Moving to Portugal from the USA: A Complete 2026 Guide

Why move to Portugal from the US?

The number of US citizens living in Portugal has increased sevenfold between 2017 and 2024, according to the US Embassy, and based on records from AIMA, the Portuguese Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum.

But why consider moving to Portugal? There are a wide range of reasons for moving, including:

• Safety and political stability, ranking seventh in the 2025 Global Peace Index
• Affordable and high-quality healthcare and education
• Lower living costs compared to the USA and other Western European countries
• Rated the best retirement destination in the world
• Stunning natural beauty, including golden beaches and gorgeous landscapes
• One of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world
• Rich cultural environment
• High global ranking in the 2025 English Proficiency Index (ranking sixth globally)
• Top choice for US citizens seeking a second passport, offering EU membership, a fast and straightforward pathway to citizenship, and flexible visa options

Requirements to move to Portugal

The basic requirements for moving to Portugal that apply to all foreigners are:

• A valid passport (with a minimum of six months remaining)
• Completed application forms (available on the website of the Portuguese consulate website in the United States)
• Proof of financial means or income that meets the minimum threshold (different for every visa)
• Certificate of a clean criminal record
• Private health insurance that’s valid in Portugal
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal (property deed or lease contract rental)

How much does it cost to move to Portugal from the US?

The cost of moving to Portugal varies from €7,560 to €10,920 ($9,000 to $13,000), which includes flights, shipping, visa fees, and initial housing deposits. However, the total expenses are different for each person based on their lifestyle.

For example, a one-way plane ticket from the US to Portugal costs about €336 and €1,008 ($400 to $1,200) on average. If you are shipping any household goods or furniture, you can expect to spend around €5,040  to  €8,400 ($6,000  to  $10,000), based on the size of the containers.

How to move to Portugal from the US?

Portugal continues to be one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for Americans seeking a new life abroad. With its mild climate, stable economy, high safety standards, and affordable cost of living, the country offers a strong quality of life that rivals any in Western Europe.

Obtaining the right visa or residency permit is the essential first step for US citizens who want to make Portugal their home.

Portugal’s immigration system is known for being transparent and relatively accessible, especially compared to other EU countries. Americans can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days, but those planning to stay longer — whether to retire, work remotely, start a business, or invest — must apply for a Portugal residency visa.

Depending on personal circumstances and financial means, several pathways are available. The most popular among US citizens include the D7 Visa, aimed at retirees and those with passive income; the D8 Digital Nomad Visa, ideal for remote workers; and the D2 Visa, designed for entrepreneurs and independent professionals.

Portugal also offers several visa options tailored to different purposes of stay. These include the Startup Visa for foreign nationals who plan to establish and develop a business in the country, student visas for individuals enrolled in a higher education institution in Portugal, and the D1 Visa for those who have been offered employment by a Portuguese employer.

For high-net-worth individuals, the Golden Visa offers residency through select investment routes.

Each program grants legal residency in Portugal and provides access to healthcare, education, and the Schengen Area for travel throughout Europe. After five years of continuous residence, holders can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, provided they meet language and legal requirements. For more details, check our article on how to get residency in Portugal.

Visa Options for US Citizens

To move to Portugal from the US or another country outside the EU, you will need a visa and a residence permit. The Portuguese government makes it easy to immigrate to Portugal from the US and other countries around the world through its various visa options.

D7 Passive Income Visa

The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa or Portugal Retirement Visa, is a popular residency option.

This visa is for non-EU nationals moving to Portugal who earn a regular passive income from pensions, rental income, financial investments, or other sources. The D7 Visa is perfect for those who wish to retire in Portugal.

To be eligible for the Portugal Retirement Visa, you must be able to meet the requirements outlined below:

• Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national
• Earn a passive income of at least €920 per month (as mentioned above, this passive income can come from different sources)
• Have a clean criminal record
• Show proof of a residential address where you will be living in Portugal
• Reside for more than 183 consecutive days per calendar year in Portugal

Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa)

The Portugal D8 Visa is an increasingly sought-after option for moving to Portugal as an American or from another non-EU country. Also known as the Digital Nomad Visa, this option is designed for individuals who want to live and work remotely in Portugal.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa requirements include:

• Being from a non-EU or a non-EEA country
• Be self-employed or employed by a business that is not a Portuguese company
• Earn four times the minimum wage in Portugal, which currently amounts to around €3,680 per month

D2 Entrepreneur Visa

For entrepreneurs and business owners, the Portugal D2 Visa provides an opportunity to launch or relocate your business to Portugal.

