How Hard Is It to Move to Portugal? Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve ever looked at dreamy pictures of Portugal and thought it would be a perfect home for you but got overwhelmed by the idea of moving, handling all the paperwork and Visa requirements, today is your lucky day.

Lately, Portugal has been attracting a growing number of people that are drawn to its sunny coastline, affordable lifestyle, and relaxed pace of life. But before you start packing your bags, you’re probably wondering how hard it is to move to Portugal, really?

The answer depends on a few things: your citizenship, the type of visa you need, how long you plan to stay, and what kind of lifestyle you want to build once you’re there. For some people, the move is surprisingly smooth. For others, the process can feel like a maze of paperwork and requirements. And that’s exactly what this guide is here to help with.

Because we’re covering it all. We’ll also look at the perks, the challenges, and what daily life looks like after you’ve settled in.

Why So Many People Are Moving to Portugal

Portugal didn’t always top the list of relocation destinations. But over the past decade, it’s become one of the most sought-after countries for people looking to reset their lifestyle.

Lisbon, Porto, and smaller cities like Coimbra or Braga have all attracted waves of remote workers and young families. Along the coast, retirees settle into beach towns like Lagos or Cascais, where healthcare is good, real estate is still (mostly) reasonable, and you can walk to your favorite bakery.

Portugal offers:

• A relatively low cost of living compared to the U.S., U.K., or parts of Western Europe.
• A safe, politically stable environment with universal healthcare.
• A climate that rarely dips below freezing and has over 300 sunny days in some regions.
• Friendly locals and growing expat communities.
• Accessible visa pathways for non-EU nationals.

But despite the sunny exterior, it’s not all seamless. A lot depends on your paperwork, your timing, and how well you’re prepared. 

Visas and Residency – What Are Your Options and What Do They Cost?

If you’re not an EU or EEA citizen, you’ll need a visa to live in Portugal long-term. How hard it is to move to Portugal depends on the type of visa you apply for and how well you fit the criteria. Some visas are straightforward; others take more time and planning.

D7 Visa (Passive Income / Retirement Visa)

This is one of the most popular options for retirees and remote workers who have stable passive income (like pensions, rental income, or dividends).

Requirements:

• Proof of stable, passive income
• Recent bank statements that show consistent earnings
• A valid passport
• Portuguese NIF number (tax ID)
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental contract, property ownership, etc.)
• Criminal background check from your home country
• Private health insurance that is valid in Portugal

Fees: Around €80-120 for the visa application, plus residence permit fees (~€160 once in Portugal).

Processing time: 60-90 days from your local consulate. Expect delays depending on demand.

So, how hard is it to move to Portugal with a D7 visa? If you’re organized and meet the income requirement, it’s one of the smoothest options.

Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa)

This is a newer visa introduced in 2022 aimed at remote workers and freelancers earning income from abroad.

Requirements:

• Proof of income in the form of bank statements (at least four times Portugal’s minimum monthly wage, which is around €3,480/month)
• Employment or service contracts proving remote work
• Proof of a clean criminal record
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal
• Health insurance coverage
• NIF number
• Valid passport

Fees: Around €250 in total between the consulate application and a residence permit.

Processing time: Roughly 2-3 months.

This visa can be a bit more documentation-heavy than the D7. But if you can show steady income and legit remote work contracts, it’s very doable.

D2 Visa (Entrepreneur / Freelancer Visa)

If you’re planning to start a business in Portugal, obtain an established Portuguese business or freelance for clients based there, this visa may apply.

Requirements:

• A business plan (if starting a company)
• Founding documents and bank statements (if the company is already open)
• Proof of self-employment agreement with a Portugal-based company (if you’re a freelancer)
• Bank account in a Portuguese bank 
• Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself (minimum -€12,000 in a Portuguese bank account)
• Accommodation proof
• NIF number
• Criminal background check
• Health insurance that is valid in Portugal

Fees: Around €250 for the process.

This visa is trickier to get unless you have a strong case for the business you’re starting. So, how hard is it to move to Portugal with a D2? It’s not impossible, but it’s harder unless you’re prepared to invest time into a solid plan.

Golden Visa (Investment Residency Program)

Portugal’s Golden Visa was once a go-to for investors, particularly through real estate. But in 2023, the government shut down that option. Now, investment must go through approved funds, like venture capital or cultural projects.

