If the thought of sun-drenched coastlines, a relaxed pace of life, and an inviting culture appeal to you, then moving to Portugal might be the first step towards realizing your dream.
More Americans than ever are moving to Portugal. The number of American expats living in Portugal rose 45 percent in 2021 from the previous year. This guide looks at why Americans are moving to Portugal and aims to provide the necessary information to facilitate your move.
The cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower than in many parts of the USA. This includes housing, groceries, utilities, and healthcare. While salaries may also be lower, the overall quality of life can be very attractive, especially for retirees or those with income sources abroad.
As a permanent resident of Portugal, you'll enjoy numerous benefits and advantages that come with life in the European Union.
Some of the most enticing aspects include access to high-quality, affordable healthcare, education, and robust social security per European standards. Here's a more detailed breakdown of the benefits of Portuguese residency:
Freedom of Movement: As a permanent resident of Portugal, you gain the right to move freely, work, study, and travel in any member state of the European Union. This opens up a world of opportunities to explore and experience different cultures and countries.
Family Reunification: Portuguese immigration law allows permanent residents to apply for family reunification. This means you can bring your close relatives to Portugal, which is particularly useful for those who want to keep their family close.
Portuguese healthcare system: Portugal's healthcare system is well-regarded worldwide. As a permanent resident, you can access public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is either free or low-cost, and private health insurance is generally more affordable than in the US.
Education: Portugal offers a variety of educational opportunities, from public to private schools, including international schools. If you have children or grandchildren living in Portugal, they will have access to a high standard of education in Portugal.
Social Security: Portugal's social security system is robust and inclusive, offering a range of benefits from unemployment support to pensions.
Lifestyle: Many US citizens enjoy Portugal's relaxed lifestyle, stunning landscapes, and favorable climate. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, moving to Portugal can offer a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
Cost of Living: Portugal's cost of living is significantly lower than in many parts of the US. This extends to groceries, dining out, and general consumer prices. Tax incentives could also allow your pension or savings to go further.
See: Portugal Permanent Residence Permits.
Every child living in Portugal, regardless of nationality, needs to be in school from ages six to eighteen. If you're a resident of Portugal, you can take advantage of free education through public schools. Homeschooling is allowed in Portugal, but you are legally required to "enroll” your child as being homeschooled.
Top-tier international schools are scattered around the country, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. For American students, top picks include the Carlucci American International School Of Lisbon and the International Christian School of Cascais. Lisbon also offers schools that teach French, German, and British curricula.
For a more comprehensive look at private education in Portugal, refer to our blog post: International Schools In Portugal.
Portugal's public healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), offers services like primary care, hospital care, emergency services, and medication to all citizens and legal residents. The SNS, funded by the government, is based on universality, equity, and accessibility.
If you need healthcare in Portugal, you can visit a local health center (Centro de Saúde) or an SNS hospital. To use public healthcare, you need a user number (Número de Utente), which requires your residence permit and tax identification number (NIF).
Legal residents in Portugal are entitled to public healthcare. Short-term residents and visitors have access to emergency services but need insurance for non-emergency care. EU visitors can use their EHIC for necessary medical treatment. Short-term working residents can access the healthcare system with a valid Social Security Identification Number (NISS). If you are working in Portugal, you will pay Portuguese social security contributions (11 percent of your salary will be deducted to cover this). Non-habitual residents (NHR) also have access to public healthcare, provided they have a NIF and NISS.
Portugal also offers private healthcare, used by 10-20 percent of the population, for faster, more personalized care. Private providers offer various services, and insurance is affordable and widely available. Some of Portugal's leading private medical providers are CUF, Luz Saúde, and Hospital da Luz.
Despite the private sector's presence, public healthcare remains the backbone of Portugal's system but many expats opt for private health insurance, as you have to have a permanent residence permit and have been living in Portugal long-term in order to access the public system.
Portugal has plenty of pharmacies for prescription and non-prescription medication, with some open 24/7. Doctors and nurses are highly trained and usually speak English, aiding communication for foreigners.
For more information, see: Healthcare In Portugal For Foreigners.
