
Maryam Siddiqui
Marketing ManagerMaryam Siddiqui leads content and marketing at Viv Europe, where she has spent around four years turning the practicalities of moving to Portugal and Spain into clear, reliable guides for future expats. She holds a BSc in Entrepreneurship from SZABIST and focuses on content strategy, SEO, and partnerships across the company's immigration content.
Articles by Maryam Siddiqui

SpainBarcelona Street Food: From Classic Snacks to Modern Twists
When moving to a new place, it’s easy to seek comfort by relying on recognisable chain restaurants and stores. But in Barcelona, nothing will make you feel more at home than getting to know the city’s street food scene. In this article, we’ll take you through Barcelona’s winding neighbourhoods and i

SpainPortugal D7 Visa vs Spain Non-Lucrative Visa: Which visa to retire?
They’re both amazing countries to retire in, but a comparison is still needed. Let’s compare the Portugal D7 Visa vs Spain Non-Lucrative Visa!

PortugalWine & Dine: Exploring the Best Wine and Food Pairings in Portugal
Portuguese cuisine keeps tourists coming back for more! Find out what everyone loves to eat and where to find the delicacies.

SpainPros And Cons Of Living In Valencia
Planning your relocation to Spain but want to live in a less busy city? Check out the pros and cons of living in Valencia!

PortugalLiving In Vila Nova De Gaia: Is It Good For Expats?
Underrated cities often make the best homes. If you’re all about that lowkey vibe, check out what living in Vila Nova De Gaia is like!

PortugalExpat Interview with Howie Perl
Hear about Howie Perl’s experience as an American expat in Portugal – here’s the complete expat interview!

SpainHow Is New Year’s Eve Celebrated in Spain?
Deciding to spend New Year’s Eve in Spain as a new expat? Don’t miss out on all the important traditions!

SpainChristmas In Spain: How Is It Celebrated?
The most magical time of the year is here! Check out how Christmas in Spain is celebrated and learn all about the culture.

SpainRemote Work Visa: Portugal vs. Spain Digital Nomad Visa
Planning to take the leap and become a digital nomad? Learn more about the remote work visa for Portugal vs. Spain!

SpainThe Most Expensive And Cheapest Places To Rent A Property In Spain
Does a big country like Spain have something for everyone? Check out the most expensive and cheapest places to rent a property in Spain!

SpainPros And Cons Of Living In Barcelona As An Expat
Is Barcelona popular for all the right reasons? Analyze the pros and cons of Barcelona before you make the decision to move!

SpainSpain Or Germany: Comparison And Tips To Decide
It’s a tough comparison for sure. Check out our analysis to help you decide between spending your life in Spain or Germany!

EU Spouse Visa Options: Moving If Your Spouse Is an EU Citizen
Is it easy for a non-EU citizen to live with their spouse? Discover how to apply for the EU Spouse Visa and relocate legally!

SpainPros And Cons Of Living In Madrid As An Expat
Is it worth it to move all the way to Spain’s capital? Check out all the pros and cons of Madrid before you make the big move!

PortugalWhat Is Portugal 2030: How To Make The Most Of It?
Do the goals of Portugal 2030 align with your business? Learn what it aims to do and how your goals can align!

SpainEmployment Opportunities For Expats In Spain 2026
Looking for employment opportunities in Spain? Let’s discuss the A to Z of finding a job and making the big move!

SpainWeather In Spain: Best Time To Visit
Is the weather in Spain pleasant enough for your liking? Let’s discover what the seasons look like throughout the year!

SpainCost Of Living In Madrid: Estimates & Tips
Spain’s capital is often the first choice for many expats. But is the cost of living in Madrid reasonable? Read all about it!

SpainSpanish Culture And Traditions: What Expats Must Know
Wondering what aspects of the Spanish culture and traditions you should be mindful of when relocating? Discover all the famous ones!

SpainCost Of Living In Barcelona: Estimates And Tips
Is Barcelona worth it for expats? Discover the complete cost of living in Barcelona and compare it with other cities!

