Moving to Portugal from USA: Benefits and Process for Americans

Thanks to its pleasant climate, high quality of life, and favourable visa policies, Portugal is an attractive destination for US citizens looking to relocate.

US citizens have the right to enter Portugal without a visa and stay there for 90 days. However, obtaining a residence permit is necessary for Americans who wish to stay in Portugal longer.

Portugal residency visa types for Americans. There are various options for living in Portugal as an American for the long term, which are suitable for people with different purposes for moving to the country. Some of these options are:

• the Portugal Golden Visa for investors;

• the Portugal D7 Visa for those who have a constant passive income;

• the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers;

• the Startup Visa for foreigners who intend to open a business in the country;

• the Portugal D2 Visa for entrepreneurs;

• student visas for those who are enrolled in a higher education institution in Portugal;

• the D1 Visa for individuals invited to work for a Portuguese employer.

Whether through passive income, entrepreneurship, remote work, or investment, Portugal offers a welcoming environment and favourable conditions for expatriates. The Golden Visa and the D7 Visa are most suitable for wealthy foreigners.

Americans can live in Portugal permanently by following the appropriate immigration procedures. They must start by obtaining a temporary residence permit, which can be acquired through various visa types, such as the D7 Visa, D2 Visa, D8 Visa, or Golden Visa.

The process to permanent residency involves the following steps:

1. Applying for a relevant visa.

2. Entering Portugal once your visa is approved, you will receive a temporary visa to enter Portugal.

3. Obtaining individual tax number — o Número de Identificação Fiscal, NIF.

4. Applying for a residence permit.

5. Holding a temporary residence permit for five consecutive years.

6. Providing proof of accommodation in Portugal.

7. Having a clean criminal record.

8. Demonstrating basic knowledge of the Portuguese language at A2 level.

9. Applying for a permanent residence permit.

10. Attending an interview if required.

After holding a residence permit for 5 years, a resident may be eligible to apply for citizenship in Portugal.

Once granted citizenship, one will be entitled to all the rights and responsibilities of Portuguese citizens, including the right to live and work in Portugal and the EU without restrictions.

Americans move to Portugal in droves. According to the statistics, the USA is among the top three nations after China and Brazil, with 781 approved applications for the Portugal Golden Visa in 2023.

Here are some of the features that attract Americans to Portugal.

1. Friendliness to immigrants. Portugal was ranked 10th world’s best destination for expats in the Expat Insider 2023 survey. The rating considered many factors in four categories: quality of life, ease of settling in, personal finance, and working abroad.

The locals are hospitable to new residents of the country. Currently, immigrants make up 6% of the population in Portugal.

2. Safety. In 2024, Portugal ranked 7th in the Global Peace Index’s top of the safest countries.

The country received such an assessment based on 23 parameters, including the number of crimes, the degree to which citizens' rights and freedoms are respected, and the availability of firearms.

3. Climate. Portugal has a mild subtropical climate without extreme temperature fluctuations. In the north, the maritime climate is dominated by the Gulf Stream.

Summer is dry and sunny but not hot there, and the temperature in winter ranges +4…+10°С. Together with almost 300 sunny days a year, this makes Portugal one of the most comfortable countries in terms of climate.

Costs of moving to Portugal. There are many variables to consider while discussing moving costs. The cost of relocating to Portugal from the US will include:

• flight tickets;

• long-term visa fees;

• renting payment or buying one;

• medical insurance.

Immigrating to Portugal from the US alone will be less expensive than proceeding with a partner or children. If you’re moving to Portugal as a couple, you should be budgeting around €10,000 to cover yourself.

Costs and quality of life in Portugal. Portugal is the only European country included in the top 10 best expat destinations according to the InterNations rating. However, Portugal remains one of the cheapest countries in the EU. Consumer Prices in Portugal are, on average, 50,4% lower than in the United States.

Like in the US, prices in Portugal depend on the region. For example, prices in Lisbon are mostly higher than those in Porto.

Traditionally, Americans tend to choose three main destinations for living in Portugal, where the community of American expats is numerous.

Lisbon is the capital of the country and the largest city in Portugal. It may be suitable for those who do not want to give up the advantages of living in a big city, with its developed infrastructure, transport accessibility, nightlife, and faster pace of life.

However, Lisbon is not a metropolis. About three million people live there, so the city may seem relatively small compared to New York with about nine million.