Please note: As of January 1, 2024, the NHR program is closed to new applicants. This guide is relevant only for individuals who obtained legal residency in Portugal and submitted their NHR application before December 31, 2023.
Operating a local bank account simplifies managing finances and paying bills in Portugal.
It also allows you to avoid fees related to international transactions or transfers.
Some establishments in Lisbon and other parts of Portugal only accept Portuguese bank cards or cash, making having a local bank card extremely beneficial when living in Portugal.
We can help you open an account with a leading Portuguese bank, no matter where you live. See: How to Open a Bank Account in Portugal.
What is expat life like in Portugal?
Living in Portugal is often described as a blend of relaxed living infused with rich history and culture. The Portuguese are known for their warm hospitality, making it easier for expats to integrate. Much like other European countries, people who have moved to Portugal from the USA find it low-cost, safe (Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world), and enjoy the slow pace of living in Portugal. Moving to Portugal also allows easy travel opportunities to the Schengen area. From the bustling city life in Lisbon, Portugal's capital, to the beautiful landscapes of the Algarve, there's something for everyone.Why are Americans moving to Portugal?
The trend of Americans moving to Portugal has been on the rise for numerous reasons. Portugal offers a high standard of living, affordable living, and a safe environment. In fact, Portugal is the sixth most peaceful country in the world. The Portuguese government has also made it relatively straightforward for foreigners, including Americans, to gain residence permits and start living in Portugal. English is a widely spoken language in Portugal, with Portugal ranking in 9th position in the 2022 Education First English Proficiency Index. We could sum up some of the key reasons Americans are moving to Portugal as follows:- A cost of living that offers good value for money
- A population known for its warmth and hospitality
- Enhanced quality of life
- Pathways for remote work
- Access to a subsidized healthcare system
- Attractive tax incentives
- A variety of visa options available in Portugal
- English is a commonly spoken language
The Cost of Living in Portugal versus the USA
The cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower than in many parts of the USA. This includes housing, groceries, utilities, and healthcare. While salaries may also be lower, the overall quality of life can be very attractive, especially for retirees or those with income sources abroad.
Wondering how much money do you need to move to Portugal? Here's some helpful information that'll help you plan financially.
According to Numbeo's data, as of May 2023:- The cost of consumer goods in Portugal is 36.2 percent less than in the United States, excluding rent.
- Dining out in Portugal is 47.3 percent less expensive than in the United States.
- Grocery shopping in Portugal costs 46.9 percent less than in the US.
Moving to Portugal From the USA: Visa Options for Americans
American citizens must have a Portuguese residence permit to live in Portugal legally.
Securing a Portuguese visa
As an American, a tourist visa is unnecessary for visits to Portugal lasting up to 90 days, whether for leisure or business purposes. However, you must secure the appropriate residence permit and Portuguese visa if you're planning on moving to Portugal. The Portuguese government provides a range of visas, encompassing residence, work, and family reunification visas. The Portugal Golden Visa program, D7 Visa, and Digital Nomad Visa have emerged as popular options. After a five-year residence in Portugal with a valid residence permit, you may apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship and potentially receive a Portuguese passport.Portugal Golden Visa
Introduced in 2012, the Portugal Golden Visa has gained traction as an attractive residency-by-investment scheme. This program allows successful applicants to reside in the country for up to five years, provided they make a qualifying investment such as:- Investment funds (from €500,000)
- An investment of €250,000 in support of the arts or reconstruction of national heritage
- A contribution to scientific research (from €500,000)
Portugal's D7 Visa
Portugal's D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa, allows individuals with a minimum annual passive income of at least €9,120 to live in the country. The D7 Visa was introduced in 2007 and requires a reasonable and regular passive income, i.e., from dividends or pension payments. It's nicknamed the Retirement Visa and is particularly popular among Americans moving to Portugal for retirement. The Retirement Visa application process requires documentation supporting your financial independence.Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa
