suspicion.

A fellow Argentine expat perfectly summarized Portugal: “It’s like Argentina, but premium.” The same corruption, inefficiency, and economic instability—just with nicer scenery.

3. Economic Decline and Lack of Opportunity

If you’re still wondering “What do I need to know before moving to Portugal—and why shouldn’t I?”, look at its collapsing economy.

Brain Drain: Young Portuguese are fleeing to Germany, France, and Spain due to lack of opportunities.
Rising Crime: Petty theft, scams, and burglaries are increasing, yet police do little.
Stagnant Wages & High Taxes: Despite paying exorbitant taxes, public services are abysmal, infrastructure is crumbling, and living costs keep rising.

4. False Advertising: Portugal Is Not What It Claims to Be

A major warning in “What you need to know before moving to Portugal—and why you shouldn’t” is its deceptive marketing.

Golden Visa Scam: They lure wealthy foreigners with residency promises, then change laws to trap them.
Unreliable Legal System: Contracts mean nothing. Laws change overnight with no protection for foreigners.
Declining Quality of Life: Poor healthcare, unreliable transport, and societal decay make daily life exhausting.

Final Verdict: Stay Away from Portugal

After everything I’ve endured, the answer to “What do I need to know before moving to Portugal—and why shouldn’t I?” is clear:

A corrupt, bureaucratic hellhole
A racist, unwelcoming society
A collapsing economy with no future
A government that exploits foreigners

Portugal is 20 years behind in technology, productivity, and governance. The only winners are the elites profiting off naive expats.

I’m cutting my losses and leaving. If you’re still asking yourself, “What do I need to know before moving to Portugal—and why shouldn’t I?”, take this as your final warning: don’t make the same mistake I did.

Have you experienced Portugal’s dark side? Share your story below.

(This post is based on real experiences. If you’re still considering Portugal, do EXTENSIVE research—don’t fall for the propaganda.)

Photo by Anna Stampfli

What You Need to Know Before Moving to Portugal