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Country guide · Portugal

Relocating to Portugal: Visa, Setup & Shipping Guide

D7, D8 digital nomad and Golden Visa routes, NIF and SNS, and how to land in Lisbon, Porto or the Algarve.

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Country
Portugal
Currency
EUR (Euro)
Residency authority
AIMA (formerly SEF)
Common routes
D7 (passive income), D8 (digital nomad), work visa, Golden Visa (post-2023 form)
Newcomer setup essentials
NIF, NISS, Portuguese bank account, NHR-or-not decision, SNS registration

Portugal has become one of Europe's most popular destinations for retirees, remote workers and families, drawn by climate, safety and a reasonable cost of living relative to other Western European capitals. Residency is granted by AIMA (the successor to SEF), with the most common routes being the D7 passive-income visa, the D8 digital nomad visa, work-sponsored visas and the Golden Visa (significantly reformed in 2023). This guide is a planning-level overview only — always confirm current rules with AIMA and a licensed Portuguese immigration lawyer.

Main residency routes

Portugal offers several residence-permit types. Always confirm the latest with AIMA or a licensed lawyer, as conditions change:

  • D7 visa — for applicants with sufficient stable passive income (pensions, rent, dividends).
  • D8 visa — the 'digital nomad' route for remote workers earning above a defined monthly threshold.
  • Work visa — sponsored by a Portuguese employer or business activity.
  • Golden Visa — investment-based residency; the post-2023 reform removed the real-estate route, leaving fund investment, scientific research, cultural and certain other paths.
  • Family reunification — for spouses, children and qualifying dependants of legal residents.
  • Tech Visa / Startup Visa — separate routes for skilled tech employees and entrepreneurs.

Your first 30 days on the ground

  • Apply for a NIF (taxpayer number) — required for almost everything, including renting, banking and utilities.
  • Open a Portuguese bank account — most banks require NIF, passport, proof of address and proof of income.
  • Apply for a NISS (social security number) if you will work or contribute.
  • Register with the SNS (national health service) at your local centro de saúde once you have proof of residence.
  • Schedule your AIMA appointment for biometrics and residence-card pickup.
  • Sign a lease — fully furnished short-term lets are common while you decide on a long-term area.

Tax: NHR successor regime and personal tax

The original Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime closed to most new applicants in 2024 and was replaced by a successor 'NHR 2.0' / Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI) aimed at qualifying highly skilled professionals and researchers. Eligibility is narrower than the original NHR. Always speak to a Portuguese tax adviser about your specific situation, including how Portugal's standard progressive tax rates and any home-country tax-treaty positions affect you.

Healthcare and schools

The Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) provides public healthcare for legal residents at low cost. Many expats also hold private health insurance for faster access. International schools (British, American, French, German, IB) are concentrated around Lisbon, Cascais, Porto and the Algarve; demand at established schools is high — plan early.

Shipping personal effects to Portugal

New Portuguese residents can typically import used household goods duty-free using a Certificado de Bagagem issued by the Portuguese consulate in your country of origin, supported by a packing list and proof of residence. Lisbon and Leixões (Porto) are the main ocean-freight ports; Lisbon and Porto airports handle air freight. Confirm current customs documentation with your appointed mover before shipping.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Golden Visa still available?

Yes, but the real-estate investment route was removed in 2023. Remaining options include qualifying investment funds, scientific research and certain cultural/job-creation paths. Confirm current rules with AIMA or a licensed lawyer.

Is NHR still available?

The original NHR regime closed to most new applicants in 2024 and was replaced by a narrower successor regime aimed at qualifying scientific and highly skilled roles. Get personalised tax advice.

Can EU citizens just move to Portugal?

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have free movement and only need to register with the local câmara municipal after a few months of residence. Non-EU citizens need a visa or residence permit.

How long does it take to get a NIF?

If you apply in person at Finanças in Portugal it is typically issued the same day. Through a fiscal representative from abroad it can take longer. Without a NIF you cannot sign a lease or open a bank account.

Where do most newcomers settle?

Greater Lisbon (Cascais, Estoril, Sintra, Oeiras), Porto and the Algarve are the most popular. Inland and central regions are increasingly used by remote workers seeking lower cost of living.

This guide is general information for planning purposes only. Visa, customs, tax, school admissions and shipping rules change. Always confirm requirements with the relevant government authority, school or licensed advisor before making decisions.