In 2022, Portugal launched its Digital Nomad Visa, a pathway for remote workers earning a minimum monthly income of €3,040 ($3,350), four times the Portuguese minimum wage, to live and work in the country. There are two visa categories available for remote workers. You can either apply for a temporary stay visa for up to one year or a residency visa that can be renewed for up to five years. You will receive a different residency permit depending on your chosen category. Visa holders can apply for permanent residence and citizenship after five years of living in Portugal. For more information, read: Working Remotely in Portugal.European citizenship through heritage
If your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents hail from an EU country, you might qualify for EU citizenship, avoiding significant bureaucracy. Portugal is among the EU countries, including Germany, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Latvia, and Lithuania, that offer favorable routes for citizenship by descent. Note that dual citizenship is allowed if your country of prior nationality allows dual citizenship. After five years of residence, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residency. As an EU citizen, you'll have privileges that are not available to a non EU citizen, such as the right to live, work, and study in any EU country, among other benefits.Required documents
When applying for any Portugal visa program, you'll need to complete a visa application form and submit it to your local Portuguese Consulate or Portuguese Embassy in the US. Required documents for moving to Portugal include:- A valid passport
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- A copy of your return ticket reservation (depending on your nationality)
- Travel insurance covering the Schengen Area
- Documentation of flight dates and times
- Accommodation plans for your stay
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Proof of economic status
Securing Permanent Residency or Portuguese Citizenship
After you've lived in Portugal with a temporary residence permit and renewed it for five years, you become eligible to apply to obtain permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship. To acquire Portuguese permanent residence, you'll need to pay a fee of $240 and submit the following documents to the Immigration and Border Service (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras, SEF) in order to continue living in Portugal:- A valid passport
- A completed standard application form
- Two recent identical color photographs with a blank background
- Valid temporary residence permit
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Proof of suitable accommodation
- SEF's permission to check your Portuguese criminal record
- Evidence of basic knowledge of the Portuguese language demonstrated in various ways:
- A certificate from an officially recognized teaching institution
- Completion of language studies from a teaching institution
- Completion of basic Portuguese studies from the Institute for Employment and Professional Training (IEFP)
- A certificate of education demonstrating fundamental Portuguese skills, such as Teaching Portuguese as a Foreign Language (CAPLE), recognized by the Ministry of Education and Science.
Advantages of Permanent Residence in Portugal
As a permanent resident of Portugal, you'll enjoy numerous benefits and advantages that come with life in the European Union.
Some of the most enticing aspects include access to high-quality, affordable healthcare, education, and robust social security per European standards. Here's a more detailed breakdown of the benefits of Portuguese residency:
Freedom of Movement: As a permanent resident of Portugal, you gain the right to move freely, work, study, and travel in any member state of the European Union. This opens up a world of opportunities to explore and experience different cultures and countries.
Family Reunification: Portuguese immigration law allows permanent residents to apply for family reunification. This means you can bring your close relatives to Portugal, which is particularly useful for those who want to keep their family close.
Portuguese healthcare system: Portugal's healthcare system is well-regarded worldwide. As a permanent resident, you can access public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is either free or low-cost, and private health insurance is generally more affordable than in the US.
Education: Portugal offers a variety of educational opportunities, from public to private schools, including international schools. If you have children or grandchildren living in Portugal, they will have access to a high standard of education in Portugal.
Social Security: Portugal's social security system is robust and inclusive, offering a range of benefits from unemployment support to pensions.
Lifestyle: Many US citizens enjoy Portugal's relaxed lifestyle, stunning landscapes, and favorable climate. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, moving to Portugal can offer a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
Cost of Living: Portugal's cost of living is significantly lower than in many parts of the US. This extends to groceries, dining out, and general consumer prices. Tax incentives could also allow your pension or savings to go further.
See: Portugal Permanent Residence Permits.
Finding Accommodation in Portugal
The initial step when relocating to Portugal is securing a place to stay. You will need to consider whether your new residence will be temporary or long-term.Should you rent or buy?
