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Author Archive by José Vicente Cândido

março 26, 2024

Julien: ‘Portugal is one of the best country in the world for surfing’

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , , , ,

Today we met Julien Marmelo, a Portuguese guy born in France, that came and gained roots in Portugal, founding his surfing-dedicated company called Waves Finder. We got him between surf trips and surf lessons and had the opportunity to ask him some questions:

Some people say that they won’t try to surf because it seems to be dangerous. Is this true?

Actually, it is funny, because when I was doing the level two Surf instructor certification, the formers were talking about the fact that Surfing is one of the most safest sport in the world. it is true that sometimes the injuries can be severe, but it is way more rare than any other sports like football, tennis, rugby, gym, etc
So to conclude your question, Surfing is definitely not a dangerous sport.

We saw on your website that you do surf trips. How long do these surf trips last and what do you offer with them?

We do organize surf trips in all the Portuguese coast. The duration of the Surf trips depends on the availability of the people. It can be entirely customized by the clients. We will always advise the best itinerary depending the season of the booking. we usually include in the package, accommodation, transportation, Surf lessons or surf coaching, video analysis, breakfast, dinners and insurance.

⁠Is there a surf etiquette?

Yes, there is a surf etiquette you need to respect. We are not talking about rules over here, but we are more talking about the code of behaviour. It is very important that people get to know the Surfing etiquette before getting in the water.
This code of behaviour is created for everyone to Surf safely and have fun.
Of course, if you do not respect the rules on purpose, like dropping in or sneaking in, you might have a situation with locals, it’s pure surfing.
It happens to do mistakes, just apologize and make sure you do not do the same mistake again.

On your opinion, how important it is, for any surfer, to read the weather forecast before going to surf?

All my Surf friends that I know, including myself, watch the forecast at least once a day (I might do at least 5 times a day 😅).
It is important to know how the conditions are, especially if you do not know the area where you’re Surfing. You need to make sure that you have the capacity to get inside the water, depending the conditions, Safety first!
Then some spots works in a specific condition, that’s why me and my friends check several times the forecast

On your opinion, how important can be a surf coach?

Having a surf coach will always be benefit for you. If you do have a Surf coach that does his job properly, he will help you out to understand how the surf spot works, how to improve your Surfing in a long-term way, how to read the Ocean, The Surfing rules, where to be in the Surf spot, during, low, mid or high tide, where is the channel to help you out to get to the lineup, etc.
If you have not some experience in Surfing, and you do not have a Surf coach with you, sometimes, unfortunately you can put yourself in a bad situation

What are the advantages of coming to Portugal to surf? How prepared do you think Ericeira is to welcome surfers around the world?

Portugal is one of the best country in the world for Surfing. You have beach break, reef break, point break, more exposed beaches or fallback beaches.
It is true that some countries like Indonesia or Costa Rica are easy to learn compare to Portugal. That’s why I say that if you know how to surf in Portugal, you can be able to surf anywhere in the world.

I think Ericeira is definitely prepared to welcome surfers around the globe because we do have the capacity to welcome them.

The way Ericeira got the capacity for tourism is another story.

But we have to be careful with the mass tourism and try to protect our coastline as much as possible.

março 20, 2024

5 Advantages of Electric Scooters Over Gas Models

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , ,

In recent years, the global transportation landscape has witnessed a significant shift towards sustainability and efficiency. One of the key contributors to this transformation is the rise of electric scooters as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-fueled models. Electric scooters offer numerous advantages over their gas-powered counterparts, making them an attractive option for urban commuters and environmentally conscious individuals alike. Here are five distinct advantages of choosing an electric scooter over a gas-fueled scooter:

