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 UK citizens being among the top three nationalities to receive a Portugal Golden Visa for residency in the country, according to the 2023 Portuguese Migration and Asylum Report.

If you’re considering moving from the UK to Portugal, this comprehensive 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.

Understanding the Impact of Brexit on UK Citizens Moving to Portugal

Moving to Portugal from the 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. While UK citizens no longer have the automatic right to live and work in Portugal as EU nationals, the good news is that new opportunities have emerged to help Brits make the move—and stay for the long haul to build their new lives.

As non-EU citizens, UK nationals now need a residency permit for stays longer than 90 days. But don’t let the paperwork intimidate you. These changes have paved the way for exciting possibilities, including pathways to permanent residency and even citizenship. Brexit may have rewritten the rules, but Portugal still offers UK citizens a golden ticket to a new adventure. However, planning ahead is essential for a smooth transition.

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 a valid passport or photo ID, proof of address, Portuguese tax number (NIF or Número de Identificação Fiscal), proof of income, and 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.

Taxation for UK Expats in Portugal

Understanding Portugal’s tax system is essential for UK expats moving to the country long term, especially with recent changes. The popular Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) program, which previously offered generous tax exemptions for foreign income and pensions, has been replaced by the “NHR 2.0”, Portugal’s new tax regime.

While this new regime still provides benefits, such as a flat 20 percent tax rate for professionals in specific sectors like science and technology, the previous broad exemptions for foreign income, including pensions, have ended. This means retirees and those relying on foreign income will no longer enjoy the same level of tax efficiency that made Portugal a tax haven in the past. Despite these changes, the Double Taxation Agreement between Portugal and the UK ensures you’re not taxed twice on income earned in the UK – a big plus for UK expats.

Portugal’s progressive tax system applies to global income if you are a Portuguese tax resident, along with property and capital gains taxes. To make the most of the new Portuguese tax regime and avoid surprises, we highly recommend consult a tax advisor who understands the evolving landscape.

Healthcare Access 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. As a UK citizen with legal residency, you can access the public system by registering at your local health centre with your residency permit, NIF (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. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) card can access public healthcare in Portugal for short-term stays. UK citizens can also use the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC 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 cover. Private healthcare remains a popular option for supplementary coverage, especially for expats seeking shorter waiting times.

Finding Accommodation: 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.

Investing in Portuguese property isn’t just about securing a place to live—it’s about building long-term value. 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.

Another advantage of buying is the ability to truly make a place your own. Unlike renting, where you’re often limited in making changes, owning allows you to customize your home to fit your lifestyle. Furthermore, 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 an income-generating asset. 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 €1,300 to €2,000 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 vibes. Perfect for professionals, families, and anyone who loves 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.

Cost of Living Comparison: UK vs. Portugal

Brits moving to Portugal isn’t just a lifestyle upgrade—it’s often a financial one, too. 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.

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—they’ve got the experience and expertise to 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. The process is simple: request the certificate ahead of your move and make sure it confirms your items are used and have been in your possession for over six months.

Education and International Schools in Portugal

Portugal offers a variety of educational options for expat families, from public to private schools and world-class international schools too. Public schools provide free education, but they teach in Portuguese, which can be a challenge for children who are not yet fluent in the language. Private schools offer smaller class sizes and often a more personalized approach, but they do come with tuition fees and learners are usually still taught in Portuguese.

International schools, on the other hand, are particularly popular among expats, as they teach in English or other international languages and follow curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB), British, or American systems. There are 51 international schools in Portugal, with the majority in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Each school offers different curricula, fee structures, sports, and other extracurricular activities. This gives expat families a wide variety to choose from.  

These schools provide a smooth transition for children moving from other countries and help maintain continuity in their education. While international schools can be more expensive, they’re a great choice for families looking for a familiar environment and an international community. Some of the best international schools in Portugal catering specifically to British learners are:

• British School of Lisbon
• IPS Cascais
• Nobel International School Algarve
• Oporto British School in Porto
• St. Julian’s School in Carcavelos (just outside of Lisbon)

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. Free or low-cost language courses 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.

Family Reunification for UK Citizens in Portugal

Planning to bring your family along to Portugal too? Good news—UK citizens can include dependent family members in their visa applications, making it easier to start your new life together. The family reunification process involves submitting an application to the Portuguese consulate in person in your country of residence.

The visa is typically valid for two years. You’ll need to provide the usual documents, like a completed visa application form, a passport valid for at least six months, and identity documents for your family members. Once approved, your family can join you in Portugal as residents, enjoying the same rights and benefits as you.

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 license 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, and proof of your Portuguese residency. The best part? No driving test is required for the conversion! Once that’s sorted, make sure you’re familiar with Portugal’s roads, especially toll roads, which require registration for electronic payments.

Employment Opportunities 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.

The tech industry in Portugal is currently booming and offers competitive salaries. Lucrative roles like blockchain engineers and software/web developers should be a bit easier to come by and one can earn anywhere from €60,000 and €80,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

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

Final Thoughts

Moving to Portugal from the UK involves securing visas, finding your ideal place to live, and adapting to a different culture, but the reward for your efforts is well worth it. By understanding the process and planning ahead, UK citizens can enjoy Portugal’s high quality 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.