If you’ve been dreaming of a life filled with rugged Atlantic coastlines, cod fritters, and fado music, you’re not alone. Portugal has become one of the most sought-after destinations for expats thanks to its sunny climate, affordable living, and rich cultural heritage.
At Remitly, we know that immigrating to a new country comes with a lot of practical challenges. We’re here to support you by providing a clear roadmap that will help make moving to Portugal easier. In this guide, we’ll discuss visa requirements, cost of living, top cities, and steps you can take to help transition smoothly into your new Portuguese life.
Why move to Portugal?
The data doesn’t lie: about 1.5 million people immigrated to Portugal in 2024. The list of reasons why people favor Portugal is likely endless, but some of the most important selling points include:
- Affordability
- Natural beauty
- Welcoming culture
- Safety and stability
- Proximity to both Europe and the Americas
Types of visas and residency requirements
Portuguese culture is very welcoming to foreigners. The people are friendly and warm, but on top of that, the bureaucratic process has also been streamlined with expats in mind—an important element to consider when moving overseas.
Overview of visa options
Portugal offers both long- and short-term visa options for foreigners, making it easy to find a legal pathway that suits your situation. Here are some of the most popular visa options for foreigners entering Portugal:
- Visas for retirees, students, and skilled professionals: The D7 Visa is a passive income visa that allows individuals with sufficient funds—like retirees—to live in Portugal without taking on work. The Type D “Schengen National Long Stay Visa” is applicable for students pursuing academic degrees in Portugal. The D3 Visa is applicable to skilled workers who have secured a work contract with a Portuguese company. Your job contract is required as part of the visa application process.
- The Digital Nomad Visa: The Digital Nomad Visa is formally referred to as the D8 Visa. It allows non-EU employees of foreign companies to reside in Portugal while working remotely. You’ll have to demonstrate a minimum monthly salary of at least €3,480 plus sufficient savings and health insurance.
- The Golden Visa: This residency pathway is officially known as the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI). In order to be eligible for this visa, you’ll have to make a qualifying investment of half a million euros or a donation of a quarter of a million euros to causes that support the preservation of Portuguese cultural heritage.
Step-by-step visa process
If you’re ready to jump into life in Portugal, follow the steps below as you move through the visa process:
- Identify your visa pathway. The options above are just a few of the many possible visas—check in with your nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate to learn which visa is best for your situation.
- Prepare your application. Gather the necessary documents and submit a visa application. Although the specifics differ for each type of visa, the general requirements are as follows:
- A completed visa application form, found on the Portuguese Consulate or VFS website
- Your passport, valid for at least three months beyond the end of your intended stay in Portugal and with at least two blank pages
- Recent passport-sized photos with a white background
- Proof of funds, such as bank statements, recent pay stubs, or certified bank letters
- Proof of insurance, valid for the duration of your stay and including emergency medical care and repatriation
- Criminal record certificate from your country of origin and/or current residence
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal, for example, a rental contract or title deed
- Submit your application and pay the associated fees. This may require an in-person trip to your nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate.
- Wait for your visa decision. Long-term visa applications can take a few weeks to a few months, so make sure to factor this wait time into your relocation timeline.
Residency permits
When you’re entering Portugal for the first time long-term, you’ll have to apply for a visa. After entering the country, the next step is to apply for a temporary residence permit. Thinking long-term, if you maintain legal residency for five years, you earn the right to apply for permanent residency. Finally, you can usually apply for citizenship through naturalization after six legal years of residency in Portugal, which allows you to vote in Portuguese elections and hold a Portuguese passport.
Understanding the costs before relocating
Before you make any big decisions about moving to Portugal, let’s talk money.
Cost of moving
The cost of your relocation will start long before you board a plane to Humberto Delgado Airport. Your first costs will be those of your visa application and the required documents. You should also make sure to budget for flights, moving and shipping costs, and private health insurance.
If you don’t have a place to live set up, make sure you also consider the cost of temporary housing.
Living expenses
Once you arrive in Portugal, you can expect to pay about €1,200-2,000 per month as a single person. This monthly living estimate is based on the cost of housing, groceries, transportation, and non-essential expenses like entertainment and dining out.
A one-bedroom apartment in a small town or city might cost around €700 per month. On the other hand, in a sought-after destination like Lisbon or Porto, this figure could jump to €1,200-1,500 per month.
Budgeting tips
One of the best things you can do as you prepare your budget for an international move is to research and inform yourself about the actual costs of your destination.
You might want to consider the higher end of any price ranges that you find in your research. For example, the Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa requires a monthly salary that is four times the Portuguese minimum wage. This gives us some insight into the lifestyles of Portuguese natives versus expats.
It is always a good idea to have an emergency fund. This becomes especially important during chapters of your life that are less predictable, like undertaking an international move.
Where to live in Portugal
However you like to live, there’s a place for you in Portugal. Although you should definitely keep your eyes—and mind—open to all of the possibilities, we’re highlighting some of our favorites here for you.
