Dreaming of a life in Portugal? Here´s what you need to consider

Today there are more than half a million foreign citizens living in Portugal. The country has attracted a range of different people from entrepreneurs and project managers to foreign students studying abroad, and young professionals seeking internships in Portugal to aid their professional development. Most, however, don’t stay forever - around a third will go back to their country of origin.  

Portugal has done a lot in recent years to become more attractive as a country for emigration. One of the biggest draws is the pleasant climate the country offers and the relaxed way of life here; aspects of which have been lost to an extent in some more industrialised countries. 

Portugal is much more than sun, beach, and sea. If you’re planning to emigrate to Portugal, there are a few things you should consider. 

People come to Portugal for a variety of reasons. Many are looking for a change of pace and a new way life. Others move to Portugal for emotional reasons such as a love of the country, or even a sense of disillusion with their homeland. 

The mild climate of the Algarve and the Atlantic coast attracts many retirees. The weather, together with low levels of pollution, offers numerous health benefits. The cost of living in Portugal is also up to 20% lower than in Germany, and Portugal’s wonderful cuisine encompasses a wide variety of fresh foods, such as fish and vegetables. We can’t forget to mention the extensive range of affordable, high-quality wines produced in Portugal, which are perfect for enjoying in the gentle afternoon sun. 

Whilst most considering a move to Portugal think about stretching out on the beach and enjoying the sun, it’s critical to consider the practical side before you decide to make the move to Portugal. Once you arrive in Portugal there are a few steps you need to take. 

Firstly, you must obtain a tax number. It’s difficult to many things in Portugal without this tax number, which is called NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal). This number can be requested quite easily at your nearest tax authority. All you need is your identification an invoice with your name and the address of your current place of residence, which can be outside Portugal. Once you become a Portuguese resident, you will need to update this address to ensure your fiscal address is registered in Portugal. 

Portugal has been a member of the European Union since 1986 and this means, in principle, EU citizens can move freely within the country. Germans can spend up to three months in Portugal and any other EU country without a residence permit. However, if you want to reside and live permanently in Portugal, you must apply for a residence certificate at a municipal administration within 30 days of entering the country.  

As in Germany, you’ll register there with a valid identity card or passport, your Portuguese fiscal number, and a copy of a document confirming your place of residence in Portugal. If you already have a job or have sufficient financial means to provide for your own livelihood, you will be issued a registration certificate valid for an initial period of five years.  

Open a bank account immediately afterwards. To do this, you´ll need your passport or identity card, as well as a registration certificate, a tax number and proof of employment or retirement.  After this, you are ready to go and your new adventure in Portugal can really begin.