  1. Environmental Sustainability: Electric scooters produce zero emissions during operation, making them a cleaner and greener mode of transportation compared to gas-powered scooters. With growing concerns over air pollution and climate change, electric vehicles have emerged as a crucial solution to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate environmental impact. By opting for an electric scooter, riders can actively contribute to reducing their carbon footprint and promoting sustainability in urban environments.
  2. Cost-Effectiveness: Electric scooters offer significant cost savings over gas-fueled scooters in the long run. While the initial purchase price of an electric scooter may be slightly higher, the operational expenses are substantially lower. Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, resulting in lower fuel costs for electric scooter owners. Moreover, these vehicles have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance compared to internal combustion engines, leading to reduced servicing and repair expenses over time.
  3. Quieter Operation: One of the often-overlooked advantages of electric scooters is their quieter operation compared to gas-powered models. Electric motors produce minimal noise, creating a quieter and more peaceful riding experience for both the rider and the surrounding community. This makes electric scooters particularly suitable for urban environments where noise pollution is a concern. Additionally, the absence of engine rumble enhances rider comfort and allows for a more enjoyable commute, especially during early mornings or late nights.
  4. Ease of Use: Electric scooters are renowned for their user-friendly design and intuitive operation. Unlike gas-fueled scooters that require manual gear shifting and regular maintenance of complex engine components, electric scooters feature simple controls and a hassle-free riding experience. With electric scooters, riders can enjoy instant acceleration and smooth power delivery without the need for clutch engagement or gear changes. This ease of use makes them ideal for novice riders and urban commuters seeking a convenient mode of transportation.
  5. Enhanced Safety Features: Modern electric scooters often come equipped with advanced safety features that prioritize rider protection and accident prevention. These may include anti-lock braking systems (ABS), regenerative braking technology, LED headlights, and electronic stability control (ESC). Additionally, these vehicles typically have a lower center of gravity due to the placement of the battery, resulting in improved stability and handling characteristics. These safety enhancements contribute to a safer riding experience, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on the road.

As cities like Lisboa strive to embrace cleaner and more efficient modes of transportation, electric scooters have emerged as a compelling solution to meet the needs of modern commuters while reducing the environmental impact of urban mobility.

This post is powered by WaveRent | Rent a Scooter in Ericeira

janeiro 19, 2024

NHR: Tax Authority Automatically Rejecting Foreigners’ Requests for Fiscal Benefits

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , ,

NHR: Tax Authority Automatically Rejecting Foreigners’ Requests for Fiscal Benefits

Only later, in notifications to applicants, does the Tax Authority (AT) request evidence from individuals to prove their eligibility to NHR regime. This evidence includes documents such as employment contracts, enrollment of children in Portuguese schools, or promises of property purchase, demonstrating eligibility until the end of 2023. Luis Leon, a tax expert and co-founder of the consulting firm Ilya, shared this information with ECO.

From an IT perspective, the AT lacks the means to automatically implement the amendment introduced by the PS (Socialist Party) in the 2024 State Budget, which proposed ending the non-habitual resident regime and establishing a new program focused on certain activities related to innovation and science.

The current NHR model does not require engaging in any professional activity nor restricts it to specific sectors. It uniformly grants tax benefits in terms of income tax (IRS) for 10 years to all foreigners who have not had a residence in Portugal in the last five years. Due to the backlash against ending this regime, the Socialists decided to approve a transitional regime, allowing foreigners moving to the country this year to still benefit from the old regime, provided they can prove plans to live in Portugal by the end of 2023.

Unable to implement this transitional regime, the AT has decided to automatically reject all NHR applications upfront. Subsequently, the individuals concerned are asked to provide documentation proving their plans to live in Portugal by the end of 2023.

This “bureaucratic” process, as described by Leon, may lead to significant delays in the approval of applications. Leon warns, “A few months ago, the AT was still evaluating requests from 2022.”

Leon also highlights two deadlines for submitting evidence: “In the case of employment contracts and visas, documents must be signed, at the latest, by December 31. Enrollment of children in schools or promises to purchase real estate must have been made by October.”

To qualify for the transitional regime for non-habitual residents, foreign workers and retirees, or Portuguese nationals who have been emigrated for more than five years, must meet one of the following conditions:

  • – Promise or employment contract until the end of 2023.
  • – Lease or possession contract for property in national territory until October 2023.
  • – Reservation contract or promise of acquisition of real rights over property in Portuguese territory concluded by October 10, 2023.
  • – Enrollment of dependents in an educational institution located in Portuguese territory until October.
  • – Residence visa or residence permit valid until December 31, 2023, or a procedure initiated by December 31, 2023, for the granting of a residence visa or permit, with the competent authorities.
  • – Member of the family unit of the taxpayers mentioned in the previous points.

In this special regime, foreign workers choosing to reside in Portugal or Portuguese citizens who have been emigrated for more than five years benefit from a reduction in IRS for 10 years, subject to a 20% tax rate on income from categories A and B. Pensioners pay a 10% IRS, having been exempt until 2020.

