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Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 Reasons Why Lisbon Isn’t for Everyone

Moving to Portugal is an exciting adventure, but it comes with some hidden costs that can catch expats by surprise. From property maintenance to social security contributions, these expenses can add up quickly if you're not prepared. Today, we're uncovering the top 9 hidden costs of living in Portugal to help you plan better and avoid any unpleasant financial surprises. Ready to get the inside scoop? I’m Lisbob, your trusty expat assistant, here to guide you through it all.

9 Reasons Why Lisbon Isn’t for Everyone
Tips, Retire
Marc Martin - Portugal
Do You Need a Fiscal Representative in ...

If you have financial interests in Portugal but live outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you may be required to appoint a fiscal representative. This guide will explain why a fiscal representative is essential, who needs one, and how it can help you navigate the complexities of Portuguese tax laws. From ensuring compliance with tax regulations to assisting with the application process for a NIF (tax identification number), a fiscal representative can be a crucial partner for non-residents doing business or owning property in Portugal. Read on to find out if you need one and how it can benefit you.

Do You Need a Fiscal Representative in Portugal? A Complete Guide for Non-EU Residents
Culture & Tradition, Visits
Marc Martin - Portugal
Top 9 of Lisbon's best districts to live in

Lisbon is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city, with many different neighbourhoods, each with its own atmosphere and lifestyle. If you're looking for a place to settle down, it's important to compare Lisbon's different neighbourhoods before deciding where to put down your boxes. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I've come up with my list of the best areas in Lisbon to move to, in no particular order.

Top 9 of Lisbon's best districts to live in
Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 hidden costs of living in Portugal

Moving to Portugal is an exciting adventure, but it comes with some hidden costs that can catch expats by surprise. From property maintenance to social security contributions, these expenses can add up quickly if you're not prepared. Today, we're uncovering the top 9 hidden costs of living in Portugal to help you plan better and avoid any unpleasant financial surprises. Ready to get the inside scoop? I’m Lisbob, your trusty expat assistant, here to guide you through it all.

9 hidden costs of living in Portugal
Culture & Tradition, Tips
Marc Martin - Portugal
9 secrets locals don’t tell you about Portugal

Moving to Portugal is an exciting journey, but there are a few secrets locals don’t usually share. These hidden gems and insights can make a huge difference in your expat experience. Today, we’re uncovering the top 9 secrets locals don’t tell you about Portugal. Ready to get the inside scoop? I’m Lisbob, your trusty expat assistant, and I’m here to guide you through it all.

9 secrets locals don’t tell you about Portugal

Health

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Quality, hardness and issues of tap water in Portugal

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Quality, hardness and issues of tap water in Portugal

When deciding to move abroad, it is important to learn about the quality of the water. Find out if it is drinkable, hard and rich in lime, or soft. Portugal has a well-developed drinking water distribution and sanitation network, and water quality checks are carried out regularly. The percentage of drinking water in mainland Portugal is 98.66%, a value considered excellent. What is the quality of the water in Portugal? How hard is drinking water? Can you drink tap water in Portugal? Lisbob, the expat assistant, tells you all about the quality and hardness of drinking water in Portugal.

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How to apply for and obtain a Portuguese NISS number online as a foreigner in 2024?

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How to apply for and obtain a Portuguese NISS number online as a foreigner in 2024?

When you decide to move to Portugal, it is sometimes difficult to complete those administrative procedures that can become a vicious circle in which it is difficult to see the end. Obtaining a Portuguese social security number (NISS) is not easy and is one of the mandatory steps for any expatriate wishing to work in Portugal. Although the rules have been relaxed in recent years, applying for and obtaining a Portuguese social security number is still a complicated process. Obtaining a Portuguese national insurance number NISS for foreigners is not only a headache for people who want to work, but also for companies who want to hire them. What are the steps to follow to obtain a Portuguese social security number in Portugal if you are a foreigner? What is the process to obtain your Portuguese NISS number as an expatriate? I am Lisbob, the assistant for expats, and I tell you everything about the conditions to obtain the Portuguese social security number as foreigners.

