Moving to Portugal from UK: A Full Guide for Expats

Dreaming of sunnier days, scenic coastlines, and a slower pace of life? Moving to Portugal from UK soil might be the fresh start you’ve been looking for.

Portugal has become a top destination for UK citizens seeking a new chapter, with British citizens being among the top three nationalities to receive a Portugal Golden Visa for residency in the country, according to the latest Portuguese Migration and Asylum Report.

So, how easy is it to move to Portugal from UK? If you’re considering moving from the UK to Portugal, this guide will walk you through the essential steps, tips, and requirements. From visa options to adapting to the lifestyle and culture, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get you living like the Portuguese locals in no time.

Why are UK citizens moving to Portugal?

What makes Portugal so appealing to UK citizens? Well, there are plenty of reasons that have made British expats Portugal-bound over the years, each contributing to an overall upgrade in their quality of life. The top reasons to move to Portugal from UK cities include:

• The warm climate: With over 300 days of sunshine a year, especially in the south, Portugal offers a warm, outdoor-friendly lifestyle (quite a contrast to the UK’s colder weather).
• Safety: Consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe (ranked seventh on the 2024 Global Peace Index), Portugal provides a secure environment for individuals and families.
• Welcoming locals: The Portuguese are known for their friendliness, making it easier for newcomers to feel at home.
• Quality healthcare: Portugal ranked 20th globally in the 2024 CEOWORLD Health Care Index. The healthcare system outperforms the UK, which ranked 27th. Healthcare is both high-quality and affordable.
• Education: Portugal offers solid public education and 51 high-quality international schools featuring a range of curricula (including the British IGCSE curriculum). Some of the best international schools in Portugal catering specifically to British learners are: The British School of Lisbon, IPS Cascais, Nobel International School Algarve, Oporto British School in Porto, and St. Julian’s School in Carcavelos (just outside of Lisbon).
• Retirement-friendly: Portugal is a firm favorite with retirees, with sun, a high – yet affordable – quality of life, and a thriving culture. The excellent healthcare, abundance of top golf courses, and relaxed pace of life add to its appeal. If you are looking to retire in one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe, Lisbon may be the perfect place. You will find world-class retirement homes in Lisbon, Portugal.
• Tax incentives: The Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI) offers reduced tax rates for eligible professionals, including those in tech or science fields. Also, the UK–Portugal Double Taxation agreement ensures that British citizens will not pay tax twice on the same income.
• Lower cost of living: Everyday expenses, from housing to healthcare, tend to be significantly more affordable than in the UK. We explore this in detail below.

Cost of Living in UK vs Portugal

Brits moving to Portugal isn’t just a lifestyle upgrade, it’s often a financial one, too. Overall, the cost of living in the United Kingdom is 38.9 percent higher than in Portugal. Compared to the UK, Portugal offers a more affordable cost of living in almost every category, from housing to groceries. Here’s how they stack up:

• Housing: Renting or buying is significantly cheaper in Portugal. Renting in Portugal can decrease your housing costs by up to 35 percent, and if you’re buying, you could pay up to 70 percent less per square meter compared to the UK.
• Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas can be 50-100 percent cheaper in Portugal, depending on where you choose to stay.
• Groceries: Expect to spend 30 to 60 percent less on fresh produce, wine, and bread, with local markets offering fantastic deals.
• Dining out: Meals at restaurants cost around €10–€15 in Portugal, versus £20–£30 (about €25–€35) in the UK.
• Transport: Public transport in Portugal is affordable, with monthly passes in Lisbon costing around €40, compared to £80 (€95) or more in London.
• Healthcare: Public healthcare is low-cost in Portugal, and private insurance is more affordable than in the UK.

Can you move to Portugal from UK after Brexit?

Moving to Portugal from UK after Brexit looks a little different to what it was before. Prior to 2021, UK nationals could relocate without visas due to EU membership. However, post-Brexit, UK citizens looking to move to Portugal now require visas and permits for long-term stays. Additionally, rights to work, healthcare, and residency are no longer automatic.

