Complete Guide to Moving to Cascais: Everything Expats Need to Know in 2025

Last updated: January 15, 2025

Cascais has become one of Portugal’s most sought-after destinations for expats, particularly those seeking a coastal lifestyle with easy access to Lisbon. This charming coastal town, just 30 minutes from Portugal’s capital, offers the perfect blend of beach living, excellent amenities, and a strong international community. With its beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, excellent schools, and sophisticated dining scene, Cascais provides an enviable quality of life that attracts families, retirees, and remote workers alike.

Whether you’re drawn by the D8 Digital Nomad Visa, the IFICI tax regime, or simply the promise of a better lifestyle by the sea, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making Cascais your new home in 2025.

Why Cascais? The Allure of Portugal’s Coastal Gem

Cascais combines coastal living with cosmopolitan amenities. The town’s historic center features charming cobblestone streets and traditional Portuguese architecture, while modern developments offer luxury apartments and villas. Cascais’ location on the Atlantic coast means beautiful beaches, world-class sailing, and year-round outdoor activities, while its proximity to Lisbon provides access to international airports, business opportunities, and cultural events.

What makes Cascais special for expats:

• Coastal lifestyle: Beautiful beaches, sailing, and water sports year-round
• Proximity to Lisbon: Just 30 minutes by train or car, offering the best of both worlds
• Strong expat community: One of Portugal’s largest and most established expat communities
• Excellent international schools: Top-tier education options for families
• World-class golf courses: Multiple championship courses in the area
• Safety and security: Consistently ranked among Portugal’s safest areas
• Excellent healthcare: Both public and private healthcare systems with English-speaking doctors
• Rich cultural life: Art galleries, music festivals, and cultural events throughout the year

The town’s transformation from a fishing village to an international destination has been remarkable. What was once a summer retreat for Portuguese royalty has become a year-round home for expats from around the world.

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Best Neighborhoods for Expats in Cascais

Choosing where to live in Cascais is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Each neighborhood offers a distinct personality, lifestyle, and price point. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular areas for expats:

Cascais Historic Center

Best for: Those wanting walkability, culture, and proximity to beaches

The historic center of Cascais offers charming cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. The area is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops, and cultural attractions, all within walking distance of beautiful beaches.

What to expect:

• Higher rental costs (€1,200-€2,000/month for a 1-bedroom)
• Excellent walkability
• Tourist crowds during summer
• Vibrant dining and nightlife scene
• Close to beaches and marina
• Strong expat community

Quinta da Marinha

Best for: Families, golf enthusiasts, those seeking luxury

Quinta da Marinha is an upscale residential area known for its luxury villas, golf courses, and family-friendly environment. The area offers a more suburban feel while still being close to Cascais center.

What to expect:

• Higher rental costs (€1,500-€3,000/month for a 2-bedroom)
• Luxury properties with gardens – World-class golf courses
• Family-friendly environment
• International schools nearby
• More car-dependent

Estoril

Best for: Retirees, those seeking quieter lifestyle, history lovers

Estoril sits between Cascais and Lisbon, offering a more relaxed atmosphere while maintaining excellent amenities. The area is known for its historic casino, beautiful gardens, and elegant architecture.

What to expect:

• Moderate to high rental costs – Quieter than Cascais center
• Beautiful gardens and parks
• Good public transport connections
• Strong expat community
• Excellent restaurants

São João do Estoril

Best for: Families, those seeking value, beach lovers

São João do Estoril offers more affordable housing options while still providing excellent beach access and good amenities. The area is popular with families seeking value without sacrificing quality of life.

What to expect:

• More affordable than Cascais center
• Excellent beach access
• Family-friendly environment
• Good public transport
• Local neighborhood feel
• Growing expat presence

Carcavelos

Best for: Young professionals, surfers, those seeking value

Carcavelos offers a more affordable alternative to Cascais while maintaining excellent beach access and good amenities. The area is popular with surfers and young professionals.

What to expect:

• More affordable housing – Excellent surfing beaches
• Younger demographic
• Good public transport to Lisbon
• Growing expat community
• More local feel

Other Popular Areas

Guincho: Coastal area with stunning beaches, popular with surfers and nature lovers

Alcabideche: Residential area popular with families, good value, quieter

Birre: Upscale area with luxury properties, popular with high-net-worth expats

Cost of Living in Cascais: What to Budget in 2025

Cascais offers a premium lifestyle, with costs generally higher than Lisbon but still more affordable than many European coastal destinations. Here’s a realistic breakdown of monthly costs:

Housing Costs

Rental prices (2025):

• 1-bedroom in center: €1,200-€2,000/month
• 1-bedroom outside center: €900-€1,600/month
• 2-bedroom in center: €1,800-€3,000/month
• 2-bedroom outside center: €1,400-€2,500/month
• 3-bedroom villa: €2,500-€5,000/month