SpainSpain Beckham Law: Tax Benefits And More
Can expats save on taxes in Spain? Yes, they can! Learn about the Spain Beckham Law, the eligibility criteria, and advantages.

SpainTop 5 Cities To Work Remotely In Spain: Digital Nomad Friendly
Combine professional freedom with a refreshed lifestyle – Here are the top 5 cities to work remotely in Spain!

PortugalIs Portugal The Cheapest Country To Live In?
Known for its affordability for years, is Portugal still the cheapest country to live in Europe? Let’s break it down for you.

PortugalPortugal Job Seeker Visa: How to enter Portugal
All non-EU nationals interested in coming to Portugal to find a job are eligible for a Portugal Job Seeker Visa. Find out more!

PortugalLiving Abroad: An Expat Interview with Kenneth Cole
What is moving from Canada to Portugal actually like? Check out our latest client interview with Kenneth Cole for honest answers!

Best Golden Visas In Europe
Make an investment that’s worth your time, money, and future – discover all about the best Golden Visas in Europe!

PortugalExpression Of Interest Portugal: What Does The End Mean?
Does this mean you can’t move to Portugal anymore? Discover what the end of the expression of interest Portugal means.

PortugalHow Much Money Do You Need to Move to Portugal?
About to start packing your life to relocate abroad? Find out how much money do you need to move to Portugal!

PortugalPortugal Residency Requirements For US Citizens
Over 11% of all expats in Portugal are US Citizens! But what are the main Portugal Residency Requirements for US Citizens?

Portugal10 Things To Know Before You Move To Portugal From Canada
Are you prepared to move to Portugal from Canada? As relocation specialists, here are 10 things we recommend you keep in mind.

PortugalLiving Abroad: Expat Interview with Bruce Joffe
Why did Bruce Joffe (Founding Publisher – Portugal Living Magazine) decide to move from the USA for good? Check out his expat interview!

PortugalCitizenship by Investment in Portugal: Guide for 2026
Eager to explore the fast-track route to becoming a European citizen? Learn more about citizenship by investment in Portugal!

PortugalFamous Portuguese Food Expats Must Try
You’ll want to go back for double servings! Here’s a list of famous Portuguese food dishes and treats that make people travel all the way.

PortugalLiving Abroad: An Expat Interview with Damon Johnson
Gear up for our next expat interview with Damon Johnson – a lovely client who moved to Portugal with his family!

PortugalHow To Get A House Mortgage In Portugal
Can an expat get a house mortgage in Portugal? Let’s dive into the details, interest rates, how to qualify and who to contact!

PortugalPortugal Golden Visa Updates: New Investments in 2026
The Golden Visa is not dead! Discover all the tweaks they made to make the Portugal Golden Visa Updates evermore profitable for investors!

PortugalLiving Abroad: An Expat Interview with Barbara Vieira
Nothing beats reading a testimonial of an expat’s story. Read what Barbara thinks about living abroad in our expat interview series!

PortugalImportance Of Medical Assistance In Portugal For Expats
New to the country? Let’s talk about the importance of medical assistance in Portugal! Here’s what expats need to know.

PortugalDigital Nomads Guide To Live In Madeira Islands
Looking for the best place to work remotely? Here’s why Digital Nomads in Madeira have the most fantastic time!

Living Abroad: A Digital Nomad Interview with Katie Dillon
Waiting to take the plunge? Viv Europe’s new Digital Nomad Interview series will ease the anxiety – hear it from Katie!

PortugalGuide To Investing In Portugal In 2026
Picking the right investment option is always tricky! Let’s make it easier for you through this guide to investing in Portugal in 2024!

PortugalBest Time To Visit Portugal: Plan Your Relocation
Plan ahead and make the most out of your trip! The question is: when is the best time to visit Portugal? Let’s find out.

PortugalLiving Abroad: An Expat Interview with Victor Queiroz
Hear it from expats themselves! Viv Europe’s new Expat Interview series will give an inside scoop on real-life stories.

