An Immigrant Reveals the Dark Side of Life in Portugal: The Downsides They Don't Talk About.

According to ТСН: Anastasia, a Ukrainian who moved to Portugal, shared her experience of living in this country, pointing out some negative aspects. She talked about problems with the immigration service, which she thinks is 'completely paralyzed', and also noted the high prices for housing and taxes. The woman also remarked that the Portuguese often take a long time to make decisions.

The Immigration Service of Portugal

Anastasia criticized the work of the immigration service, sharing her own story:

'The first is the situation with the immigration service. In fact, everything here is very, very, very difficult. It exists, but it is completely paralyzed. And obtaining residency documents is very, very difficult. In my example: my son received a Portuguese passport at birth. My husband and I officially work. And here's the catch — we have been unable to apply for regular residency for three years because there are no slots, their phone doesn't work, they do not accept applications, and you have to stand in line to stand in line,' Anastasia described the situation.

Portugal's policy towards migrants has changed, and obtaining residency has become significantly more complicated.

The Price of Buying and Renting Housing

According to Anastasia, housing prices in Portugal are 'unrealistically high':

'Since 2022, rental prices have risen very, very much. And in 2023, Lisbon, statistically, became one of the most expensive capitals in Europe in terms of rental housing,' Anastasia noted.

The average rental price for an apartment in Lisbon is 1500 euros, but this is not new housing.

'Also regarding the purchase of housing. We live in the suburbs, 20 minutes from Lisbon in the city of Montijo, and new nice buildings are being constructed nearby. Of course, I would like to have new housing. In these buildings, apartments already cost 400-450 thousand euros and above,' the woman added.

The Mentality of the Portuguese

Anastasia also noted the mentality of the Portuguese, with which she managed to adapt:

'Some things that seem simple to us — they say 'impossible'. This means — it is impossible to do this. For example, in my field, I struggled for a long time... The Portuguese need to think for a week or two or three, ask, double-check, negotiate, and then make a decision,' Anastasia told.

The Tax System

In her opinion, Portugal's tax system is one of the most complicated:

'For example, in Ukraine, we had a team and we worked — it was easy to do and formalize. But here in our field, it is easier to work in pairs and not take on large obligations,' Anastasia explained.

Anastasia is not the only one facing difficulties when moving to Portugal. Another Ukrainian has also expressed her opinion on the numerous downsides of life in this country, including the damp weather, high rental prices, and low salaries.