Portugal
Residence procedure: Certificado de Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia at the Câmara Municipal
Official government websiteYour 7-step relocation checklist
- Step 1
EU Free Movement confirmed
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in Portugal with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.
- Step 2
Find accommodation
A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.
Cost of living in Portugal - Step 3
Register your residence — Certificado de Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia at the Câmara Municipal
Deadline: Within 30 days after 3 months of residence. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.
Official government portal - Step 4
Get your NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal)
You need a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) to work, get paid, or open a bank account in Portugal.
Apply for NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) - Step 5
Register with SNS – Serviço Nacional de Saúde
Once resident and working, register with SNS – Serviço Nacional de Saúde. In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.
SNS – Serviço Nacional de Saúde portal - Step 6
Open a local bank account
Most Portugal employers pay salary into a local EUR account. Bring your ID, proof of address and NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal).
- Step 7
Calculate your expected net salary
See what you'll actually take home in Portugal after tax and social security.
Open net salary calculator
FAQ — Moving to Portugal
Information verified for 2026 from official Portugal government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.