Raising Children in Portugal as an Expat Family – All You Need to Know!

Are you considering raising children in Portugal? From its family-friendly culture and high-quality education to healthcare, safety, and outdoor living, Portugal offers an exceptional environment for families relocating from abroad.

As you settle into your new home and explore the country, you’ll also find countless opportunities to build meaningful relationships and lifelong memories that will shape your family’s story.

Portugal is a country where family values, warmth, and togetherness are deeply rooted in everyday life. This strong sense of community is one of the greatest advantages for expat families raising children here.

Why Families Thrive in Portugal

Portugal consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, allowing parents peace of mind and children the freedom to grow in a secure environment.

Portugal offers a wide variety of family-friendly destinations, each with its own character and advantages. Portugal Homes helps families find the right location and property to suit their lifestyle and budget.

The capital city blends history and modernity, offering:

A charming northern city ideal for families who value culture and community:

Cascais

One of the most popular locations for expat families:

The Algarve

Perfect for families seeking sunshine and a relaxed pace:

Each destination offers a distinctive experience for families living with kids in Portugal. Embrace the country’s warm culture, enjoy the family-friendly amenities, and create unforgettable memories in your chosen city as you embark on an extraordinary journey when moving to Portugal with your family.

Portugal remains one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe for families.

This balance between cost and quality of life is one of the key reasons families choose Portugal.

Portugal offers a diverse and high-quality education system, with options suited to both local and international families.

Portugal is also home to internationally recognised universities and programmes, including:

The Lisbon MBA Católica|Nova is a top-ranked programme recognized by the prestigious Financial Times rankings. It holds the distinguished position of being ranked in the top 26 in Europe and top 70 globally. In the recent Financial Times Global MBA 2025 Rankings.

Generally, in Portugal, international students receive support through language programmes and integration initiatives, as the country fosters a range of premium-quality schools, from which you can choose from. Higher education in Portugal encompasses universities and specialised institutions. English-taught degree programmes are available, and Portuguese universities have a long standing worldwide recognition.

Portugal’s healthcare system combines quality, accessibility, and affordability, making it ideal for families.

Many expat families choose a combination of public and private healthcare for peace of mind.

Portugal offers endless opportunities for families to enjoy life together.

Some highlights families love:

Families from the 4 corners of the world, with different backgrounds, can immerse themselves in the historical sites, museums, and cultural festivals, exploring the rich history and heritage of the country.

Bureaucracy related to visas and residency (easily managed with professional support)

Raising children in Portugal offers a unique blend of security, culture, education, and quality of life. From sunny days outdoors to strong community bonds and enriching cultural experiences, Portugal provides a nurturing environment where families can truly flourish.

With the right guidance, relocating and settling in Portugal becomes a smooth and rewarding journey — one that creates a bright future for both parents and children.