Move from the US to Portugal
Learn all you need to know about getting a Visa for Portugal
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Move from the US to Portugal
What is the process?
If you’re planning to move from the U.S. to Portugal, the process starts with choosing the right type of visa. Here are the main options available for non-EU citizens like Americans:
1. Choose the Right Visa
The visa you need depends on your reason for moving to Portugal:
- D7 Visa – Ideal for retirees or anyone with passive income (such as rental income, dividends, or pensions). This is one of the most popular options for Americans.
- Work Visa – For those with a Portuguese employer sponsoring their stay.
- Student Visa – For students enrolling in a Portuguese educational institution.
- Digital Nomad Visa – Designed for remote workers employed by companies outside Portugal.
Golden Visa – Portugal’s Golden Visa program no longer includes real estate investments, but Americans can still qualify through alternative options such as investing €500,000 in Portuguese investment funds, creating at least 10 jobs (or 8 in low-density areas), contributing €500,000 to scientific research, or donating €250,000 to cultural or artistic projects (€200,000 in low-density areas).
2. Gather Required Documents
Each visa type has its own list of requirements, but common documents include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity)
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, pension letters, investment income, etc.)
- Comprehensive health insurance valid in Portugal
- FBI background check (with Apostille)
- Medical certificate confirming good health
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental contract, property purchase, or letter from a host)
For work or student visas, you’ll also need a contract from your employer or university acceptance letter.
3. Apply at the Portuguese Consulate
You’ll apply for your visa at the Portuguese Consulate that serves the state where you live in the U.S. This typically requires an appointment, and processing times can vary (usually 4-8 weeks).
4. Travel to Portugal
Once your visa is approved and stamped into your passport, you can officially move to Portugal.
5. Apply for a Residence Permit
After arrival, you must apply for a residence permit within your first 120 days. This is done at SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras), the Portuguese immigration authority. This residence permit is what allows you to stay long-term.
6. Register for Your NIF (Tax Number) and NISS (Social Security Number)
To live in Portugal, you’ll need:
- NIF – Your Portuguese tax number, which is needed for renting, banking, and signing contracts.
- NISS – If you plan to work or need access to Portugal’s public healthcare system, you’ll need a social security number (NISS).
7. Set Up Practicalities (Housing, Banking, Healthcare)
- Open a Portuguese bank account
- Enroll in private health insurance (if required by your visa)
- Secure long-term housing if you haven’t already
8. Understand Tax and Residency Rules
If you live in Portugal for more than 183 days per year, you become a tax resident, meaning you’ll need to declare worldwide income. Portugal offere the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, but it has been discontinued as of 2024, meaning new residents will be subject to standard Portuguese tax rules, making tax planning even more essential before relocating.
Optional: Work with a Lawyer or Immigration Advisor
Portuguese bureaucracy can be slow and complex, especially with documents in Portuguese. Many expats hire a lawyer to help with the residence permit, tax number, and other registrations. At Lexidy, we specialize in helping Americans move to Portugal—contact us for a free consultation on your case!
Type of Portuguese visas
1. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)
This visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period and is used for tourism, business trips, or short family visits. However, it does not grant permission to move to Portugal long-term.
2. Long-Stay National Visa (Type D)
If you plan to stay in Portugal for more than 90 days, you’ll need a Type D visa, which allows you to enter the country and apply for a residence permit upon arrival. The main categories include:
- D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa) – Designed for retirees or individuals who can support themselves with passive income from outside Portugal (such as pensions, rental income, or dividends). Applicants must show proof of sufficient funds (typically €820 per month for a single applicant), private health insurance, and proof of accommodation. This visa does not allow employment in Portugal.
- Digital Nomad Visa – For remote workers employed by companies outside Portugal. Applicants need proof of remote work, a minimum monthly income of €3,280, health insurance, and proof of accommodation in Portugal.
- Work Visa – For individuals with a job offer from a Portuguese company. The employer must provide documentation confirming employment.
- Student Visa – For students enrolling in a Portuguese university or educational institution. Applicants must provide a letter of acceptance, proof of sufficient funds, and health insurance.
- Golden Visa – While real estate is no longer a qualifying option, investors can still obtain this visa by investing €500,000 in eligible investment funds, contributing €500,000 to scientific research, or donating €250,000 to cultural projects. This visa grants residency for you and your family with minimal stay requirements.