Best cities and regions
- Lisbon: The capital city of Portugal is an amazing place to settle down. Cobbled streets, yellow trams, and beautiful architecture, like the 11th-century São Jorge Castle, are icons of this city. In Lisbon, you’ll have access to plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Lots of English speakers, job opportunities, and international schools make this a city for expats of all ages.
- Porto: If a capital city is too bustling for you, but you still want an urban lifestyle, Porto is a great option. This is Portugal’s second-largest city, located on the Douro River. It even has its own airport. The center of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its beautiful architecture. Outside of the center, you’ll find newer neighborhoods that are less popular with tourists, allowing for a more peaceful lifestyle.
- Algarve: If you dream of coastal living, the Algarve is the place for you. This southern region boasts some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches. Although the cost of housing here is a little bit higher than other places in the country, it remains a popular choice for expats, especially retirees looking for a life of relaxation.
- Coimbra: This city, located between Lisbon and Porto, balances quality of life with cost of living. Home to the University of Coimbra, it has a large student population and offers a wide range of housing options.
How to find housing
If you’re from a country with a visa-free agreement with Portugal, like the US or Canada, you can travel to Portugal for 90 days without a visa. You might consider traveling to Portugal to scout different cities as potential destinations to call home before you move. During this time, you can also view some apartments and make connections with realtors and landlords.
Once you’re ready to decide on a place to live, consider using online tools like Idealista.com to explore properties. You can also turn to WhatsApp and Facebook groups, expat forums, or Reddit to connect with potential landlords or real estate agents.
Once you’ve arrived in your new home, there are a few basics you’ll want to take care of as soon as possible.
Opening a bank account
In order to open a bank account with a Portuguese bank, you’ll typically have to show proof of identity, proof of employment, and your Portuguese tax number (NIF).
Accessing healthcare
Healthcare in Portugal depends on your residency status. If you’re an expat with a valid visa or residency permit, you’re entitled to public healthcare services in Portugal through the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS). When you arrive in Portugal, register with the SNS to receive your SNS user number. This is necessary for accessing public health centers and hospitals.
Learning the language
Many Portuguese natives speak English as it is the most commonly spoken foreign language in the country. However, if you’re looking to integrate into the culture, make local friends, and engage with the heritage of Portugal, learning the language is key. Learning the local language can also increase your job opportunities as an expat.
Aside from popular self-teaching platforms like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone, you can take live online classes with a native-speaker on sites like iTalki.com, enroll in local language schools, or look for language exchange opportunities through expat communities. There are also government-funded Portuguese classes offered to foreigners.
Immersing yourself in Portuguese culture
Once you’ve completed the bureaucratic process of moving to Portugal, it’s time to get involved with the culture and start building your community. Here are some suggestions for you.
Top places to explore
There are endless places to explore in Portugal, but some of our favorites that should top your list are:
- The Duoro valley: This area is perfect for lovers of wine and gastronomic experiences.
- Sintra: Get swept into a fairy tale while viewing colorful castles and palaces and exploring historic gardens.
- The islands: Put Madeira and the Azores on your list of places to visit. These islands showcase a landscape that’s totally different from mainland Portugal.
- Aveiro: This hidden gem is known as Portuguese Venice thanks to its canals.
- Praia da Marinha: If you’re going to the Algarve region, don’t miss this beach with beautiful cliffs and crystal clear water.
Cultural tips
Although business settings are still punctual and formal, Portuguese culture is generally pretty laid back. You can expect to be greeted with a handshake, embrace, or the European favorite: a kiss on each cheek. Keep in mind that these “kisses” are more like an air kiss than actual lip-to-cheek contact.
Portuguese culture is typically very respectful of elders, and it’s normal to use an honorific when speaking to people who are older than you.
It’s common to bring a small gift or token of appreciation when you’re invited to a friend’s house. This could be something like a small box of chocolates or a bottle of wine.
Some smaller towns and villages in Portugal will take a midday break. This is a time when businesses and restaurants might close before reopening again in the evening.
Community and expat networks
If you’re looking to connect with other expats in Portugal, we suggest checking out the following platforms:
Specific cities popular with expats will have communities you can engage with in person. They typically have a focus on engaging with local events, activities, and interests.
Moving to Portugal checklist
- Research and select the visa that’s best for you.
- Prepare all of the necessary documents.
- Submit your visa application.
- Set up phone service, banking, and health insurance.
- Set up temporary housing, if necessary.
- Apply for your temporary residence permit.
- Apply for your SNS healthcare number.
- Open a Portuguese bank account.
FAQs
What are three foods I should try in Portugal?
Don’t miss bacalhau or salted cod, which is Portugal’s national dish and is prepared in a variety of ways. Pasteis de nata or egg tarts are also a popular treat. If you’re looking for something meaty, pop into a bar or tasca to try a bifana sandwich or croquetas de carne.
Can I use my foreign driver’s license in Portugal?
For short-term stays, yes. However, if you’re staying for a longer period of time and you aren’t from an EU country or other country in agreement with Portugal, you’ll have to exchange your license for a Portuguese one within a certain period of time, usually 185 days.