It caters to entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent service providers, offering them a pathway to reside in Portugal while pursuing their business ventures.

Portugal D2 Visa requirements include:

• Having a Portuguese tax number (NIF)
• Opening a Portuguese bank account
• Proof of a self-employment agreement with a company based in Portugal (if applying as a freelancer)
• A business plan (if applying as an entrepreneur starting or expanding a business in Portugal)
• Proof of sufficient financial means to support your business venture and yourself in the country
• Hold a clean criminal record

Portugal Golden visa

The Portugal Golden Visa residence permit enables you to settle, work, and study in Portugal.

To qualify for residency by investment, the Golden Visa requires:

• Have a clean criminal record
• Be either non-EU, non-Swiss, or non-EEA national
• Minimum investment of €250,000, with a range of investment routes to choose from, including investment or donation in the arts or reconstruction of national heritage, scientific research, and the creation of ten jobs
• Meet all legal requirements, including an average of seven days spent per year in Portugal, guaranteeing a total of 14 days during the validity of each residence card (two years)

While there is no way to get Portuguese citizenship by investment, the Golden Visa offers the next best thing – residency by investment. However, you can no longer purchase real estate to qualify for the Golden Visa.

The Portuguese Golden Visa allows family members to join you. Eligible family members include spouses, dependent children, and financially dependent parents. Check our article if you are wondering whether you can buy property in Portugal and get citizenship.

Regardless of the visa you choose, you can apply to obtain permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship after holding your residency permit for five years. If you would like advice on which is the most appropriate visa for you, chat to our immigration partner, Global Citizen Solutions, for expert guidance.

Below, we summarize and compare each visa mentioned:

Can American expats in Portugal obtain Portuguese citizenship?

Portugal also provides a straightforward pathway to citizenship for a US citizen moving to Portugal. Citizenship by naturalization is achievable through maintaining residency in Portugal. Becoming a citizen by descent or through marriage is a possibility, too, and some visa options allow for family reunification.

Naturalization

You can become a Portuguese citizen by legally residing in Portugal for five years. This can be achieved through any of the Portuguese residency visas, including the Portugal Golden Visa residency by investment program.

In addition to the five years of residency, you will also need to demonstrate basic Portuguese language proficiency (A2 level) and maintain a clear criminal record. New changes to Portugal’s nationality laws have been proposed, where the residency requirement before applying for citizenship may increase from five to ten years (or seven years for CPLP nationals). This is currently a draft proposal and is not yet officially law. Read the latest update of the Portuguese Nationality Law.

Marriage to a Portuguese citizen

You can become a Portuguese citizen if you are married to a Portuguese citizen for three years. There is no need to live in Portugal, but you must prove a genuine connection to the Portuguese community and the marriage must be legally recognized in Portugal and the European Union.

Citizenship by descent

You may be eligible to claim Portuguese citizenship by descent if a parent or grandparent was born in Portugal. This may also be extended to great-grandparents soon.

You’ll need documents proving your parental lineage, like a birth certificate of yourself and your Portuguese grandparent or Portuguese parent. Knowledge of the Portuguese language or proof of cultural ties may be requested for grandparent-based claims.

Dual citizenship in Portugal

Portugal allows you to become a citizen without giving up your original citizenship. However, you will need to check that your home country allows dual citizenship, too.

If it does, you can keep your citizenship status in both countries. If not, you may have to choose one. For example, both Portugal and the US allow for dual citizenship, making it possible for US citizens to gain a Portuguese passport without giving up their original citizenship.

Where to Live: Best Places in Portugal for Americans

If you are moving to Portugal from US cities, you are going to need a place to live. Portugal vs US real estate has some similarities, but there are also many differences.

Portugal’s regions and homes are embedded with rich culture and history, and each place has its own unique atmosphere and charm. Here are the best places to live in Portugal.

Lisbon

Lisbon, the cosmopolitan capital of Portugal, is the country’s bustling business center. Americans moving to Portugal enjoy the charming historical architecture, modern amenities, excellent public transportation, and growing startup scene in Lisbon.

Most Portuguese people, particularly the younger generations, speak English in Lisbon, which makes it a favorite among American retirees and expats who have yet to learn Portuguese.

Avid travelers will also be able to jet around easily, with Lisbon Airport facilitating easy international travel, including flights to the USA. With the stunning Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean nearby, you have many waterside properties and excellent beaches to enjoy.

It’s important to note that Lisbon is also Portugal’s most expensive city. Because living here is so sought after, property prices and living costs are quite high. There are also many retirement communities in Portugal that can accommodate foreigners.

