Finally, I am in Porto with only the SEF interview yet to come! I used two of David’s partners to assist me. One was the immigration attorney and the other was the relocation assistance to help with an apartment. My attorney helped guide me through the steps, confirming my details along the way so that I was confident everything was in order prior to submitting my application. I know many people use Facebook groups for information, but I wanted a personal contact in the country who was guaranteed to be up-to-date on the latest regulations and be able to assist me in case of an issue. Since my job requires travel, I wanted someone with definitive answers regarding the law, not a crowdsourced answer, because if my information was incorrect, it could have long-term negative impacts.

Fortunately, my connections with friends in the country enabled me to have a contract for an apartment to meet the visa requirements, but once here I would need a more permanent apartment. David’s partner helped me find options that met my preferences and went with me to see the apartments. This provided an additional level of confidence because I had a bilingual pro who could explain some of the idiosyncrasies of apartment searches in Portugal while also making sure the landlord and I understood each other. She accompanied me to the signing of the contract and explained all details and acted as my translator with the apartment manager. Although the apartment manager speaks English well, it was good to have that additional level of translation – sometimes just to explain details that are different between landlord/tenant expectations in the US vs Portugal. I also think it was an additional level of comfort for the landlord. Since I am “on the move” during the time of contracting the apartment, it is comforting to have someone working with me to make sure utilities, internet, etc. will be connected.

I also purchased the Timeline Planning service for moving from Expat Empire. It has the potential to be a very useful tool for some, but in my case, I have used it more as a referral source. It hits on every detail that could apply to singles, couples, or families who are making a major move. My personal lifestyle is one of traveling light and only responsible for myself so I can be more flexible with timelines. My deadlines have been set by the immigration process here, not a deadline to be in Porto to start a job or for some other specific requirement. As a result, I have not been able to use the timeline to the maximum effect that some could. However, it has proved useful as a reference and guide for timing.

Once in Porto, I attended a few meetups sponsored by Expat Empire. They are very informal and allow a chance to meet and mingle with international expats, not just Americans. I enjoy them because they are low-key meetings in a place that is quiet enough to be able to have conversations. The Bar of Soap is a unique venue that has a more local feel than some places where other expat groups meet. My goal in moving to Portugal was to experience Portuguese culture and make friends within the community, not to be an American who functions as an American safe in an enclave of what I know. My experiences with Expat Empire have allowed and encouraged that perspective.

The peace of mind that comes from working with Expat Empire and their contacts is huge!