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9 Administrative Procedures and Formalities to go to live in Portugal

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9 Administrative Procedures and Formalities to go to live in Portugal

When expatriating to a new country, a certain number of administrative steps must be taken in order to fully settle in and become an expatriate. This is even more true in Portugal where different authorities issue different important documents, and where it is sometimes difficult to do the administrative steps in the right order. Procedures to become a resident, tax identification number, pet registration, car registration, there are many mandatory steps for those who want to live in Portugal and it is not easy to know how to live in Portugal and be in order. Moving to Portugal entails a number of obligations towards the various state bodies and it is important to comply with these obligations in order to avoid any problems. Any self-respecting expatriate must take these administrative steps in order to settle down fully. What are the administrative formalities and steps to complete to live in Portugal? How can I make sure that I am compliant and that I follow the steps to register to live in Portugal? I’m Lisbob, the expats assistant, and I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about the administrative steps to take when you decide to live in Portugal.

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Compulsory insurances for house staff and personal assistance in Portugal

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Compulsory insurances for house staff and personal assistance in Portugal

If you make the decision to live in Portugal, then you may have to hire house staff. Unfortunately, it is not unusual that these activities are not declared. This is of course illegal, because any paid activity must be registered with the relevant authorities. It is also dangerous for the concerned employees because they are exposed to difficult situations in the event of illness, loss of employment or work accident. Fraudulent employers may face heavy fines and can even be sentenced to imprisonment. It is therefore strongly recommended, for the well-being of all, to declare your employees to the competent authorities.Personal care services are quite developed in Portugal: taking care of your home, your parents, your children, your garden or even you is a common practice. There are, however, rules to follow if you decide to call in domestic staff. The hiring of personal care professionals in Portugal must be done in accordance with the law. What are the compulsory insurances for house staff in Portugal ? Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you everything about personal assistance.

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Rights of pregnant women in Portugal: What are they and how can they benefit?

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Rights of pregnant women in Portugal: What are they and how can they benefit?

Pregnancy is an important step in the life of the woman and the couple and is therefore protected in Portugal by law, which gives certain rights to pregnant women. As soon as she is in pregnancy and to benefit from the rights of the pregnant woman, she can and must acquire the status of pregnant worker (pregnant trabalhadora). Do you know what are the exclusive rights for pregnant women in Portugal ? How to benefit ? Bob, the Expats Personal Assistant in Lisbon and Portugal, makes you aware of the rights of the woman during pregnancy and the baby's early years.

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Domestic Animals and Pets - Duties, Registration, Rules, Rights : Everything you need to know about cats and dogs in Portugal

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Domestic Animals and Pets - Duties, Registration, Rules, Rights : Everything you need to know about cats and dogs in Portugal

Owners of pets in Portugal have certain duties that they must comply with. Basically, you have to register your pet, including a dog or cat. Whoever decide to come to live in Portugal with his pet will have to follow some steps and rules. Portugal imposes certain requirements on the owners of dogs and cats. These include registration and having a license, which you have to renew every year.  Living in Portugal with animals require some mandatory processes and registration. How do you register your pet in Portugal ? How many dogs and cats can I own ? How can I get and renew the license for my dog or cat ? Lisbob, expats assistant in Portugal, will tell you everything you need to know about registering and licensing your pets.

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Sick leave in Portugal : complete guide to medical leave in 2020

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Sick leave in Portugal : complete guide to medical leave in 2020

If you are working in Portugal, then at some point you may need to be on sick leave. Not that the weather in Portugal is wetter than you thought (though), but that it's okay to get sick and sometimes essential to let your body or mind rest and heal. Whether you are an employee or a self-employed person, it is possible to take leave for medical reasons. It is important to know your rights as well as your duties with the Portuguese social security, especially when you do not master the language or the laws of your country of expatriation. In order to avoid unpleasant surprises, we have gathered the essentials of what you need to know in terms of sick leave and sick leave in Portugal. Who has the right to take sick leave? How much do you receive health benefits in Portugal? How to go on medical leave? Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about the sick leave and sick leave in 2020.

