Sharon Farrell: Why I left my IFA business behind and moved to the Algarve

Published on International Adviser on 12 May 2026.

Sharon Farrell is now a partner with specialist expat advice firm Blevins Franks and says she enjoys the work/life balance on the Algarve.

Sharon Farrell ran her own UK independent advice firm for over 20 years. But in 2019, having holidayed to the Algarve on a regular basis during her career, she made the decision to leave her business behind and move to Portugal permanently.

She is now a partner with specialist expat advice firm Blevins Franks in Vilamoura, on the Algarve – and she says she is enjoying the work/life balance so much, she would never go back. “The type of work I do provides me with the flexibility to have a very positive work/life balance,” she said. “I get to continue working in an area of the financial services industry that I’m passionate about while still being able to explore interesting activities outside of work.

“Because of the temperate climate here in Portugal, the tendency is for people to socialise and to eat out more regularly and this can be attuned to whatever your budget allows. You can certainly eat very well for less and the availability of quality produce – whatever your diet or preference – is definitely a winner.”

She is now fully authorised and regulated to provide advice in Portugal, and she focuses on other families moving to Portugal like she did. “My work is mainly with individuals and families who are moving to Portugal and require solid financial tax and wealth management advice,” she said.

“This advice has to be compliant and tax efficient for their new country of residence. This can be in the form of advice around business sales and exits or ongoing consultancy, personal tax and wealth management counsel, often for passive income, and family and legacy trust and tax planning.”

She said Portugal is a booming location for expats seeking a sunnier life, which is creating opportunities for financial planners in the region.
“There are various new opportunities for financial planning for Britons who have been living in Portugal for many years but now may see an exposure to UK inheritance tax.”

She said anyone considering the move needs to be open to trying new things and making the most of the work/life balance. “Being open to new experiences, a willingness to learn new things along with a resilience and determination to succeed. A good sense of self and a positive approach to work / home life balance goes without saying,” she said.

“Through my work, I get to connect with and provide financial planning to clients and their families. This work by its very nature is more about building long-term relationships and trust rather than being simply transactional.”