Can a Portuguese citizen live in Spain?

Portuguese citizens who are attracted by Spain's rich culture and favorable climate often wonder, "Can a Portuguese citizen live in Spain?" The answer is unequivocally, yes. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about making the move.

Portuguese Citizens in Spain: The Legal Basis

As Portugal and Spain are both members of the European Union, Portuguese citizens are free to live, work, and study in Spain under EU law. Learn about the legalities and freedoms this grants Portuguese citizens in Spain.

Moving from Portugal to Spain: Things to Consider

From understanding the cost of living differences between the two nations to cultural nuances that may affect your daily life, we'll provide a detailed breakdown of the key factors to consider when moving from Portugal to Spain.

As a Portuguese citizen, you are also a European citizen, which entitles you to live and work in any other EU country, including Spain.

Some of the benefits of living in Spain as a Portuguese citizen include significantly higher wages, proximity to Portugal and the relatively easy transition to the Spanish language from Portuguese.

It’s also worth noting that Spain has a large Portuguese population, making the assimilation process easier. 

Portuguese and Spanish cultures share a lot of similarities, however, there are some key differences that are more nuanced. 

Madrid is a very popular destination for Portuguese people due to its close proximity to Portugal, high wages and job opportunities. 

Moving to Spain as a Portuguese expat who obtained citizenship in Portugal is a very popular thing to do. Portugal is well known for ease of entry and significant tax benefits to expats. Rather than going through the Spanish process of citizenship, many people opt to apply for citizenship in Portugal and then move to Spain as a European citizen.

NHR Tax Regime: A Notable Benefit for Returning Portuguese Citizens

One important factor that often attracts Portuguese citizens back home is the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime. After living abroad and not being a tax resident of Portugal for five years, citizens can return to apply for the NHR status, which can offer significant tax advantages. Many Portuguese move to countries like Spain or the UK, then return to benefit from this regime.

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How to Register as a Portuguese Expat in Spain

Once you've decided to move to Spain, there are several bureaucratic steps to follow. This section will cover how to register as a Portuguese expat, obtain your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), and other essentials for setting up your life in Spain.

Navigating the Spanish Job Market

Whether you're relocating for work or seeking employment after moving, it's vital to understand Spain's job market. We'll discuss the industries with the most opportunities for Portuguese speakers and the expectations for job seekers in Spain.

Consult with Immigration Experts for a Smooth Transition

While moving to another country within the EU is less complicated than immigrating from outside the bloc, it still comes with its challenges. Engaging with immigration experts can help ensure a smooth transition.

Get Personalized Help from Movingto

Looking for more personalized assistance? The Movingto team can provide expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today to get started on your journey from Portugal to Spain!