Planning a move to Portugal from Ireland? Whether you're drawn by the sunny weather, a lower cost of living, or the tax benefits for retirees, this guide has you covered. We'll walk you through everything from visa requirements to finding the right place to settle down.
As an Irish citizen, relocating to Portugal is a breeze—no visa needed for short stays, but long-term living requires some planning. Let’s dive into the key steps to make your transition smooth, stress-free, and rewarding.
Key Takeaways
- 🌞 Portugal offers Irish expats a welcoming climate with more sunny days and mild winters compared to Ireland’s unpredictable weather, along with a significantly lower cost of living.
- 📝 Irish citizens planning to relocate to Portugal need to familiarize themselves with local visa and residency requirements. For stays exceeding three months, obtaining a registration certificate is essential.
- 🏡 Long-term integration into Portugal requires awareness of logistics for moving belongings and pets, adjusting to local healthcare and education systems, and understanding pathways to permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship, including the Golden Visa program for non-EU investors.
Why Move to Portugal from Ireland?
So, why are Irish citizens increasingly setting their sights on Portugal? The appeal lies in the impressive lifestyle upgrades that Portugal offers over Ireland. Whether it’s the allure of endless sunshine hours, the promise of a more affordable cost of living, or the potential for a tax-efficient retirement, Portugal has plenty to offer Irish expats seeking a change of pace.
Climate and Lifestyle
Firstly, let’s talk about the weather. Portugal’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, is a stark contrast to Ireland’s cooler, more unpredictable climate.
With an average of 7.2 hours of sunshine per day compared to Ireland’s 3.8, and fewer rainy days, Portugal offers a sunnier, more outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
The lower average humidity of 74% versus Ireland’s 83% makes for a more comfortable environment, particularly suited for outdoor activities.
Cost of Living Comparison
The cost of living in Portugal is another major draw for Irish citizens. It’s approximately 37% less expensive than in Ireland, making it significantly more affordable. Here are some specific cost comparisons:
In regions like the Algarve, a retired couple can live comfortably on a budget of as little as €1,099 per month.
Retirement Advantages
The new NHR 2.0 regime, introduced in 2024, focuses on attracting highly skilled professionals in specific fields, such as scientific research, technology, and innovation.
While it still offers some benefits, such as a 20% flat tax on income from eligible professions and exemptions on foreign-sourced income like dividends and capital gains, pension income is no longer tax-exempt under this regime.
For those already benefiting from the old NHR regime, the tax advantages remain in place for the duration of their 10-year period.
However, retirees seeking to take advantage of the old NHR regime must have initiated their relocation process by late 2023, meeting specific transitional provisions.
With these changes, the program has shifted its focus away from retirees and now caters primarily to professionals contributing to Portugal’s innovation and scientific sectors.
Visa and Residency Requirements for Irish Citizens
While the allure of Portugal might be strong, it’s essential to understand the visa and residency requirements before making a move. The good news for Irish citizens is that they can move to Portugal without needing a visa and stay for up to 90 days.
For extended stays beyond 90 days, Irish citizens are required to register for a Certificate of Registration at the local council. This should be done within 30 days after the initial 90-day period.
Another key aspect to consider is tax residency. Spending more than 183 days in Portugal within a calendar year establishes you as a tax resident, subjecting you to tax on your income. There are various residency options for Irish citizens - from performing independent business activities to being employed in Portugal.
For students, obtaining a residence permit in Portugal involves applying for a student visa, followed by a residence permit at Portuguese Labor Authorities or the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
Registration Certificate
As mentioned, Irish citizens planning a stay of more than three months in Portugal need to obtain a registration certificate. This certificate, known as Certificado de Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia (CRUE), can be applied for at the local city or town hall (Câmara Municipal) in Portugal.
The application should be made within 30 days following the first three months in the country. There’s a small fee to pay: EUR 15 for adults and a reduced fee of EUR 7.5 for children under six years old. Failing to apply within the required time frame can result in a fine of between EUR 400 and EUR 1,500.
Tax Residency
Establishing tax residency in Portugal is primarily based on physical presence. If you spend more than 183 days within a 12-month period in Portugal, or maintain a permanent home intended as your habitual residence, you will be considered a tax resident.
Although the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program that offered significant tax advantages has been phased out for new applicants, as a tax resident, your worldwide income is subject to Portuguese taxation.
However, the Double Tax Agreement between Ireland and Portugal remains in effect, which may prevent double taxation by allowing tax credits or exemptions on certain types of income taxed in both countries.
For individuals moving to Portugal post-NHR, exploring alternative tax benefits or speaking with a tax advisor to understand the comprehensive tax implications and potential planning strategies is advisable. This ensures compliance while optimizing tax liabilities in light of Portugal's existing tax structure.
Application Process and Fees
Moving to Portugal involves navigating a few legal and bureaucratic steps, especially concerning visa and residency. Here’s a structured overview of the application process and associated fees:
When planning your visa application for Portugal, it's advisable to submit your application between 15 and 90 days prior to your intended travel date. On average, the processing time for a short-stay visa is around 2 weeks, but this can extend up to a month depending on the specific visa type and individual circumstances.
For long-stay visas, the processing time can be significantly longer, ranging from 1 to 6 months. Always ensure your documents are well-prepared and submitted within the advised timeframe to avoid delays.
