Relocating to Portugal with Your Family: Simplifying the Transition with Local Support
Relocating as a family to Portugal involves more than choosing where to live – it means coordinating schools, healthcare, housing, routines, and expectations for everyone involved. We offer dedicated support to help families plan with clarity and settle in with confidence.
For an in-depth overview of the entire relocation process, you can also explore our complete guide to Moving to Portugal.
Talk to us to start building your family relocation plan.
Talk to our Team
Table of Contents
Why Families Are Choosing Portugal
Portugal has become a preferred destination for families looking to relocate — not only for its lifestyle benefits, but also for the sense of stability and balance it offers. The country consistently ranks among the safest in Europe, and this is reflected in its welcoming environment, low crime rates, and strong public services.
Families are drawn to Portugal’s mix of urban convenience and slower-paced living. In many areas, children grow up with access to parks, beaches, and public spaces that encourage outdoor play and social interaction. The climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, which naturally supports a healthier and more active lifestyle for all ages.
Education and healthcare are additional reasons many families choose Portugal. Public schools are accessible and well-integrated into local communities, while private and international schools provide a range of curriculum options for those coming from abroad. The healthcare system offers universal coverage for residents, with both public and private services available depending on needs and preferences.
Culturally, Portugal values family life. Children are welcome in most public settings — from restaurants to public events — and family-oriented infrastructure is improving in cities and smaller towns alike. For those seeking a safer, more connected way of life with access to Europe, Portugal offers an appealing foundation to build a new chapter.
What to Consider When Moving with Children
Relocating with a family requires more planning than an individual move. Among the most important considerations are:
- Access to quality schools and childcare
- Proximity to healthcare providers
- Safe and family-oriented neighbourhoods
- Language adaptation for both children and adults
- Availability of activities and routines that support a balanced lifestyle
Every family has different priorities, and understanding how life works in Portugal before the move helps ease the transition.
Schools and Education
Portugal offers a mix of public, private, and international schools. Public schools are free, taught in Portuguese, and generally well-regarded, though quality varies by region.
Private schools, including international options (such as British, American, or IB curricula), are available in Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and other larger areas. These often offer smaller class sizes and support for non-Portuguese speakers.
Choosing the right school depends on your children’s ages, language background, and long-term plans. We can help families compare options, schedule visits, and understand enrollment timelines.
Housing and Family-Friendly Areas
When moving with children, location matters. Many families prioritise access to green spaces, proximity to schools, safe streets, and good transport links.
Lisbon, Cascais, Porto, and parts of the Algarve have well-established family zones. Smaller towns such as Ericeira, Coimbra, or Tavira offer quieter lifestyles with lower costs and close-knit communities.
We help you evaluate which region fits your family’s rhythm and support you in navigating the housing search process — whether renting or buying.
Healthcare and Daily Life
Portugal has a universal public healthcare system (SNS), and most residents — including foreign families with legal residency — can register for care. Many also opt for private health insurance, which provides faster access to specialists and private clinics.Day-to-day life is generally family-friendly: supermarkets often have child-friendly spaces, restaurants welcome kids, and many communities have parks, beaches, and family activities year-round.
We assist with registering for healthcare, finding pediatricians, setting up insurance, and helping your family settle into daily life.
How We Support Families
We offer tailored relocation support for families at every stage:
- Planning and timeline coordination
- Identifying family-friendly regions and schools
- Connecting with local education advisors
- Support with housing, healthcare registration, and utilities
- Help with logistics: documents, bank accounts, mobile, transport
- Assistance integrating into local communities and support networks
Whether you’re relocating permanently or exploring Portugal short-term, our team helps ensure your family feels informed and supported.
Start Planning Your Move
Every family is different — and your move should reflect your needs, not someone else’s template.
Book a consultation and let’s create a relocation plan that works for your whole family.
Talk to our Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Portugal a good place to raise children?
Yes. Portugal is generally considered safe, welcoming, and family-oriented. Children are valued in Portuguese culture, and the outdoor lifestyle, combined with good public and private schooling options, makes it a strong choice for families.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to access schools and healthcare?
Basic Portuguese helps, but many services — especially in international schools and private clinics — are available in English. However, learning the language over time will improve daily life and integration.
Are there English-speaking schools in Portugal?
Yes, Portugal has a variety of international schools, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and other key areas. In the Greater Lisbon area, you’ll find a range of options in Oeiras, Cascais, Sintra, and Palmela, offering British, American, or international curricula. These schools are known for their diverse student bodies and high educational standards. Additionally, Portugal is home to several international universities, providing further education opportunities in English for students seeking a global academic environment.
What are the typical monthly costs for a family in Portugal?
Costs vary by region and lifestyle, but many families find the cost of living lower than in major cities in the US or UK. Major expenses include housing, schooling (if private), and insurance.
Can I bring pets when relocating with my family?
Yes. Portugal allows pets to enter with the correct vaccinations and paperwork. We can assist with the logistics of bringing your pet and settling in with them comfortably.