Lisbon is also popular with digital nomads. It is chosen for a successful combination of conditions for work, leisure, and proximity to nature.

Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, rivalling Lisbon in terms of tourist attractions and entertainment. It is considered the centre of cultural life in Portugal.

The city is located in the valley of the Douro River, where the famous Port wine originated. There you can find the best authentic wine in Portugal and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.

The Algarve is the most southern region of Portugal. Its golden beaches attract those who move to Portugal to live by the sea. There you can find the most developed infrastructure for a beach holiday and the best marinas in Portugal.

The Algarve region has the most Blue Flag beaches. This award is given to places with the cleanest waters and the best conditions for recreation.

One of the easiest ways to obtain a long-term residence permit in Portugal is to participate in its residency-by-investment program. In this case, you do not need to learn the language and confirm your education and professional qualifications, as in the cases of work and student visas.

The entire process of getting a residence permit in Portugal by investment usually takes 12 months. This time is needed to prepare all the necessary documents, make the investment, apply, and pass the Due Diligence check.

The Portugal Golden Visa program provides an opportunity to obtain a residence permit in Portugal by investing in the country’s economy:

• €250,000 in the culture, art, or reconstruction of the national heritage;

• €500,000 in investment fund shares;

• €500,000 in a business with the creation of at least five jobs;

• €500,000 in research programs;

• opening a company and creating at least ten jobs in Portugal.

The most popular option is the purchase of shares of investment funds.

Investors’ close relatives may also get a residence permit. Spouses, children under 26, and parents of the main applicants may participate in the residency-by-investment program.

The family composition doesn’t affect the minimum investment amount. Only the additional costs, like the government fees, tend to grow with the number of relatives in the application.

The D7 Visa is designed for those with a permanent passive income source. The income should be at least equal to the minimum monthly wage in Portugal. In 2024, this is €820 per month.

The income must come outside of Portugal, although a residence permit then allows its holder to work in Portugal. The source of income can be almost anything if it is legal and documented: pension, dividends, interest, royalties.

In 2024, Portugal entered the top 5 countries for retirement according to Living Magazine’s annual Global Retirement Index. The rating is based on the results of a survey of hundreds of retired immigrants across the world. Portugal is considered as the easiest European country for North Americans to move to.

The minimum required income also depends on the number of applicants that are included in the original application:

• main applicant — 100% of the minimum wage;

• spouse or parents of the main applicant — 50% of the minimum wage per person;

• dependent children — 30% of the minimum wage per person.

Another requirement to obtain a D7 visa is that the applicant must rent or buy housing in Portugal for themselves and the family members included in the application.

Applicants get a residence permit after the D7 visa; the first permit is valid for two years, and every consequent one is issued for three years. To retain residency, one must spend 1.5 consecutive years in the first 2 years or 16 months in total over 2 years.

Investor’s eligibility. To participate in the Golden Visa Program and D7 programs, an applicant must be over 18 years old and have no criminal record. Also, both visa categories require medical insurance.

The difference is that to obtain a Golden Visa, the investor confirms the legality of the origin of the funds from abroad, and the applicant for the D7 visa provides evidence of passive income.

Family eligibility. The application can include spouses, children and financially dependent parents for both visas.

However, the Golden Visa offers more flexible conditions. The maximum age for adult children is 26, and for a D7 visa, it is 21.

Obtaining time for visa D7 is shorter, usually taking six months, while getting a Golden Visa will take twice as long.

Stay requirements are also different. To maintain a Golden Visa, investors must stay in Portugal 7 days per year. To retain residency after D7, one must spend 1.5 consecutive years in the first 2 years or 16 months over 2 years.

A residence permit validity period under both programs is 2 years for the first permit and 3 years for the consequent one.

Expenses on obtaining residency are much lower under the D7 visa as it doesn’t require investments in the Portuguese economy.

The Startup Visa is designed for non-EU entrepreneurs who aim to launch innovative businesses in Europe. It encourages the establishment of startups that can contribute to the economic development and innovation landscape of the host country.

To be eligible, the applicant must have:

• an innovative business idea;

• a business plan should demonstrate the potential for job creation and economic impact;

• endorsement from a recognized incubator or accelerator;

• sufficient funds to support the business and personal living expenses.

The applicant must get project approval from an accredited business incubator that will accelerate the startup and submit an application to the Portuguese Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation, IAPMEI.

