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The eXpat Files Ep 6: Panic! At the Immigration Office (Patreon)

Published:
2025-06-27 12:00:16
Imported:
2025-06
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Content

The eXpat Files is a new series of podcast episodes that chronicle David and @joyofnapping's conversations as they consider whether/how to move to another country.

In this wonky episode, David and Joy discuss:

A shocking set of proposed changes to Portuguese immigration laws

Historical context

What we think the rationale is

Our current plans and how they've been impacted

PATRONS: You can get this audio in your podcast app by going to patreon.com/davechen, going to the "My Membership" section, and copying and pasting the RSS link to your podcast app.

Files

Comments

Joshua Kim

I really relate to your frustrations about this process. I moved to Montreal back in 2017 for work and made a life for myself with friends and community there. I tried to investigate a way to Permanent Residency in Quebec after a while. I consulted a couple of immigration lawyers as well as my company’s lawyers. I took French classes because of the strict French language requirements in Quebec. After a year or two, I realized that I was going to be on an unsure and uphill path with a good chance I would never be granted a PR (much less a citizenship). I had to qualify for a Quebec Recommendation first (a year or two process) then apply to the federal process. My French was poor (trying to learn a new language in my 40s was not easy), I was too old in the governments eyes (healthcare considerations etc), I was single, and I wasn’t a nurse or oil/minerals worker. It didn’t matter that I made a ton of friends, I paid taxes, I volunteered in the local community, went to church there, and wanted to assimilate into the Quebec culture. In the end, I moved back to the US. But with an immense new appreciation and compassion for those who immigrated to America. Not knowing how to speak English, leaving their homeland, and with a family. How incredibly hard it must be. I experienced a minuscule taste of what the process is for so many millions of people. I hope it works out for you and Joy.

Peter Henrie

I've been looking at Portugal's investment visa options (I'm a UK Citizen who lives in the US currently with US kids and planning to leave by the end of this year). I'm guessing you both have looked at Ireland when you were evaluating different countries but I would think it ticks a lot of boxes for you both. Having easy access to London would also be useful work wise for you. I can move there due to my UK connection but my understanding was you can start a business (your podcast empire) and can employ one Irish person then it would give you access to a Visa. I'm sure it's harder than that but just curious.

David Chen

Appreciate the suggestion! I don't think Ireland is a good fit for a few reasons but it's something we will consider depending on how things play out. We are pretty set on the Portugal path for now.

Hayley

I truly value these discussions. My perspective strongly aligns with yours and things in the US are past my personal tipping point. I’ve decided to pursue dual citizenship for me and my kids in my parents’ country, Guyana. If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready. Hearing from you and Joy gave me more confidence and resolve.