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American citizens relocating to Portugal as expats should start by obtaining the proper visa, gathering essential documents, and securing housing. Making logistical preparations such as these while also researching Portugal’s culture can help expats make the most of their move.
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Are you a United States citizen planning your move to Portugal? Are you researching which visa you need to get or wondering how Portugal’s healthcare system works?
This guide will walk Americans through the steps to take to become an expat in Portugal. We will detail the most common types of visas, give tips on securing housing in Portugal, outline how to move your items to Portugal, and much more.
For more tips, check out our checklist for moving to Portugal or our article on the best 15 locations for expats living in Portugal.
Obtain the Proper Visa for Your Move from the US to Portugal
Americans moving to Portugal should first secure the correct long-term visa. Some of the most common visas include the D1 Visa, D7 Visa, the D2 Visa, the D8 Visa, and the Golden Visa. Read more in our comprehensive article on Portugal Visas for Americans.
The D1 Visa for American Expats in Portugal
The D1 Visa, or Subordinate Worker Visa, is for Americans who have received a job offer in Portugal. After you have received your job offer, your employer will apply for a work permit on your behalf, and then you may apply for your visa.
Applicants can apply at their local consular office or embassy in the United States or apply once moving to Portugal, and processing a D1 Visa typically takes about 60 days.
The D7 Visa for American Expats in Portugal
The D7 Visa is perfect for US expats with passive income, such as retirees, moving to Portugal.
Through this visa, applicants can apply for a two-year residence permit, which can be renewed for up to five years of residence, after which individuals can qualify for permanent residence or citizenship.
If you’re hoping to move to Portugal with a D7 Visa, you must provide proof of a minimum monthly passive income of €760 (USD $890) plus a minimum deposit of €9,120 (USD $10,679.98) into a Portuguese bank account for one year for the main applicant.
If a spouse or legal partner will accompany you, your minimum income must increase by 50%, while an increase of 30% is required for any other dependents.
Processing times for the D7 Visa range from about one to four months, and the visa is eligible for two years with options to renew for three more years. After that time, expats using a D7 Visa may apply for permanent residence.
The D2 Visa for American Expats in Portugal
The D2 Visa is tailored to entrepreneurs who want to start their business, expand their business, or invest in entrepreneurial projects in Portugal. D2 Visa applicants must provide strong evidence that their business ventures would bring economic and social benefits to Portugal.
The D2 Visa is valid for 120 days, and the applicant must apply for a residency permit from the Portuguese Migration Service within that time. After five years of residency, US expats using a D2 visa can apply for permanent residence.
The D8 Visa for American Digital Nomads in Portugal
The D8 Visa is made for digital nomads with stable income outside Portugal. Applicants must show proof of income that is at least four times Portugal’s minimum wage, which is about €3,480 (USD $4,076.89) a month. After five years, D8 visa holders can apply for permanent residence and citizenship.
For more information, check out our guide for digital nomads moving to Portugal!
Golden Visa for US Expats in Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa, sometimes called the Investment Visa, is one of the most popular visa options for US expats. Investment options start as low as €250,000 (USD $292,992.21), making it one of the least expensive Golden Visas.
Those who get a Golden Visa only need to live in Portugal for seven days during their first year and then 14 days every two years in following years. Beyond the main applicant, a spouse or legal partner, children under 18, single adult children, and parents can be included in the application.
Investment options for Portugal’s Golden Visa include:
- Fund subscription: €500,000 (USD $585,984.43)
- Investment or donation in the arts: €250,000 (USD $292,992.21)
- Reconstruction of national cultural heritage: €250,000 (USD $292,992.21)
- Scientific research: €500,000 (USD $585,984.43
- Share capital and job creation: €500,000 (USD $585,984.43)
Expats hoping to come to Portugal on a Golden Visa can create ten new jobs in the country or eight in low-density areas, as long as these jobs align with Portugal’s labor and social security regulations.
Americans can also use their Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) funds for their investments in the Golden Visa.
Common Requirements for Long-Term Visas in Portugal
Common requirements for US citizens moving to Portugal on long-term visas include a completed visa application form, proof of a clean criminal record, proof of accommodation, an NIF, health insurance, proof of sufficient financial means, and valid passports and passport-style photos.
Getting a Portuguese NIF number
A NIF (Número de Indetificação Fiscal) is your tax identification number in Portugal, and it is essential for opening a bank account, buying property, signing contracts, paying taxes, and more. You can get your NIF remotely or in Portugal, though it’s easier to obtain in person.
To get an NIF, Americans moving to Portugal should:
- Fill out the application form: You can find the application form here.
- Set up a tax representative in Portugal: This person must declare that they accept to represent you and be registered in Portugal’s tax system.
- Attend your appointment: Attend your appointment at Finanças if you are already in Portugal, or have your tax representative submit your documents on your behalf.
- Present your documents: If attending your appointment in-person, present the filled-out application form along with proof of identification and proof of tax address, such as a utility bill.
Portuguese tax authorities will contact you once your NIF is available and provide you with documentation of your NIF number.
Health Insurance Requirements for Expats in Portugal
Comprehensive health insurance is a common requirement for most long-term expat visas in Portugal. While Portugal’s public health system is high quality, expats do not qualify for free or subsidized care. Health insurance requirements for expats in Portugal include:
- Coverage of at least €30,000.
- Validity across Portugal and the entire Schengen zone
- Comprehensive coverage, including emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation
- Coverage with no copay or deductible
- Coverage for the entire duration of your visa or residence permit
Why International Health Insurance is the Best Option for Expats in Portugal
Basic private medical insurance generally covers simple treatments and procedures, but it may not meet Portugal’s expat requirements. Alternatively, international health insurance guarantees customizable, comprehensive, and portable high-quality care across Portugal and worldwide.
