For French expats considering a relocation to Portugal, Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve usually forms the basis of their choice. Madeira is a pretty well-liked substitute, and it attracts interest because of its unique mix of low cost, natural beauty, and quality of living. Particularly for those seeking a quiet, picturesque, and culturally rich location to call home, this subtropical island in the Atlantic Ocean is a hidden treasure that surpasses the mainland in many facets.
This post will explore why French living in Madeira have found their ideal fit and the many benefits this island paradise has over mainland Portugal.
A Slowed-Down and Picturesque Way of Life
Madeira appeals first with its laid-back way of life and breathtaking scenery. The island is sometimes called “The Pearl of the Atlantic.” Madeira is a nature lover’s dream with its rich vegetation, volcanic highlands, and breathtaking coastline cliffs. Madeira presents a calm, less commercialized atmosphere that promotes a laid-back way of life, unlike the packed streets of Lisbon or the busy tourist destinations of the Algarve.
French living in Madeira are typically expats looking for a calmer pace, which is the ideal alternative to mainland Portugal’s sometimes crowded and frantic cities. Madeira provides peace, whether you’re wandering through the Laurisilva Forest (a UNESCO World Heritage site) or savouring a beach lunch in a little town—while cities like Porto and Lisbon are bursting with metropolitan bustle and fast-paced living. Those who wish to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a quality of life far detached from mainland demands would find the island perfect.
Perfect for Year-Round Living: Subtropical Climate
Madeira’s subtropical temperature is one of the main factors motivating one to move here. The island is perfect year-round because of its moderate winters and balmy, delightful summers. Although the Algarve and southern Portugal also get pleasant temperatures, mainland Portugal may experience more severe winters in the north and extreme heat in the summer.
Madeira’s year-round mild temperature provides an excellent contrast for French expats acclimated to harsher winters in France. Madeira’s temperatures seldom drop below 16°C in December or July or climb over 27°C. From hiking and exploring to just savouring a cup of coffee on a sunny balcony, this steady, pleasant temperature makes it easy to participate in outdoor events all year long.
Reasonable Living Costs
The cost of living is one of the most convincing reasons French expats compare Madeira to mainland Portugal. Madeira is still more reasonably priced than many areas of mainland Portugal, particularly concerning cities like Lisbon and Porto, even if its popularity is rising.
Madeira has lovely real estate. Whether you rent or purchase, rates are far lower than those in the central mainland cities. There are reasonably priced homes with breathtaking views of the ocean or mountains, even in the island’s capital, Funchal. Madeira provides excellent value for money for French immigrants looking for a reasonably priced, extensive, and pleasant house without straying from budget.
Besides, Madeira’s daily expenses are much cheaper. Grocery, dining out, and services are usually less expensive than in Lisbon or the Algarve. Madeira imports various commodities, but the local produce—especially fruits, vegetables, and fish—is fresh and reasonably priced, providing a high-quality living at a lower cost.
Strong Sense of Community for French Immersionists
Madeira boasts a thriving and friendly expat community for those French citizens worried about leaving behind the comfort of their culture. Many French expats have already settled on the island and created active communities. French-owned companies, French-speaking social circles, and events catering to Madeira’s French population will be found here.
Moreover, the Madeirans are renowned for their friendliness and kindness, which helps newcomers fit right away. English is standard, especially in Funchal and other famous regions, even as the island speaks Portuguese. For French immigrants who might not yet speak Portuguese fluently, communication in English is a must.
Reduced Taxes and Financial Rewards
Madeira, part of Portugal, provides relatively lower progressive tax rates on personal income, making it a tax-friendly place for French citizens with foreign income or pensions.
Madeira’s position as a special economic zone—also known as the Madeira Free Trade Zone—makes it even more enticing. This classification offers further tax advantages for companies and investors, promoting economic development and making Madeira desirable. Madeira’s advantageous tax system might significantly benefit mainland Portugal whether your plans call for retiring or launching a new company.
Less Crowded and Safer Environment
Madeira is a great place for French expats looking for quiet and safe surroundings. Families and retirees especially find the island appealing because of its lowest crime rates in Europe. Even at night, it’s normal to feel comfortable strolling about Funchal or visiting the smaller towns.
Madeira is also significantly less packed than many well-known mainland travel spots. Madeira provides a calmer, more laid-back environment free from the heavy stream of tourists, whereas Lisbon and Porto are bursting with visitors, particularly during the summer. This makes daily life more enjoyable—whether your activities are dining out, supermarket shopping, or just a stroll along the ocean.
Outdoor Entertainment and Adventure
Madeira is a playground for people who enjoy the great outdoors. The island is well-known for its “levadas,” walking paths following the historic irrigation ditches. These paths provide incredible vistas and allow for leisurely walks or more strenuous mountain and forest treks.
Madeira is also a prominent location for scuba diving, sailing, and surfing, among other water activities. If you enjoy adventures, the island’s various topographies and coasts provide countless chances for being active. Madeira offers more outdoor pursuits than most areas on the mainland, whether your interests are whale-watching in the Atlantic, paragliding from the cliffs, or canyoning in the mountains.
In essence, have the French living in Madeira found their ideal place?
Although mainland Portugal has appeal, Madeira is an excellent option for French expats looking for a combination of low cost, natural beauty, and outstanding quality of living. Those wishing to lead a more laid-back and rewarding life will find the island ideal because of its subtropical temperature, reduced cost of living, active expat population, and tax perks.
Madeira may be the secret treasure you have been looking for if you are considering moving to Portugal; it is a location where you can experience the finest island living without sacrificing contemporary amenities. Living in Madeira provides the ideal mix for French expats between community, peace, and adventure.
FAQs
- Is it simple for a French expat living in Madeira to fit into the community? Indeed, Madeira boasts an increasing expat community comprising many French nationals. Locals are friendly, and there are many chances to meet other French speakers and get into the social scene.
- How expensive is life in Madeira as opposed to mainland Portugal? Madeira is sometimes more reasonably priced, particularly concerning real estate and daily costs. It’s a cheap place compared to places like Lisbon or Porto.
- Given the climate, can one live year-round in Madeira? Yes. Madeira’s temperate, subtropical temperature guarantees pleasant winters and summers, ensuring comfort all year round.
- Madeira offers what sort of outside pursuits? Madeira is well-known for its water sports and adventure activities, such as paragliding, whale-watching, and canyoning, as well as for its hiking paths and levadas.
- Do the French who reside in Madeira have tax advantages? Madeira’s special economic status provides attractive tax perks for companies and investors.
The information in this article on “French living in Madeira” is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content, laws and legal procedures can change, and the specifics of each case can vary widely. Therefore, readers are advised to consult a qualified professional or attorney in Portugal for advice tailored to their circumstances before taking action. This article does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, the authors, or the publishers. The authors and publishers are not liable for any actions taken or not taken based on the content of this article.
Ambrosio Jardim has, since 1998, worked mainly in the areas of commercial law (corporate, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, restructuring and planning), national and international tax law and real estate…. Read more
