How to Move to Portugal From Russia

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Flags of Russia and Portugal are depicted. The flag of Russia, with horizontal stripes of white, blue, and red, is partially overlaid by the flag of Portugal, which features vertical green and red stripes with a yellow-bordered coat of arms.
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Last updated on June 14, 2024 | Est. Reading Time: 7 minutes

Are you a Russian citizen contemplating a move to Portugal? This European gem, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking coastlines, and warm, inviting people, has become one of the most popular destinations for Russians to immigrate to.

Thanks to its attainable residency visa, Portugal is a sought-after destination for those without an EU, EEA, or Swiss passport who are aiming to establish residency in the European Union.

Whether you’re pursuing retirement in the sun, a new chapter in your professional life, or simply a more laid-back way to life, there are lots of reasons to consider a move to Portugal. Join us as we navigate the key aspects of moving from Russia to Portugal, unveiling the steps, opportunities, and considerations that you’ll need to think about.

Popular Residency Visas for Russians Moving to Portugal

The following are the most sought-after residency visas for Russians considering a move to Portugal:

  1. Golden Visa: This program is a top choice for Russians seeking Portuguese residency through investment. It requires an average stay of only 7 days per year in Portugal, offering flexibility for those not ready for a full-time relocation. As of 2023, investment in funds, especially venture capital funds, is becoming popular. The standard investment amount is €500,000, but some relocation companies offer entry into the golden visa program for less. Note: Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, this option is currently closed to Russian citizens. However, there are some other EU countries which have not imposed this ban.
  2. D7 Visa: Ideal for individuals with a steady passive income, such as pensions or rental property income. The income requirement is linked to the Portuguese minimum wage, requiring a monthly income of over €820, as of 2024. This option is feasible for many Russians who have investments or savings.
  3. Digital Nomad Visa (D8): Designed for remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads, the D8 visa is perfect for Russia’s tech-savvy professionals. Applicants need to demonstrate a monthly income exceeding €3,280, as of 2024. This visa is particularly suitable for those in tech roles, like programmers and web designers, who wish to work remotely from Portugal.
  4. D2 Visa: For entrepreneurial Russians, the D2 visa offers the opportunity to start and run a business in Portugal. From tech startups to innovative business concepts, this visa provides access to the diverse Portuguese market.

These are just a few of the visa options available, with others including student visas also on offer. Each provides a unique pathway for Russians looking to relocate to Portugal, catering to various lifestyles and professional ambitions.

Reasons for Russians to Move to Portugal

  1. Safety: Portugal is known for its low crime rates, offering a safe environment that may appeal to Russians seeking a peaceful life. This is in stark contrast to the higher crime rates in some Russian cities, making Portugal an attractive destination for those prioritizing safety.
  2. Family Reunification: Portugal’s inclusive visa policies allow for family reunification, enabling Russian expatriates to bring their spouse, partner, and certain other family members. This aspect is crucial for maintaining family ties, a value deeply rooted in Russian culture.
  3. Healthcare: Portugal boasts a tax-funded public healthcare system, accessible to residents, including expatriates from Russia. There’s also the option of private healthcare, which many choose for faster access and additional services. This dual system is particularly appealing for Russians accustomed to a mixed public-private healthcare system.
  4. Cost of Living: Generally, the cost of living in Portugal is lower than in many Russian urban centers, particularly Moscow and St. Petersburg. This is even more pronounced in areas outside of Lisbon and away from the coast, offering an affordable lifestyle choice.
  5. Quality of Life: Portugal is known for its high quality of life, with pleasant weather and a relaxed lifestyle. This can be a refreshing change for Russians accustomed to the hustle and bustle of large cities, offering a balance of work and leisure that is often sought after.
  6. Weather: Portugal’s summers are warm but more manageable compared to the extreme temperatures in some parts of Russia. This moderate climate is ideal for Russians looking for a comfortable, year-round living environment.
  7. Attainable Visas: The country’s lenient visa requirements make it accessible for Russians. For instance, the D7 visa requires a passive income of just €820 or more per month, as of 2024, which is feasible for many.
  8. Citizenship: After five years of residency, Russians can apply for Portuguese citizenship by naturalisation, an attractive prospect for those seeking EU membership. The A2-level language proficiency requirement in Portuguese is manageable, especially compared to the more stringent requirements in some other EU countries.
  9. English Proficiency: With English widely spoken, especially in major cities, the language barrier is lower for Russians, many of whom learn English as a second language. However, learning Portuguese is recommended for deeper cultural integration and employment opportunities.

These factors combine to make Portugal an appealing choice for Russians seeking a new home, offering safety, family unity, accessible healthcare, affordability, a high quality of life, pleasant weather, attainable visas, potential for citizenship, and a manageable language barrier.

Challenges

While Portugal offers many advantages, Russians considering a move should be aware of certain challenges:

  1. Bureaucracy: Navigating Portuguese bureaucracy can be a complex and time-consuming process. This might be particularly challenging for Russians accustomed to different administrative systems, and the language barrier can exacerbate these difficulties.
  2. Housing Quality: Affordable housing in Portugal sometimes comes with issues like mould and noise, problems more prevalent in older buildings. Russians used to the generally well-maintained and modern housing in urban Russia might find this aspect challenging. However, newer constructions typically have fewer of these issues.
  3. Lifestyle Adjustments: The Portuguese lifestyle, focused on family, beach life, and cafes, is a shift from the more fast-paced, luxurious lifestyle some Russians may be accustomed to, especially in major cities. While Portugal does offer luxury experiences, its cultural focus is quite different, emphasizing a more relaxed and family-oriented lifestyle.

These challenges highlight the importance of thorough research and preparation for Russians considering a move to Portugal. Understanding and adapting to these differences in bureaucracy, housing, taxation, work conditions, and lifestyle is key to a successful transition.

Where to Live

  1. Lisbon: Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere but one that’s much smaller than the likes of Moscow or St. Petersburg. It’s the hub of the country’s diverse job market, brimming with culture, business, and entertainment. However, like in Russia’s major cities, the cost of living in Lisbon, particularly for housing, is on the higher side. This could be a significant consideration for Russians used to urban living but seeking more affordable alternatives.
  2. Porto: As Portugal’s “second city,” Porto presents a slightly more cost-effective lifestyle compared to Lisbon. Rich in history and famous for its bridges and Port wine, Porto melds urban life with traditional Portuguese charm. This makes it an attractive option for Russians looking for a blend of modernity and culture, somewhat akin to Russian cities like Kazan or Yekaterinburg.
  3. Algarve: Known for its stunning beaches and quaint towns, the Algarve might remind Russians of the Black Sea’s coastal resorts but with a unique Portuguese twist. Living inland in the Algarve can be more affordable. The region’s main industries, construction and tourism, offer job opportunities that might be appealing to Russians familiar with similar economic sectors.
  4. The Silver Coast: An emerging favorite among expatriates, the Silver Coast is gaining popularity. With picturesque cities like Coimbra, boasting a historic university, and Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal,” this region promises a tranquil lifestyle. It’s ideal for Russians seeking a balance between peaceful coastal living and urban convenience, similar to the lifestyle in cities like Sochi or Kaliningrad.

Each of these areas in Portugal offers distinctive experiences and lifestyles, catering to the varied preferences and needs of Russians relocating from their homeland. Whether seeking the vibrancy of a city, the charm of historical towns, or the tranquility of coastal areas, Portugal provides a range of choices to fit different desires and lifestyles.

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