The decision to rent or buy a property in Portugal depends on personal preferences, each with its own set of benefits and considerations. Renting provides flexibility, allowing you to adapt and ascertain if you see a future in a particular city, town, or neighborhood. Unlike in the US, landlords bear the responsibility for home maintenance costs in Portugal, alleviating tenants of this burden. On the other hand, buying a property is not just an investment but also paves the way to permanent residency. While you're responsible for the maintenance costs and upkeep of the property, investing in Portuguese real estate is generally considered safe and straightforward. Suppose buying a property feels like the right choice, but your Portuguese language skills are still budding. In that case, it's advisable to seek assistance from real estate agencies and experts and obtain independent legal advice both in your home country and Portugal. Our partners, Goldcrest are real estate experts and have extensive experience working with the expat buyers community.How to find the right property in Portugal
Location is crucial when searching for the right property. Lisbon, Portugal's largest city and its capital city, has the highest rental prices. Expect to pay around €1,234.86 ($1,363.75) monthly for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. Outside the city center, rentals are significantly cheaper, averaging around €788.30 ($870.58) monthly. Porto, the second-largest city, is more affordable. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for around €852 ($941) monthly. Other Portuguese cities like Coimbra, Braga (one of Portugal's oldest cities), and Faro in the Algarve region offer even more affordable options, with city-center one-bedroom apartments ranging between €500 and €800 per month. The type of housing you choose also greatly influences the rental cost. Apartments, townhouses, and detached homes are available, with prices varying based on location and size. For up-to-date information on rental prices in Portugal for 2024, resources such as Numbeo, Imovirtual, Idealista, and OLX Portugal, as well as expat blogs and forums like "Expats Portugal" or "Expatica" can be handy. These sources can provide you with a better understanding of Portugal's rental market, including average costs across different cities and rural areas.How to Get a Mortgage in Portugal
Here's a simplified walkthrough for obtaining a mortgage in Portugal.Pre-application stage
Initiate the process by consulting a broker or filling out an online form. They will give you an initial assessment of your mortgage viability and the probable terms. If all goes as planned, you should receive a quotation a few days after this evaluation.Terms and agreement
If the quotation aligns with your financial plan, the broker will request you to endorse an agreement sheet and pay a fee of €495. Note that this fee is generally refunded if your mortgage application is not accepted.Mortgage application
Your broker will guide you through this stage, helping you to fill out the application and submit it. They will also assist you with supporting documents like your financial statements.Approval and initial deposit
With everything in order, your mortgage should be approved, bringing you closer to your new address in Portugal. After confirming the agreement, your broker will ask if you wish to proceed. If you consent, you will be required to establish a Portuguese bank account and deposit an amount sufficient to cover the valuation fee.Education in Portugal
Every child living in Portugal, regardless of nationality, needs to be in school from ages six to eighteen. If you're a resident of Portugal, you can take advantage of free education through public schools. Homeschooling is allowed in Portugal, but you are legally required to "enroll” your child as being homeschooled.
Top-tier international schools are scattered around the country, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. For American students, top picks include the Carlucci American International School Of Lisbon and the International Christian School of Cascais. Lisbon also offers schools that teach French, German, and British curricula.
For a more comprehensive look at private education in Portugal, refer to our blog post: International Schools In Portugal.
Healthcare in Portugal
Healthcare in Portugal is of a very high standard, ranked 25th in the world in the 2023 Health Care Index by Numbeo. Portugal offers both private and public healthcare services for foreigners.Public healthcare in Portugal
Portugal's public healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), offers services like primary care, hospital care, emergency services, and medication to all citizens and legal residents. The SNS, funded by the government, is based on universality, equity, and accessibility.
If you need healthcare in Portugal, you can visit a local health center (Centro de Saúde) or an SNS hospital. To use public healthcare, you need a user number (Número de Utente), which requires your residence permit and tax identification number (NIF).
Legal residents in Portugal are entitled to public healthcare. Short-term residents and visitors have access to emergency services but need insurance for non-emergency care. EU visitors can use their EHIC for necessary medical treatment. Short-term working residents can access the healthcare system with a valid Social Security Identification Number (NISS). If you are working in Portugal, you will pay Portuguese social security contributions (11 percent of your salary will be deducted to cover this). Non-habitual residents (NHR) also have access to public healthcare, provided they have a NIF and NISS.
Private healthcare in Portugal
Portugal also offers private healthcare, used by 10-20 percent of the population, for faster, more personalized care. Private providers offer various services, and insurance is affordable and widely available. Some of Portugal's leading private medical providers are CUF, Luz Saúde, and Hospital da Luz.