The D2 Visa, also known as the Entrepreneur Visa, is aimed at non-EU nationals who want to start or invest in a business in Portugal. This visa is ideal for traditional business ventures, including small and medium enterprises.

To be eligible, the applicant must have:

• business plan showcasing viability and potential economic impact;

• proof of financial means to support personal living expenses — €9,840 per annum;

• ability to create jobs for Portuguese nationals.

The D2 visa minimum investment under this option is not set. The business must have a clear economic impact on the local market.

The Digital Nomad Visa, also known as D8, targets remote workers and freelancers who wish to live in Portugal while working for foreign companies. This visa supports the growing trend of digital nomadism and caters to those who do not plan to start a business locally.

To be eligible, the applicant must have the following:

• proof of remote employment or freelance work;

• minimum monthly income threshold to ensure financial self-sufficiency — €3,280;

• health insurance coverage valid in Portugal.

The D8 Visa is perfect for digital nomads seeking the freedom to live and work remotely in Portugal without establishing a local business.

Both the US and Portugal allow their citizens to have dual citizenship. This means that a US citizen can become a Portuguese citizen and have two citizenships at once, enjoying the full range of benefits.

After five years of legal residence in Portugal, a foreigner may apply for a permanent residence permit. Instead, they can immediately apply for Portuguese citizenship by naturalisation.

Obtaining Portugal citizenship takes 7—12 months. This timeline consists of the following steps:

1. Applying for citizenship. You can do it in person or by mail to the Central Registry Office.

2. The application is sent to the Central Registry Office by the department that has registered the application. This step takes up to 48 hours.

3. The Central Registry office conducts the preliminary verification of the documents. If any data is missing, the applicant gets informed and has 20 days to complete the set of documents.

4. The Central Registry Office requests additional information from the police and the Agency for Integration, Migrations and Asylum of Portugal.

5. The Central Registry Office approves the application and sends the documents to the Ministry of Justice.

6. The Ministry of Justice makes the final decision.

7. The ID cards of the new citizens of Portugal are produced and issued to the applicants.

To qualify for Portugal citizenship, the applicant must meet five requirements:

1. Resident status for at least five years.

2. Age 18+.

3. Knowledge of the Portuguese language confirmed by an A2 certificate.

4. No criminal record.

5. No threat to national security.

Minor children may also get Portugal citizenship if their parents have retained residency for five years. Children under 12 do not need to take a language proficiency test.

There is also a list of documents required for applying for citizenship in Portugal:

• an application form filled out in Portuguese;

• two identical passport photographs;

• valid passport or certified copy;

• evidence of stable and regular resources sufficient for the main applicants and their relatives;

• supporting documents for accommodation in Portugal

• a certificate of no criminal record from the USA and other countries where the applicant has lived continuously for more than one year;

• the proof of holding residency for at least five years;

• the proof of Portuguese knowledge at the A2 level or higher.

Portugal’s culture is a mosaic of historical influences shaped by various civilizations and events over the centuries.

The country’s history dates back to the Roman Empire and the Age of Discoveries, which significantly influenced global exploration. The Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences are evident in the architecture, art, and traditions.

Key historical sites such as the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon and the ancient city of Evora offer a glimpse into Portugal’s past. These landmarks are tourist attractions and cultural touchstones that reflect the country’s evolution.

Communication. Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, and learning it can greatly enhance your experience and integration. While many Portuguese people speak English, especially in urban areas, speaking the local language is highly appreciated and can help build better connections.

Common phrases such as:

• "Bom dia" — “Good morning”;

• "Obrigado" for men and “Obrigada” for women — “Thank you”;

• "Por favor" — “Please”.

Festivals and traditions. The Festa de São João in Porto, characterised by fireworks and street parties, and the Festa de Santo António in Lisbon, known for sardine grilling and traditional parades, are among the most popular. These festivals are not only about celebration but also reflect the region’s community spirit and cultural heritage.

Regional traditions, such as the Azorean bullfights or the folk dances of the Alentejo, offer a glimpse into the diverse cultural practices across Portugal. Engaging in these festivals and traditions can provide a deeper understanding of Portuguese culture and community life.

Cuisine and dining etiquette. Portuguese cuisine is a mix of flavours heavily influenced by the country’s history of exploration and trade. Traditional dishes that are highly recommended to try:

• “Bacalhau” — salted cod;

• “Caldo Verde” — green soup;

• “Pastel de Nata” — custard tart.