Current investment options include:

• €500,000 into an approved investment fund (such as the Unbound Fund)
• €500,000 for research activities that are a part of the national scientific and technological system
• €250,000 into cultural preservation projects
• Business job-creation pathways with significant capital investment (creating 10 jobs)

Fees: Around €6,000 to €8,000 per person, plus legal and fund fees.

Temporary Stay Visa (Short-Term Remote Work or Study)

These are non-permanent options if you want to stay for less than a year. They’re easier to get but don’t lead to permanent residency.

Requirements:

• Valid passport
• Valid travel insurance
• Criminal record certificate, issued by the authority of the country of the applicant’s nationality
• Proof of financial resources
• Copy of return transport title

Fees: Around €90 for the visa application

It’s worth noting that Portugal does have a reputation for bureaucratic slowness. Appointments with AIMA (immigration services) can take months. So even when you tick all the boxes, you’ll still need patience, and a local lawyer or relocation advisor can really help.

Language Requirements for Moving to Portugal

The language is one of the most common concerns when planning your move. While English is widely spoken in touristy areas, that only gets you so far. If you’re staying long-term, especially if you’re aiming for permanent residency or citizenship, you’ll need to learn Portuguese.

Do You Need to Know Portuguese Right Away?

No, not immediately. To get a visa, you don’t need to prove language skills. But if you plan to apply for permanent residency (after 5 years) or Portuguese citizenship (after 5 years of legal residence), then yes, it becomes mandatory.

Portugal requires applicants to pass a basic Portuguese language test as part of the citizenship or permanent residency process.

What Is the Language Test?

It’s called the CIPLE (Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira), which tests A2 level proficiency according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This is considered a “basic user” level, so you’re able to handle everyday interactions like buying groceries, visiting a doctor, or asking for directions.

What Does the A2 Test Involve?

The CIPLE exam is run by CAPLE (Centro de Avaliação de Português Língua Estrangeira) and has three parts:

• Reading and Writing (1 hour)
• Listening (Variable)
• Speaking (10-15 minutes)

To pass, you need a score of 55% or higher overall, with at least 25% in each part.

It’s not too hard, but it does take preparation, especially if you’re not familiar with Romance languages.

Who Needs to Take the Test?

You’ll need to pass the test if:

• You’re applying for Portuguese citizenship (after 5 years of residency).
• You’re applying for permanent residency (also after 5 years).
• You didn’t attend school in Portugal or a Portuguese-speaking country.

Some people are exempt, such as those with disabilities or those over a certain age (usually over 60), but most adults under 55 will need to take the test.

Cost of the Test

Taking the official CIPLE exam typically costs between €70-€120, depending on the testing center. You can take it multiple times per year at accredited centers in Portugal or abroad.

So, is it hard to move to Portugal if you don’t speak the language? Not very, at first. But long-term, you’ll need to make an effort to learn. It’s not just a requirement for citizenship, it’s a key part of building a life in Portugal.

The Path to Portuguese Citizenship

Getting a visa and moving to Portugal is just the beginning. For many, the ultimate goal is citizenship, not just the right to stay, but the freedom to live, work, and travel across the EU. And if you’re planning to move to Portugal with citizenship in mind, the process is clear, but it does take time and planning.

How Long Does It Take?

You can apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residence. This includes time spent under most long-term visas (D7, D8, D2, Golden Visa). You’ll need to prove that you’ve lived in the country legally and continuously (except for the Golden Visa, which requires an average of 7 days a year).

What Do You Need to Qualify?

Here’s a list of what’s typically required for a successful citizenship application:

• Proof of five years of legal residency (residence permits, lease contracts, etc.).
• A valid residence permit at the time of application.
• A clean criminal record in both Portugal and your home country.
• Proof of A2 Portuguese language proficiency (the CIPLE exam).
• Documentation such as a birth certificate, passport, and tax records.

You don’t need to give up your original nationality. Portugal allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your current passport (as long as your home country allows it too).

Application Process and Costs

The citizenship application is submitted to the IRN (Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado). You can do it online, by post, or in person at a registry office.

• Application fee: €250
• Language test: €70-€120
• Translation and notarization of documents: €100-€300 (depending on what’s needed)
• Optional legal help fees

You’ll also need to have your documents officially translated into Portuguese and sometimes legalized via an apostille if issued outside the EU.

Processing Time

Citizenship applications can take 1 to 2 years to be approved, depending on your case and how backed up the IRN is at the time. Bureaucracy is slow in Portugal, and delays are common.

