Dreaming of a move to Portugal? Edinburgh event offers practical advice on making it happen
With summer behind us and the evenings drawing in, the prospect of swapping Scotland's colder months for Portugal's warmer climate may seem particularly appealing.
But while sunshine, beautiful scenery and a different pace of life might provide the inspiration, moving abroad involves some important decisions. From understanding residency requirements and tax arrangements to choosing the right property and planning for retirement, there is plenty to consider before taking the plunge.
For Scots exploring the possibility of a new life in Portugal, a roadshow returning to Edinburgh this November will provide an opportunity to find out what is involved and speak directly with professionals who can help.
Organised by the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK, the Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars will take place on Thursday, 12 November 2026, at The Scotsman Hotel in central Edinburgh.
The event is free to attend and is aimed at anyone considering relocating, retiring, investing in property or establishing a business in Portugal.
From considering a move to making it happen
Following its successful Edinburgh debut in 2025, the Moving to Portugal Show returns again this year with an expanded programme of seminars, exhibitors and specialist advisers.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the legal, financial and practical considerations involved in moving abroad, with expert guidance covering residency, taxation, pensions, property and relocation.
Alongside presentations from specialists, the event will provide opportunities for individual conversations, allowing visitors to ask questions relevant to their own circumstances.
Visitors will also be able to hear from Scots who have already relocated to Portugal. Their experiences will offer valuable insights into the decisions involved, the challenges they encountered and what they have learnt from making the move.
For those still at an early stage of planning, the event provides an opportunity to understand the options available. For others who have already decided to relocate, it offers the chance to discuss some of the practical steps needed to move forward.
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Discovering the right part of Portugal
Choosing where to live is one of the most important decisions when considering a move abroad, and Portugal offers considerable variety in terms of climate, lifestyle and property.
Porto and the Douro Valley in the north combine historic cities with vineyard landscapes and established local communities. Lisbon and its surrounding coastline offer a combination of city living, beaches and international connections.
For those seeking a quieter, rural setting, the Alentejo is known for its open landscapes, traditional towns and slower pace of life. Further south, the Algarve offers a warm climate, coastal towns, golf courses and established international communities.
Each region has its own character, property market and practical considerations. The right choice will depend on individual priorities, whether that means access to healthcare, transport connections, schools, employment or somewhere to enjoy retirement.
At the Edinburgh event, visitors will be able to explore Portugal's different regions and discuss their options with property and relocation specialists.
A growing connection between Scotland and Portugal
Portugal is already a familiar holiday destination for many Scots, with dozens of direct flights making it relatively straightforward to explore different parts of the country.
However, deciding to spend a holiday in Portugal is very different from choosing to live there permanently.
Beyond the attractions of the climate and lifestyle, prospective residents need to consider how their finances, healthcare arrangements and everyday lives would work in another country.
For those thinking about retirement, this might involve understanding how their UK pension would be paid while living abroad and how their income could be taxed.
Families may have questions about schools, healthcare and residency, while business owners will need to understand the legal and financial implications of establishing themselves in Portugal.
These are among the questions that the experts at the Moving to Portugal Show can answer for visitors.
Practical advice, all under one roof
Moving abroad can involve several different professional services and understanding how they fit together is an important part of planning.
The event's seminar programme and exhibition will cover a range of subjects, including:
- Residency requirements and choosing the appropriate visa.
- Portuguese and UK tax considerations, including the treatment of pensions and investments.
- Financial planning for retirement and relocation.
- Buying property and understanding the purchasing process.
- Healthcare, settling into a new community and the practicalities of moving.
Visitors will be able to hear from Portugal specialists and speak directly with advisers and service providers, bringing together information that might otherwise require several separate appointments.
Whether your ambition is to retire by the coast, relocate with family, establish a business or purchase a second home in Portugal, the Show offers an opportunity to explore the options and gain a clearer understanding of the next steps.
Find out more and register
Organised by the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK, the Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars takes place on Thursday, 12 November 2026, at The Scotsman Hotel, 20 North Bridge, Edinburgh.
Attendance is free, but advance registration is required.
For further information about the event, visit movingtoportugal.org.uk/events/scotland-2026 .