Dining in Portugal is a social affair, often involving extended family gatherings and long, leisurely meals. Sharing meals is a way to build relationships and enjoy the rich culinary heritage.

Family and social structure. Family is the cornerstone of Portuguese society. Strong family ties and frequent gatherings are common, reflecting the importance of familial bonds. This social structure influences various aspects of daily life, from living arrangements to social activities.

Social norms in Portugal are shaped by respect for tradition and courtesy. Gender roles are traditionally defined, but modern Portuguese society is increasingly progressive.

Arts and music. Portugal’s artistic heritage is rich and diverse, encompassing various forms such as literature, visual arts, and music. Fado, the soulful genre of music, is an integral part of Portuguese culture. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, Fado songs often reflect longing, love, and loss themes.

Portuguese literature has significantly contributed to world literature, with notable figures like Fernando Pessoa and José Saramago.

The country’s museums and galleries show both historical and contemporary works.

Football. Sports are an integral part of Portuguese culture, with football being the most popular. Portuguese people are passionate about their football clubs, and attending a match can be a thrilling experience. Other popular sports include surfing, with Portugal’s coastline offering some of the best surf spots in Europe, and bullfighting, which is practised in a uniquely Portuguese style in certain regions.

Portugal is home to one of the most prestigious football clubs in the world, S.L. Benfica. Located in Lisbon, Benfica holds the Guinness World Record for the highest number of members for a sports club.

Work culture and business etiquette. Portugal’s work culture is characterised by a balance between professionalism and personal relationships. Business meetings often begin with small talk to build rapport, and punctuality is appreciated.

Business etiquette includes dressing conservatively, addressing people by their titles, and maintaining a respectful demeanour.

Religion. Catholicism is the dominant religion in Portugal, deeply influencing its culture and daily life. Most Portuguese people identify as Roman Catholic, and this faith is woven into various aspects of the country’s traditions and customs.

Religious holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and the Feast of the Assumption are widely celebrated, often with special masses, processions, and family gatherings. These events are not only religious observances but also cultural celebrations that bring communities together.

The presence of churches and religious symbols is common throughout Portugal, reflecting the importance of faith in daily life. Participation in religious activities and respect for these traditions can provide insight into the spiritual and cultural fabric of the country.

Holidays. Portugal celebrates a variety of national holidays, each with its own set of customs and traditions. National holidays like Dia de Portugal, Portugal Day, celebrated on June 10th, and Dia da Liberdade, Freedom Day, commemorating the Carnation Revolution on April 25th, are significant for their historical and cultural importance.

Education in Portugal is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 18. Portugal offers education at world-famous schools and universities and a wide range of international general education schools.

The education system in Portugal is divided into several stages:

• pre-primary education, ages 3—5;

• primary education, ages 6—10;

• lower secondary education, ages 11—14;

• upper secondary education, ages 15—18.

Primary education in Portugal focuses on foundational skills such as reading, writing, and arithmetic, as well as basic science, history, and geography knowledge. The curriculum includes physical education, arts, and moral and civic education.

Portuguese secondary education is widely recognized abroad as schools follow the IB Diploma Programme — the generally accepted secondary education program.

Higher education includes universities and polytechnic institutes offering undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

According to the World Index of Healthcare Innovation 2022, Portugal’s healthcare system ranks 22nd among 32 European countries. WIHI explore health care systems across four dimensions:

1. Quality.

2. Choice.

3. Science and Technology.

4. Fiscal sustainability.

The high life expectancy also confirms the quality of Portuguese medicine: according to the World Population Review, Portugal’s average life expectancy is 80 years.

Portugal Golden Visa holders have full coverage insurance — this is a prerequisite for a residence permit.

Portugal’s national healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde, SNS, typically covers certain treatment costs for those legally residing and working in Portugal. This option is available for those who pay Portuguese social security, segurança social, and their dependent family members.

People who work or have worked in both the US and Portugal may also benefit from the Agreement Between the United States and Portugal, which helps them avoid paying social security taxes to both countries on the same earnings.

Expats with Portugal citizenship have access to the public health system.

The job market in Portugal offers both opportunities and challenges for American expats. While the country offers a high quality of life, the job market can be competitive and limited, especially for non-EU citizens.

Wages in Portugal are relatively low compared to those in the US and other Western European countries. The average monthly salary in Portugal hovers around €1,500.

