Moving to Portugal Checklist

Portugal is bureaucratic, but a checklist helps you navigate the papelaria (paperwork).

Phase 1: Visa & Legal

• Visa Application: Apply for your D7 (Passive Income) or Digital Nomad Visa in your home country 3-4 months prior.
• NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal): Get this tax number immediately. You can do it online via a fiscal representative (e-residence) before you arrive.
• Bank Account: Open a non-resident Portuguese bank account (e.g., Millennium BCP, ActivoBank, Novobanco).

Phase 2: Accommodation

• Lease Agreement: Most visas require a 12-month lease or proof of property ownership before approval.
• Atestado de Residência: Once in Portugal, register your address at the local Junta de Freguesia (Parish Council).

Phase 3: Healthcare

• Private Insurance: Required for the visa. Ensure it covers repatriation and starts from your arrival date.
• Número de Utente: Register at your local Centro de Saúde for access to the public health system (SNS) once you have your residency card.

Phase 4: Daily Life

• Utilities: Set up electricity (EDP) and water. Your NIF is required.
• Via Verde: Get a transponder for highway tolls if you plan to drive.
• Phone: Get a SIM card (NOS, MEO, Vodafone).

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