Some of the benefits often included with international health insurance include:
- Worldwide coverage
- Inpatient and day patient care
- Cancer care
- Mental health care
- Emergency ambulatory services and ER care
- Palliative care
- Home nursing
- Lab work and testing
- Prescription medications
- Emergency dental care
- Rehabilitation
- Medical evacuation coverage
International health insurance grants expats access to the best facilities, shorter wait times, and greater flexibility in providers. Expats who choose international insurance can also customize their plan to their lifestyle, with flexible options for personalized riders beyond standard benefits.
To find a plan that fits your budget and health needs, speak to our expert insurance advisors today as you prepare for your move to Portugal. You may also love our expert list of the 10 best insurance providers for expats in Portugal.
How to Secure Housing as a US Expat in Portugal
US expats can purchase or rent property in Portugal without restrictions as long as they have a NIF number and the appropriate residency qualifications. Note that because of the demand from foreign buyers, property prices in Portugal have increased, especially in hubs like Lisbon and the Algarve.
Finding Housing in Portugal as a US Expat
Once you have obtained your NIF, securing housing in Portugal is similar to finding housing in America. Use reputable websites like Idealista, or get help from a real estate agent who speaks Portuguese. Look to the expat community, and consider your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Some top considerations when looking for housing should include:
- Your budget: While Portugal’s cost of living is lower than the United States’, make sure you have allotted sufficient funds for your housing. Cities like Braga and Coimbra boast cost-effective value, while Lisbon, Cascais, and Porto run at higher prices.
- Transportation: Consider whether you plan to live in the city center or the countryside. Having a personal car is not necessary in urban areas with Portugal’s public transit, but if you plan to live rurally, having a car is significantly more convenient.
- Work and Lifestyle: Do you need to be close to work? Is living near an expat community a priority? Do you see yourself in a busy city or a quieter atmosphere? Do you speak Portuguese or plan to learn?
Moving Your Items to Portugal from the United States
Shipping your belongings to Portugal from the United States is fairly simple because of Portugal’s geographic location. US expats can choose from either air freight or sea freight, with sea freight being slightly more cost-effective but also slower.
To move a 20-foot container of furniture to Portugal with SeaRates, for example, see the table below:
| Departing | Destination | Price | Duration |
| New York City, USA | Lisbon, Portugal | $1,229.11 | 14 days |
| New York City, USA | Figueira Da Foz, Portugal | $1,297.98 | 14 days |
| Los Angeles, USA | Lisbon, Portugal | $2,993.41 | 27 days |
| Los Angeles, USA | Figueira Da Foz, Portugal | $3,161.21 | 28 days |
Explaining Portugal’s Healthcare System for US Expats
Expats who have secured the proper visa and who are searching for the right home for their time in Portugal should make sure they understand the country’s healthcare system. Let’s take a look at each of these tips below.
Understand the Healthcare System in Portugal
Portugal boasts a high-quality healthcare system with both public and private sectors. The system is primarily funded through taxation and is managed by the Ministry of Health to provide affordable healthcare services.
The country’s public healthcare, Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), offers primary care, hospital treatment, and specialized services with the aim of providing universal coverage that is accessible to all legal residents.
Citizens gain access to public healthcare by contributing to the Portuguese social security program (segurança social), but employers are obligated to register their employees and make regular contributions to this fund.
Public healthcare in Portugal is not entirely free, and the system struggles with long wait times for certain treatments and limited resources in some regions.
The private sector in Portugal is known for offering high-quality care and modern facilities. Private facilities often have shorter wait times and offer specialized services, including elective surgeries, diagnostics, and preventive care.
The private sector in Portugal is a popular choice for expats and locals alike, since private insurance expands its coverage to give them the best services available. Top providers like AXA, Cigna, GeoBlue, NOW Health, and William Russell offer flexible options for expats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy for Americans to move to and live in Portugal?
Moving abroad always brings its own complications, but for those Americans who can apply for the proper visa, secure their residence permit, and follow through on important to-dos like getting a NIF and moving their property, the payoff for living in Portugal is often well worth it.
Where are the best places for Americans to live in Portugal?
Lisbon and Porto are both popular locations for American expats as these cities offer vibrant culture, convenient public transportation, and growing expat communities. Cities such as these also tend to offer more job opportunities.
Do I need a visa to visit Portugal?
Any American who wants to stay in Portugal for more than 90 days needs some form of residency permit. Those who plan to travel to Portugal briefly do not need a visa, but must have a valid passport and ETIAS authorization.
Conclusion
Expats moving from the United States to Portugal can expect a lower cost of living, stunning architecture, and vibrant expat communities. To make their move easier, immigrants should secure the proper visa, understand Portugal’s healthcare system, and get their NIF as soon as possible.
Experts at Pacific Prime can simplify your move by helping you find health insurance that meets visa requirements and that fits your lifestyle and budget. With over 25 years in the industry, our brokers can leverage their expertise and relationships with top providers to help you find the best plan.
Visit our free quote page or talk directly with a professional broker at Pacific Prime to get started. For more information on heading to Portugal, you may also like our articles on how to move to Portugal from Latin America or how to get a Portugal Schengen Visa.
Jantra curates and reports on the results of Pacific Prime’s monthly newsletters, as well as manages Pacific Prime’s Deputy Global CEO’s LinkedIn posts. Complemented by her background in business writing, Jantra’s passion for health, insurance, and employee benefits helps her create engaging content – no matter how complex the subject is.
Growing up as a third-culture kid has given her a multicultural perspective that helps her relate to expats and their families while 8 years of working remotely have given her unique insight into hybrid work arrangements and enthusiasm for employee benefits.
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