Despite the private sector's presence, public healthcare remains the backbone of Portugal's system but many expats opt for private health insurance, as you have to have a permanent residence permit and have been living in Portugal long-term in order to access the public system.
Portugal has plenty of pharmacies for prescription and non-prescription medication, with some open 24/7. Doctors and nurses are highly trained and usually speak English, aiding communication for foreigners.
For more information, see: Healthcare In Portugal For Foreigners.
Americans Retiring in Portugal
What to consider when retiring
When planning your retirement, consider what you envision it to look like. You may wish to play golf regularly, take on new hobbies such as cooking or pottery, or immerse yourself in the Portuguese lifestyle. Maybe you're interested in gardening. Whatever your retirement dreams are, take them into account when considering living in Portugal. Decide if you prefer a bustling expat community or a quiet area to bond with locals. Knowing the lifestyle you want for your retirement will help guide your decisions.Leisure activities
Retiring in Portugal as a US citizen opens up a world of leisure activities. For golf enthusiasts, the Algarve region boasts some of Europe's finest courses. For food and wine lovers, Porto offers an exciting culinary scene. If you're a beach lover who dreams of sunbathing and enjoying fresh seafood dinners, Portugal's extensive Atlantic coastline has got you covered.Learn Portuguese
Learning Portuguese might be challenging, but with persistence and practice, you can master the basics. Having Portuguese friends can help. While many people speak fluent English, older residents in more rural areas may not, so if you're considering moving to Portugal, we'd recommend taking some Portuguese language lessons. The added benefit is that you will strengthen your position in the job market if you are able to speak Portuguese, as it could make you more valuable to a Portuguese employer.Portugal living costs for US retirees
You might find that Portugal has an affordable cost of living compared to the US, although prices in larger cities such as Lisbon are rising, though they are still much lower than cities such as New York, for example.
Healthcare and prescription costs are considerably lower in Portugal than in the US, as the Portuguese government subsidizes medicinal costs.Taxes for American Expats in Portugal
American expats in Portugal are required to file taxes with the Portuguese Tax Authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira), colloquially known as Finanças. Fiscal representation American citizens who are not EU/EEA/Swiss nationals are legally obligated to appoint a fiscal representative who can be any resident of Portugal. This representative will help you get a NIF and act as a liaison between you and the Portuguese tax authorities. We recommend employing a lawyer or accountant because they understand Portuguese tax law. Our team at GetNifPortugal offers fiscal representation services, including applying for a NIF on your behalf.Non-Habitual Tax Residency: Important Update for 2024
Please note: As of January 1, 2024, the NHR program is closed to new applicants. This guide is relevant only for individuals who obtained legal residency in Portugal and submitted their NHR application before December 31, 2023.
NHR Status Benefits for Existing Applicants:
If you qualified for NHR status before the close date, you can still enjoy its substantial tax advantages for the full ten-year period. This includes: Tax exemptions on foreign-sourced income: This applies to income like your overseas salary, rental income, or capital gains earned outside Portugal. Flat 20 percent tax rate on Portuguese-sourced income: Any income you earn within Portugal, such as from employment or investments, will be taxed at a flat rate of 20 percent. Flat 10 percent tax rate on foreign-sourced pensions: Your foreign pension income will be subject to a significantly lower tax rate compared to the standard Portuguese regime.Alternative Tax Regime for New Applicants:
While the NHR program is no longer available for new applicants, Portugal offers an alternative tax regime for individuals moving to the country after December 31, 2023. This regime provides a 50 percent income tax deduction for certain high-value professions for a period of five years. However, the criteria for eligibility and specific benefits may differ from the NHR program.Americans Moving to Portugal
Customs regulation
For American expats moving to Portugal, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the customs rules on the transatlantic transfer of personal belongings. Prior to your relocation, you should visit the nearest Portuguese Consulate to procure a Certificado de Bagagem (Baggage Certificate). This certificate is issued upon submission of a comprehensive inventory list detailing the personal items and household goods you plan to bring to Portugal. Unless you require specific medication, you should be able to find necessary medicines in Portugal, or you can import them once you've established residency.Shipping and flying goods
