Relocation and language learning often feel like two separate journeys. In reality, they work best when combined into one clear, structured plan. In this conversation, Elena Bykovets, CEO & Founder of RelyOn Relocation®️ and Dério, Founder of the language center Ensina.me discuss realistic timelines, practical first steps, and how to move to Portugal while building Portuguese language skills with less stress.
Designing a Parallel Plan: Relocation + Language
Elena: One of the most common questions we receive is how long it takes to reach A2 level in Portuguese. What do you usually tell your students?
Dério: On average, about six months with consistent study.
Elena: That’s interesting because most relocation programs also take around six to eight months, depending on the pathway. So if someone decides today to move to Portugal and signs a relocation contract, they can start learning Portuguese at the same time. By the time they relocate, they’re ready on both sides — legally and linguistically.
Dério: Exactly. Language should be part of a long-term plan. Many people wait until they arrive in Portugal to start learning. That makes adaptation much more stressful.
Elena: When relocation and language preparation happen in parallel, the process feels much more structured and much less overwhelming.
Is A2 Enough?
Dério: It also depends on the profession. For example, a remote IT specialist may only need A2 or B1 for daily life and long-term integration. A2 is also important for future citizenship applications.
But for regulated professions — like doctors — higher levels such as B2 or C1 are required, along with diploma recognition. Every case is individual.
Elena: Yes, and not everyone has the same goals. Some people want to pass the A2 exam and then continue improving naturally while living in Portugal.
Why Portuguese Matters More Than People Think
Dério: In Lisbon and Cascais, you can survive with English. There are many international communities. But survival is not the same as integration.
Language opens doors. It improves service experiences, daily interactions, and business opportunities.
Elena: I’ve seen this firsthand. Two neighbors may live side by side. The one who speaks Portuguese communicates directly with service providers and gets things done smoothly. The other struggles with misunderstandings and delays.
Dério: Portuguese is also a global language. It’s spoken not only in Portugal but in Brazil and several African countries. In business, this can be a serious advantage.
Elena: Absolutely. Knowing Portuguese can differentiate you professionally. It signals commitment and flexibility — qualities employers value.
Starting From Zero: What to Do First?
Dério: If someone is starting from scratch, technology helps. There are many platforms for vocabulary building and pronunciation practice.
At the beginning, focus less on complex grammar and more on building vocabulary and listening skills. Even one or two hours per week creates momentum.
Elena: From the relocation side, the first step is clarity. Define your goals and timeline. Understand which legal pathways are actually available to you. Don’t rely only on online forums or fragmented advice.
Consult professionals who are locally based in Portugal and understand current regulations.
Then prepare your documents properly — especially apostilles on key civil documents. Translations are usually done in Portugal, so doing them abroad can lead to unnecessary extra costs.
Banking, Housing, and Reality Checks
Elena: Many people ask whether it’s possible to open a bank account or find housing independently. Technically, yes. But practically, the system can be complex.
Opening a bank account in Portugal has become challenging for everyone, not just certain nationalities. Banks request extensive documentation, and timelines vary. Without guidance, it can become frustrating.
Housing is similar. The neighborhood you choose significantly impacts your first impression of the country. We always recommend focusing on quality of life, not just price.
Dério: Language helps here too. Even basic Portuguese changes how people respond to you.
A Structured, Lower-Stress Approach
Elena: If someone wants to move to Portugal, tomorrow they can start with three steps:
Define goals and realistic timing.
Book a professional consultation to understand viable legal options.
Begin document preparation and start learning Portuguese in parallel.
Even dedicating a small amount of time weekly reduces stress later.
Dério: And remember — Portuguese is not just a “working tool.” It’s a language of culture, football, music, and everyday life. When you speak Portuguese, you participate in the country more fully.
Elena: Relocation is not only about paperwork. It’s about building a life that feels stable, comfortable, and sustainable.
When language preparation and legal planning move together, relocation becomes structured — and far less stressful.
If you are planning a move to Portugal, consider combining professional relocation guidance with early language preparation. A clear plan reduces uncertainty and gives you confidence long before you arrive. Book a consultation here.