PortugalSafety In Portugal For Expats
Planning your relocation but questioning safety in Portugal? Here’s a statistical overview of crime rates to put your mind at ease.

PortugalIs Portugal A Good Place To Raise Your Family?
Some questions are tricky and subjective. “Is Portugal a good place to raise your family?” isn’t one of them!

Portugal15 Best Business Ideas To Launch In Portugal
Expats are arriving, and businesses are thriving! Here are some of the best business ideas to launch in Portugal.

Understanding the Portuguese Social Security System
Living here means understanding the Portuguese social security system in and out – here’s all you need to know!

PortugalRetirement in the Algarve versus the Azores Islands
Choosing between spending your retirement in Algarve versus Azores Islands can be tricky because they’re similar. Let’s help you with that.

PortugalNew Agency For Portugal Immigration: AIMA Replaces SEF
It’s time for updates – a new agency for Portugal immigration has been introduced. Will AIMA make things easier?

PortugalPersonal Tax Deductions in Portugal
An important of learning taxes is how to manage personal tax deductions in Portugal. Here’s your guide to the topic!

PortugalComplete Guide To Retire In Portugal In 2026
To retire in Portugal means elevating your lifestyle for the years that matter most! Here’s our complete guide.

PortugalPortugal or the Netherlands: Comparison and tips
Deciding between living in Portugal or the Netherlands is a tough one. Here’s a quick guide to make sure you get it right!

Cost of living in Guimarães: Estimates and tips
The North of Portugal never fails to amaze. Discover the cost of living in Guimarães and be pleasantly surprised!

Buying A House In Braga: Guide For Expats
Peace, security, and reasonable real estate sounds like a deal. Explore the process of buying a house in Braga!

PortugalRetirement in Portugal or Switzerland? See which one is best
You deserve peace and an excellent standard of living. Here’s how to choose between spending your retirement in Portugal or Switzerland!

PortugalHow To Pay Corporate Tax In Portugal
If you’re planning to expand your business here, here’s what you need to know about corporate tax in Portugal beforehand!

PortugalHow to move from Turkey to Portugal: An expat guide
Longing for a more stable economic environment with the same stunning beaches? Here’s how to move from Turkey to Portugal!

PortugalHow To Become A Freelancer In Portugal: Step-by-step guide
Always wanted to work while satisfying your travel bug? Here’s how you can become a freelancer in Portugal!

PortugalPortugal or Belgium: Best Comparison For Expats
Dive into the cultural richness, history, and popularity of two European gems. Between Portugal or Belgium, which one is better?

PortugalHow to get car insurance in Portugal: Premiums and penalties
Learn about coverage options, legal requirements, and money-saving tips for a smooth ride in our guide on car insurance in Portugal!

PortugalLiving in Tavira: Algarve’s expat paradise
This little town will surprise you with what’s in store. Check out why living in Tavira is predominantly for expats!

PortugalCost of living in Portugal versus South Africa
Little things make the biggest difference! Compare the cost of living in Portugal versus South Africa to make your decision wisely.

PortugalThe 12 Most LGBTQ-Friendly Countries In Europe
Check out our comprehensive guide on the 12 most LGBTQ-friendly countries in Europe with equality laws and security!

PortugalHow To File Your Income Taxes In Portugal
It’s not a daunting task at all. Learn how to file your income taxes in Portugal and learn more about the legal system!

Cost of living in Loulé: Breakdown for expats
Who said good things have to be pricey? Check out the cost of living in Loulé – an expat favorite and a beautiful city in the Algarve!

PortugalRetirement in Portugal or Malta: Which is better for retirees?
Despite the similarities, here’s what’ll help you choose whether to spend your retirement in Portugal or Malta.

PortugalCost of living in Portugal versus Canada
Don’t lock in your decision before comparing the cost of living in Portugal versus Canada! Here’s a detailed contrast between the two.