So when someone asks how hard it is to move to Portugal and eventually become a citizen, the honest answer is: it’s not hard, but it’s slow. You have to be patient, persistent, and organized.

Is Portuguese Citizenship Worth It?

Once granted, you become a full EU citizen, with the right to live and work anywhere in the European Union. You get access to the public health system, education, and EU-level protections. Your children and spouse may also be eligible for citizenship through you.

Buying Property in Portugal: What to Expect

If you’re relocating long-term, it’s natural to think about buying rather than renting, especially in a country like Portugal, where property prices can still feel reasonable compared to North America or Northern Europe. But how does buying a home fit into the bigger picture?

Can You Still Get Residency by Buying Real Estate?

No, not anymore. Portugal used to offer residency through the Golden Visa program if you bought property above a certain value. But that pathway was officially closed in 2023 to prevent further housing pressure in key cities. You can still buy property, you just can’t use it to qualify for a visa.

What Is the Process of Buying Property?

Here’s what it generally looks like:

• Get a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal): This is a Portuguese tax number, and you need it before doing anything, from opening a bank account to signing a purchase contract. You can get one through a lawyer or a fiscal representative if you’re not yet living in Portugal.
• Open a Portuguese bank account: This will be used to transfer funds and handle purchase-related costs.
• Find a local agent or buyer’s advocate: A Portuguese real estate agent (imobiliária) can help, but many buyers also hire independent consultants to negotiate or double-check the deal.
• Make an offer and sign a promissory contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda): This outlines the terms and timeline of the purchase. You’ll pay a deposit (usually 10-20%).
• Due diligence and legal checks: A lawyer will check the land registry, zoning rules, and make sure the property has no debt or issues.
• Final deed signing (Escritura Pública): This is done in front of a notary. You’ll pay the remaining balance, plus all taxes and fees, and get the keys.

How Much Does It Cost?

Prices vary wildly by region. Here’s a general idea:

Other costs include:

• IMT (Property Transfer Tax)
• Stamp Duty
• Legal and notary fees
• Annual municipal property tax (IMI)

Should You Buy Real Estate Before or After the Move to Portugal?

Some people fly over and buy immediately. Others rent for a year first to get a feel for the area and understand how the system works.

Buying before you fully understand your neighborhood, commute, or local services can make things harder than they need to be.

Renting first is often the safer option unless you already know the area well or are working with a local you trust.

Buying real estate won’t make the visa process easier, but it can still give you a stable base to build your life. And if you’re planning to stay long-term, understanding how to navigate the housing market helps.

Is It Worth It? The Real Pros and Cons of Moving to Portugal

If you’re still weighing it all out, this table gives a clearer picture of what to expect, from lifestyle perks to the unavoidable hurdles.

What Does This All Mean?

The move itself isn’t extremely difficult, but adapting takes effort. You’ll need to manage paperwork, budget for delays, and work through a few cultural adjustments. But in return, you get a slower, sunnier, more grounded lifestyle that’s hard to replicate elsewhere, especially if you’re moving from a high-cost, high-speed environment.

It’s also worth noting that no one’s experience is identical. Some people get lucky with rentals and paperwork; others hit snags with language and logistics. But the more prepared you are, the easier it becomes.

What Life in Portugal Is Really Like After You Arrive

So you’ve got your visa. You’ve landed, unpacked, and maybe even learned how to pronounce “obrigado” correctly. Now comes the part that most people don’t talk about enough: what it’s actually like to live in Portugal day to day. Because answering how hard it is to move to Portugal doesn’t end at the border. The real adjustment starts after the paperwork.

Here’s what to expect when you’re setting up a new life.

Healthcare

Portugal’s public healthcare system is called the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS). It’s available to legal residents and mostly funded through taxes, so once you have a residence permit, you can access care with small co-pays.

• Family doctors are free, but getting an appointment can take time.
• Hospital care is generally reliable but comes with long waits for non-urgent issues.
• Many expats choose a private insurance plan as a backup. Prices range from €30-€100/month depending on your age and coverage.

Getting Around

Portugal has decent public transport in cities. Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra have metros, buses, and trams. But if you’re living outside those areas, you’ll likely need a car.

• You can drive with your foreign license for up to 185 days.
• After that, you’ll need to exchange your license (within 90 days of getting residency).
• Some non-EU citizens must take a driving test, but U.S., U.K., Canadian, and Australian licenses can usually be swapped without one.