Porto

Porto in Northern Portugal, is the second largest city in the country after Lisbon. Porto is a safe and gorgeous Portuguese city on the banks of the Douro River, known for its signature port wine, rolling hills, historic buildings and bridges, and vibrant creative scene.

It is less expensive compared to Lisbon, making it very affordable for US expats. Porto is a trending spot for Americans too, who enjoy the affordable cost of living and healthcare, as well as the relaxed and culturally-enriched lifestyle.

The Ribeira district offers waterfront houses in the historic quarter, while Foz do Douro is home to spacious properties that could be the perfect choice for families. There are countless best places to live in Porto, Portugal, and we recommend visiting the city to see which is the ideal option for you.

Algarve

The Algarve in southern Portugal is home to one of the most sensational coastlines in Europe, famous for stunning beaches such as Praia da Rocha close to Portimão and the captivating Benagil Caves near Lagos.

Many foreign nationals choose cities such as Faro, Albufeira, and Tavira, and Lagos. Americans can buy property in Lagos without any restrictions.

The region is also home to many English-speaking locals, making it easy for a US citizen moving to Portugal to integrate into their new surroundings.

The Algarve is a favorite among US retirees because of its sunny climate (over 300 days of sunshine), outdoor coastal lifestyle, excellent healthcare system, and golden beaches. You will also find many of the best luxury care homes in Portugal in the Algarve region.

Cascais and Estoril

Cascais and Estoril, charming upscale seaside towns, offer stunning spacious properties, terrific beaches, and a relaxed pace of life.

Families will find some of the best international schools in the country close by, while retirees will be able to embrace a high-quality lifestyle, enjoying their golden years in style.

Living in Cascais, you are just a quick train ride from Lisbon, too, bringing you the ultimate mix of seaside luxury and city convenience.

Coimbra

Once the capital of Portugal, Coimbra is now a stunning city that offers something for everyone at a significantly lower cost of living compared to Lisbon.

Coimbra has interesting historical architecture and culture on offer to make it the ideal option for Americans moving abroad to Portugal.

The city is also home to Portugal’s oldest university, providing a lively, youthful atmosphere.

The countryside in the surrounding area would also make an exceptional home, with property prices that are very attractive to prospective buyers. Read our Coimbra real estate guide to get to know the property available in the area.

Madeira

Madeira, the birthplace of Cristiano Ronaldo, is a Portuguese archipelago known for its natural beauty. Living in Madeira is an absolute dream for American expats, particularly for retirees looking for a perpetually fabulous climate.

Funchal is Madeira’s main city, with a magnificent location and mild weather year-round. It is the best option for American retirees seeking an island paradise to settle in that still offers modern amenities, Portuguese charm, and gorgeous properties.

Read our Madeira real estate guide if you would like to learn more about the homes available on the island.

Cost of Moving and Setting Up in Portugal

The cost of relocating to Portugal varies depending on lifestyle, location, and the type of visa pursued, but it remains significantly lower than in most Western countries — particularly the United States.

For most US citizens, the initial setup includes visa application fees, legal assistance, document authentication, and travel expenses. Renting a furnished apartment in Lisbon or Porto typically costs between €1,400 and €2,300 ($1,512–$2,484) per month in 2026, while smaller cities and inland regions offer quality housing for €800 to €1,300 ($864–$1,404).

When retiring in Portugal, daily expenses such as groceries, dining out, and transport are notably affordable, with most individuals spending 30–40 percent less than in the US for a comparable standard of living.

Once in Portugal, setting up essential services like healthcare, banking, and telecommunications is straightforward and inexpensive. Private health insurance plans start around €50 to €150 ($54–$162) per month, while utilities — electricity, water, internet, and mobile — average €170 to €240 ($184–$259) monthly for a two-person household.

Many newcomers also budget for an initial outlay on local registrations, furniture, or vehicle purchase if settling long-term. Overall, a single person can live comfortably in Portugal on €2,000 to €2,800 ($2,160–$3,024) per month, while couples often manage well on €3,000 to €4,000 ($3,240–$4,320), depending on location and lifestyle choices.

The combination of manageable setup costs and long-term affordability continues to make the cost of living in Portugal vs the US one of the most cost-effective destinations for relocation.

Cost of Living Portugal vs the US

Below is a table that compares the average costs of products and services between Lisbon and New York City.

Source: Numbeo

Healthcare in Portugal

Many US citizens believe Portugal is the best country to live in due to its strong public healthcare system, which offers quality services at affordable prices.

The Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) offers comprehensive medical care to both residents and citizens, including general practitioner visits, hospital treatments, and emergency services.