Despite the overall low wages, some sectors have a higher demand for skilled workers:

1. Information Technology. There’s a growing demand for IT professionals, including software developers and network engineers.

2. Tourism and hospitality. Given Portugal’s thriving tourism industry, jobs in hospitality management, tour guiding, and customer service are more readily available.

3. English teaching. Native English speakers often find opportunities in teaching, though these positions typically offer modest salaries.

Job search. One of the most critical pieces of advice for Americans considering a move to Portugal is to secure a job before relocating. The Portuguese job market can be challenging to navigate, especially for non-EU citizens who may face additional bureaucratic hurdles.

Online job search strategies:

• use job websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are invaluable resources for job hunting;

• join expat groups on social media platforms and attend virtual networking events;

• check the career pages of companies you’re interested in.

Working remotely for a company in one’s home country can lead to a stable income in Portugal. These workers can move to Portugal from the US on a Digital Nomad Visa.

Renting a home in Portugal, especially in its major cities, has become increasingly popular due to the growing expat community and the desire for flexibility among locals. However, the rental market in Portugal has its own challenges and advantages.

In Lisbon, the capital city, rental prices have surged dramatically over the past few years. As of 2024, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can range from €1,200 to €1,500, while a similar apartment outside the city centre may cost between €700—1,000.

Porto, the country’s second-largest city, is slightly more affordable. City centre rents for a one-bedroom apartment range between €900 and 1,300, and outside the centre, between €600 and 900.

Other cities like Faro, Coimbra, and Braga offer more affordable options, with rents generally lower than in Lisbon and Porto.

A standard lease agreement typically lasts one year and can be renewed automatically unless either party decides to terminate it. The contract must be in writing and clearly outline the rental price, duration, and lease terms.

Mortgages in Portugal. Obtaining a mortgage in Portugal is a common path for both residents and expats looking to buy property. The mortgage market offers various options, catering to different financial needs and situations.

To get a mortgage, foreigners with legal residency and NIF must open a bank account.

In Portugal, several types of mortgages are available to prospective buyers:

1. Fixed-Rate mortgages. The interest rate remains constant throughout the loan term, providing stability in monthly payments.

2. Variable-rate mortgages. The interest rate can fluctuate based on market conditions, typically tied to the Euribor rate.

3. Mixed-rate mortgages. These combine fixed and variable rates, starting with a fixed rate for an initial period and then switching to a variable rate.

As of 2024, mortgage rates in Portugal are relatively low compared to historical standards, influenced by the European Central Bank’s policies. Fixed-rate mortgages range from 2 to 3%, while variable-rate mortgages often start below 2%. However, rates can vary based on the lender, the borrower’s financial profile, and the loan-to-value, LTV ratio.

Most Portuguese banks offer mortgages with terms ranging from 20 to 30 years. The maximum LTV ratio is typically around 80%, meaning borrowers must provide at least a 20% down payment. For non-residents, some banks may offer up to 90% LTV.

Learning Portuguese can significantly enrich your experience in Portugal. While many people in Portugal, especially in tourist areas and larger cities, speak English, knowing Portuguese allows you to dive deeper into the culture and connect with people more personally.

Speaking Portuguese shows respect for the native culture and traditions, which can lead to more meaningful interactions and friendships.

Here are some practical strategies to help learn Portuguese efficiently:

1. Enrol in a language course. Formal classes provide structured learning and can be very effective. Many language schools offer courses specifically designed for expats.

2. Use language apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone to supplement your learning with interactive exercises you can do on the go.

3. Practice with locals. Engage in conversations with Portuguese speakers as often as possible. Join local clubs, participate in community events, or find a language exchange partner.

4. Immerse yourself in the language by watching Portuguese TV shows, listening to Portuguese music, and reading books or news articles in Portuguese.

Monica,

Data scientist from California

Being able to speak Portuguese opens many doors and helps you adapt faster. People really appreciate when you try to speak their language, even if you make mistakes.

When I started learning Portuguese, I felt like I had become part of the community. Knowing the language helps in everyday situations and in the professional sphere, opening up new career opportunities.

The telecommunications market in Portugal is regulated by ANACOM—Autoridade Nacional de Comunicações, which ensures fair competition and consumer protection. The regulatory framework supports innovation and investment in new technologies.

Portugal is progressing in digital services and e-government initiatives. The country aims to enhance digital literacy and ensure citizens have access to online public services, contributing to a more connected society.