- Family Reunification Visa – If you have a family member who is already a legal resident in Portugal, you may qualify for this visa by proving your relationship and showing they can support you financially.
- Spouse or Partner Visa – If you are married to or in a civil partnership with a Portuguese citizen, you can apply for residency by providing a marriage or partnership certificate and proof of your relationship.
- Researcher or Scientific Visa – For academics or researchers invited to work on projects in Portugal, requiring an official invitation from a Portuguese research institution.
3. Special Purpose Visas
Portugal also offers visas for specific situations, including:
- Religious Workers Visa – For clergy or religious professionals invited to work with religious institutions in Portugal.
- Volunteer Visa – For individuals participating in official volunteer programs recognized by the Portuguese government.
- Athlete or Coach Visa – For professional athletes and coaches working with Portuguese sports teams.
- Cultural or Artistic Visa – For artists, filmmakers, or performers contracted for cultural projects in Portugal.
Important Clarification
Unlike some countries, Portugal does not offer a general “long-stay visitor visa” for people who simply wish to live there without working, studying, or investing. For these cases, the D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa) is the best fit—especially for retirees or those with passive income.
What documents do you need?
The exact documents you need to move to Portugal depend on the type of visa you apply for. However, here is a list of the most common documents required for long-stay visas (Type D), which are necessary if you plan to live in Portugal for more than 90 days.
General Requirements for a Portuguese Long-Stay Visa
- Visa Application Form – Fully completed and signed, provided by the Portuguese Consulate.
- Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Portugal and have at least two blank pages.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photos – Usually two, meeting Schengen visa photo requirements.
- Proof of Accommodation in Portugal – A rental agreement, property purchase contract, invitation letter (if staying with family or friends), or a hotel reservation.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds – Depending on the visa type, you need to show you can financially support yourself in Portugal. This can include:
- Bank statements (last 6 months)
- Pension documents
- Proof of investment income
- Employment contract (if applying for a Work Visa)
- Proof of remote work income (for Digital Nomad Visa)
- Comprehensive Health Insurance – Private health insurance that covers your stay in Portugal, including hospitalization and repatriation.
- Criminal Record Certificate – An official FBI background check (or state-level check) with Apostille to certify authenticity.
- Medical Certificate – A document from your doctor stating you are in good health and free of contagious diseases. Some consulates require this to be issued within three months of applying.
- Cover Letter or Motivation Letter – Explaining why you want to move to Portugal, your plans, and how you will support yourself.
- Visa Fee Payment Receipt – The fee varies by visa type (usually around €90-€180 for most long-stay visas).
Additional Documents for Specific Visas
- Work Visa – Job offer/contract from a Portuguese employer and proof that the job was authorized for a non-EU citizen.
- Student Visa – Enrollment letter from a Portuguese university and proof you can cover tuition and living costs.
- Digital Nomad Visa – Proof of remote employment (contract with a non-Portuguese company), proof of income (€3,280 per month), and tax residency declaration confirming you’ll remain a tax resident outside Portugal.
- Golden Visa – Proof of investment, such as a €500,000 investment in Portuguese funds, €500,000 in research projects, or €250,000 in cultural projects.
- Family Reunification Visa – Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate) and proof that the sponsoring family member has legal residence in Portugal.
Important Note
All foreign documents (such as criminal record certificates, marriage certificates, etc.) must be officially translated into Portuguese and apostilled (if issued in the U.S.). Some Portuguese consulates may offer translation services as part of the visa application process.
What is the cost of living in Portugal?
Cost of Living in Portugal for Americans
The cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower than in the United States, especially when compared to major U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco. Even in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital and most expensive city, prices for rent, dining, and healthcare remain well below U.S. levels. Below is a breakdown of typical expenses to help American readers understand the financial side of relocating to Portugal.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is one of the most affordable aspects of life in Portugal, particularly outside Lisbon and Porto.
- Lisbon (city center): €900 – €1,500 ($980 – $1,630) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Porto and other large cities: €700 – €1,200 ($760 – $1,300) per month.
- Smaller towns and rural areas: €400 – €700 ($435 – $760) per month.
If you plan to buy property, Portugal offers some of the most competitive prices in Western Europe. In Lisbon, prices average around €4,500 – €6,000 ($4,900 – $6,500) per square meter, while in smaller towns or rural areas, prices can be as low as €1,500 – €2,500 ($1,630 – $2,720) per square meter.
