Spain vs Portugal: Which Country is Better Conditions for Your Family?
Many people consider that Spain and Portugal are developed and prospective EU countries for relocation. Both countries have a mild climate, stable economies, and decent life, and working conditions. If you have already been to these countries and fell in love with them, please note that relocation and tourist trips are entirely different. That is why it is essential to consider all conditions for obtaining a Portuguese and Spain Golden Visa and the requirements for immigration to both countries; for example, compare them during an investment and only then make a choice.
Citizenship Options for Families
Both countries provide similar conditions for obtaining a residence permit. It is necessary to get a Spanish or Portugal Golden Visa, which is possible to do under the accelerated program. The participation conditions are simple: you should buy real estate for 500 thousand euros, open a business providing jobs, or invest in investment funds. It is also possible to obtain Spanish or Portugal residency by descent, family reunification, marriage, or naturalization. More detailed information is available at immigrantinvest.com.
Family-Friendly Living: Portugal vs. Spain Compared
Both countries have friendly and hospitable attitudes towards foreigners. If you and your family want to get to know their culture and language better, they will be happy to help you. Various festivals and events are regularly held here, where foreigners can get acquainted with the customs of the local population and try national cuisine. You can quickly and comfortably settle in a new country if you respect and accept national traditions.
Education Systems
Portuguese higher education is on the level of the best European standards. Although there are tuition fees at local universities, they are only about $1000 per year, much lower than anywhere else in Western Europe. The higher education system in Spain has evolved over several centuries. Spanish universities, both public and private, maintain the same level of quality as universities in Europe. Annual tuition fees at Spanish universities range from 2000-3500 euros.
Comparative Analysis of Healthcare System
Spain has been ranked the world's number one country in health in the 2019 Bloomberg rankings based on World Health Organization (WHO) data, with Portugal getting only 22nd place. Both countries have an average life expectancy of more than 80 years. Such high indicators are achieved thanks to a developed healthcare system. In addition, Spain is very popular in the sphere of medical and spa tourism. More than two thousand thermal and mineral springs beckon foreigners here. Tourists from all over Europe often come to Portugal for recreation and treatment. This is because the quality of medical services is high, and prices are lower than in other EU countries.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in both countries will differ depending on which region you want to move to. According to experts, Portugal is slightly cheaper than Spain. For example, the cost of living in Madrid is higher than in Lisbon. Eating out and grocery shopping in Spain is somewhat higher than in Portugal. In Spain, the southern and western parts of the country tend to be more affordable than Madrid and the northern regions. Whereas in Portugal, the central and northern areas are typically cheaper. The cost of living in both countries will be significantly lower if you live in smaller towns or cities. The surest way to move to either country is to live by residence by investment in Spain or Portugal. However, consider other factors.
Cultural and Recreational Opportunities for Families
Spain has 49 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while Portugal has only 17. The Portuguese are more melancholic than the cheerful and passionate Spaniards. It is evident in local holidays and festivals. Thus, Easter, Carnival, and regional festivals are noisily celebrated in Portugal. Spain is world famous for the Las Fallas fire festival, the colorful Canary Carnival, the human towers in Catalonia, and the Semana Santa parades in the country's south. Culturally, Spain is also far more diverse than Portugal. Five different languages are spoken here, and each region has its cuisine, festivals, dances, customs, and traditions that differ markedly.
Conclusion
Comparing the living and working conditions in Portugal and Spain, you can see how different these countries are. However, it is impossible to say definitively where you and your family should move. In any case, you will get european residency for a whole family. According to the expert of the agency Immigrant Invest Vladlena Baranova, it is necessary to consider all factors and advantages, consult with the specialists of the immigration agency, consult with your family and only then make a choice.