PortugalWhat The British Need To Know About Portugal
Have you heard a lot about the country or too little? Here’s an honest guide on what the British need to know about Portugal!

PortugalTop 10 Tax-Saving Tips For Expats Moving To Portugal
Looking for a financially advantageous relocation? Check out experts’ top 10 tax-saving tips for expats moving to Portugal!

PortugalLiving In Guimarães: The Birthplace Of Portugal
A small town with multiple levels of depth! See what it’s like living in Guimarães – lifestyle, property prices, and more!

PortugalThe Most Expensive And Cheapest Places To Rent A Property In Portugal
Here’s an overview of the most expensive and cheapest places to rent a property in Portugal; are you ready to pick your favorite?

Top 10 Best Places To Retire In Europe
There’s nothing harder than picking your forever home among the top 10 best places to retire in Europe. Let’s guide you!

PortugalThe 15 Best Cities To Live In Portugal
Don’t waste your time spending weeks on research. Here’s your quick guide to the 15 best cities to live in Portugal as an expat!

PortugalPortugal or Germany: Comparison and tips to decide
There’s no easy way to decide. Compare and decide whether you’d like to spend your life in Portugal or Germany – which one suits you more?

PortugalRetirement in Portugal or Thailand: Mediterranean or Tropical?
Do you prefer a Mediterranean climate or a Tropical? Learn all about the differences between spending your retirement in Portugal or Thailand!

Finding a rental in Alentejo: Best areas and tips
The five districts have been called the hidden gems, but how hard is finding a rental in Alentejo? Read our complete guide!

PortugalPortugal Tax System: Easy breakdown for expats
Legal systems can surely get confusing. Check out this easy breakdown to understand the tax system in Portugal!

PortugalHow to move from South Korea to Portugal
Similarities can encourage expats to move from South Korea to Portugal! Do the lifestyles match in quality and cost? Let’s find out.

Schengen Visa: How Long Can You Stay In Europe?
Here's how the Schengen Visa works and how long you can stay in Europe with it. Start packing!

PortugalPublic transport in the Algarve: All you need to know
Should you rely on public transport in the Algarve? Is it better or worse than the options in Lisbon? Learn how to get around!

PortugalPros And Cons Of Moving To Central Portugal
Here’s what expats think are the pros and cons of Central Portugal. How is life here different from the South or North? Let’s find out!

PortugalPortugal or UK? Which country is better for expats?
Confused about which one’s the better choice? Read our article to learn whether Portugal or UK meets your requirements as you want them.

PortugalTop 5 Best Hospitals In Central Portugal
Looking to relocate to the center of Portugal? Here’s a complete guide for expats and tourists on the best hospitals in Central Portugal.

PortugalRetirement in Portugal or Greece? Know how to choose
Lots of similarities but some striking differences between the two! Would you like to spend your retirement in Portugal or Greece?

PortugalPros And Cons Of Moving To Northern Portugal
Looking for something other than popular regions? Check out the pros and cons of moving to Northern Portugal and evaluate it yourself!

PortugalPublic transport in Porto: All you need to know
Expat or tourist, this is the place for you! Discover how easy it is to get around using the public transport in Porto.

PortugalCarnival in Portugal: Parties and traditions
Parades, music, and fancy dresses – find out how they celebrate Carnival in Portugal and where to find all the parties!

PortugalCost of living in Portugal versus the UK
Why do the British relocate? A defining factor can be the cost of living in Portugal versus the UK. Take a look at some estimates.

PortugalHow to take my business to Portugal: An entrepreneur’s guide
Loved the ideal European location? Here’s your guide for the big question: “How to take my business to Portugal”!

PortugalPros And Cons Of Moving To The Silver Coast
Can’t decide on the pros and cons of moving to the Silver Coast? We’ve done the complete research for you!

Buying a house in Oeiras: Best areas & tips
Living in the capital can be challenging. Check out how buying a house in Oeiras can elevate the lifestyle you’d look for elsewhere.

