Legal Topics for Expats
Navigate Portuguese law with confidence. Each guide covers key regulations, common pitfalls, and practical steps.
Visas & Entry
Schengen rules, D7 passive income visa, Golden Visa (investment), Digital Nomad visa, and student visas for non-EU citizens.
Residency & Citizenship
Temporary to permanent residency pathway, 5-year citizenship route, Portuguese language requirements, and EU passport benefits.
Property Ownership
No restrictions for foreigners. Buying process, IMT transfer tax, AL licensing for rentals, and Golden Visa-eligible investments.
Taxes & NHR Regime
Non-Habitual Resident tax benefits, NHR 2.0 for 2024+, tax residency rules, US-Portugal tax treaty, and FBAR/FATCA obligations.
Digital Nomad Visa
Portugal's 2022 digital nomad visa. Income requirements (€3,500/month), remote work rules, and comparison with D7 visa.
Healthcare & SNS
Portuguese National Health Service access, private insurance options, pharmacies, and quality of care in major cities.
Banking & NIF
Getting your NIF (tax number), opening bank accounts, required documents, and international transfer options.
Safety & Security
One of Europe's safest countries. Crime statistics, tourist scams to avoid, emergency contacts, and regional safety notes.
Business & Employment
Starting a business, company structures (LDA, SA), work permits, Tech Visa program, and employment contracts.
Legal System & Enforcement
Portuguese legal system basics, common legal issues for expats, visa overstays, and what to do if you need legal help.
Cost of Living
Lisbon vs Porto vs Algarve costs. Housing, utilities, groceries, dining out, and realistic monthly budgets for expats.
Why Portugal?
🇪🇺 EU Gateway
Portuguese citizenship after 5 years grants an EU passport with freedom to live and work across 27 countries.
🌞 Climate & Lifestyle
300+ days of sunshine, Atlantic beaches, excellent food and wine, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
💰 Lower Cost Than US
Significantly lower cost of living than most US cities, with excellent healthcare and infrastructure.
🗣️ English Friendly
High English proficiency, especially in Lisbon and Porto. Large expat community for support.
Key Portuguese Laws for Expats
Understanding these laws is essential for living legally in Portugal.
Lei n.º 23/2007 (Immigration Law)
Governs entry, stay, exit, and removal of foreign nationals. Defines all visa types and residency permit requirements.
Decree-Law 14/2021 (Digital Nomad)
Establishes the legal framework for remote workers. Requires proof of €3,500+ monthly income from foreign sources.
Código do IRS (Tax Code)
Defines tax residency (183-day rule), income categories, and the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) special regime.