2. Utilities & Internet
Utility costs in Portugal are moderate, but electricity bills can be higher in winter due to heating needs.
- Electricity, water, heating, and garbage collection: €100 – €150 ($110 – $165) per month for a small apartment.
- High-speed internet and mobile phone plan: €30 – €50 ($33 – $55) per month.
3. Groceries & Dining Out
Portugal offers high-quality fresh produce, seafood, olive oil, and wine at very affordable prices.
- Monthly groceries for one person: €200 – €300 ($220 – $325).
- Loaf of fresh bread: €1.20 ($1.30).
- Bottle of local wine: €4 – €8 ($4.40 – $8.70).
- Milk (1 liter): €1.30 ($1.40).
- Local cheese (per kilo): €8 – €12 ($8.70 – $13).
Eating out in Portugal is also very budget-friendly.
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €10 – €15 ($11 – $16).
- Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €40 – €60 ($43 – $65).
- Coffee at a café: €1.50 – €2.50 ($1.60 – $2.70).
4. Transportation Costs
Public transportation in Portugal is reliable and affordable, especially in Lisbon and Porto.
- Monthly public transport pass (Lisbon/Porto): €40 ($43).
- One-way metro or bus ticket: €1.80 ($2).
- Gasoline (per liter): €1.85 ($7 per gallon).
5. Healthcare Costs
Portugal’s healthcare system is much cheaper than in the U.S., with both public and private healthcare options available. Expats who obtain residency can access public healthcare, but many also opt for private insurance.
- Private health insurance: €50 – €150 ($55 – $165) per month.
- Doctor visit (without insurance): €50 – €80 ($55 – $90).
6. Education Costs
For families moving to Portugal, public schools are free, and university tuition is affordable. However, international schools come at a cost.
- Public schools: Free.
- Private or international schools: €6,000 – €15,000 ($6,500 – $16,000) per year.
- University tuition for non-EU students: Around €3,000 – €7,000 ($3,300 – $7,600) per year.
7. Entertainment & Lifestyle
Portugal offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of entertainment options at reasonable prices.
- Gym membership: €30 – €50 ($33 – $55) per month.
- Movie ticket: €7 – €10 ($7.60 – $11).
- Museum entry: €5 – €12 ($5.40 – $13), with free days for residents and students.
8. Taxes & Cost of Living Adjustments
Portugal’s tax system can be complex, and expats should seek advice before moving.
- VAT (sales tax): 23% on most goods and services (already included in prices).
- Property tax: Significantly lower than U.S. property taxes.
- Double taxation: The U.S.-Portugal tax treaty helps avoid double taxation for American expats, but professional tax advice is recommended.
Bottom Line: Is Portugal More Affordable Than the U.S.?
Living in Lisbon or Porto is much cheaper than living in New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, especially when it comes to housing, healthcare, dining out, and transportation. Life in smaller Portuguese towns is even more affordable, often costing half as much as a mid-sized U.S. city. Day-to-day expenses like groceries, coffee, and eating out are significantly cheaper, while healthcare provides excellent value compared to the high costs in the U.S.
What taxes will you pay?
What Taxes Do Americans Pay When Moving to Portugal?
If you’re an American thinking about moving to Portugal, understanding the tax system is essential. Once you live in Portugal for more than 183 days in a year, you become a tax resident, meaning you’ll need to report and potentially pay taxes on your worldwide income, not just income earned in Portugal.
Here’s a breakdown of the key taxes you should be aware of:
1. Income Tax in Portugal
As a tax resident, Portugal taxes your global income, including salaries, pensions, rental income, dividends, and freelance earnings.
Portugal’s income tax rates for 2025 are:
- Income up to €7,479 – 14.5%
- €7,480 to €11,284 – 23%
- €11,285 to €15,992 – 26.5%
- €15,993 to €20,700 – 28.5%
- €20,701 to €26,355 – 35%
- €26,356 to €38,632 – 37%
- €38,633 to €50,483 – 43.5%
- €50,484 to €78,834 – 45%
- Over €78,835 – 48%
2. Taxes on U.S. Income (like Pensions or Investments)
Even if your income comes from the U.S., Portugal requires you to report it if you are a tax resident. However, the U.S.-Portugal tax treaty helps avoid double taxation, meaning if you have already paid taxes on your U.S. income, you can offset that against your Portuguese tax bill.
