Moving to Portugal is exciting but there are also formalities to be put in place.
So, here’s a week-by-week check list towards settling in smoothly during your first 30 days.
Note: A lot of the recommendations below can be done prior to your move. But if you haven't done so before you arrive, we suggest prioritising these actions.
Week 1: Get your tax number – the NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal)
You need one to:
- Open a bank account
- Sign a lease
- Set up utilities
- Get a phone contract
- Register for healthcare
Get one at your local tax office – Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (Finanças office) OR apply through a lawyer/accountant if you’re not yet a resident.
It’s recommended that you secure your NIF and start the bank setup process before you arrive.
You will need:
- Passport
- Portuguese address (or foreign address if just arriving)
- Non-EU citizens may need a fiscal representative – this does not apply to EU citizens
This will usually take no more than a day to process and is usually free.
Weeks 1-2: Open a Portuguese bank account
Once you have your NIF, you can open a bank account but work through this check list before signing up:
- Ask about monthly maintenance fees (usually €5–€10 unless waived).
- Some banks require an initial deposit (€100–€300).
- Online banks like ActivoBank may have fewer fees.
Typically, you’ll need:
- Passport
- NIF
- Proof of address (Portuguese or foreign)
- Proof of income or employment
- Portuguese phone number
The process will take no more than a few days and probably only a day, with a debit card taking 5–10 working days to arrive.
Popular banks in Portugal include:
Millennium BCP
Novo Banco
Caixa Geral de Depósitos
ActivoBank
Week 2: Register your address (if applicable)
If you're staying long term, register your address at your local Junta de Freguesia (parish council/administration)
This is often needed for:
- Residency applications
- School registration
- Some public services
Bring:
- Lease agreement
- Passport
- NIF
Week 2-3: Register for public healthcare
Portugal has an excellent public healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS).
Step 1: Visit your local health centre (Centro de Saúde) to secure a Número de Utente (patient number)
Bring:
- Passport
- NIF
- Proof of residence
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Non-EU Citizens may need their residence card or proof of legal stay
- EU Citizens will need their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
Some people choose private insurance as a supplement. Popular providers include Médis and Multicare.
Week 3: Set up utilities and essentials now that you have a bank account and address
Electricity and Gas. Main providers include EDP and Galp Energia.
Water is managed by local municipal providers.
Internet and mobile phone. Top telecom companies include MEO, Vodafone Portugal and NOS.
Week 3–4: Residency registration
Non-EU citizens staying longer than 90 days will need an appointment with the AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) and should bring:
- Visa
- Passport
- Lease
- NIF
- Proof of a bank account
EU Citizens should register at the local city hall (Câmara Municipal) to receive a Certificado de Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia.
Our quick 30-Day Checklist
1.Administrative essentials
☐ Get NIF
☐ Open bank account
☐ Register address
☐ Register for healthcare
☐ Begin residency process
2.Practical living
☐ Set up utilities
☐ Get Portuguese SIM
☐ Arrange a transport pass – it will save you money and ease getting around, particularly in the cities
It’s also worth learning basic Portuguese – even simple phrases make a big difference. Join community groups too, look for Facebook expat groups, meetup events, and expat Portuguese language gatherings.
Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways said: “The first 30 days of your new life in Portugal can feel exciting but also slightly overwhelming. That’s normal and Portugal’s systems can move slowly, but they are well structured and patience and preparation go a long way. To smoothing your way.
“And you are laying the foundation for a great new lifestyle in a country with a mild climate and welcoming culture.”
For support with moving to Portugal, contact Portugal Pathways
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways website and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice.