Once you obtain legal residency, you can register at your local health center and obtain a Portuguese health number (número de utente, which is different from a social security number), which provides access to the SNS network. Routine appointments are reasonably priced, and many services are either free or significantly subsidized.

Additionally, many expatriates choose to enhance their healthcare with private health insurance for quicker access to specialists or English-speaking doctors, with premiums generally ranging from €50 to €150 per month.

Portugal’s healthcare standards consistently rank among the best in Europe, allowing residents to receive high-quality medical attention at a fraction of the cost found in the United States.

Working and Income When You Move to Portugal

Portugal caters to a variety of lifestyles and goals, whether you are moving to Portugal from the US as a digital nomad, career-seeker, or entrepreneur.

The most common jobs in Portugal

Here is a list of the most sought-after jobs in Portugal for expats and their average yearly salaries.

Note: These are just general estimates and vary based on the location and employer.

Remote work and digital nomads

Portugal is a top choice for remote workers and digital nomads, thanks to fast internet, a great lifestyle, and accessible visa options. High-speed fiber is widely available, and coworking spaces are common in cities like Lisbon, Porto, Braga, and Aveiro, making working in Portugal remotely easy.

Active digital nomad communities host regular meetups, making it easy to network and settle in. Many US citizens in Portugal continue working remotely for American companies, allowing them to earn US-level salaries while benefiting from Portugal’s lower cost of living. The cost of living in Braga, for example, offers Americans a beautiful city where everything, from healthcare to transportation, is a fraction of the cost they would find in the USA.

The job market for English speakers

Portugal’s job market is quite diverse, and while some industries can be competitive, there are still many opportunities available.

The tourism and hospitality industries are quite prominent in the Portuguese job market, along with tech and IT jobs.

Speaking English also gives you the upper hand when applying for these jobs, as strong communication skills are highly sought after.

If you are moving to Portugal from the USA, check out our guide: Jobs in Portugal for Americans.

Starting a business in Portugal

Starting a business in Portugal can be a good idea, particularly in the technology and tourism sectors, due to the country’s supportive environment, strategic location, and access to the EU market.

Portugal offers a business-friendly environment with various funding opportunities for startups. Lisbon, in particular, has a thriving startup and entrepreneurial scene and plays host to the Web Summit, the world’s largest tech conference, each year.

Californians are moving to Portugal in high numbers due to Portugal’s booming tech scene, with Lisbon coined the Silicon Valley of Europe for tech startups, with similarties in climate to America’s Golden State another pull factor.

Minimum wage and average salary

Most Americans can live a comfortable life in Portugal on an average US salary. That’s because the average monthly salary in Portugal is about €1,741 ($1,890), compared to the minimum wage of €920 ($1,080).

Education and Family Life in Portugal

Education in Portugal follows the European model and includes a mix of public, private, and international schools. Public schools are free and provide a solid academic foundation, although classes are conducted in Portuguese.

International schools

Many American families prefer international schools in Portugal, especially in Lisbon, Cascais, and Porto, where tuition can range from €8,000 to €20,000 annually. Portugal is also home to several respected universities and vocational institutions, many of which offer programs taught in English.

In addition to healthcare and education, residents enjoy efficient public services, including well-developed transportation networks, accessible banking systems, and modern digital government platforms for handling taxes, registrations, and visa renewals.

Universities

Portugal offers high-quality education at top-tier institutions, such as the University of Lisbon, the University of Porto, and the University of Coimbra.

To study here, students spend about €1,000 – €7,000 ($1,100 – $8,000) per year. The tuition fees are a more affordable alternative to those of many programs in other European countries or the US.

You can also apply to undergraduate and graduate programs that are widely available in English. This makes it easier for international students to adjust to daily life while they settle into a new specific location.

Your degree will meet European standards, which means you can explore career opportunities across other European capitals after graduation. For more information, check our article on universities in Portugal.

School system overview

When you move to Portugal as a legal resident or begin the residency process, your children can access free education through the public school system.

The system includes preschool (ages 3–6), primary education (ages 6–15), secondary education (ages 15–18), and higher education.

Most public schools teach in Portuguese, but many in urban areas now offer bilingual support.

Banking, Taxes, and Financial Setup in Portugal

Moving to Portugal from USA soil, or any other country for that matter, means new banking systems, tax filing, and ways to handle your finances. Below, you’ll find the basics to get you started.

Opening a Portuguese bank account

Before opening a local bank account, you will need your own NIF number in Portugal. The NIF is a tax identification number required for any financial transactions, including setting up a Portuguese bank account. To get a NIF, non-EU citizens, including US nationals, will need to have a fiscal representative.