Additional housing costs:

• Security deposit: Typically 2-3 months’ rent
• Agency fees: Usually one month’s rent
• Utilities: €120-€180/month (electricity, water, gas, internet) – Internet: €30-€40/month for fiber
• Property insurance: €20-€40/month

Tips for finding housing:

• Use local sites: Idealista, Imovirtual, OLX
• Consider short-term rental first to explore neighborhoods
• Be prepared to pay 2-3 months upfront
• Furnished apartments are common for short-term; unfurnished for long-term
• Always visit properties in person before signing

Daily Living Costs

Groceries and essentials:

• Groceries (single person): €280-€450/month
• Groceries (couple): €450-€650/month
• Dining out (mid-range restaurant): €30-€50 per person
• Coffee: €1.50-€2.50 for espresso
• Local wine: €6-€18 per bottle
• Beer: €3-€5 in a bar

Transportation:

• Monthly public transport pass: €40
• Single ticket: €2 – Uber/Bolt (short trip): €5-€12
• Taxi (Lisbon airport to Cascais): €35-€50
• Train to Lisbon: €2.25 per trip

Entertainment and lifestyle:

• Gym membership: €60-€120/month
• Golf club membership: €1,500-€3,000/year
• Cinema ticket: €8-€12
• Monthly mobile plan: €15-€25 – Co-working space: €100-€200/month

Healthcare Costs

Private health insurance:

• Basic coverage: €50-€90/month
• Comprehensive coverage: €90-€160/month
• Public healthcare: Free for residents (after registration)

Medical costs:

• Doctor visit (private): €60-€120
• Specialist consultation: €90-€180
• Dental cleaning: €50-€80

Education Costs (for families)

International schools:

• Annual fees: €8,000-€20,000 per child
• Popular options: St. Julian’s School, International School of Cascais, Carlucci American International School

Public schools:

• Free for residents (taught in Portuguese)

Total Monthly Budget Estimates

Single person (modest lifestyle):

• Housing: €1,400 – Groceries: €350
• Utilities: €140
• Transport: €50
• Healthcare: €70 – Entertainment: €250
• Total: €2,260/month

Couple (comfortable lifestyle):

• Housing: €2,200 – Groceries: €550
• Utilities: €160
• Transport: €100
• Healthcare: €140 – Entertainment: €500
• Total: €3,650/month

Family with one child:

• Housing: €2,800 – Groceries: €650
• Utilities: €180
• Transport: €120
• Healthcare: €180 – School: €1,200 (monthly average)
• Entertainment: €400
• Total: €5,530/month

Note: These are estimates. Actual costs vary based on lifestyle, neighborhood, and personal choices.

Visa Requirements for Moving to Cascais

Your visa path depends on your nationality, income source, and long-term plans. Here are the main options:

D8 Digital Nomad Visa

Best for: Remote workers, freelancers, digital entrepreneurs

The D8 visa is Portugal’s digital nomad visa, designed for those earning income from outside Portugal. It’s become one of the most popular pathways for remote workers.

Requirements:

• Minimum monthly income: €3,480 – Proof of remote income (bank statements, contracts, payslips) – Portuguese NIF (tax ID)
• can be obtained before applying
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal
• Valid international health insurance
• Clean criminal record

Process: 1. Apply at Portuguese consulate in your home country 2. Initial visa valid for 4 months 3. Upon arrival, schedule appointment with AIMA (formerly SEF) 4. Convert to 2-year residence permit 5. Renewable every 2 years 6. After 5 years, eligible for permanent residency or citizenship

Timeline: 2-4 months from application to approval

D7 Passive Income Visa

Best for: Retirees, those with passive income (rentals, dividends, pensions)

The D7 visa has a lower income threshold but requires non-employment-based income.

Requirements:

• Minimum monthly income: €870 (principal applicant)
• Proof of passive income (pensions, rental income, dividends, interest)
• Portuguese NIF
• Proof of accommodation – Health insurance
• Clean criminal record

Timeline: 3-6 months

D2 Entrepreneur Visa

Best for: Business owners wanting to start a company in Portugal

Requirements:

• Viable business plan
• Sufficient funds to support the venture
• Proof of business activity in Portugal – Portuguese NIF
• Health insurance

Golden Visa

Best for: High-net-worth individuals

While real estate investment is suspended, the Golden Visa remains available for:

• Scientific research investments
• Cultural preservation investments
• Job creation investments

Benefits:

• Flexible residency (minimal stay requirements)
• Path to citizenship
• Family can be included

EU/EEA Citizens

If you’re an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, the process is simpler:

• No visa required
• Register for CRUE (residence certificate) if staying over 3 months
• Apply for residence card at local town hall

Tax Considerations: IFICI and Tax Optimization

Understanding Portugal’s tax system is crucial for financial planning. The IFICI regime (Portugal’s new tax incentive program) offers significant benefits for eligible professionals.

