The first step to living and working in Portugal is to apply for a NIF. A NIF is a fiscal number which allows you to open bank accounts, register for utility bills and more. Once you have a NIF, you then need to apply for a relevant visa that will allow you to reside in the country and work.

Applying for a NIF is very important but also straightforward. There are many online services that help you do this in a fast and relatively cheap way. You can apply for this even while abroad. 

Visas can be more difficult and expensive, depending on the type of visa you apply for. A D7 visa, for example, needs to be applied for while residing in your home country. A Golden Visa can be quite expensive and a D2 Startup Visa can require a lot of documents proving the potential and viability of your business. 

If you’re considering moving to Portugal, we recommend enquiring about a visa before you travel to the country so that you can get the process underway as soon as possible.

Once you’ve successfully acquired a NIF and visa, you will be free to work and live in Portugal. After 5 years, you will be eligible for Portuguese citizenship.