Boris Johnson 'needs to step up for British expats' says expert
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Expats looking to relocate into the sunshine have long packed their bags and departed the UK for Spain. While its Iberian neighbour Portugal is also a favourite for expats, since Brexit some experts have pointed to it being a better alternative due to new visa processes and the “cost of living”.
Experts from AB Property Marketing have compared the cost of property and lifestyle in both nations and concluded Portugal comes out on top for savings.
“Numbeo reports that Portugal’s cost of living is lower than that of Spain, which in turn is lower than that of the UK,” explains a spokesperson for AB Property Marketing.
“The Post Office Holiday Costs Barometer 2021, meanwhile, reports that Portugal’s Algarve is cheaper to visit than Spain’s Costa del Sol.
“And with property priced at €1,185 per square metre, Portugal’s homes are also cheaper than pretty much all of western Europe.”
While both nations offer sunshine and a toasty climate, the experts point out there are a few subtle differences between the “lifestyle” offering in each.
“For those who like to treat themselves while on holiday, Spain is the place to be,” explains the expert.
“From designer clothes to yachts, the country’s southern shores are awash with high-end goods and upscale beach clubs – far more so than that Algarve, which tends to deliver luxury in a rather more laid-back fashion.”
Marc Pritchard, sales and marketing director of Taylor Wimpey España added: “Spain has long been a favourite destination for British holidaymakers and second-home buyers. Its vibrant towns, superb gastronomy and cosmopolitan atmosphere are ideally suited to relaxation and enjoyment.”
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Despite this, the lifestyle Portugal can offer is described as “enviable”.
AB Property said: “Portugal delivers an enviable lifestyle, particularly in the sun-kissed Algarve, with its stunning coastline, world-class golf and marine sporting facilities and its picturesque towns and villages packed with independent restaurants and cafés serving up the delicious local cuisine.”
Prior to Brexit, Britons could move to either nation with ease thanks to the freedom of movement offered under European Union (EU) membership.
However, since January 1, 2021, new post-Brexit rules means Britons must apply for visas when moving to either nation.
The cost of these vary, which experts from ExpatNetwork suggest makes Portugal a more favourable option when it comes to ease of applying and the associated costs.
This is particularly true for retirees, due to requirements for Spain’s NLV permit.
A spokesperson for the ExpatNetwork explained: “The NLV allows you to take up residence in Spain, provided you have sufficient funds to support yourself and you do not need to work there.
“It is this requirement that is causing problems for many Britons.
“You have to demonstrate an income of €33,893 (approximately £29,388) a year for a couple and €47,451 (£41,144) for a family of four.
“This requirement will rule out the option of retiring to Spain for many.
“Those who are retiring on a basic UK State pension, £9,339 in 2021, will not qualify.”
Expat Network continued: “Portugal has a similar visa to Spain’s NLV, the Passive Income Visa, which has a significantly lower annual income requirement – €11,970 (approximately £10,379) for a couple and €16,658 (approximately £14,444) for a family of four).
“The visa also does not restrict you from working or setting up a business as the Spanish NLV does.”
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