Factsheet: Portugal
Portugal is a Western European country of 10.5 million people, an EU member since 1986 and part of the Eurozone since 1999. Blessed with Atlantic coastlines, renowned gastronomy and a warm way of life, it now hosts one of the largest expat communities in Europe. Between the IFICI tax regime (successor to the NHR), D7 and D8 visas for remote workers and retirees, and an unmatched quality of life, Portugal stands as a top-tier destination for anyone looking to relocate to Europe.
Why choose Portugal?
Portugal combines rare advantages in Europe: EU membership, exceptional sunshine, gastronomy, Atlantic lifestyle, attractive tax regime and a massive international community that makes settling in easier. Here are the six main reasons thousands of expats choose Portugal every year.
No visa required for EU citizens. Full European legal protection, social rights, access to the single market and Schengen area without additional paperwork.
300 days of sunshine per year, 800 km of Atlantic coastline, renowned gastronomy (pasteis, bacalhau, wines), warm culture and a relaxed pace of life.
For eligible categories (tech, R&D, arts, education...), 20% income tax for 10 years. A significant tax advantage for qualified professionals.
Lisbon is 2h from Paris by plane, with only a 1-hour time difference in summer (0h in winter). Easy and affordable trips back home.
Huge expat community in Portugal. International schools, associations and active networks in Lisbon and Porto make integration smooth.
Portugal consistently ranks among the five safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index. Very low crime rate, welcoming culture.
Visa & Residence
Portugal offers several pathways depending on your profile. EU citizens benefit from free movement and don't need a visa to settle. For non-EU nationals or those wanting a formalized status, several specific visas have been created in recent years.
EU free movement
As an EU citizen, no visa is required. After 3 months, register at the local Junta de Freguesia for a residence certificate. The NIF (tax identification number) is the first document to obtain — mandatory for opening a bank account, signing a lease or subscribing to services.
D7 visa — passive income & retirees
The D7 visa targets individuals with stable passive income: pensions, rental income, dividends, investment returns. Apply at the Portuguese consulate in your home country. Initial visa valid for 4 months, then converted to a 2-year residence card, renewable for 3 years, then permanent residence.
D8 visa — digital nomads
Created in 2022, the D8 visa targets remote workers employed by or contracting for companies outside Portugal. Minimum income required: €3,040/month. Same procedure as D7 via the consulate. Valid for 1 year, then renewable for 2 years. Note: AIMA (formerly SEF) processing times can be 6 to 12 months for your first residence card.
Cost of living
Portugal remains 30 to 40% cheaper than Paris overall, but Lisbon has seen a dramatic price increase since 2018, especially in housing (+60% in five years in some neighborhoods). Outside of housing, food, dining out and transport remain very affordable. Porto and regional areas offer much better value than the capital.
Estimated monthly budget: €1,800–2,800/month (Lisbon) · €1,400–2,100/month (Porto)
📊 Taxation
Portugal was long celebrated for its NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) regime. Since January 2024, this has been replaced by IFICI (Incentivo Fiscal à Investigação Científica e Inovação), more targeted and restrictive. The France-Portugal tax treaty (1971, revised 2016) prevents double taxation.
🚀 For entrepreneurs
Portugal has established itself as a leading European tech and startup hub, notably thanks to the Web Summit held annually in Lisbon. The ecosystem is active, European talent is accessible, and legal structures are simple to set up.
❤️ Healthcare
Portugal's public healthcare system, the SNS (Sistema Nacional de Saude), is free for residents with a utente number (patient ID). It covers consultations, emergencies, hospitalizations and reduced-price medications. Wait times in the public sector can be long. Private clinics are of very good quality.
Where to live
Portugal offers very different vibes depending on the region. Lisbon concentrates professional opportunities and international life. Porto charms with its authenticity and affordability. The Algarve attracts families and retirees for its sunshine. Alentejo offers peace and vineyards. Madeira draws a growing digital nomad community.
Drawbacks to know
Lisbon rents have increased 60% in five years. The market is competitive, and finding an apartment in the city center requires planning ahead and networking.
The new IFICI regime is much more targeted than the former NHR. Foreign pensions, rental income and income outside eligible categories no longer benefit from exemption. Many expats have been disappointed.
The transition from SEF to AIMA has created significant delays. Getting your first residence card can take 6 to 12 months. Patience is essential for administrative procedures.
Contrary to popular belief, spoken Portuguese is very different from Spanish. True integration requires learning the language. Outside major cities and tourist areas, English is not widely spoken.
Portugal's minimum wage is €1,020/month in 2024, one of the lowest in Western Europe. If you're looking for a local job (outside remote/international tech), expect a significant pay cut.
The Alentejo and south-central regions regularly see temperatures above 40°C in July-August. Wildfires are recurring. Lisbon stays cooler thanks to the Atlantic influence.
Frequently asked questions
Is Portugal still attractive without the old NHR?
How do I get a D7 or D8 visa for Portugal?
How do I find an apartment in Lisbon?
How much do I need to earn to live well in Portugal?
Can I access Portugal's public healthcare system?
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