Intensive Portuguese Language Class

In order to apply for a Portuguese passport, one key requirement is to show proficiency in the Portuguese language.  There are two ways to do this.  One is to take a government-run test, which we've heard can be challenging.  The other is to attend a sanctioned language class for 150 hours total, for which you receive an A1/A2 certificate thereby eliminating the need to take the government test.  We've chosen to do the latter.

Our local city of Tavira offers free language classes which are two days a week and last for an entire school year (October - June).  This year over 400 people signed up for about 120 slots.  So instead, we opted to take a paid intensive course, which lasts for just ten weeks, but meets four hours per day, Monday-Thursday.  

We are now into our third week of class, and while it is very intensive (we've begun dreaming of Portuguese studies!), it has gone well.  The class is on a video call, so we can do it from the comfort of our apartment, and we meet in the afternoon which doesn't interfere with our schedule of dog walks and golf.  

Our teacher is in the upper left, and you can see us both below her in our "squares"

Our 20 fellow students span the globe, with people living in Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, England, etc.  Most are living or soon to be living in Portugal, and it is a lively group.  We are learning a lot, but it is a large time commitment.  At the end, we hope to be at least partially conversant in Portuguese, and we'll be the proud owners of our A1/A2 language certificates.