Move from UK to Portugal
Learn all you need to know about getting a Visa for Portugal
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Move from UK to Portugal
What is the process?
If you’re planning to move from the UK to Portugal, the process starts with choosing the right type of visa. Here are the main options available for non-EU citizens like British nationals:
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 pensions, investments, or rental income. This is one of the most popular options for UK nationals.
Work Visa – For individuals who have a Portuguese employer sponsoring their stay.
Student Visa – For those enrolling in a Portuguese educational institution.
Digital Nomad Visa – Designed for remote workers employed by non-Portuguese companies or freelancers with international clients.
Golden Visa – Portugal’s Golden Visa no longer includes real estate investment, but British nationals can still qualify through alternative options such as:
Investing €500,000 in approved Portuguese investment funds
Creating 10 jobs (or 8 in low-density areas)
Contributing €500,000 to scientific research
Donating €250,000 to cultural or artistic projects (€200,000 in low-density areas)
2. Gather Required Documents
Each visa type has its own requirements, but common documents include:
Completed visa application form
Valid passport (typically recommended to have at least 6 months’ validity)
Recent passport-sized photos
Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, pension letters, investment income, etc.)
Comprehensive private health insurance valid in Portugal
UK police certificate (ACRO) with Apostille
Medical certificate confirming good health
Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental contract, property deed, or host invitation letter)
For work or student visas, you’ll also need an employment contract or university acceptance letter.
3. Apply at the Portuguese Consulate in the UK
You’ll apply for your visa at the Portuguese Consulate that serves your region in the UK.
This typically requires an appointment, and processing times usually range from 4–8 weeks, depending on workload and visa category.
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 your residence permit within 120 days.
This is now handled by AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo), formerly SEF.
The residence permit is what allows you to live in Portugal 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, required for renting, banking, signing contracts, and more.
NISS – Needed if you plan to work or access Portugal’s public healthcare system.
7. Set Up Practicalities (Housing, Banking, Healthcare)
Open a Portuguese bank account
Set up private health insurance (if required by your visa)
Secure long-term accommodation 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 must declare your worldwide income.
Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime has been discontinued as of 2024, so new residents will fall under the standard Portuguese tax system.
This makes pre-relocation tax planning more important than ever.
Optional: Work with a Lawyer or Immigration Advisor
Portuguese bureaucracy can be slow and complex, especially when dealing with documents, translations, and appointments.
Many expats choose to work with a lawyer to handle:
Visa preparation
Residence permit applications
NIF and NISS registrations
Tax planning
Property or rental contracts
At Lexidy, we specialize in helping British nationals move to Portugal—contact us for guidance tailored to 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.
UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays, but must apply for a residence visa to relocate.
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 Portugal and then apply for a residence permit after 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
Proof of accommodation
This visa does not permit employment in Portugal.
Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers employed by companies outside Portugal, or freelancers with foreign clients.
Applicants must show:
Proof of remote work activity
A minimum monthly income of €3,280
Private health insurance
Proof of accommodation in Portugal
Work Visa
For individuals who have a job offer from a Portuguese employer.
The employer must provide documentation confirming the contract and job role.
Student Visa
For students enrolling in a Portuguese university or educational institution. Applicants must provide:
A letter of acceptance
Proof of sufficient funds
Private health insurance
Golden Visa
Although real estate is no longer a qualifying option, UK nationals can still obtain this visa through:
Investing €500,000 in eligible investment funds
Contributing €500,000 to scientific research
Donating €250,000 to cultural projects (€200,000 in low-density areas)
This visa grants residency to you and your family with minimal stay requirements.
Family Reunification Visa
For those joining a family member who is already a legal resident in Portugal.
You must prove the family relationship and show they have sufficient financial means.
Spouse or Partner Visa
For individuals married to or in a legally recognized partnership with a Portuguese citizen or resident. Requires:
Marriage or partnership certificate
Proof of a genuine relationship
Researcher or Scientific Visa
For academics or researchers invited to work on scientific projects in Portugal.
Requires an official invitation from a Portuguese research institution.
3. Special Purpose Visas
Portugal also offers visas for specific activities, including:
Religious Workers Visa – For clergy or religious professionals invited by Portuguese religious institutions.