When you have secured your NIF number, opening a Portuguese bank account is usually easy and straightforward. When banking in Portugal, you have a range of options, from online banks to more traditional banks, including many that offer mortgages to foreigners.

Some of the best banks in Portugal to consider are Millennium BCP, Novo Banco, Banco BPI, and Banco Santander Totta.

You can check out our article on how to get a NIF number in Portugal.

Currency, cards, and money transfers

Portugal uses the euro (€). In urban cities, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but in smaller towns or local markets, cash is often preferred. Generally, it’s always good practice to carry a bit of cash on you, just in case.

When exchanging your foreign currency, Multibanco ATMs are easy to find and generally offer better exchange rates than currency exchange offices. To save on international transfers or spending, you can use services like Revolut or Wise.

US Tax Obligations While Living in Portugal

When relocating to Portugal, your taxes will follow you, too. No matter where you are moving from, it is always best to consult a tax professional to understand how your tax obligations will change.

In general, when living in Portugal as an American, the following tax implications will be important to know:

Portuguese vs USA tax residency and filing

Tax rules differ when moving to Portugal from US tax systems. In Portugal, you become a tax resident if you spend at least 183 days in Portugal in a year or have a habitual residence in the country. If you are a tax resident, you will be expected to complete annual tax returns in the country.

Residents are taxed on worldwide income at progressive rates from 12.5 percent up to 48 percent. Non-residents pay a flat rate of 25 percent on Portuguese-source income.

Americans moving to Portugal also remain subject to US tax laws, including the requirement to file annual tax returns on worldwide income. However, the following provisions and tax benefits are available:

• Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE): You can exclude up to $132,900 of foreign income from US taxes in the 2026 tax year, if you meet certain residency rules.
• Foreign Tax Credit (FTC): You can reduce your US tax bill by claiming credit for taxes you pay in Portugal.
• FBAR (FinCEN 114): If your foreign bank accounts total over $10,000 at any point in the year, you must report them.
• FATCA (Form 8938): If your foreign assets exceed certain amounts, you must report them to the IRS.
• Social security: A USA-Portugal agreement decides which country you pay into, depending on how long you stay and where you work.
• Tax treaty: There is a US–Portugal income tax treaty designed to avoid double taxation, but the United States saving clause often means American citizens still need to use FEIE or FTC to reduce their tax.

If you’re looking to relocate from the USA, check out our guide on How to Move out of the US.

Moving to Portugal From the USA: Practical Life Setup

In addition to setting up your finances, there are a few other logistics to navigate when making Portugal your permanent residence, like getting your pets and belongings into the country and setting up essentials like your internet and Portuguese driver’s license.

Below, we provide an overview of what to expect when you relocate to Portugal.

Internet and mobile services

Portugal has a reliable internet infrastructure, with high-speed fiber internet. Coverage is excellent, especially in urban cities, with 4G/5G networks reaching over the majority of populated areas. Public Wi-Fi is also common in cafes and public spaces.

For an unlimited internet plan at a speed of 60 Mbps or more (Cable/ADSL), you’ll spend about €35–€70 ($38–$76) per month, depending on the contract you choose.

Driving and getting a license

If you are a US citizen, driving in Portugal with an American license is allowed for 185 days, thanks to a bilateral agreement between the US and Portugal. You can then exchange your US license for a Portuguese one without having to take a driver’s test in Portugal.

If you have a license from another non-EU/EEA country, you can generally drive in Portugal for up to 90 days. However, it’s a good idea to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if your license isn’t in English or Portuguese. After that, you’ll need to exchange it for a Portuguese one. Depending on your home country, this may involve taking a driver’s test in Portugal.

Bringing pets when moving to Portugal

You can move to Portugal with pets as long as you meet these requirements:

• You will need a European pet passport issued by an authorized veterinarian from the US.
• The pet must have a microchip.
• The pet must be vaccinated against rabies. If you have just vaccinated your pet, there is a 21-day waiting period before you can move your pet into the country.
• There are some breeds considered dangerous. In such cases, you need to sign a liability term and get a special permit from a local veterinarian.

Shipping belongings to Portugal

When transporting your belongings to Portugal, shipping by sea is the cheapest and slowest option. It will take one to three months to reach you. Air freight is the fastest and most expensive option, costing up to twice as much as sea freight. By air freight, your items will reach you within a week or two.

For a complete guide to buying property and relocating to Portugal, check out our E-Book: Your Expert Guide to Buying Property in Portugal.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

• Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
• Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
• Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
• Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
• Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.