You have several choices when moving your personal items and household goods to Portugal. Offered by several international moving companies, transportation by sea is the most cost-effective method, but it's also the lengthiest. You can expect your belongings to arrive within a period of one to three months. On the other hand, air freight offers the quickest but also the priciest solution. Your belongings should reach you within a week. The decision between the two will involve a compromise between time and cost.Storage considerations
Regarding storing your household items, you may need a space for either short-term or long-term storage. Unfortunately, the options in Portugal may not be as plentiful as you'd like. Among the European Union (EU) countries, Portugal has one of the lowest numbers of self-storage options per capita.Pets
For Americans planning to move to Portugal with their pets, it's important to note that Portugal follows European pet import regulations. If you plan to bring your dog or cat along for this exciting journey, ensure you're well-versed in these regulations. You can bring up to five pets into Portugal, provided it's for non-commercial reasons. The rules differ depending on whether you come from within or outside the EU. Only dogs and cats are allowed if you travel from America or other non-EU countries. These pets must be microchipped or have a legible tattoo and be vaccinated against rabies. The rabies vaccination should be given before or at the same time as the microchip and no less than 21 days before the pet's relocation. Your pet must enter Portugal through a designated Traveler's Point of Entry, which includes Lisbon Airport, Porto, Faro, Funchal, Ponta Delgada, Ilha Terceira, or Beja airports. Certain dog breeds are considered potentially dangerous, including Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, Pitbull Terrier, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Terrier, Tosa Inu, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These breeds can enter Portugal, but upon arrival at the Traveler's Point of Entry, the owner must sign the following documents:- Statement of responsibility if the owner is staying in Portugal for less than four months
- A notification if the owner is staying longer than four months.
Vaccinations
There are no specific immunization requirements for moving to Portugal. However, routine vaccinations like measles-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), and polio are recommended, along with an annual flu shot.Moving to Portugal Pros and Cons
Every country has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. If you're contemplating whether Portugal is the right fit for you, here's a quick rundown of its pros and cons:Pros
Pros- Most regions in Portugal enjoy pleasant weather for the majority of the year.
- The people are friendly, and the culture is welcoming to foreigners.
- The country is known for its fresh seafood and a thriving culinary scene.
- The cost of living and property prices are relatively lower than in many other European countries, particularly other Western European countries.
- Portugal boasts low crime rates and a democratic government.
- The ability to obtain EU citizenship after five years of living in Portugal.
Cons
- Healthcare can be a concern, especially for US citizens, as US health insurance and Medicare are not valid in Portugal.
- Goods and services may not always be readily available, particularly in rural areas.
- Moving away from loved ones can lead to feelings of homesickness, loneliness, and culture shock, particularly in a European country that is quite far away from the US.
Portugal versus Spain
Located in Western Europe and benefiting from a mild climate, both Portugal and Spain are popular destinations for expats. Portugal, being more affordable and relaxed than its neighboring EU country, Spain, has a property market that's seen more stability. While Portugal has traditionally been seen as a quiet retirement destination, investing in property in the country is now equally about potential returns as it is about lifestyle.Essential Steps for Relocating to Portugal and How We Can Help
If you're considering a move to Portugal, you must undertake several practical actions:Obtaining a NIF (Portuguese Tax Number)
Getting a NIF is the most important step in moving to Portugal. The NIF number is referred to as the "Número do Contribuinte" or the "Número de Identificação Fiscal," and is your tax identification number. You will need a NIF to perform any economic activity in Portugal, including:- Signing an employment contract
- Signing a lease
- Getting a mortgage
- Signing up for utilities
- Paying taxes
- Registering as a NHR
- Accessing healthcare and other social services
Setting up a Portuguese Bank Account
Operating a local bank account simplifies managing finances and paying bills in Portugal.
It also allows you to avoid fees related to international transactions or transfers.
Some establishments in Lisbon and other parts of Portugal only accept Portuguese bank cards or cash, making having a local bank card extremely beneficial when living in Portugal.
We can help you open an account with a leading Portuguese bank, no matter where you live. See: How to Open a Bank Account in Portugal.