Abortion : All about voluntary interruption of pregnancy in Portugal ( Where ? When ? How ? )

Abortion : All about voluntary interruption of pregnancy in Portugal ( Where ? When ? How ? )

Portugal is a country for whom abortion was illegal until 1984. After some minor changes in the law, it was not until 2007, and after a national referendum, that the law was passed. included the possibility of interruption of pregnancy at the request of the Woman. What are the rights of women regarding abortion in Portugal? Where to go and how to practice? Bob, the Personal Assistant of those who live in Lisbon and Portugal tells you all about voluntary interruption of pregnancy in Portugal.

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Home insurance in Portugal : all you need to know to choose the best for you

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Home insurance in Portugal : all you need to know to choose the best for you

When making the decision to live in Portugal and buy real estate there, it is important to know how to choose a home insurance. Indeed, as in other countries, home insurance will cover the risks associated with your home, including theft, fire and earthquakes. This last risk is important in a country with strong seismic activity like Portugal. However, care must be taken because the rules concerning home insurance for expats not the same as those in other countries. Good home insurance is not necessarily good coverage. How to choose your home insurance in Portugal ? What are the different types of coverage to insure your home in Portugal ? Lisbob, expats assistant in Portugal, tells you everything you need to know when choosing your home insurance in Portugal.

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Complete list of coronavirus testing sites in the Greater Lisbon region

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Complete list of coronavirus testing sites in the Greater Lisbon region

If you have symptoms related to covid-19, you may be diagnosed. The Regional Health Authority of Lisbon and Vale do Tejo (ARSLVT), in compliance with the principles of equity, quality and proximity of healthcare provided to the population, has reorganized human and material healthcare resources primary health and created 35 zones dedicated to the diagnosis of coronavirus in the region. This Thursday, the map with the network of these areas was unveiled. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, offers you the complete list of coronavirus screening locations in the Greater Lisbon region.

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Work accident in Portugal : everything you need to know

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Work accident in Portugal : everything you need to know

Despite significant progress in preventing occupational accidents in recent years, the number of occurrences in Portugal is still high. In fact, Portugal is one of the European countries with the highest number of work accidents, and expatriates who decide to leave to live and work in Portugal are sometimes poorly prepared or lost to the complexity of Portuguese laws in case accident occurring at work. Of course, some industries are more at risk of accidents - the construction sector continues to be the most affected both in terms of the number of accidents and the severity of accidents - but the truth is that an accident at work can happen to anyone, any time, whatever the profession. Indeed, an accident that occurs on the way back from work can be considered and taken care of as an accident at work. What is the definition of a work accident in Portugal ? How to recognize it ? What are the rights and duties in case of work accidents ? Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Portugal, tells you all about what you need to know about work-related accidents.

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Complete list of all natural and organic stores in Lisbon

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Complete list of all natural and organic stores in Lisbon

Living in Portugal is often synonymous with good meals, but the question of the quality of food often comes back when one speaks of expatriation in Portugal. The country has a long tradition of agriculture and organic food is already well developed especially in Lisbon. Portuguese supermarkets are starting to have organic products on their display but some people are looking for real organic shops also specialized in natural products. Bob, the Expats Assistant in Lisbon and Portugal, has prepared for you a map with the complete list of all organic and natural stores in Lisbon.

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Mandatory vaccination passport to go to a restaurant or a hotel in Portugal, Porto and the Algarve are falling into deconfinement

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Mandatory vaccination passport to go to a restaurant or a hotel in Portugal, Porto and the Algarve are falling into deconfinement

With an increase in the number of cases, the Portuguese authorities have decided that Porto, Faro, Braga, Setubal and other Portuguese municipalities must step back into deconfinement and have the same rules that apply to the capital Lisbon. The measures include time and capacity restrictions for shops and restaurants. The big news of the week is now the obligation to present the vaccination passport or a negative test in order to be able to go to the hotel or to the restaurant! Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about this new measure.