3. Special Tax Programs (NHR is No Longer Available)
Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime ended in 2024, meaning new residents are now taxed under the standard Portuguese tax system. There are no longer flat tax benefits for retirees or foreign-sourced income, making tax planning even more important before moving.
4. Property Tax
If you buy property in Portugal, you’ll pay several property-related taxes:
- IMT (Property Transfer Tax) – One-time tax when buying a home, ranging from 0% to 8% depending on the value of the property.
- IMI (Annual Property Tax) – 0.3% to 0.8% of the property value, depending on location.
- Stamp Duty – A 0.8% tax applied when purchasing property.
5. Capital Gains Tax
If you sell property in Portugal, you’ll pay a 28% capital gains tax on any profit (unless reinvesting in another primary residence in Portugal). If you sell stocks or investments, capital gains tax may also apply, depending on your residency status.
6. Social Security Contributions
If you work in Portugal, whether for a Portuguese company or as a freelancer, you’ll need to pay into Portugal’s social security system (Segurança Social). Contributions are 21% to 25% of earnings for employees and 25% to 30% for self-employed individuals. This does not apply to passive income like pensions or rental income.
7. VAT (Sales Tax)
When you buy goods and services in Portugal, VAT (value-added tax) is included in the price.
- Standard VAT: 23% (applies to most goods and services).
- Reduced VAT: 13% (for food, restaurants, and some utilities).
- Super-reduced VAT: 6% (for essential goods like bread, medicine, and books).
8. Inheritance Tax
Portugal does not have an inheritance tax for direct family members (spouses, children, or parents). However, if you leave assets to non-family members, a 10% stamp duty tax applies.
9. U.S. Tax Obligations (Don’t Forget!)
Even after you move to Portugal, you must still file a U.S. tax return every year. However, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and Foreign Tax Credit can help you avoid or reduce double taxation. It’s highly recommended to work with a tax advisor familiar with both U.S. and Portuguese tax laws.
Bottom Line
If you’re an American moving to Portugal, your tax obligations depend on:
- Whether you become a tax resident (live in Portugal for more than 183 days per year).
- Whether you work in Portugal, retire, or live off passive income.
- Whether you buy property or plan to sell investments.
- Whether you need to structure your taxes to avoid double taxation.
While Portugal offers a high quality of life at a lower cost, understanding the tax system is crucial. Planning ahead and seeking professional tax advice will help you optimize your finances and avoid unexpected tax burdens.
Ready to navigate the complexities of moving from the US to Portugal? Contact our partners, experienced immigration lawyers, to receive personalized guidance, expert advice, and professional assistance with your visa application. Let us help make your extended stay in Portugal a seamless and successful experience. Reach out to us now to start the process!
How can a lawyer help me with moving to Portugal?
A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
Eligibility assessment: A lawyer will evaluate your specific situation, whether it’s for work, study, retirement, or family reunification, to ensure you meet the criteria for the artist visa.
Document preparation: They can help you compile the necessary paperwork, which typically includes:
- Proof of financial means to support your stay.
- Proof of accommodation in France (lease or property ownership).
- Health insurance valid in Portugal.
- A criminal background check.
- Specific documents depending on the purpose of the visa (employment contract, enrollment in a Portuguese institution, etc.).
Application submission: A lawyer will guide you through the submission process, ensuring that your application is properly filed with the Portuguese consulate in your country of residence or online. They can help avoid common mistakes that could lead to delays or rejections.
Navigating Portuguese bureaucracy: The visa process can involve complex and time-consuming administrative procedures. A lawyer can help you efficiently navigate these systems, making sure everything is in order for the visa decision.
Follow-up on the visa process: Lawyers can track the status of your visa application and ensure any additional documentation or clarifications requested by the consulate are promptly provided.
Residency permit: Once you arrive in Portugal, a lawyer can help with the next step: applying for your carte de séjour (residency permit). They will assist with the necessary appointments and paperwork to transition smoothly to residency.
Appeals and troubleshooting: If your artist visa is denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and address any issues in your application that may have led to the rejection.
If you’d like to explore how we can support you with the Portuguese visa process, feel free to book a meeting with us.
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in Portugal a reality.
Life
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Quality Life for You and Your Family
Why Portugal?
Obtaining a visa in Portugal offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it opens an opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to France’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, you will immerse in the warmth of French hospitality, savour its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
Cultural immersion
Experience the rich Portuguese culture.
Location
Explore Europe without visa restrictions.