To access this regime, non-habitual residents must have tax residence in Portugal and stay in the country for more than 183 days, consecutively or interpolated, in a one-year period. They must also have their own residence or rented property with the intention of using it as their habitual residence.

 

Author: Chris Morris

dezembro 14, 2023

Over a third of accommodation owners fail to provide Proof of Activity

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , ,

Out of a total of 120,719 national Local Accommodation (AL) registrations, 74,972 proofs were submitted by the end of Wednesday, equivalent to 62% when the deadline for owners to provide proof of activity ended. According to data from the Ministry of Economy, approximately 38% of registrations will be examined by territorially competent municipalities due to non-compliance. The proof of activity became mandatory with the enactment of Law 56/2023, regulating “Mais Habitação,” exempting only the operation of AL in one’s own permanent residence for up to 120 days per year.

The lack of submission of activity proofs, without knowing how many correspond to phantom registrations or platform issues, was more pronounced in Lisbon (42.6%), the city with the highest number of registrations in the country. Out of 19,917 registrations, 11,447 valid proofs were submitted, accounting for 57.4% of the total. Porto had the highest compliance, with 8,581 owners providing proof out of a total of 10,449 registrations, equivalent to 82%, according to data from Tourism Portugal and the RNAL – National Local Accommodation Registry.

In Albufeira, the third city with the highest concentration of AL, over a third of owners failed to prove their activity, with 6,585 valid proofs submitted by 23:59 on Wednesday, equivalent to 66% of a total of 9,995 registered AL.

The Association of Local Accommodation in Portugal (ALEP) acknowledged the possibility of fewer proofs being submitted than the licenses existing in Lisbon and possibly Porto but expressed concern about the situation. The cancellation of registrations due to lack of proof is not automatic and requires a prior hearing with the competent municipal services.

Eduardo Miranda, ALEP’s president, states that it’s challenging at this stage to differentiate between those who did not submit due to inactivity or process issues. He emphasizes that the number of genuinely inactive registrations varies from region to region. He had anticipated fewer submissions in Lisbon and Porto due to the number of inactive registrations.

Regarding Lisbon, analysts like Ricardo Guimarães, director of Confidencial Imobiliário, are not surprised. In a study for the Lisbon municipality, he found that less than half of the registrations were active. He suggests that the data now obtained by Tourism Portugal could be a good starting point for the sector’s policy overhaul. According to Guimarães, policies related to AL in “Mais Habitação” ignored the market’s true size, assuming it was equivalent to the total number of registrations.

These revealed figures could prompt a reassessment of adopted measures and their scope.

In a press release, the Ministry of Economy notes that the deadline for AL owners to provide proof of activity ended on December 7. Due to high demand in the last days on the RNAL platform, the government decided to extend the access deadline until December 13, 23:59. No disruptions to platform access were reported between December 7 and yesterday.

novembro 15, 2023

NHR. Portuguese Government Introduces Transitional Regime 2024

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , ,

Initially, the government had announced the end of new enrollments, signaling that individuals moving to Portugal in 2024 would no longer be eligible for a decade of reduced taxes compared to the general population.

However, during the transition from the proposal of the State Budget to the presentation of amendments, the Socialist parliamentary group decided to overhaul the government’s original plan. They are now proposing the creation of a transitional regime, effectively maintaining the current rules for an additional year until the end of 2024. Importantly, this extension will apply exclusively to those individuals who had already begun the process of relocating to Portugal.

Socialist Party justifies this move as a measure to “safeguard the legitimate expectations of people who have already made the decision to immigrate or return to Portugal.” Failing to address these expectations, they argue, could erode the confidence of those who have committed to such a significant life change.

In addition to preserving the existing rules (lower IRS for ten years) for those becoming tax residents by the end of 2023, Socialist Party proposes that the regime will also apply to individuals who “become tax residents by December 31, 2024” and “declare, for the purpose of their registration as non-habitual residents, to possess a certain element binding them to this commitment.”

