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Relocation

Not Lost in Portugal

For a smooth relocation to Portugal

Your Relocation Checklist

From planning your move to settling in — follow these steps

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Before You Leave

1. Choose Your Visa Pathway

Portugal offers the D7 (passive income/pension), D8 (Digital Nomad), and Golden Visa. Each has different income requirements and document needs. A full-service provider can assess which fits you.

2. Get Your NIF (Tax Number)

You'll need a Portuguese tax number (NIF) for almost everything — opening a bank account, signing a lease, setting up utilities. You can get one before you arrive.

3. Open a Portuguese Bank Account

A Portuguese bank account is required for your visa application (proof of funds) and daily life. Specialist services can help non-residents open one.

4. Transfer & Prove Your Funds

You'll need to show proof of funds in a Portuguese account — typically 1 year of the minimum wage for D8, or your full year's passive income for D7. Use a low-fee transfer service to move money across.

Get your money where it needs to go

Depending on your region, you could be eligible for a discount on your first transfer using this link.

5. Find Accommodation

Browse mid-term rentals to get settled in your first months. Mid-term stays give you flexibility while you explore neighbourhoods in person.

Find mid- to longer-term rentals with Flatio

Usually runs a welcome bonus of around €20.

Find vetted rentals with Spotahome
🎟️ Promo Code:Use code STEV-17wr-T for up to €40 off.
Find budget rooms or apartments
🎟️ Promo Code:Use code UNILIRWKK for a discount on the service fee.
Explore Coliving Stays

Get substantial discounts when becoming a member.

6. Get Health Insurance

Visa applications require proof of health insurance. Even after you access the public system, private cover gives you faster access to care.

Get Monthly Health Cover

Flexible monthly travel health insurance.

Get Comprehensive Cover

Comprehensive international health insurance.

7. Get an eSIM for Your Phone

Stay connected from the moment you land with a prepaid eSIM — no physical SIM or waiting in line required.

Get an eSIM Discount

Get up to 63% discount on prepaid plans.

8. Start Learning Portuguese

Even basic Portuguese will make your transition smoother. Start with everyday phrases and build from there. European Portuguese differs from Brazilian.

Book a Tutor

Use this link to get $10 in italki credits.

9. Get a Criminal Record Certificate

You'll need a criminal record certificate (apostilled) from every country you've lived in the past 5 years. Allow several weeks for processing.

10. Verify D8 Remote Work Income

D8

The D8 Digital Nomad Visa requires a monthly income of €3,680 (4× minimum wage). You'll need an employment contract or client invoices proving remote income.

11. Verify D7 Passive Income

D7

The D7 Visa requires passive income (pensions, rentals, dividends, interest) of at least €920/month. Active employment income doesn't qualify for D7.

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When You Arrive

12. Register Your Residence

Within 90 days of arrival, register at your local council (câmara) for your residence certificate. Required for your residency permit appointment.

13. Attend Your AIMA Appointment

Schedule your appointment with AIMA to convert your visa into a residency permit. Bring all documents — NIF, proof of address, photos, background check.

14. Ship Your Belongings

If you're bringing more than luggage, a door-to-door baggage service can ship your boxes and suitcases to your new home.

Ship Your Baggage
🎟️ Promo Code:Get €5 off your first order with code STEVEN2143.

15. Register for Healthcare

Register at your local health centre (centro de saúde) for the public system (SNS). Private insurance gives faster access to specialists.

Get Comprehensive Cover

Comprehensive international health insurance.

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Settling In

16. File Your Tax Return (IRS)

Once you're a tax resident, you'll need to file an annual Portuguese tax return. Expert support helps you claim applicable benefits and stay compliant.

17. Keep Learning Portuguese

Now that you're immersed, keep building your skills. Practice with native tutors to handle daily life and bureaucracy with confidence.

Book a Tutor

Use this link to get $10 in italki credits.

18. Explore Your New Home

Discover the history and culture of your city. Book tours, visit landmarks, and make Portugal feel like home.

19. Apply for Your Residency Permit

If you need help converting your visa to a residency permit or renewing it, specialist services can guide you through the process.

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Ask away!

Got questions about visas, housing, banking, or healthcare in Portugal? Ask above and we'll find the answer.

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Not Lost in Portugal provides general information for educational purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content. You are responsible for verifying all information before making decisions. Always consult official sources and qualified professionals for legal, financial, or medical advice.

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