Volunteer Visa – For those participating in officially recognized volunteer programs.
Athlete or Coach Visa – For professional athletes or coaches contracted by Portuguese sports clubs.
Cultural or Artistic Visa – For artists, filmmakers, or performers involved in cultural projects in Portugal.
Important Clarification
Portugal does not offer a general “long-stay visitor visa” for people who simply wish to live there without working or studying.
For these situations, the D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa) is the most suitable option—particularly for retirees or individuals 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 in the UK.
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 friends/family), or hotel reservation.
Proof of Sufficient Funds – Depending on the visa type, you must show you can financially support yourself in Portugal. This may 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 the Digital Nomad Visa)
Comprehensive Health Insurance – Private health insurance covering your stay in Portugal, including hospitalization and repatriation. Must have no copayments/excess.
Criminal Record Certificate – A UK Police Certificate (ACRO) with Apostille to certify authenticity.
Medical Certificate – A document from your doctor stating you are in good health and free from contagious diseases. Many consulates require it to be issued within 90 days of application.
Cover Letter or Motivation Letter – Explaining why you want to move to Portugal, your plans, and how you will support yourself financially.
Visa Fee Payment Receipt – The fee varies by visa category (usually around €90–€180 for most long-stay visas).
Additional Documents for Specific Visas
Work Visa
Job offer/contract from a Portuguese employer
Proof that the position has been approved for a non-EU citizen
Student Visa
Enrollment letter from a Portuguese university
Proof you can cover tuition and living expenses
Digital Nomad Visa
Proof of remote employment (contract with a non-Portuguese company)
Proof of income (€3,280 per month)
Declaration of tax residency confirming you will remain a tax resident outside Portugal
Golden Visa
Proof of eligible investment, such as:
€500,000 in Portuguese investment funds
€500,000 in scientific research
€250,000 in cultural or artistic projects (or €200,000 in low-density areas)
Family Reunification Visa
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
Proof that your sponsoring family member has legal residency 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 UK.
Some Portuguese consulates may offer translation services as part of the visa application process, but requirements vary, so always check with your regional consulate.
What is the cost of living in Portugal?
The cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower than in the United Kingdom—especially compared to cities like London, Edinburgh, or Brighton. Even in Lisbon, Portugal’s most expensive city, rent, dining, and healthcare remain well below UK levels. Below is a breakdown of typical expenses to help British readers understand what to expect financially when relocating to Portugal.
1. Housing Costs
Housing in Portugal is much more affordable than in the UK.
Lisbon (city centre): €900 – €1,500 (£770 – £1,280) per month for a one-bedroom
Porto / large cities: €700 – €1,200 (£600 – £1,025) per month
Smaller towns: €400 – €700 (£340 – £600) per month
Property purchase prices:
Lisbon: €4,500 – €6,000/m² (£3,850 – £5,130)
Smaller towns: €1,500 – €2,500/m² (£1,280 – £2,140)
All of these are significantly below London averages.
2. Utilities & Internet
Utility costs are moderate, though winter electricity bills can increase due to heating.
Utilities (electricity, water, heating, garbage): €100 – €150 (£85 – £130) per month
High-speed internet + mobile plan: €30 – €50 (£25 – £43) per month
3. Groceries & Dining Out
Portugal offers high-quality produce at lower prices than UK supermarkets.
Groceries
Monthly groceries: €200 – €300 (£170 – £255)
Fresh bread: €1.20 (£1.05)
Local wine: €4 – €8 (£3.40 – £6.80)
Milk (1L): €1.30 (£1.10)
Cheese (per kg): €8 – €12 (£6.80 – £10.25)
Eating Out
Inexpensive restaurant: €10 – €15 (£8.50 – £13)
3-course meal for 2: €40 – €60 (£34 – £51)
Coffee at a café: €1.50 – €2.50 (£1.30 – £2.15)
Eating out is noticeably cheaper than in most UK cities.
4. Transportation Costs
Portugal’s transport systems are reliable and cost-efficient.
Monthly metro/bus pass (Lisbon/Porto): €40 (£34)
Single ticket: €1.80 (£1.50)
Petrol (per litre): ~€1.85 (£1.60)
This is generally cheaper than London’s transport system.
5. Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Portugal is significantly more affordable than UK private healthcare.
Private health insurance: €50 – €150 per month (£43 – £130)
Private doctor visit: €50 – €80 (£43 – £68)
Once you obtain residency, you can access Portugal’s public system (SNS), which is inexpensive.
6. Education Costs
Public schools: Free
International schools: €6,000 – €15,000 per year (£5,130 – £12,820)
University tuition (non-EU): €3,000 – €7,000 per year (£2,560 – £5,980)
Still lower than many UK private school or university fees.
7. Entertainment & Lifestyle
Gym membership: €30 – €50 (£25 – £43)
Cinema ticket: €7 – €10 (£6 – £8.50)
Museum entry: €5 – €12 (£4.30 – £10.25)
Portugal’s lifestyle is affordable and full of cultural options.
8. Taxes & Cost of Living Considerations
VAT (IVA): 23% (included in prices)
Property tax: Lower than average UK council tax or stamp duty
Double-taxation: The UK–Portugal tax treaty helps avoid paying taxes twice, but planning is recommended
Bottom Line: Is Portugal More Affordable Than the UK?
Yes. Living in Lisbon or Porto is generally far cheaper than London, Edinburgh, or other major UK cities—especially in terms of housing, dining, transportation, groceries, and healthcare.
Smaller Portuguese towns can cost half as much as many mid-sized UK cities. Everyday items such as coffee, wine, and fresh food are significantly cheaper, making Portugal an attractive destination for Brits seeking lower living costs and a higher quality of life.
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.
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
Work
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 Brits move to Portugal easily?
Yes. UK citizens can move to Portugal, but since Brexit, you must apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) before relocating. Once approved, you can enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit.
2. What visa do I need to move to Portugal?
The most common options for UK nationals are:
D7 Visa (passive income/retirement)
Digital Nomad Visa (remote workers)
Work Visa (job offer in Portugal)
Student Visa (education programs)
Family Reunification Visa
Golden Visa (investment routes – no longer includes real estate)
3. Can I live in Portugal without a visa?
No. UK citizens may visit Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days, but living there long-term requires a Type D visa.
4. How much money do I need to move to Portugal?
It depends on your visa type. As a guideline:
D7 Visa: ~€820/month for the main applicant
Digital Nomad Visa: €3,280/month
You must also show proof of accommodation and funds to support yourself.
5. How do I apply for residency in Portugal?
First, apply for the correct Type D visa in the UK.
After approval and arrival in Portugal, you book an appointment with AIMA (formerly SEF) to obtain your residence permit.
6. Can I work in Portugal as a British?
Yes—if your visa allows it.
You may work in Portugal with:
a Work Visa,
the Digital Nomad Visa, or
a residence permit linked to employment.
You cannot work with the D7 Visa.
7. Do I need to learn Portuguese to live in Portugal?
Not legally. Many expats live comfortably with basic Portuguese, though learning the language will improve daily life, job opportunities, and integration.
8. Can I buy property in Portugal as a British?
Yes. There are no restrictions on property ownership for UK citizens.
Note: Buying property does not grant residency (it’s no longer part of the Golden Visa).
9. What are the healthcare options for expats in Portugal?
Once you get residency, you can access the public healthcare system (SNS).
Most new arrivals also use private health insurance, typically €50–€150 (£43–£130) per month.
10. How does taxation work for Brits in Portugal?
If you live in Portugal more than 183 days a year, you become a tax resident and must declare worldwide income, including UK pensions or rental income.
The UK–Portugal tax treaty helps avoid double taxation.
11. Can I retire in Portugal as a Brit?
Absolutely. The D7 Visa is one of the most popular options for British retirees with pensions or passive income.
12. Is Portugal safe for expats?
Yes. Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment.
13. Can I drive in Portugal with a UK license?
Yes—UK licenses are valid for use in Portugal. After obtaining residency, you must exchange your UK licence for a Portuguese licence within the required timeframe.
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?
It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended. The process can be complex (translations, apostilles, AIMA appointments), and a lawyer ensures your application is complete and compliant.
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)
Call us: +351 210 200 969
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