This unexpected shift in policy aims to provide a smoother transition for individuals making life-altering decisions and underscores the government’s recognition of the substantial impact such a move can have on people’s lives.

outubro 19, 2023

Sem emprego e sem habitação: quando o programa de acolhimento chega ao fim

Por José Vicente Cândido

Os dados revelados no estudo do Observatório das Migrações referente ao ano de 2022 abordam especificamente os desafios enfrentados pelos refugiados nos últimos seis meses do programa de acolhimento de ano e meio em Portugal, sob a égide dos mecanismos europeus de apoio à proteção internacional. Neste período crítico, muitos refugiados encontram-se desempregados, sem habitação e enfrentando dificuldades na comunicação devido à falta de proficiência na língua portuguesa.

Será o período de 18 meses suficiente?

Gabriele de Angelis, representante do Portal sobre as políticas públicas sobre asilo (Asylum Policy Lab) da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, defende que os 18 meses não são suficientes e que é preciso saber gerir as expectativas. “Uma pessoa precisa de mais tempo para ser considerada autónoma”, disse à TejoMag. Outra questão prende-se com a definição de autonomia adotada oficialmente. Na opinião do investigador deveria abranger mais situações. Como é o caso de pessoas refugiadas que ficaram desempregadas, mas que são consideradas como preparadas para trabalhar pela ONG que acompanha o seu caso. Ou quando se trata de um agregado familiar e os seus elementos não estejam todos empregados, haver a possibilidade de se considerarem como “autónomos”.

Inês Carreirinho, do Conselho Português para os Refugiados, disse à Lusa que os 18 meses “não são um fim em si mesmo, mas o princípio” e que é preciso fazer uma “reflexão profunda” sobre o que está a correr melhor ou pior.

Um sistema com perspetiva de longo prazo é o que é necessário, afirmou o coordenador do Fórum Refúgio Portugal, Alexander Kpatue Kweh. O tempo pode não ser o fator mais importante quando se trata de acolhimento, pois em certos casos nem cinco anos seriam suficientes.

Gerir expectativas

A coordenadora do Departamento de Apoio e Assistência Migratória do Alto Comissariado para as Migrações, Lyubov Patravchan, partilha a mesma visão de Gabriele de Angelis, defendendo que o acolhimento de refugiados deverá passar também pela gestão de expectativas. Todas as pessoas são um caso diferente, e muitas vezes não estão a par das condições e dificuldades de integração.

Para André Costa Jorge, diretor do Serviço Jesuítas aos Refugiados (JRS), as instituições de acolhimento de pessoas refugiadas são quem sente mais o peso dos 18 meses.

Reencaminhamento para o apoio social

Segundo os dados publicados em 2022, na referida fase de “phasing out”, 25,5% do total de 420 refugiados não tinha emprego, número que tem vindo a diminuir. Em 2020 era de 41,4% e, em 2021, registou-se 37,4%.

Um dos principais desafios dos refugiados em Portugal, como refere o relatório, é o domínio da língua portuguesa, “com uma parte importante dos beneficiários a concluírem o programa de acolhimento sem o domínio da língua, não a entendendo nem falando”.

Depois dos 18 meses de processo de acolhimento, muitas pessoas refugiadas são encaminhadas para apoio social, visto não terem opção de voltar para o seu país de origem. De acordo com o Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras, “o estatuto de refugiado é concedido a uma pessoa perseguida no seu país em virtude da sua raça, religião, nacionalidade, opiniões políticas ou por pertença a um certo grupo social”.

No ano de 2022, apenas 42 pessoas (14,6%) das 288 que concluíram o processo de acolhimento foram consideradas autónomas, sendo que 78,5% foram encaminhadas para apoios sociais, tanto de Organizações Não Governamentais (ONG) como da Segurança Social. A coordenadora do relatório referiu que os dados não significam que os programas de acolhimento estejam a falhar.

 

agosto 28, 2023

Feira de startups promete investimento dos 50 mil aos 5 milhões de euros

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , ,

Os pequenos empresários e criadores de startups (empresas pequenas com um potencial muito grande de crescimento) frequentemente debatem-se com problemas de financiamento. A European Angel Investment Summit (EAIS23) realiza-se nos dias 10 e 11 de Agosto em Bruxelas e é destinada a todas as indústrias e sectores, para empresas sediadas na UE ou que exercam actividades em qualquer país da UE.

As candidaturas para o EAIS23 já se encontram abertas e correspondem a um processo de 5 etapas das quais se destacam as seções onde se descreve o projeto, a organização e o perfil dos candidatos, para além da submissão de alguma documentação legal relativa aos candidatos e organização.

