Moving to Portugal? Here is what you need to know
Moving to Portugal? Here is what you need to know
Portugal has become one of Europe’s most popular destinations for expats, retirees, and digital nomads alike. With a cost of living lower than many Western European countries, it offers excellent value while maintaining a high quality of life.
The country features a reliable healthcare system, modern infrastructure, and a relaxed lifestyle. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon and Porto to the sunny beaches of the Algarve, Portugal provides diverse living options for different lifestyles. With attractive visa programs and a welcoming environment, it has become a top choice for those looking to relocate to Europe.
Strong
Job Market
Strong
Job Market
Growing economy with opportunities in tech, tourism, and remote work sectors.
Quality of Life
High quality of life with mild climate, safety, and affordable living.
Innovation Hub
Lisbon and Porto are rising startup hubs attracting global talent and investment.
Infrastructure
Modern transport network with efficient public transit and international connectivity.
World-Class Education
World-Class Education
Well-regarded universities and increasing number of international programs.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle with beautiful coastlines and vibrant culture.
350
Verified Movers
1,200
Reviews
500 - 1,200
Avg Local Move
7
Regions
350
Verified Movers
1,200
Reviews
500 - 1,200
Avg Local Move
7
Regions
350
Verified Movers
1,200
Reviews
500 - 1,200
Avg Local Move
7
Regions
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
€150–€500
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
€50–€200/mo
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
€100–€400
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
€200–€800
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
€50–€200
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
€75–€250
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Most Asked Questions
Is it easy to relocate to Portugal?
Portugal is considered one of the easier countries in Europe to move to. EU citizens can relocate with minimal paperwork, while non-EU citizens can apply for visas such as the D7 (passive income) or work visas, making it a popular destination for expats.
What’s the most practical way to move my belongings?
For European moves, road freight is usually the fastest and most cost-effective (1–2 weeks). For overseas relocations, sea freight is the common choice (3–6 weeks). Many expats opt for door-to-door moving services to simplify the process.
Are there any customs requirements I should know about?
Yes, but they’re relatively straightforward. Used household goods are typically duty-free if you’re officially relocating. You’ll need a detailed inventory list and proof of residence in Portugal.
Should I move all my furniture to Portugal?
Not necessarily. Many homes can be furnished or semi-furnished. Plus, furniture in Portugal is relatively affordable, so many expats bring personal items and buy larger pieces locally.
How long does an international move to Portugal take?
It depends on the method. Road freight within Europe can take around 1–2 weeks, while sea freight from other continents may take 3–6 weeks. Planning ahead helps avoid delays.
What are the living costs like in Portugal?
Portugal is one of the more affordable countries in Western Europe. Rent, food, and services are generally reasonable, although prices have been rising in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
Moving Costs Breakdown
Moving Costs Breakdown
Understanding the full cost of your move
helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Local Movers
International
Long Distance
Local Moving Costs
Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.
Studio / 1 Bed
$250 – $600
2–3 Bed Apartment
$600 – $1,200
4+ Bed / House
$1,200 – $2,500
Local Movers
International
Long Distance
Local Moving Costs
Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.
Studio / 1 Bed
$250 – $600
2–3 Bed Apartment
$600 – $1,200
4+ Bed / House
$1,200 – $2,500
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$120 – $350
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$40–$150 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$90–$300
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$180–$700
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$50–$180
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$60–$200
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$120 – $350
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$40–$150 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$90–$300
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$180–$700
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$50–$180
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$60–$200
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$120 – $350
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$40–$150 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$90–$300
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$180–$700
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$50–$180
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$60–$200
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
· Research cities and regions that fit your lifestyle (Lisbon, Porto, Algarve) · Start decluttering and deciding what to ship vs. buy locally · Begin gathering quotes from verified international movers · Check passport validity and visa requirements for Portugal (D7, Digital Nomad, Golden Visa, etc.)
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa application and gather required documents · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (private insurance for visa approval)
· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Apply for a Portuguese NIF (tax number) · Organize important documents (birth certificates, criminal record, apostilles) · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Book your SEF/AIMA appointment (residency registration) · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to Portugal · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Portuguese contact details with the mover
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa application and gather required documents · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (private insurance for visa approval)
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa application and gather required documents · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (private insurance for visa approval)
· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Apply for a Portuguese NIF (tax number) · Organize important documents (birth certificates, criminal record, apostilles) · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Book your SEF/AIMA appointment (residency registration) · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Book your SEF/AIMA appointment (residency registration) · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to Portugal · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Portuguese contact details with the mover
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Portuguese contact details with the mover
Most Asked Questions
Most Asked Questions
Is it easy to relocate to Portugal?
Portugal is considered one of the easier countries in Europe to move to. EU citizens can relocate with minimal paperwork, while non-EU citizens can apply for visas such as the D7 (passive income) or work visas, making it a popular destination for expats.
What’s the most practical way to move my belongings?
For European moves, road freight is usually the fastest and most cost-effective (1–2 weeks). For overseas relocations, sea freight is the common choice (3–6 weeks). Many expats opt for door-to-door moving services to simplify the process.
Are there any customs requirements I should know about?
Yes, but they’re relatively straightforward. Used household goods are typically duty-free if you’re officially relocating. You’ll need a detailed inventory list and proof of residence in Portugal.
Should I move all my furniture to Portugal?
Not necessarily. Many homes can be furnished or semi-furnished. Plus, furniture in Portugal is relatively affordable, so many expats bring personal items and buy larger pieces locally.
How long does an international move to Portugal take?
It depends on the method. Road freight within Europe can take around 1–2 weeks, while sea freight from other continents may take 3–6 weeks. Planning ahead helps avoid delays.
What are the living costs like in Portugal?
Portugal is one of the more affordable countries in Western Europe. Rent, food, and services are generally reasonable, although prices have been rising in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
Want to know more?
Sponsors
A + Internationaal
A + Internationaal
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, travelers, students, and businesses, offering worldwide coverage and easy access to quality healthcare.
Een Plaats in de Zon Valuta
Een Plaats in de Zon Valuta
Our currency exchange service helps individuals buying, selling, or maintaining overseas property with secure international payments and competitive exchange rates.
Wervingservaring in het buitenland
Wervingservaring in het buitenland
Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.
Aetna Zorgverzekering
Aetna Zorgverzekering
Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.
Agato Visa & Immigratie
Agato Visa & Immigratie
We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.
Aims Immigratie & Verhuisspecialist
Aims Immigratie & Verhuisspecialist
AIMS provides immigration and relocation services, specializing in visas, residency, investment migration, and global mobility solutions across Asia.
April International
April International
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.
Arag
Arag
ARAG provides legal insurance and protection for individuals, families, and businesses, offering legal advice, representation, and dispute resolution services.
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Auteursrecht © Moveasy BV
Auteursrecht © Moveasy BV
Auteursrecht © Moveasy BV
Sponsors
A + Internationaal
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, travelers, students, and businesses, offering worldwide coverage and easy access to quality healthcare.
Een Plaats in de Zon Valuta
Our currency exchange service helps individuals buying, selling, or maintaining overseas property with secure international payments and competitive exchange rates.
Wervingservaring in het buitenland
Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.
Aetna Zorgverzekering
Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.
Agato Visa & Immigratie
We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.
Aims Immigratie & Verhuisspecialist
AIMS provides immigration and relocation services, specializing in visas, residency, investment migration, and global mobility solutions across Asia.
April International
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.
Arag
ARAG provides legal insurance and protection for individuals, families, and businesses, offering legal advice, representation, and dispute resolution services.
Load More