Moving to Portugal from Ireland is a dream for many. However, it is completely normal that moving countries and cultures can feel like a bit of a challenge. So we´ve put together this article, with local tips to help anyone looking for more information.

Why do Irish people love Portugal?

Irish expats tend choose Portugal for warm climate, tax benefits, and affordable real estate.

• Weather: Portugal is known for being the sunniest country in Europe, as well having an amenable temperature and the variety of enticing beaches makes it
• Flights: Direct 2h 30m flights between Porto and Dublin. Portugal is part of the Schengen area so there is free movement between the two.
• Taxes: NHR advantages for Irish pensioners.
• Community: Welcoming environment, English widely spoken.
• Sport & Lifestyle: Golf, wine, football, Portuguese food and one of the friendliest populations on earth.
• Prices: From apartments to beers at the pub, Porto is about 50% cheaper than Dublin on average according to numbeo.

What challenges might an Irish immigrant feel in Portugal

• Language Barrier: Outside of the two main cities, the local population might struggle to communicate in English, in addition, the paperwork, local shops, and government offices often requires Portuguese. This can feel isolating at first.
  • Local Tip: Stay within the two big cities at first, most people there speak fluent English, there are English schools and plenty of people who are eager to receive foreigners.

• Different Social Rhythm: Ireland tends to have earlier dining and working hours. In Portugal, people often eat late (dinner at 8–10 pm) and shops may close for long lunch breaks, which can feel unusual at first.
  • Local Tip: When in Rome… Part of the Portugal´s charm is it´s culture, you might find that embracing the longer lunch hours and more relaxed pace of life are quite enjoyable!

• Driving: In Portugal, you drive on the right side of the road, just like in the United States and most of Europe. Overtaking is done on the left, and the steering wheel is on the left also.
  • Local Tip: This transition sounds much harder than it is, get yourself an automatic car so you don´t have to deal with the gears and you should be used to it within a few minutes.

• Homesickness: A usual feeling for any immigrant due to the difference in cultures.
  • Local Tip: Take regular flights home, and it never hurts to join an Irish Association.

Why Choose Ocean Terrace

• The People: Our team will help you with the whole immigration process, connecting you to the best people in the market and offering any lifestyle recommendations you may need.
• Luxury Living: For a fraction of the price you´re used to, Ocean Terrace offers a dream like setting for your new life.
• Location: Within the second largest metropolitan area of Portugal (Porto) and right next to the Leça da Palmeira beach.

For more information, please visit our website: oceanterrace.pt or

To find out more about the D7 Visa, visit our article https://oceanterrace.pt/2025/08/26/how-the-portuguese-passive-income-visa-d7-works-in-2025/