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Can UK citizens live in Madeira?

A Quick Glance at 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.



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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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When you have the Golden Visa in Madeira, if you maintain your residence permit and investment for five years, you qualify for permanent residency. You then have the option of applying for Portuguese citizenship.

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Property ownership in Portugal and Madeira is open to non-citizens without restrictions, a major selling point for the two islands. The Golden Visa and Non-habitual residence policies encourage foreigners to invest in Portuguese real estate on the mainland and Madeira.

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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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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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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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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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Of course it is possible to live in Madeira full time, but there are entry requirements, as documented here. There are around 1000 expat Brits on the Island full time. I would suggest joining one of the expat blogs for further info. Well, you certainly cannot simply Leave and re-enter every 6 months!

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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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Apartments and houses in good condition can be found starting from 70,000 - 100,000 euros. The maximum price for real estate in Madeira is more than three and a half million euros for a luxurious private house. That will particularly interest those who are going to buy luxury real estate in Portugal.

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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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Language in Madeira European Portuguese is spoken throughout Madeira, but English is also widely spoken.

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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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The measure in question offers tax benefits for 10 years for people who move to the country, with income earned in Portugal being taxed at a rate of 20%. Income from abroad is generally exempt, except for pensions, which are taxed at a rate of 10%.

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