IFICI Tax Regime

What it offers:

• Flat 20% income tax on Portuguese-sourced income (vs. standard 14.5%-48% progressive rates) – Foreign-sourced income may be fully exempt (remote salaries, dividends, capital gains, interest, royalties)
• Valid for 10 consecutive years

Eligibility requirements:

• Become a tax resident in Portugal (183+ days per year or habitual residence)
• Employed by Portuguese company OR self-employed in “high-value activity”
• Eligible professions include: IT, financial services, scientific research, engineering, healthcare, arts
• Must apply during first year of tax residency

Important considerations:

• IFICI replaces the previous NHR regime (ended 2023)
• More restrictive than NHR but still offers significant benefits
• Professional tax advice is essential – Social security obligations vary based on employment structure

Standard Tax Rates

If you don’t qualify for IFICI:

• Income tax: 14.5% to 48% (progressive)
• Social security: 11% for employees, 21.4% for self-employed
• Capital gains: 28% (or 50% inclusion in income tax bracket)

Tax Planning Tips

• Consult with a tax professional before relocating
• Understand double taxation treaties with your home country
• Plan timing of income recognition
• Consider structure of remote work arrangements
• Factor in social security obligations

Healthcare System in Cascais

Portugal has a robust healthcare system with both public and private options.

Public Healthcare (SNS)

Access:

• Available to all residents after registration
• EU/EEA citizens can use EHIC card initially
• Non-EU citizens need residency permit first

Quality:

• High-quality care
• Well-trained medical professionals
• Modern facilities in major cities

Considerations:

• Wait times can be longer for non-urgent care
• Some procedures may have waiting lists
• Most doctors speak Portuguese (some English in major cities)

Private Healthcare

Why many expats choose private:

• Faster access to specialists
• English-speaking doctors widely available
• Modern facilities
• More convenient appointment scheduling

Cost:

• Private insurance: €50-€160/month
• Direct payment: €60-€180 per consultation
• Procedures typically more expensive than public

Popular private providers:

• CUF Cascais
• Hospital da Luz
• Luz Saúde

Healthcare Registration Process

1. Get your NIF (tax ID number)
2. Register with SNS at local health center
3. Choose a family doctor (if using public system)
4. Get private insurance (if desired)

Expat Communities and Social Life

Cascais has one of Portugal’s largest and most established expat communities, making it easy to meet people and build connections.

Expat Communities

Digital Nomad Community:

• Active Facebook groups and meetups
• Co-working spaces host networking events
• Regular social gatherings and professional events

National Communities:

• Strong British, American, French, German, and Scandinavian communities
• Country-specific groups and events
• Cultural associations and clubs

Professional Networks:

• Business networking groups – Industry-specific associations
• Golf and sports clubs

Where to Meet People

Co-working spaces:

• Cascais CoWork
• Various cafes with good WiFi

Social platforms:

• Facebook groups (Cascais Expats, Cascais International Community)
• Meetup.com events
• Internations Cascais chapter

Activities:

• Golf clubs and tournaments
• Sailing and water sports
• Language exchange events
• Cultural events and festivals
• Volunteer opportunities
• Beach activities

Getting Started: Essential First Steps

Week 1: Foundation

1. Get your NIF (tax ID)
   • Essential for everything: banking, renting, utilities
   • Can be done remotely through services or in-person at Finanças office
   • Required documents: passport, proof of address, fiscal representative (if non-EU)
2. Open a bank account
   • Popular banks: Millennium BCP, Novobanco, ActivoBank, CGD
   • Requirements: NIF, passport, proof of address, proof of income
   • Some banks accept Airbnb bookings as temporary address
3. Get a Portuguese phone number
   • Needed for many services and online banking
   • Major providers: MEO, Vodafone, NOS
   • Plans start around €15/month

Month 1: Settling In

1. Register for healthcare
   • Public system (SNS) registration
   • Or arrange private health insurance
2. Set up utilities
   • Electricity, water, gas, internet
   • Most require NIF and bank account
3. Register with AIMA (if on visa)
   • Convert visa to residence permit
   • Schedule appointment (can take time)
4. Explore your neighborhood
   • Find local markets, cafes, services
   • Learn public transport routes
   • Discover beaches and activities

Month 2-3: Integration

1. Learn Portuguese basics
   • Essential for daily life and bureaucracy
   • Many language schools available
   • Apps: Duolingo, Memrise, Babbel
2. Join expat communities
   • Attend meetups and events
   • Connect with local groups
   • Join golf or sports clubs
3. Understand tax obligations
   • Consult with tax professional
   • Apply for IFICI if eligible
   • Understand reporting requirements

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Bureaucracy

Challenge: Portuguese bureaucracy can be slow and complex.