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Return of the curfew in 45 municipalities in Portugal including Lisbon, Porto and Faro

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Return of the curfew in 45 municipalities in Portugal including Lisbon, Porto and Faro

As every week, the Portuguese health authorities announced the new measures. After the ban on entering or leaving the capital city on weekends, then the establishment of an exception for holders of vaccination passports, it is now the return of the curfew that has been announced. It will be in place from 11 p.m. in 45 municipalities that are at high and very high risk, including Faro, Lisbon, Braga and Porto. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about this new measure and the municipalities concerned.

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New lockdown from next week in Portugal, schools remain open

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New lockdown from next week in Portugal, schools remain open

While Portugal has recorded its worst day in terms of coronavirus-related deaths since the start of the pandemic, a return to lockdown on the same model as that of April 2020 is more than likely and this from next Tuesday, like the confirmed the Minister of Economy Pedro Siza Vieira. Indeed the Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa was this Friday in a meeting with the different parties to discuss other measures to be applied, from the closure of non-food businesses and restaurants, to the opening of schools or the postponement of the elections. presidential. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the likely comeback of lockdown in Portugal.

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New state of emergency in Portugal: 113 counties at very high risk

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New state of emergency in Portugal: 113 counties at very high risk

In order to combat the coronavirus epidemic, the Portuguese authorities announced an extension of the state of emergency, which will be in effect between 00:00 on 9th and 11:59 p.m. on 23rd December, and which will surely be extended until at least January 7th. In addition, 113 Portuguese counties are now listed as areas with stricter rules. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the extension of the state of emergency and the rules of the 113 counties involved.

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Covid-19: Find out the priority groups and the dates of the vaccination phases in Portugal

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Covid-19: Find out the priority groups and the dates of the vaccination phases in Portugal

Portugal has just unveiled the approximate schedule and the different priority groups for the covid-19 vaccination campaign. The vaccine will begin to be administered in early January and in the worst-case scenario, it may take four months to vaccinate the first priority group, with nearly a million Portuguese. The logistics plan remains to be defined and will be a challenge for Portugal. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the priority groups and the dates of the vaccination phases in Portugal.

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All measures in place for Christmas and New Year's Eve in Portugal

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All measures in place for Christmas and New Year's Eve in Portugal

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Cost has just unveiled the measures that will be in place during the holiday season to fight the coronavirus epidemic, and these are proving to be less stringent than in other European countries. These measures are framed by the state of emergency, which will be in effect between midnight on 9th and 11.59 p.m. on December 23rd, and which will surely be extended until at least January 7st. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the measures in place for Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Portugal.

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New state of emergency measures in Portugal, 4 levels of risk and wearing a compulsory mask at work

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New state of emergency measures in Portugal, 4 levels of risk and wearing a compulsory mask at work

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa announced on Saturday, November 21st new measures in the context of the state of emergency which has just been extended until at least December 8th. Among these measures, the ban on moving between municipalities during the two long weekends in December or the creation of 4 levels of risk with different measures and the obligation to wear a mask at work. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the new state of emergency measures in Portugal.

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Portugal toughens weekend measures and expands list of high-risk cities

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Portugal toughens weekend measures and expands list of high-risk cities

In recent weeks, a real race for measures has been played out in Portugal in the face of the increase in coronavirus cases. After the announcement by the President of the Portuguese Republic of the return of the “preventive” state of emergency, Prime Minister Antonio Costa, for his part, detailed a toughening of the measures put in place and an expansion of the towns concerned by the curfew (11 p.m. to 5 a.m. on weekdays and from 1 p.m. on weekends). Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about Antonio Costa's new announcements.