Everything you need to know before, during, and after your move
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Portugal has become one of the top destinations in the world for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. And it makes sense: stable democracy, EU membership, good healthcare, a mild Atlantic climate, and a cost of living well below most of Western Europe.
But moving countries is complex. This guide walks you through everything in order, from the first steps before you leave to settling into your new routine.
Portugal offers several pathways for non-EU citizens.
The D7 visa is designed for people with reliable passive income: pensions, rental income, dividends, or remote work income. It's the most popular choice for retirees and financially independent movers.
Requirements:
Created in 2022, the D8 visa targets remote workers employed by companies outside Portugal, or self-employed freelancers.
Requirements:
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens don't need a visa. You have the right to live and work in Portugal automatically.
The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your Portuguese tax identification number. You need it for almost everything:
How to get it:
Non-residents can also get a NIF through a fiscal representative, which is handy if you want to get things started before arriving.
Major banks: Millennium BCP, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Novo Banco, Santander Portugal.
For expats, Revolut and Wise are popular temporary solutions while your residency application processes.
The Portuguese rental market is competitive in Lisbon and Porto. Start looking early.
Useful platforms:
Average rents (2026):
| City | T1 (Studio) | T2 (1BR) | T3 (2BR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lisbon (center) | €1,100–1,500 | €1,400–2,000 | €1,800–2,800 |
| Porto (center) | €800–1,100 | €1,000–1,500 | €1,300–2,000 |
| Braga | €500–700 | €650–900 | €850–1,200 |
| Interior | €350–550 | €450–700 | €600–900 |
Within 30 days of arriving, EU citizens must register at the local Câmara Municipal (town hall). Non-EU citizens apply for a Autorização de Residência through AIMA (the immigration authority).
Portugal's SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) is a universal public health service. Register at your local Centro de Saúde (health centre) with your residency documentation.
As a registered resident, most services are free or heavily subsidised.
Portugal rewards patience. Give yourself time to adjust. Most people who make the move end up saying it was one of the best decisions they've made.
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