Portugal, with its mild climate, rich history, stunning coastlines, and affordable lifestyle, has become a top destination for expats worldwide. Whether you're drawn by the scenic beauty of Lisbon, the Algarve's relaxed vibe, or Porto's cultural charm, relocating to Portugal can be an exciting and life-changing experience. This guide outlines everything you need to know about how to move to Portugal—from visas to settling in.
Why Move to Portugal?
Portugal offers a high quality of life, a low cost of living compared to other Western European countries, excellent healthcare, and a welcoming local population. English is widely spoken, especially in major cities, and the country ranks high for safety and expat satisfaction.
Popular Cities for Expats
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Lisbon – The bustling capital with a mix of history and modern amenities.
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Porto – Famous for its wine and beautiful architecture.
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Faro – Gateway to the Algarve and beachside living.
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Coimbra – A university town perfect for students and educators.
Step-by-Step: How to Move to Portugal
To successfully relocate, you’ll need to go through several essential steps.
1. Research Your Visa Options
The type of visa you need depends on your purpose for moving. Here are the most common ones:
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D7 Visa: Ideal for retirees and remote workers with a steady passive income.
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Golden Visa: For those investing in Portuguese real estate or businesses.
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D2 Visa: For entrepreneurs and independent professionals.
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Student Visa: For those accepted into a Portuguese educational institution.
You’ll typically apply at the Portuguese consulate in your home country. After approval, you’ll receive a temporary visa allowing you to enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit.
2. Apply for a NIF Number
A Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF) is a tax identification number required for nearly everything in Portugal—from opening a bank account to signing a lease.
You can obtain it at a local tax office (Finanças), and many expats use lawyers or relocation agencies to assist with this step remotely before arrival.
3. Open a Portuguese Bank Account
Opening a bank account is essential, especially if you're applying for a visa that requires proof of financial means. Bring your passport, NIF, proof of address, and employment or income documentation.
Some popular banks include:
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Millennium BCP
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Novo Banco
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Caixa Geral de Depósitos
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ActivoBank (great for online banking)
Finding a Place to Live
Renting a Home
In most cases, you’ll want to rent a property before buying. Popular rental platforms include:
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Idealista
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OLX
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Imovirtual
Rent prices vary by location. Lisbon and Porto tend to be the most expensive, while inland regions and smaller towns offer more affordability.
Buying Property
If you’re considering staying long-term, buying may be a better option. Portugal offers attractive investment opportunities, especially in lesser-known areas where property prices are lower.
Healthcare in Portugal
Portugal has a well-regarded public healthcare system (Serviço Nacional de Saúde, SNS), which is mostly free or low-cost for residents. Private healthcare is also affordable and may offer shorter wait times.
As a resident, you can register for public healthcare after receiving your residence permit. Many expats also purchase private health insurance for additional coverage.
Learning the Language
Although English is spoken in many places, learning Portuguese will significantly improve your experience. Free and paid language courses are available throughout the country, including government-sponsored integration programs.
Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and local language schools can also be helpful.
Working and Paying Taxes
If you plan to work, make sure your visa allows it. The job market in Portugal is growing, particularly in sectors like tech, tourism, and education.
Taxes
Portugal has a progressive income tax system. As a resident, you must declare worldwide income. Some expats benefit from the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which offers reduced tax rates for ten years in certain professions or retirement income categories.
Bringing Your Pets
Portugal is pet-friendly! You’ll need a microchip, rabies vaccination certificate, and an EU health certificate from a vet. Check with the Portuguese embassy for the latest requirements.
Final Tips for a Smooth Move
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Hire a relocation agency to streamline paperwork and avoid delays.
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Visit first—spend a few weeks getting a feel for neighborhoods and lifestyle.
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Understand residency timelines—most visas start as temporary and must be renewed before you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
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Join expat communities on Facebook or Meetup to connect and ask questions.
Conclusion
Moving to Portugal is a rewarding adventure filled with culture, comfort, and community. By taking time to understand the legal requirements, choosing the right city, and preparing your documentation, you can ensure a smooth relocation process. If you're wondering how to move to Portugal, following these structured steps is the best way to start your journey with confidence.
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