Solutions:

• Start processes early
• Get professional help for complex matters
• Be patient and persistent
• Keep all documents organized
• Learn basic Portuguese for official interactions

Language Barrier

Challenge: While English is common, Portuguese is essential for official matters.

Solutions:

• Start learning Portuguese immediately – Use translation apps for documents
• Hire bilingual professionals when needed
• Practice with locals (they’re usually patient and helpful)

Housing Market

Challenge: High demand and premium prices, especially in summer.

Solutions:

• Consider neighborhoods slightly outside center
• Be flexible on move-in dates
• Use multiple platforms (Idealista, Imovirtual, OLX)
• Consider short-term rental first
• Work with reputable agents

Seasonal Crowds

Challenge: Cascais can be crowded during summer months.

Solutions:

• Embrace the vibrant summer atmosphere – Explore quieter areas during peak season
• Take advantage of off-season (beautiful weather year-round)
• Enjoy the cultural events and festivals

Making the Move: How Zerra Can Help

Relocating to Cascais involves navigating visa applications, tax planning, banking setup, and ongoing compliance—all while trying to build a new life in a foreign country. This is where Zerra’s membership model makes a difference.

Unlike traditional immigration services that disappear after your visa is approved, Zerra provides ongoing support for as long as you live in Portugal. Here’s what we handle:

Visa and Immigration:

• Visa application support and legal processing
• AIMA registration and residence permit conversion – Document preparation and submission
• Renewal support

Financial Setup:

• NIF application (can be done remotely)
• Bank account opening assistance
• Tax strategy consultation – IFICI registration and planning

Ongoing Support:

• Monthly accounting services – Annual tax filing
• Legal and tax consulting
• Compliance monitoring

Personalized Service:

• Dedicated case manager – Tech platform to track progress
• Expert network of 45+ local professionals
• 99% approval rate with 100% refund guarantee if visa denied after appeal

Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking the D8 visa, a retiree exploring the D7, or an entrepreneur considering the D2, Zerra’s team of relocation experts can guide you through every step of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much money do I need to move to Cascais?

A: For visa purposes, you’ll need to prove minimum income (€3,480/month for D8, €870/month for D7). For living expenses, budget €2,200-€3,500/month for a single person, depending on lifestyle and neighborhood.

Q: Can I work remotely in Cascais on a D8 visa?

A: Yes, the D8 Digital Nomad Visa is specifically designed for remote workers earning income from outside Portugal. You must prove your income is from foreign sources.

Q: Do I need to speak Portuguese to live in Cascais?

A: While English is widely spoken, especially in business and service sectors, learning Portuguese will significantly improve your daily life, especially for official matters, healthcare, and deeper integration.

Q: How long does it take to get a visa for Portugal?

A: Processing times vary: D8 visa typically 2-4 months, D7 visa 3-6 months. EU citizens can register immediately upon arrival.

Q: Is Cascais safe for expats?

A: Yes, Portugal consistently ranks among the world’s safest countries. Cascais is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community.

Q: Can I bring my pets to Cascais?

A: Yes, Portugal is pet-friendly. You’ll need: microchip, rabies vaccination, EU pet passport or certified health certificate. Most rentals allow pets, but confirm with landlord.

Q: What’s the best time of year to move to Cascais?

A: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summer is warm and vibrant, while winter is mild.

Q: Do I need a car in Cascais?

A: Not necessarily. Cascais has good public transport and is very walkable. A car is useful for exploring the region, but many expats manage without one.

Q: How do I find housing in Cascais?

A: Use local sites (Idealista, Imovirtual, OLX), work with reputable agents, consider short-term rental first, and always visit properties in person before signing.

Q: What are the tax implications of moving to Cascais?

A: If you qualify for IFICI, you may pay 20% flat tax on Portuguese income and potentially 0% on foreign income. Otherwise, standard progressive rates (14.5%-48%) apply. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

Conclusion: Your New Life in Cascais Awaits

Moving to Cascais represents an opportunity to build a better lifestyle—one that combines coastal living with excellent amenities, strong expat community, and easy access to Lisbon. The town’s reputation as one of Portugal’s premier expat destinations makes 2025 an exciting time to make the move.

Whether you’re drawn by the D8 Digital Nomad Visa, the IFICI tax benefits, or simply the promise of a coastal lifestyle with excellent quality of life, Cascais offers a compelling package for expats from around the world.

The key to a successful relocation is preparation, patience, and having the right support. From understanding visa requirements to navigating tax optimization, from finding the right neighborhood to building your social circle, every step matters.

At Zerra, we’ve helped hundreds of people make Portugal their home. Our membership model means we’re with you not just during the visa process, but for as long as you live in Portugal—handling everything from tax filing to ongoing compliance so you can focus on building your new life.

Ready to start your Cascais adventure? Book a free consultation with our relocation experts and let’s get your new life in Portugal started.