Embarking on a life-changing journey, the Tamesis family, comprised of Gene and Bunny Tamesis and their three children, share their remarkable experiences with the Portugal Golden Visa program. In this exclusive interview, the couple opens up about their motivations, preparations, and the invaluable support they received from ORM, making their dream of moving to Portugal a reality.
Discovering the Golden Visa Program
The Tamesis family's journey began when they left the Philippines for Jakarta, Indonesia. From that point onward, they had been actively searching for a permanent place to call home. It was about a year or two into their stay in Indonesia when they first heard about the Golden Visa program. A friend of the couple, who was already immersed in the program in Spain, provided additional insights and details about the Golden Visa program, sparking their interest in the possibilities it offered.
Although they had heard about the program in the past, it was the first time they engaged in a conversation with someone actively pursuing it. Realizing the potential benefits, the couple conducted thorough research and came across Patricia through friends of friends, receiving positive feedback about her. Given the critical need for someone trustworthy on the ground, the Tamesis family found Patricia to be a perfect choice, especially since she came highly recommended by numerous acquaintances and shared a Filipino connection.
Why Portugal?
The decision-making process was shaped by their consideration of alternatives; many Filipinos tend to migrate to countries like Canada or New Zealand, necessitating an immediate move. However, this wasn't a feasible option for the Tamesis family, particularly because Gene's work opportunities and career were still rooted in Jakarta. What kept Gene in Indonesia was not just commitments but the potential for continued career growth, with a good 10-15 earning years ahead that he would have forgone if he had chosen to leave prematurely. The allure of the Golden Visa program lay in the flexibility it offered – the ability to make the required investment, obtain a temporary resident card, and yet not have an immediate relocation obligation. With five more years in Indonesia, the couple found this timeframe particularly advantageous.
The decision-making process was shaped by their awareness of alternatives; many Filipinos tend to migrate to countries like Canada or New Zealand, necessitating an immediate move. However, this wasn't viable for the Tamesis family, especially given Gene's ongoing career commitments in Jakarta. The allure of the Golden Visa program lay in the flexibility it offered – the ability to make the required investment, obtain a temporary resident card, and yet not have an immediate relocation obligation. With five more years in Indonesia, the couple found this timeframe particularly advantageous.
Moreover, considering their recent move from the Philippines just two years prior, they were cautious about uprooting their children again. Gene, who had never been to Portugal, leaned on Bunny's firsthand experience. Bunny, having visited Portugal before marriage, appreciated the friendliness of the people and the laidback lifestyle. The couple believed that Portugal's characteristics resonated well with their family's preferences and suited their dynamic more aptly.
Envisioning Life in Portugal: Expectations and Excitement
As the Tamesis family eagerly awaits their move, they share their eagerness for cleaner air, picturesque landscapes, delectable cuisine, and a more laid-back lifestyle. From the captivating coastline to the delectable cuisine, the family looks forward to exploring their new home and fostering not only a love for soccer but also cultivating an appreciation for European history and culture with their kids.
Emphasizing their enthusiasm for the Portuguese weather, which they have come to adore during their visits, the Tamesis family sees this move as the beginning of a new chapter and a thrilling adventure. With a city and country brimming with diverse attractions, they eagerly anticipate the multitude of experiences awaiting them.
Countdown to the Big Move: Preparations Unveiled
With only a few months left before their relocation, the Tamesis couple provides a glimpse into their meticulous preparations. From conducting family meetings to crafting checklists, they outline the practical challenges of shipping belongings, securing schools for their children, and navigating the intricacies of language preparation. The couple also emphasize the need to elevate their preparations for the Portuguese language, recognizing its significance not only for future citizenship but also for acclimating to a new country.
Highlighting a pivotal moment in December, the Tamesis couple experienced a reality check, prompting initial panic. However, Bunny recognized the importance of shifting their mindset. Instead of viewing the timeframe as only having five months left, they embraced a positive perspective, considering it an exciting five months to go. This mental shift empowered them, making the packing process more manageable.
Education and Work Considerations
The couple discussed the careful selection of schools for their children, combining insights from online research and physical campus visits considering language barriers and the age of their children. Underlining the educational landscape in Portugal, the couple notes the accessibility of Portuguese public schools for Golden Visa holders, appreciating the cost-free option. However, given the older age of one son, they weighed the challenges of introducing him to a new language. They are in the application process for a reputable English-speaking school, recently accredited under Dukes—an esteemed European accreditation network with shared values and standards. The accreditation instilled confidence in the family's decision.