As candidaturas encerram no dia 3 de Setembro. Até lá pode visitar o Portal InvestEU para ver alguns dos projetos que estão abertos a financiamento para se inspirar na sua candidatura. Caso queira comparecer como Investidor a EAIS23 tem também um formulário específico para investidores bem como uma base de dados de algumas startups que ainda estão abertas a investimento.

agosto 4, 2023

Papa esteve no Parque do Perdão a ouvir jovens em confissão

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , ,

Papa esteve no Parque do Perdão a ouvir jovens em confissão

Muitos fiéis jovens acorreram bem cedo para Belém, ao Parque do Perdão junto do Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, para serem ouvidos em Confissão, um dos sacramentos da Igreja Católica, a que o Papa Francisco deu mais notoriedade ao fazer-se fotografar enquanto ele próprio se confessava, demonstrando que até aos Papas é necessária a absolvição.

Hoje, em Belém, como tem sido hábito em todas as JMJ, o Papa Francisco recebeu alguns jovens nos pequenos confessionários montados por presidiários dos estabelecimentos prisionais de Coimbra, de Paços de Ferreira e do Porto.

As imagens, divulgadas pela organização, demonstram o Papa Francisco a encaminhar-se para um dos confessionários onde recebeu 3 jovens em confissão, sob o olhar atento da sua segurança pessoal.

agosto 3, 2023

Jovens na JMJ. Os testemunhos dos que vieram ao Parque Eduardo VII ver o Papa Francisco

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , ,

Jovens na JMJ. Os testemunhos dos que vieram ao Parque Eduardo VII ver o Papa Francisco

O Padre Osvaldo veio da Venezuela encontrar-se com os jovens e, sobretudo, ouvir as palavras do Papa Francisco e diz que espera de levar das JMJ o desejo de “como Maria, levantar-se e partir, ao encontro dos outros. A fraternidade nunca é em demasia”. Loit veio dos Estados Unidos como um católico desde o nascimento mas que vem para as JMJ para “ver o Papa Francisco, para ver como o catolicismo cresce noutros lugares do mundo e para visitar Lisboa que é um sitio muito bonito e muito acolhedor”.

Belmira Tavares, cabo verdiana, fez uma grande viagem na expectativa de “levar de Lisboa um coração mais aberto para trazer mais alegria para os outros”. Carlos veio de Córdova, no sul de Espanha, para a sua primeira JMJ e espera que ele e outros jovens que o acompanham “levem o amor de Deus para os seus lares” mas pede ao Papa Francisco que “reze muitíssimo pelos jovens”. Sheila veio das Filipinas não só como peregrina mas como voluntária e, apesar de ser a sua terceira JMJ, espera “encontrar Deus de novo e trazê-Lo de volta para o seu País juntamente com desejos de paz e união”. Inês veio da Guatemala e a sua alegria é contagiante; quer que o catolicismo “se expanda cada vez mais” e diz levar de Lisboa “muitas boas memórias”.

Ao longo dos próximos dias vamos estar nas JMJ a recolher mais testemunhos dos participantes jovens com quem nos vamos cruzando.

agosto 3, 2023

Papa Francisco alerta aos jovens para os perigos das redes sociais

Por José Vicente Cândido Em , ,

Papa Francisco alerta aos jovens para os perigos das redes sociais

O primeiro banho de multidão aconteceu hoje no Parque Eduardo VII, temporariamente baptizado “Colina do Encontro”, onde Francisco encontrou uma multidão de jovens de várias nacionalidades gritando “está é a Juventude do Papa”.

Já no palco, Francisco assistiu a diversos momentos musicais e performances artísticas que culminaram com um desfile de bandeiras das nacionalidades dos peregrinos das JMJ.

Num discurso curto o Papa alertou, como tem feito em diversos momentos do seu Pontificado, para os perigos das redes sociais, das “ilusões do mundo virtual”, dos algoritmos e dos “lobos que se escondem por detrás dos sorrisos de falsa bondade”. Francisco, o Papa das periferias, exortou os jovens, que são “alérgicos a falsidades e a palavras vazias”, a criar espaço para todos na Igreja.

O seu discurso terminou com o apelo do Papa a que todos os jovens se conectem com Cristo e que desfrutem das JMJ.