Portugal has traditionally been seen as enjoying a low cost of living – a compelling reason for retiring there. But low prices do not apply across the board, and the reality is that – apart from in certain key sectors – Portugal is not a particularly cheap country to live in any more. In common...

In Malaga there are many things to do… A place that blends history, nature, culture, art, sports and leisure with great dining experiences. Malaka, as it was known in the olden days was thought to first be inhabited by the Phoenicians since the century VIII B.C. using the natural port on the foothill of Gibralfaro...

Household and personal goods may be shipped into France from another European Union (EU) country without customs formalities, although an inventory must be presented. A non-EU resident planning on moving to France is also allowed furniture and personal effects free of duty, provided the items have be owned and used for at least six months...

Healthcare in France has a reputation for being high quality. The public health system is made up of a network of public and private services from doctors, hospitals, and specialist providers. State healthcare in France is not free. Healthcare costs are covered by both the state and through patient co-payments. Here we set out how...

Retirement abroad is increasingly popular, with over one million British expats having their pension paid overseas. It is less common for citizens of the US to retire abroad, but there are around 550,000 Americans who receive their social security benefits abroad. Non-EU citizens can obtain a long-stay visa for retirement in France, which allows you...

With a wide range of distinct governments bound together by mutually-beneficial agreements, the EU presents some interesting business opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs. If you’re considering starting a business in the EU, though, you need to be prepared to do some research and confirm that it’s the right move — particularly if you’re currently based...

This is Part Three of a series of extracts from an article by Byron Mühlberg of Monito originally published on Monito.com.  Written by someone who just moved to the country this guide helps people get a better picture of what they can reasonably expect along the way as they prepare for, embark upon and embrace their move...

Every year, thousands of Brits move abroad to seek a better life, better opportunities or simply to experience new cultures. In fact, it’s estimated that between 1 and 2.2 million currently live in the EU, and many hundreds of thousands live further afield in countries like Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Written exclusively for Expat...

In their annual report on house purchase and rental prices in Portugal Imovirtual have seen increases in the price of buying property in many areas but a reduction in rental prices. Here they set out the results for each area. Written exclusively for Expat Network by Imovirtual House Prices in Portugal House prices in...

The UK’s exit from the European Union has prompted expats to review the way in which they manage their estates and hand down their property abroad. While the issue is shrouded with misconceptions, people are more alive now than ever to their options for succession planning. But it doesn’t stop there. Richard Bate, Partner at...

Currency risk is an important issue when buying a property abroad.  Offshoreonline have pointed to a term available from at least one Spanish lender that can help you to manage your currency risk when earning in a different currency to the Euro. Written for Expat Network by Guy Stephenson of Offshoreonline Currency stability should...

What are the prospects for the international property market in 2020.  Simon Conn has been an international mortgage broker for 40 years and sets out his view on which are the best places to buy in 2020. Written for Expat Network by Simon Conn In 2019 Simon Conn had a steady number of enquiries...