Moving to Portugal: Recommended Reading
The following blog posts can help you in your journey moving to Portugal:- Living in Portugal as an American
- Moving to Portugal from the US
- Your Complete Guide To Working In Portugal As An Expat in 2024
- The Complete Guide to Retiring in Portugal
- Portugal Freelance Visa: A Guide for Digital Nomads and Freelancers
- Digital Nomad Portugal: The Definitive Guide to Portugal for Digital Nomads
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Move to Portugal:
Why is everyone moving to Portugal?
Many people choose to move to Portugal due to a high combination of factors: a high quality of life, affordability, safety, and a welcoming atmosphere. The weather in Portugal varies by region, but generally, the country has a favorable climate. Additionally, Portugal offers investment opportunities, such as the Golden Visa program, which attracts investors and entrepreneurs.Can American citizens move to Portugal?
Yes, American citizens can move to Portugal. They can apply for a residence permit and Portuguese visa corresponding to their purpose of stay in Portuguese territory, such as for work, study, or retirement.Can I move to Portugal without a job?
Yes, it is possible to move to Portugal without having a job lined up. Portugal offers various pathways for individuals who wish to reside in the country without immediate employment. Some options include retirement, study, investment, and family reunification.How much money do you need to immigrate to Portugal?
The exact amount can vary depending on personal lifestyle, location, and circumstances. However, as a general rule, the Portuguese immigration authorities require proof that you have sufficient means to support yourself. As of 2023, this was set at the monthly minimum wage level of €887 ($966.51) per month.Can Americans apply for a Portugal Golden Visa?
The Portugal Golden Visa program is open to non-EU/EEA citizens, including Americans. The program offers a fast track to obtaining a residence permit in Portugal through investment in the country.Is Portugal a safe country?
Yes, Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in the world. It has a low crime rate and is ranked as the third safest country globally by the Global Peace Index as of 2021.How long can a US citizen live in Portugal?
US citizens can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa. To stay living in Portugal, you will need to apply for a residence permit.Where do Americans live in Portugal?
Americans live all over Portugal, but popular destinations include Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region, known for its beautiful beaches and golf courses.Besides Portugal, where else can Americans relocate to?
Americans can consider a variety of countries for relocation, depending on their preferences and circumstances. Popular options include Canada, Mexico, Spain, France, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Costa Rica, and Thailand.What are some of the bad things about living in Portugal?
While Portugal has many positives, there can be some downsides, including a relatively high cost of living in major cities like Lisbon and Porto, limited availability of certain goods and services in rural areas, and potential language barriers (although there are various language schools and resources available for learning Portuguese). Also, bureaucracy can be slow, and some expats may find the pace of life a bit too relaxed. The country has a high tax rate, and while healthcare is generally good, there can be long waiting times for non-emergency procedures.Is it hard to become a Portuguese citizen?
Becoming a citizen typically requires meeting certain criteria and going through a process that can take several years. While it is not necessarily "hard" to become a citizen, it does involve fulfilling specific requirements and following the necessary steps. Here is an overview of the process under Portuguese nationality law:- Residency requirements: To become a citizen, one of the primary requirements is to obtain a Portuguese residence permit. This can be achieved through various means, such as working, studying, or investing in the country. The specific residency requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and the type of residence permit or Portuguese visa sought.
- Time requirement: Generally, to be eligible for citizenship, you need to have legally resided in Portugal for a certain period. The typical requirement is five years of continuous residency, although there are some exceptions. If you are married to a Portuguese citizen or have Portuguese ancestry, the time requirement may be shorter.
- Language proficiency: An important aspect of the citizenship process is demonstrating proficiency in the language. This requirement is typically assessed through language exams or interviews conducted by Portuguese authorities. The level of language proficiency required may vary depending on the type of citizenship application and individual circumstances.
- Integration and good conduct: Portuguese authorities also assess your integration into Portuguese society and your character. This evaluation may include factors such as your record, involvement in the community, and adherence to Portuguese laws and customs.
- Application process: To become a citizen, you need to submit an application to SEF or the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. The application process involves providing necessary documents, such as proof of residency, identification documents, language proficiency certificates, and other supporting evidence.
- Citizenship ceremony: If your application is approved, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony, where you will take an oath of allegiance to Portugal. This marks the final step in the process, and after the ceremony, you will receive your Portuguese citizenship certificate.