Brexit may have changed the rules, but it hasn’t closed the door to the Portuguese dream life. To move to Portugal from the UK after Brexit, UK citizens need visas and residence permits for stays longer than 90 days, with various residency visa options available depending on the purpose of stay, such as work, study, or retirement.

Healthcare for UK Citizens in Portugal

Portugal offers excellent healthcare through the Portuguese National Health Service, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), and a robust private health insurance sector.

Once you’ve received residency in Portugal, you can access the public system by registering at your local health center with your Portuguese residence permit, NIF (Portuguese tax number), and proof of address.

Public healthcare comes at a very low cost and is free for those under 18 or over 65 years old. The public system provides comprehensive services, though waiting times for non-urgent care can be long.

UK citizens can also use the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the European Health Insurance Card after Brexit. For retirees receiving a UK state pension, the S1 form allows you to transfer healthcare entitlements to Portugal, granting access to the SNS at reduced or no cost.

Many expats also choose private insurance for quicker access to specialists and treatments, with policies starting at around €50 per month, depending on the level of coverage.

Opening a Portuguese Bank Account

Opening a bank account in Portugal is a crucial step for expats. Opening a Portuguese bank account isn’t just a step toward settling in—it’s a smart move. It offers a convenient way to manage your finances, make payments for property or rent, and sidestep the hefty transaction fees that come with using a foreign bank account.

Most banks require the following documentation:

• A valid passport or photo ID
• Proof of address
• Portuguese tax number (NIF or Número de Identificação Fiscal)
• Proof of income
• A minimum deposit to get your account started

Many expats choose banks like Millennium BCP or Santander Totta for their English-friendly services, but you could also look at other popular banks in Portugal for one with online banking in English. Consider opening an account before arriving in Portugal, as some banks offer online services for foreigners.

Renting or Buying Property in Portugal

As a UK citizen moving to Portugal, one of your biggest decisions is whether to rent or buy your home. While renting offers flexibility, buying property in Portugal comes with undeniable benefits, especially given the country’s booming real estate market.

Portugal is increasingly on the radar of UK and Irish property buyers. With rental prices rising, owning a home can protect you from escalating costs, providing stability and predictability. Additionally, Portugal’s property market has seen consistent growth, with rising demand from international buyers making real estate a solid investment. Over time, your property is likely to appreciate, offering potential financial gains if you decide to sell.

Portugal offers attractive mortgage rates, and certain regions like Porto or Lisbon offer particularly high rental yields if you plan to use your property as a rental property. Average rental yields were 6.6 percent in the Porto Metropolitan Area and 6.8 percent in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area in 2024.

That said, renting is a practical choice for those who want to test the waters before committing to a specific area. It also allows for flexibility if you’re unsure about your long-term plans. However, with rents climbing in popular cities and tourist hotspots, monthly costs can quickly add up. For example, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon city center can cost €1,100 to €1,800 per month without the long-term benefit of owning the home.

Top Places for UK Expats to Live in Portugal

Curious about where to live when moving to Portugal from the UK? Here are some of the most popular locations among expats:

• Lisbon: A buzzing mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Moving to Lisbon from the UK is perfect for professionals, families, and anyone who loves a rich cultural scene. Think cobblestone streets, a thriving food scene, and endless cultural events—all with international schools and global connections right on your doorstep. The average property price in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area in 2024 was €4,935 per square meter. You can read more about Lisbon real estate in our guide.
• The Algarve: Picture golden beaches like Marinha Beach, world-class golf courses like Quinta do Lago, and expat-friendly communities. It’s a dream for retirees or anyone chasing year-round sunshine and a laid-back lifestyle. The average property price in the Algarve region in 2024 was €4,385 per square meter, but prices will vary per neighborhood and city. You can read more about Algarve, Portugal, real estate in our guide.
• Porto: A picturesque city with a thriving wine industry and a lower cost of living than Lisbon, Porto appeals to families, entrepreneurs, and creatives. The average property price in the Porto Metropolitan Area in 2024 was €3,937 per square meter. You can read more about Porto, Portugal, real estate in our guide.
• Cascais: A luxurious seaside town near Lisbon bringing you the ultimate mix of seaside luxury and city convenience. You’ve got beaches, stunning homes, top-notch schools, and you’re just a quick train ride from Lisbon. The average property price in Cascais in 2024 was €7,260 per square meter. You can read more about Cascais, Portugal, real estate in our guide.