Portugal boasts extensive broadband coverage, with high-speed internet available in urban and rural areas and fibre-optic connections widespread, particularly in cities.

Internet speeds in Portugal are competitive with other European countries. Major providers offer speeds up to 1 Gbps in many areas, making it suitable for both personal and business use.

Key internet service providers include:

• MEO,

• NOS,

• Vodafone,

• NOWO.

The introduction of 5G technology is ongoing, promising faster speeds and more reliable connections. Major cities and urban areas are the primary focus for initial 5G deployment.

Traditional landline services are still in use, although mobile and Voice over Internet Protocol services are becoming more popular.

Flight prices. According to Google Flights, the cost of airfare for one passenger from the US to Portugal varies between $465 and 1,180. The average duration of a direct flight is seven hours.

To predict the cost of transporting things from one country to another is much more complicated: prices may vary from one to several thousand dollars.

Shipping goods. A US citizen moving to Portugal can transport their belongings from the USA to Portugal by water or air. The choice of a particular option to immigrate to Portugal from the US is always individual and heavily depends on the total weight and volume of the freight.

The average cost of transporting 100 lb cargo from the USA to Portugal is $400—600. Shipping a 20ft container of furniture by sea will cost you $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the ports of departure and arrival. The same price range applies to shipping a 550 lbs container by air.

Your baggage will be in Portugal in 1+ weeks if you send it by air and in 1—3 months if shipped by sea.

Customs. When moving from the US to Portugal, following several rules concerning bringing your belongings is essential:

1. Your belongings must be delivered no later than 90 days after you arrive in Portugal.

2. You must have a Baggage certificate (Certificado de Bagagem) issued at a Portuguese consulate; this document confirms that the imported items belong to you. The shipment must arrive within 120 days of the issuance of the Baggage certificate.

3. You can import duty-free households that have been in your possession for at least six months and will not be sold in Portugal after your arrival. The Baggage certificate must contain information about this.

4. Some items are not allowed to be brought to Portugal. These include meat and milk, protected species, and products as listed by the Washington Convention (CITES).

5. The import of some items may be restricted or taxed. These include alcohol, tobacco, medicines, new unpacked items, weapons, and vehicles.

6. You must present a set of documents: a copy of your passport and residence permit, the Baggage certificate, a copy of a Tax Сard with a Portuguese fiscal number (NIF), an inventory list, the proof of having rented or owned housing in Portugal, and a photocopy of an air ticket. Some additional documents may be needed, depending on a particular situation.

Moving pets to Portugal from the US. An American moving to Portugal can take up to five pets with them. If there are more animals to move, commercial activity laws will be applied.

Cats, dogs, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before arrival. Their owners must get an electronic ID for their pets before the trip and register them at the Town Hall (Junta da Freguesia).

Additional documents may be required for dogs if their breeds are classified as dangerous. Such breeds are, for example, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire terrier, Fila Brasileiro, Pitbull terrier, and Tosa Inu. In this case, you may need a special permit and a signed liability term.

Birds should spend up to 30 days in quarantine or undergo vaccination for avian flu H5 and H7 at least 60 days, but no more than six months before the trip.

A health certificate issued in the US is required for every pet.

Portuguese driver’s licence. After obtaining a residence permit in Portugal, you have 90 days to change your driver’s licence to a Portuguese one.

It is advised that you get and notarize with an Apostille Seal an Abstract of Driving Record from your last US state of residence. This document must certify that your driver’s licence is authentic and valid; it should contain information about the date of issuance, licence class, and any suspensions or revocations.

1. Relocating to Portugal offers numerous benefits for US citizens, such as an affordable healthcare system, a high standard of living, and diverse living environments from the mountains to the ocean.

2. The process of obtaining a residence permit presented with multiple visa options catering to various needs, including investment, passive income, and remote work.

3. Portugal’s friendly immigration policies, combined with its safety, mild climate, and cultural richness, make it an attractive destination for Americans seeking a new home.

4. With its favourable cost of living, quality healthcare, and expat community, Portugal presents an appealing opportunity for those looking to enjoy a better quality of life abroad.

5. Language barriers may pose challenges, especially in rural areas where English is less commonly spoken.

6. The job market is rather competitive and wages are generally lower than in the US, which might affect those seeking local employment.

7. Navigating bureaucracy can be time-consuming and complex, particularly for non-EU citizens.