Can You Live in Portugal Without Speaking Portuguese? What Americans Should Know

Worried that not speaking Portuguese might hold you back from enjoying life in Portugal? You’re not alone. Many Americans considering the move are excited by the promise of sun, safety, and slower living—but anxious about how they’ll get by in a country where English isn’t the first language.

The good news? You don’t need to be fluent in Portuguese to build a happy, fulfilling life here. In fact, thousands of Americans are already doing just that.

Here’s what you should know.

1. English is Widely Spoken (Especially Where Expats Live)

Portugal ranks among the top countries in Europe for English proficiency. In cities like Lisbon, Cascais, Porto, and much of the Algarve, English is commonly used in restaurants, shops, healthcare settings, and even government offices.

You’ll find:

• Doctors and pharmacists who speak English

• Service workers (waiters, grocers, baristas) who switch easily to English

• English menus, signage, and real estate listings

• Expats who have never needed to speak more than a few polite phrases

While rural areas are less inclined to speak English, most Americans settle in places where language is rarely a serious barrier. In any case, most people are happy to try to communicate with you even if they are not very comfortable in English.

2. Learning Basic Portuguese Helps (But Fluency Isn’t Required)

While you can absolutely get by with English, learning a bit of Portuguese goes a long way. Not only is it a sign of respect for your host country, but it also enriches your day-to-day life.

Here’s what most expats aim for:

• Basic greetings and phrases ("bom dia," "obrigado/a")

• How to order food, navigate transport, ask for help

• Numbers, dates, and common expressions

Apps like Duolingo or Memrise are a great starting point. Many local communities also offer free or low-cost classes for foreigners. These classes are also a great way to meet more people and make new connections.

And if you ever plan to apply for citizenship, you’ll need to pass an A2-level language test (basic user level). But that’s a long-term goal—not a day-one requirement.

3. The Culture is Friendly and Forgiving

Portuguese people are famously warm, welcoming, and patient with foreigners. Even if you mangle a few words, they’re far more likely to smile and help than correct you.

Most locals appreciate any effort to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. You’ll rarely face judgment—and you may even get bonus points for trying. Like in any society, there are some folks who might not take kindly to bad Portuguese or lose their patience with your lack of knowledge but these instances are very uncommon.

Many Americans say the relaxed social norms in Portugal help ease the culture shock. It’s not a place where perfection is expected. It’s a place where effort and kindness go far.

4. Expat Communities Make Integration Easier

There are thriving American and English-speaking communities across Portugal—especially in Lisbon, Porto, Cascais, and the Algarve. These groups host:

• Weekly meetups, dinners, and hobby groups

• Facebook groups for Q&A, housing tips, and local events

• Language exchanges where you can practice casually

Many newcomers find fast friendships through these communities, easing the transition and building support networks that make Portugal feel like home.

5. You Can Always Learn at Your Own Pace

Language doesn’t need to be a hurdle. It can be a journey.

Many American expats begin with zero Portuguese and gradually pick up what they need, when they need it. You’ll learn to recognize phrases at the café, pick up vocabulary from your neighborhood, and gain confidence over time.

Fluency isn’t the goal for most. Comfort and connection are.

Thinking about life in Portugal but unsure how you'd adapt? You're not alone—and you're more ready than you think. Language is just one part of the story. With an open mind and the right support, Portugal can feel like home, even from day one.