Finding a Job for UK Citizens in Portugal

Portugal’s job market is steadily growing, with opportunities in tourism and hospitality, tech and IT, healthcare, and education. English-speaking roles are available, but learning Portuguese can put you ahead of the competition.

UK qualifications are generally well-recognized, but competition may still be tough in some sectors. There is also the option to work for a company outside of Portugal and stay in the country through the Digital Nomad Visa.

For insider advice on finding a job in Portugal, our guide on working in Portugal has all you need to know.

Moving Your Belongings from the UK to Portugal

Planning is everything when it comes to moving your belongings from the UK to Portugal. Teaming up with a relocation company can take the stress out of the process and ensure your items arrive safely and on time.

One key to keeping costs down is securing a baggage certificate, which lets you import personal belongings duty-free.

Adapting to Life in Portugal: Language, Culture, and Lifestyle

Once you’ve made your journey from the UK and started to settle in, one of the best ways to start adapting and integrating into the Portuguese culture is to learn the language.

Learning Portuguese is invaluable for integrating into local communities and can also help you to find a job. You may want to learn Portuguese via free or low-cost language courses, which are also widely available to help you along the way.

Overall, Portugal is one of the easiest places to adapt to and feel at home, with a relaxed culture and some of the friendliest people in the world.

Embrace Portugal’s relaxed lifestyle, vibrant festivals, and delicious cuisine and you’ll feel like a local in no time. You can also join in on expat social events and communities to help ease the transition.

Driving in Portugal: Converting Your UK Driving License

Fortunately, the UK and Portugal signed a mutual recognition agreement that allows UK license holders to use their license in Portugal until it expires. If you’re planning to drive in Portugal, you’ll need to convert your UK driving licence to a Portuguese one within 90 days of gaining residency.

The process is quite straightforward: Simply complete an online form to submit to the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT), along with the necessary documents, and pay a small fee of around €30.

The documents you’ll need include:

• Your valid UK license
• Proof of identity
• A medical certificate
• Proof of your Portuguese residency

The best part? No driving test is required for the conversion!

Moving Your Pets to Portugal from the UK

Bringing your pet from the UK to Portugal is fairly straightforward. Your pet will need a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and an EU Pet Passport. Your pet must also be at least 15 weeks old.

Portugal also requires pet owners to sign a Statement of Responsibility if their dog is a restricted breed and they expect to be in the country longer than four months. These breeds include:

• Brazilian queued dog
• Argentine Great Dane
• Pit bull terrier
• Rottweiler
• American Staffordshire terrier
• Staffordshire bull terrier
• Tosa Inu

If you are making a permanent move, these breeds and their mixed must be already neutered or will be neutered within 2 weeks of arrival to Portugal. The pet owner will need to sign a document saying that the pet is or will be neutered.

Final Thoughts: How to move to Portugal from UK

So, can you move to Portugal from UK cities? We’ve explored just how easy it actually is to make the big move, if you plan accordingly and know what to expect.

Moving to Portugal from the UK involves securing a visa, finding your ideal place to live, and adapting to a different culture, but the reward for your efforts is well worth it. UK citizens can enjoy Portugal’s high-quality yet relaxed way of life, affordable cost of living, and welcoming environment. So, what’s stopping you?

If you’re ready to start the process, speak to one of our expert advisers at Goldcrest. As a buyer’s agency in Portugal, our experts are able to give you knowledgeable advice tailored to your unique needs to help you find your dream home in Portugal.

Not only will you have access to exclusive industry data and listings, but you’ll also have access to a wide network of professionals to make the move over as smooth as possible.