Braga, Portugal’s third-largest city, is quickly becoming a top destination for expats looking for an affordable, culture-rich, and high-quality lifestyle. With its blend of historical charm, modern infrastructure, and welcoming community, Braga is an ideal choice for those considering a move to Portugal. This guide provides everything you need to know about relocating to Braga in 2025.
1. Why Move to Braga?
Braga offers a unique combination of affordability, safety, and quality of life. Here’s why many expats are making the move:
- Cost of Living: Significantly lower than Lisbon or Porto while offering excellent amenities.
- Mild Climate: Comfortable temperatures year-round with warm summers and mild winters.
- Rich Culture & History: Home to stunning architecture, religious heritage, and vibrant festivals.
- Expanding Expat Community: Growing network of digital nomads, retirees, and remote workers.
- Connectivity: Well-connected via train and highways to Porto and Lisbon.
🔹 Source: Numbeo – Cost of Living in Braga
2. Cost of Living in Braga
One of Braga’s main attractions for expats is its affordability. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment, city center) | €600 – €800 |
| Rent (1-bedroom, outside city center) | €450 – €650 |
| Utilities (Electricity, water, internet) | €100 – €150 |
| Groceries (monthly) | €200 – €350 |
| Dining Out (meal for two) | €25 – €40 |
| Public Transport Pass | €30 – €40 |
🔹 Source: Idealista – Housing in Braga
3. Where to Live in Braga?
Braga has diverse neighborhoods catering to different lifestyles and budgets:
- City Center (Sé, São Vicente) – Ideal for those who want to be near historic sites, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
- Maximinos & São João do Souto – A mix of modern apartments and traditional homes, close to transportation hubs.
- Nogueiró & Tenões – Popular with families and professionals looking for quieter, upscale areas.
- Gualtar – Home to the University of Minho, making it a lively area with young professionals and students.
🔹 Source: Expat.com – Braga Neighborhood Guide
4. How to Rent a Home in Braga
Renting a home in Braga is straightforward, but competition for well-priced properties is rising. Here’s what you need to know:
Steps to Renting
- Browse Listings – Use platforms like Idealista and OLX Portugal to find rental options.
- Prepare Documents – Typically, landlords request proof of income, identification, and a security deposit.
- Understand Lease Terms – Contracts are usually for 1 year, with a required 2-3 months’ rent upfront.
- Consider a Real Estate Agent – They can help navigate the market, though they may charge a small fee.
🔹 Source: Portugalist – Renting in Portugal
5. Visa & Residency Requirements
For non-EU citizens, securing a visa is essential before moving to Portugal. The most common visas include:
- D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa) – Best for retirees and those with independent income streams, but applicants must prove stable passive income and maintain a residence in Portugal to qualify.
- D8 Visa (Digital Nomad Visa) – Ideal for remote workers earning from foreign companies.
- Golden Visa – Previously a property investment-based residency program, the Golden Visa now excludes residential real estate investments in major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and much of the Algarve. However, investors can still qualify through commercial property, investment funds, job creation, or cultural and scientific contributions.
Applying for a Residency Permit
Once in Portugal, expats must register at SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) for a residency permit.
🔹 Source: SEF Portugal – Immigration and Visas
6. Healthcare & Insurance in Braga
Portugal has a high-quality healthcare system, and expats can access both public and private healthcare.
- Public Healthcare – Residents with a visa can access SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) for a small fee.
- Private Healthcare – Faster access and English-speaking doctors available through private clinics.
- Health Insurance – Many expats opt for private insurance, starting from €30-€100 per month.
🔹 Source: SNS Portugal – Public Healthcare System
7. Working & Business Opportunities
Braga is growing as a hub for remote workers and entrepreneurs.
- Digital Nomads & Remote Work – Co-working spaces like Factory Braga cater to remote professionals.
- Starting a Business – Portugal offers tax incentives for new businesses, especially in tech & tourism.
- Job Market – English-speaking jobs are mainly in IT, customer service, and tourism.
🔹 Source: Factory Braga – Co-working Spaces
8. Transport & Getting Around Braga
Braga is well-connected, making it easy to explore Portugal.
- Public Transport – Efficient bus network with monthly passes (€30-€40).
- Train Access – Fast trains connect Braga to Porto in 40 minutes and Lisbon in 3.5 hours.
- Driving – Owning a car is optional, but parking in the city center can be limited.
🔹 Source: CP – Portugal Rail Network
Final Thoughts: Is Braga Right for You?
Braga’s affordable cost of living, strong expat community, and modern infrastructure make it an attractive option for those moving to Portugal. Whether you’re looking to retire, work remotely, or invest, Braga offers an ideal balance between tradition and modernity.
Do you have questions about moving to Braga? Drop a comment or reach out via our Instagram @ILoveBraga.com for more insights! 🇵🇹
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Header photo via Municipality of Braga