In the realm of work considerations, Gene, who specializes in marketing, and Bunny, who is immersed in the wellness industry. Gene has initiated the search for work opportunities, acknowledging the limitation of understanding the job market from a distance. Recognizing the necessity of being on-site to truly grasp the opportunities available, Gene emphasizes the importance of meticulous planning for anyone contemplating a similar move.
On the other hand, Bunny's work is online, offering her the flexibility to operate from virtually anywhere. Gene appreciates this aspect and aspires to discover work opportunities that align with this flexibility. He envisions the move as an opportunity not only to pursue career-related goals but also to explore.
Gene sees this transition as a mini-sabbatical—a chance to delve into pursuits that may not necessarily align with one's career path but have always been of interest. He views this period as a unique opportunity to reassess goals and aspirations, taking advantage of the laidback atmosphere in Portugal. While it's not a permanent shift, Gene acknowledges the importance of seizing the chance, recognizing it as a blessing that they don't take for granted, especially considering the educational needs of their young children.
The Role of ORM: A Trusted Partnership
Gene and Bunny articulate the factors that led them to choose ORM, emphasizing the critical role of personal recommendations and trust built over time. They emphasize Patricia's genuine concern for finding an investment that suited the family, especially considering the challenges of purchasing property remotely.
Buying a property sight unseen presented significant challenges and risks that Gene and Bunny wouldn't wish on anyone. In the earlier stages, the couple would find a property, prepare to fly, and see it, only to discover it had been taken even before the flights were booked. It was impossible to physically inspect each property before making a decision. Amidst uncertainties, prayer played a significant role, and finding someone like Patricia, who instilled a sense of security, was a blessing.
Recalling they were initially not fond of the property they eventually acquired, Patricia suggested revisiting it, doing a video tour, highlighting its features, and discussing the area's potential. Through this, they realized the property's suitability and have been fortunate with consistent rental opportunities in the prime location. Patricia's foresight proved right.
Transitioning from the Golden Visa application to ORM's property management services, the Tamesis family recounts their experiences. They commend the efficiency of Luís, who managed property matters ensuring a stress-free process, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic. The couple expresses gratitude for ORM's comprehensive support, encompassing legal representation, property management, and tax advisory.
Now, they consider Patricia a dear friend and often refer to her as their guardian angel in Portugal. Patricia and her team continue to be instrumental in managing their property, fostering an enduring relationship that eases the challenges of overseeing a property from a distance.
Basking in the Benefits: The Portugal Golden Visa Advantage
Now Portugal Golden Visa holders, the Tamesis couple reflects on the immediate perks, such as visa-free travel across Europe and smoother immigration lines. They share their initial experience with the residents' line, akin to holding a Willy Wonka golden ticket, where the staff directed them to the appropriate line. This newfound convenience was initially met with hesitation, but the realization that they were following the correct procedure eased any concerns.
In addition to these immediate advantages, the couple harbors hopes for future benefits, particularly in education, should they become citizens. The shared family dream of relocating to Portugal serves as a unifying element for the entire family, including their children, who have grown up with the notion.
Pearls of Wisdom: Advice for Aspiring Expatriates
Gene and Bunny offer valuable advice to those considering a similar journey. They stress the importance of clarity in goals, patience in dealing with the pace of European processes, and building a strong rapport with the ORM team for a smoother experience.
The couple emphasizes the significance of being clear about one's goals, especially when choosing an agency for the Golden Visa process. Bunny highlights the cultural understanding that Patricia, being Filipino, brings to the table, making her more attuned to the concerns and fears of Filipino immigrants. Bunny stresses the need for patience, acknowledging the time zone differences and the workload ORM handles. Building rapport with the ORM team is crucial, fostering a friendly connection rather than adopting a privileged customer stance.
Gene echoes Bunny's sentiments, underscoring the importance of establishing rapport with someone who shares the same values and understanding. He emphasizes that different agencies might not align with everyone, and finding a trustworthy partner is essential for a successful and satisfying journey. In terms of patience, Gene acknowledges the different pace in Europe, particularly in Portugal, compared to the fast-paced nature of Southeast Asia. He advises patience not only with ORM but also with the overall European pace. Despite initial frustrations, he notes that collaboration and respect contribute to a smoother experience, especially in the end. Patience, Gene concludes, is crucial, even when facing unexpected challenges or feeling a loss of control.
As the Tamesis family stands on the brink of their Portugal adventure, their journey becomes a source of inspiration for those considering a similar leap. Through meticulous planning, a trusted partnership with ORM, and a shared commitment to their dream, Gene and Bunny exemplify the potential for a fulfilling and successful relocation to Portugal.
