laratupilat, Author at Portugal Family Life

School System in Portugal Explained: A Practical Guide for Families

Understanding how the Portuguese education system really works — before choosing a school When we first tried to understand the school system in Portugal, the confusion didn’t come from complexity.It came from difference. Different rhythm.Different expectations.Different ways schools relate to families. This article is for international parents who want to understand what kind of system […]

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Moving to Portugal with Kids: What Actually Surprised Us in the First 90 Days (Good and Bad)

Activities & Integration, Community & Friendships, Daily Life & Social Norms, Moving to Portugal, Portugal with Kids, Real Life in Portugal, Real Life Stories

What made the beginning harder than we expected (Weather, location, and unrealistic assumptions) Portugal is usually associated with sunshine, calm, and an easygoing lifestyle. And yes, all of that exists. But we moved in November. There were sunny days, of course. We even went to the beach. But when the wind started blowing, it felt

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Homeschooling in Portugal: A Realistic Guide for Families

Education System, Portugal with Kids

Homeschooling in Portugal is a legal but highly regulated form of education, fully integrated into the national school system. Children educated at home must remain enrolled in a Portuguese school, follow the national curriculum, and complete regular evaluations. This guide explains how homeschooling actually works in Portugal, what the law requires, and what parents should

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Mega Manuais: Free Textbooks for Your Kids in Portugal

Education System, Portugal with Kids

Did you know that in Portugal, families with children in public schools don’t have to pay for textbooks? Yes, really. Thanks to a government program called Mega Manuais, parents get free vouchers to collect their kids’ schoolbooks. And unlike most bureaucratic adventures here, this one is refreshingly simple.No queues, no hidden fees. Just log in,

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How to Take the Portuguese A2 Exam (CIPLE) for Citizenship

Paperwork & Residency

When you first arrive in Portugal, citizenship feels like something you’ll figure out later. But five — soon to be seven or even ten — years go by faster than you think, and suddenly you’re googling “A2 Portuguese exam” because you don’t know exactly what to expect, and the official website is… a little confusing.If

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Opening a Bank Account in Portugal: Documents, Costs & Best Banks

Moving to Portugal, Paperwork & Residency

Opening a local bank account in Portugal can save you time, money, and a lot of confusion. Whether you need to pay rent, register your kids for school lunches, or use MBWay for everyday purchases, having a Portuguese account makes daily life smoother. At a Glance: Opening a Bank Account in Portugal Typical Cost €250–€300

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How to Get an SNS Number in Portugal: A Practical Guide for Expat Families

Healthcare & Insurance, Moving to Portugal

You’ll thank yourself later for sorting this early. Sorting out healthcare might not be the most exciting part of your relocation — but trust me, it’s one of the most important. Getting your SNS number (Número de Utente) gives you access to Portugal’s public healthcare system. It can save you thousands and give your family

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Portugal with Kids: How to Enjoy Braga Without Rushing

Kid-Friendly Travel, Portugal with Kids

Portugal with kids doesn’t mean rushing through cities with a packed checklist. If you’re heading to Braga, we’ve got a better idea: take it slow. We recently explored this northern gem with our 6-year-old and left the “must-see everything” mindset at home. Instead, we focused on what felt good: play, good food, open spaces, and

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How to Get a NIF in Portugal: A Practical Guide for International Families

Moving to Portugal, Paperwork & Residency

Why the NIF Is Your Family’s Golden Key in Portugal Among the many checklists, the NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is likely one of the first terms you’ll hear—and with good reason.From renting a home to enrolling your child in school, the NIF opens the door to almost every essential service. Without it, you’ll quickly

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Where Should Families Live in Portugal?

Housing & Neighborhoods, Moving to Portugal

Honest Advice for Moving Parents Moving to Portugal as a family comes with both big opportunities and complex decisions. From school options and healthcare to finding a neighborhood where kids can safely play outside, the landscape varies greatly depending on where you choose to settle. This guide gives you a grounded, insider look at what

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