PortugalRetirement in Portugal or Mexico? How to pick
Two beautiful destinations with peace, good weather, and family values. Is it better to spend your retirement in Portugal or Mexico?

PortugalLiving in Loulé: Algarve’s little secret
A place full of sunshine, color, fun, and excitement; let’s taste the distinct Portuguese culture and explore what living in Loulé is like.

PortugalHow to move from Bangladesh to Portugal
Searching for a higher standard of living somewhere in Europe? Here’s why people move from Bangladesh to Portugal.

PortugalPublic transport in Lisbon: All you need to know
Is public transport in Lisbon reliable and efficient most of the time? Discover your way through Portugal’s busiest city!

PortugalBuying A House In Portugal: How-To & Prices
Relocating gets a whole lot easier when you know expats’ top choices! Discover places to consider when buying a house in Portugal!

PortugalRetirement in Portugal or Germany? How to pick
Here’s a guide to help you plan your retirement in Portugal or Germany. Where do you think you’ll find the best facilities?

PortugalLiving in Oeiras: An expat’s guide
Want to stay close to Lisbon but can’t find a way? Discover the incredible quality of life while living in Oeiras as an expat!

PortugalCost of living in Portugal versus the USA
What do expats think of the cost of living in Portugal versus the USA in 2024? Let's compare rent, utilities, education, and more!

PortugalD8 Visa Guide: New Visa For Digital Nomads In Portugal
The Visa for Digital Nomads in Portugal has successfully lured thousands of remote workers here. Here's how they made it happen!

PortugalPros And Cons Of Moving To Alentejo
This underrated region in the south-central region is wonderful, but you should know the pros and cons of Alentejo before relocating.

Portugal15 Best Neighborhoods In Lisbon For Expats
Amp up your relocation journey by moving into the best neighborhoods in Lisbon! Discover all about the coolest and calmest locations.

PortugalLiving in Central Portugal: An expat's guide
The North and South of Portugal are famed for all the right reasons, but it’s time we celebrate living in Central Portugal too!

Buying a house in Lagos: Everything you need to know
The Southern digital nomad paradise is full of opportunities! Find out how buying a house in Lagos can benefit you for years to come.

PortugalHow To Import A Car To Portugal: Worth It For Expats?
Debating between buying a car and taking your old one along with you? Here’s how an expat can import a car to Portugal. See if it's worth it!

PortugalTop 5 Best Hospitals In Lisbon, Portugal
Always stay prepared by knowing the best hospitals in Lisbon for emergencies and other medical needs. Here’s your complete guide!

PortugalPros And Cons Of Moving To Lisbon
Here’s an honest guide to the pros and cons of moving to Lisbon. Learn from expats’ experiences and decide!

PortugalWeather in Portugal: What each season is like
Intrigued to know when the best time to visit is? Find out all about the beautiful weather in Portugal and pick your favorite season!

PortugalFinding a rental in Porto: Best areas and advice
Is finding a rental in Porto difficult now that it’s famous? Let’s dive into how you can make it happen and the best advice you should follow.

PortugalHealth Insurance in Portugal: Top options for you
Can public hospitals be relied on, or would you need health insurance in Portugal? Find out to be prepared.

PortugalCost of living on the Silver Coast of Portugal
Looking to live a modest life on a specific budget? Discover what the cost of living on the Silver Coast is like!

Portugal10 Ways Portugal Is A Digital Nomad Paradise
Why do globally-renowned travel websites say Portugal is a digital-nomad paradise? Discover everything remote workers love!

PortugalHow To Get A Driver’s License In Portugal As A Foreigner
You're in for a ride! Read all about obtaining a driver’s license in Portugal, whether you’re from Europe or beyond.

PortugalAccessing public hospitals in Portugal as a foreigner
Don’t wait for an emergency to know how to access public hospitals in Portugal as a foreigner. Stay prepared and know all your options by reading our article.

PortugalFinding a rental in Lisbon: Tips and average prices
Worried about finding a rental in Lisbon? Take a look at our complete guide to landing the best deals at the lowest prices!