Buying a used car is common, but prices are higher than you might expect, and you’ll pay road tax and inspection fees yearly.

Grocery Shopping and Food

The food is one of the big attractions in Portugal, local, fresh, and affordable. Markets are everywhere, even in small towns. Weekly farmers’ markets sell produce, bread, and fish, and big supermarkets (Continente, Pingo Doce, Lidl) carry most of what you need.

Imported items can be pricey or just unavailable. If you’re used to a specific type of almond milk or cereal, you may need to adjust. But local products, olive oil, wine, cheese, and produce are cheap and high quality.

Community and Culture

This one depends on where you land. Bigger cities have strong expat networks, co-working spaces, and language exchanges. Rural towns are quieter and more traditional, and speaking Portuguese goes a long way.

Portuguese people are generally kind, reserved, and family-focused. Building deep friendships takes time, but people appreciate consistency and effort. Showing up for a coffee or taking the time to learn the language really does matter.

Setting Up Your Life (and Dealing with Bureaucracy)

You’ll run into these common steps shortly after moving:

• Registering at your local town hall.
• Getting a health number for public healthcare.
• Signing up for utilities and internet (which can involve long wait times).
• Visiting AIMA for residency renewal or biometrics.

Tips to Make Your Move to Portugal Smoother

You’ve done your research. You’ve figured out where you want to live, maybe even picked your visa path. But even if all your boxes are checked, moving countries always has some friction. These tips won’t remove every bump, but they’ll definitely make it easier to settle in and feel like you know what you’re doing.

And really, that’s the heart of the question: how hard is it to move to Portugal? It’s a whole lot easier when you go in prepared.

Get Your NIF Early

This is your Portuguese tax number, and you’ll need it for pretty much everything: signing a lease, opening a bank account, setting up utilities, even ordering some things online.

Open a Local Bank Account from Abroad

Banks like Millennium BCP, ActivoBank, or Novo Banco may let you open an account before you arrive (especially if you work with a relocation service or lawyer). Having it ready makes transfers, deposits, and day-to-day tasks much simpler from day one.

Don’t Ship Everything

It’s tempting to box up your old life and ship it over. But customs delays, surprise taxes, and high freight costs are real. Most people who move end up realizing they didn’t need half of what they brought.

Budget for the Extras

Between visa appointments, document translations, transport to consulates, and emergency trips to the notary, you’ll spend more than you expect, even if Portugal is relatively affordable. Add 20-30% padding to your early budget, just in case.

Don’t Skip Language Basics

Even if you’re in Lisbon or the Algarve, where English is common, basic Portuguese changes your experience. Ordering coffee, asking directions, and reading signs; it all feels different when you can handle it yourself. And it builds goodwill with locals, too.

Consider Hiring Help (When It Counts)

You don’t need a lawyer for everything. But if you’re short on time, struggling with language, or working through a complex visa, having a local expert can save you weeks of frustration. This is especially true when dealing with property purchases, taxes, or immigration renewals.

How Bitizenship Makes Your Move to Portugal Easy

At Bitizenship, we work with people from all over the world who are ready to build a life in Portugal, and we make the process feel a lot less overwhelming.

One of the most seamless ways to relocate is through Portugal’s Golden Visa program. While real estate is no longer part of the qualifying investment routes, Portugal still offers a strong path through regulated investment funds. We specialize in helping you apply through this updated structure through our partnership with the Unbound Fund, which is fully eligible under current Golden Visa rules.

If you’re looking to invest in Portugal Golden Visa, we’ll guide you through:

• Investing
• Managing all legal and financial documentation
• Coordinating with Portuguese legal advisors and government offices
• Staying compliant through each stage of the process

We understand how complex international relocation can feel, and we’re here to simplify it. With us, you get more than just visa assistance. You get a partner committed to helping you create a stable, secure, and legally sound path to life in Portugal.

Conclusion

Moving to Portugal isn’t necessarily hard—but it does take planning, patience, and a clear understanding of the process. Whether you’re heading over as a remote worker, retiree, investor, or entrepreneur, the key is preparation. With the right visa, realistic expectations, and a willingness to adapt, settling into life in Portugal can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make.

Ale is the co-founder of Bitizenship. He cares about the craft of building quality products that make life better for people. He writes about these topics, as well as freedom, wealth, and global mobility, in a newsletter read by thousands of modern citizens.