Stable economy
Portugal has a stable and growing economy
Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned Portuguese food and wine.
Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
Skilled workforce
Portugal has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce.
Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Americans move to Portugal easily?
Yes! While Americans don’t have automatic residency rights in Portugal, the country offers several visa options, such as the D7 Visa (for retirees and passive income earners), the Digital Nomad Visa, and Work Visas. Once you obtain a visa, you can apply for a residence permit after arriving in Portugal.
2. What visa do I need to move to Portugal?
The visa you need depends on your reason for moving:
- D7 Visa – Best for retirees or those with passive income (pensions, investments, rental income).
- Digital Nomad Visa – Ideal for remote workers employed by a company outside Portugal.
- Work Visa – Required if you have a job offer from a Portuguese employer.
- Student Visa – Needed for those enrolling in a Portuguese university.
- Golden Visa – Available for those investing in funds, research, or cultural projects (real estate is no longer an option).
3. Can I live in Portugal without a visa?
Americans can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days within a 180-day period as a tourist, but if you plan to live there long-term, you’ll need a Type D visa and a residence permit.
4. How much money do I need to move to Portugal?
This depends on your visa type. For example:
- D7 Visa applicants must prove they have at least €9,840 per year (€820/month) in passive income.
- Digital Nomad Visa applicants need to earn at least €3,280 per month.
- General living expenses depend on location, but a comfortable budget in Lisbon or Porto is around €2,000 per month for a single person.
5. How do I apply for residency in Portugal?
The process involves:
- Applying for a visa at the Portuguese consulate in your home country.
- Traveling to Portugal once your visa is approved.
- Applying for a residence permit at the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) within your visa’s validity period.
6. Can I work in Portugal as an American?
Yes, but you’ll need the correct visa. The Digital Nomad Visa allows remote work for non-Portuguese companies, while a Work Visa is needed if you have a job offer from a Portuguese employer.
7. Do I need to learn Portuguese to live in Portugal?
While many people in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve speak English, Portuguese is the official language, and learning it will make daily life easier. If you apply for citizenship after 5 years, you’ll need to pass a basic Portuguese language test (A2 level).
8. Can I buy property in Portugal as an American?
Yes! There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Portugal. However, buying property does not grant automatic residency or a Golden Visa anymore.
9. What are the healthcare options for expats in Portugal?
Portugal has both public and private healthcare systems:
- As a resident, you can access the public healthcare system (SNS), but wait times can be long.
- Many expats choose private health insurance, which costs €50 – €150 per month and offers faster service.
10. How does taxation work for Americans in Portugal?
If you live in Portugal for more than 183 days per year, you are a tax resident and must report worldwide income. However, the U.S.-Portugal tax treaty helps prevent double taxation, and U.S. citizens must still file taxes with the IRS every year.
11. Can I retire in Portugal as an American?
Yes! Many Americans retire in Portugal, especially using the D7 Visa. Portugal offers a relaxed lifestyle, high-quality healthcare, and a lower cost of living compared to the U.S.
12. Is Portugal safe for expats?
Yes, Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere for foreigners.
13. Can I drive in Portugal with a U.S. license?
Yes, but only for 185 days after arriving. After that, you must exchange your U.S. license for a Portuguese one at the IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes).
14. What’s the best city in Portugal for expats?
It depends on your lifestyle:
- Lisbon – Best for city lovers, digital nomads, and young professionals.
- Porto – A more relaxed, artsy vibe with great wine and lower costs.
- The Algarve – Perfect for retirees, with warm weather and beachside living.
- Braga & Coimbra – Great for a slower pace of life, with lower costs.
15. Do I need an immigration lawyer to move to Portugal?
Not necessarily, but the visa and residency process can be complex. Many expats hire a lawyer to speed up the process, handle bureaucracy, and avoid mistakes.
16. How long does it take to get a visa for Portugal?
Visa processing times vary, but it typically takes 2 to 3 months from application to approval. Applying early is recommended to avoid delays.
Our Team
For us, Lexidy is a way of life and what excites us the most is to be able to deliver the happiness and satisfaction of a successful immigration process. We want to help you achieve your goals and dreams, whether it’s residence in Portugal or simply an investment.
Visit us: Rua Joaquim António de Aguiar n.º 43, RC Esq, Lisbon, 1070-150 (Portugal)
Write us: info@lexidy.com – Call us: +351 210 200 969
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