PortugalBest International Schools In Porto
Have you found your forever home in Portugal? Read this article to discover the best International Schools in Porto for your children!

Cost of living in the Azores Islands: Estimates and tips
Comfort doesn’t always come at a high price. Discover the complete cost of living in the Azores Islands and start packing your bags.

Buying a house in Cascais: Values and tips
Rewarding decisions come at a high value. Discover how buying a house in Cascais is increasingly profitable and watch out for experts’ tips!

PortugalHow to get a SIM Card in Portugal after relocating
One of the first things you ought to do right after your flight lands is to get a SIM card in Portugal. Let’s find out how to do that!

PortugalFinding a rental in the Algarve: Why is it so hard?
Hundreds of people are in love with the region, but is finding a rental in the Algarve worth all the wait?

PortugalPortugal Popular Saints Festivals You Can't Miss
Let June’s festivities begin! Discover the Portugal Popular Saints Festivals and how you can be a part of all the fun.

PortugalIs Lisbon still cheap? Here’s how you can compare
Europe’s renowned tech hub is gaining tremendous popularity recently. Expats love it, but is Lisbon still cheap? Let’s compare!

PortugalPortugal’s Residence Visas: Types and how to apply
Are you unsure how bureaucracy works here? Find everything you need to know about Portugal’s Residence Visas to move here!

PortugalMove to Lisbon or Porto? Choose between Portugal’s metropolis
Is it going to be Portugal’s famous tech capital or the cool hub for artists? Lisbon or Porto? Explore your perfect pick with our help.

PortugalPublic transport in Portugal: Best way to travel
Whether you’re a tourist or an expat, public transport in Portugal can get you around your favorite cities! Let’s explore!

PortugalLiving in Cascais: An expat guide to Portugal’s Riviera
Discover the sophistication and luxury of what it’s like living in Cascais. Is it better than Lisbon or the Algarve? Read to find out!

Portugal10 Portuguese Habits I Adopted After Moving To Portugal
Living in Portugal can change your life in many ways – for the better! Discover the fascinating Portuguese habits I adopted after moving here.

PortugalHow To Choose A City To Live In Portugal?
Moving to Portugal is an excellent decision. But how do you decide which city is the best one for you and your family? Read more to know what we think.

Obtaining Portuguese Nationality For Sephardic Jews
Obtaining Portuguese nationality for Sephardic Jews has never been easier! Check out the step-by-step guide along with our tips.

PortugalBuying a house in Porto: Get the best deal as an expat
It’s always a good idea to invest in a global business and art hub! Explore our top tips for buying a house in Porto and things to consider.

PortugalHow to move from Singapore to Portugal: Tips for expats
Would you like to move from Singapore to Portugal? Don’t know if it’s the right choice? Find out everything you need to know to thrive!

PortugalNIF Number in Portugal: How can an expat get the fiscal number
Don’t know how to get a NIF Number in Portugal as an expat? Here’s your complete guide to understanding all the details!

PortugalReligion In Portugal: The Society's Beliefs
Intrigued to know how tolerant Portuguese are? Get to know the various communities living there and society’s views on religion in Portugal.

PortugalHow are public schools in Portugal? Tips for expats
Wondering whether public schools in Portugal are better than private schools? Read to find out where your child will perform better!

PortugalCost Of Living In The Algarve: Estimates And Tips
Living in an affordable beach house in Portugal is far simpler than you think! Read more to discover the cost of living in the Algarve.

Portugal5 Ways Portugal Benefits From Expats Living In The Country
We know how our life can be better in Portugal. But that's not all, Portugal benefits from expats as well. Want to know how? Keep reading!

Portugal8 Reasons Why Expats Retire In The Algarve
A life with peace, beauty, fresh air, and a low cost of living. Find out why expats retire in the Algarve for the rest of their lives!

PortugalBest International Schools In Lisbon
Looking for the best education for your expat children in Portugal? Get to know the best international schools in Lisbon.
