Can I emigrate to Madeira?

It is a Portuguese island and thus a part of the European Union. As an EU citizen, you can move freely to the island. However, after three months, you have to formalize your existing right for residency at your local city council. Almost everyone here speaks English.



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Choosing to buy or rent a property in Madeira Island and moving for retirement, is absolutely the best choice. In Madeira you can enjoy not only one of the best climates in the world and almost the most hours of sunshine in Europe, but also good health services and favorable tax climate for retirees.

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Funchal, the capital of Madeira Island, is known for its beautiful landscapes, mild climate, and relaxed lifestyle. According to Numbeo, a family of four can expect to spend around 1,943.8€ per month without rent in Funchal, while a single person's estimated monthly costs amount to 542.5€ without rent.

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If your definition of quality of life means safety, tranquillity, natural beauty and little traffic, then Madeira could be a good option. Far from the bustle of Lisbon and Porto, the island is calm and peaceful.

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One route is through the Golden Visa program. In exchange for foreign investment, Golden Visa holders are granted a residence permit. After holding a Golden Visa for five years, you can apply for permanent residency.

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UK nationals can still visit without a visa, but can only stay for up to 90 days within 180 days. If you'd like to visit for longer than this, then you will need to apply for a visa.

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Comparison with London: Consumer prices in Funchal are 39.49% lower than in London (without rent). Rent Prices in Funchal are 63.96% lower than in London.

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Popular areas for expats include Funchal, the capital city, as well as Ponta do Sol, Calheta, Santana, São Martinho, and Ribeira Brava. These areas offer a mix of coastal and mountain living options.

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The island of Madeira is also attracting keen interest, with 1,342 Britons living there in 2020. That number is expected to increase from 2022, since, despite its popularity as a tourist destination, property there will still qualify for inclusion in Portugal's Golden Visa scheme.

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Legal and Financial Considerations: As a foreigner purchasing real estate in Madeira Island, you'll need to follow the legal and financial requirements of Portugal. This may include obtaining a fiscal number (NIF), opening a bank account, and hiring a lawyer to handle the legal aspects of the transaction.

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Buying property in Portugal allows you to acquire a Portugal residence permit, as long as you stay in the country for a minimum of 14 days each two years. That means you can buy a property in Portugal and get residency. Moreover, you may apply for citizenship and an EU passport five years after obtaining residency.

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This is also the place where most expats and digital nomads live so people are more likely to speak English. With over 100,000 people living in Funchal, it is the main center of Madeira. The capital is known for its lively nightlife, incredible restaurants, and for having loads of cultural activities to enjoy.

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Madeira in general isn't an expensive place to live. Housing, transport, and food are quite affordable for expats staying in Madeira longer term. On the other hand, if you're staying in Madeira short term (less than 6 months) then housing and renting cars can be quite expensive.

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The average standard of living tends to be a bit lower than in mainland Portugal, and the local autonomous government gives generous subsidies coming from the tourist industry revenues and from the Portuguese national budget. Go where the locals go and everything will be cheap.

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