In our last conversation with Elena, CEO & Founder of RelyOn Relocation®️, we discussed why now it is the best time to buy a business in Portugal. In this podcast we will discuss how it is for foreigners to buy a business in Portugal and what usually goes wrong. The number one reason foreign businesses fail in Portugal? Lack of local support.
Q: Elena, you often warn about “hidden risks.” What exactly goes wrong for foreigners starting a business here?
A: The pattern is almost always the same: people fall in love with Portugal—and forget to verify. They rely on Google, a few friendly contacts, or a translation app. But Portugal has its own legal rhythm and bureaucracy. Without local guidance, you can easily sign a risky contract, overpay for a lease, or miss critical registrations. Each mistake costs time and money—and sometimes your visa.
Q: So it’s not just about language barriers?
A: Language is part of it, but the real issue is context. Portuguese business law protects both sides—but only if you understand it. For instance, commercial leases can lock you in for five years, and closing a company is more complex than opening one. The fine print matters. You need someone who reads those details daily, not just translates them.
Q: Can’t foreign investors manage this remotely or with online research?
A: I wish it were that easy. Portugal rewards physical presence—seeing the business, the clients, the neighborhood. You can’t verify supplier contracts or financial health from a website. That’s why we perform full due diligence and local checks before our clients sign anything. We confirm every paper, every license, every signature. That’s how you build trust in a new market.
Q: So what’s the safe path forward?
A: Think of it as partnership, not delegation. You stay the decision-maker; we become your local eyes and ears. Together, we turn uncertainty into clear steps—verifying all legal, tax, and operational details. It’s not just “avoiding mistakes”; it’s building a foundation for growth from day one.
Most business failures in Portugal aren’t about bad ideas—they’re about missing context. Once you learn the rhythm of the system, it becomes your ally, not your obstacle.
In part 3, Elena breaks down how RelyOn Relocation®️ guides you from idea to successful launch — with no guesswork and full local support.
Book a consultation with RelyOn Relocation®️and we’ll show you how to enter Portugal’s market safely, step by step.