Fees
Schengen Visa (Short-stay)
- Adults and children over 12: €90
- Children between 6 and 12: €45
- Free for children under 6 and certain categories such as students traveling for study and non-profit representatives under 25.
National Visa (Long-stay)
- Standard application fee: €90
- Students applying for a residence permit face additional fees including a SEF residence permit application fee (€83) and issuance fee (€72).
Work Visa
- Temporary visa fee for entry: €90
- SEF residence permit application: €83
- SEF residence permit issuance: €72
Golden Visa
- Application fee: €605.10
- Permit issuance fee: €6,045.20
- Renewal fee: €3,023.20
- Legal fees for application range from €5,000 to €8,000
- Renewal legal fees range from €1,000 to €2,500
Relocating Your Belongings and Pets
Moving to Portugal is not just about paperwork and tax advantages; it’s also about relocating your life, including your belongings and pets. There are various transportation options available for moving your belongings, including air freight, sea, and land transportation.
Each option has its own advantages and considerations to take into account. The process requires some paperwork, including color scans of your passport, a detailed inventory in Portuguese, serial numbers of major appliances, proof of residence in Portugal, and a declaration of ownership of the goods for customs.
You must be present in Portugal when your shipment arrives, within 90 days of your arrival and 120 days of obtaining the luggage certificate. And take note, there are certain items that are strictly prohibited from being imported into Portugal.
Moving Personal Belongings
When moving your personal belongings, a detailed inventory of all shipped items is necessary for Portuguese customs officials, who will review it for accuracy. This inventory should also include the value of each item for customs purposes and be in Portuguese, authenticated by the Portuguese consulate.
Used personal belongings that are at least one year old can be imported into Portugal without incurring duties and taxes. You’ll also need valid color scans of your passport.
Before your goods arrive from a foreign country, customs may require you to be present in Portugal. International shipping services are available to handle customs clearance and quarantine inspections for personal belongings being moved to Portugal.
Bringing Pets
If you’re planning to bring your pets with you, they’ll need:
- An EU pet passport or a third-country official veterinary certificate if coming from outside the EU
- To be microchipped
- A valid rabies vaccination to enter Portugal
- For pets other than dogs, cats, or ferrets, a veterinary certificate attesting to the animal’s health is required.
Dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before traveling to Portugal from outside the EU. If bringing a pet from outside the EU, a tapeworm treatment may be required, except for dogs from certain countries, including Ireland. Each pet transported from Ireland to Portugal must have its own pet passport.
When traveling by plane, airlines often require a veterinary check within 5 days of the flight to ensure pets are fit for travel.
Choosing the Right Location in Portugal
Choosing the right location to live in Portugal is a crucial decision. The most popular cities for Irish expats are Lisbon and Porto, which offer a variety of lifestyles and opportunities.
Alternatively, the Algarve region is not only a popular tourist destination but also a top choice among Irish retirees for its climate and quality of life. Or perhaps you prefer the rich history and lively nightlife of Braga.
It’s worth noting, however, that the Golden Visa program has faced criticism for its impact on local housing markets, notably causing an increase in property prices in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, appeals to Irish expats with its diverse job opportunities in technology, education, and the arts. Known for its dynamic lifestyle, the city also offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and a variety of culinary delights.
These features make Lisbon an ideal destination for those seeking to enrich both their professional and personal lives in a culturally rich urban setting.
- Diverse museums and historical sites
- Opportunities in tech, arts, and education
- Strong expat support networks
- Vibrant nightlife and culinary scene
This blend of cultural, professional, and social amenities underscores why Lisbon is a favored choice for expatriates.
Porto
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is another excellent choice for Irish expats. With diverse employment opportunities in the following sectors:
- Technology
- Commerce
- Education
- Tourism
Porto caters to a variety of professional backgrounds. The city also boasts a supportive expat network, providing valuable insider tips and advice for adapting to the local environment and job market.
InterNations Porto, a social and networking platform, offers regular activities and events that allow Irish residents to meet and build connections with the expat community in Porto.
Algarve
For those seeking a slower pace of life, the Algarve region might be the perfect fit. Recognized globally as one of the best places to retire, the Algarve is a prevalent choice for Irish retirees.
With over 100,000 resident foreign retirees and a welcoming European and Irish retiree community, the Algarve offers a sense of familiarity and community for those looking for a laid-back lifestyle and local engagement.
With over 3,300 hours of sunshine per year and 100 miles of coastline with award-winning beaches, the Algarve is one of Europe’s sunniest and most picturesque regions.
Plus, with 42 golf courses and a broad spectrum of cultural, nature-based, sporting, and gastronomic experiences to indulge in, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in the Algarve.
Azores
The Azores, an archipelago of nine islands in the Atlantic, offers a unique lifestyle for expats seeking a blend of nature and tranquility.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, volcanic craters, and lush greenery, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Each island has its own charm:
- São Miguel: The largest island, famous for its hot springs and crater lakes.
- Pico: Home to Portugal’s highest mountain, ideal for hiking and wine lovers.
- Terceira: Rich in history and culture, with a UNESCO World Heritage city.
- Faial: Known for its marina and vibrant sailing community.
The Azores provides a serene escape with a strong expat network for those seeking a peaceful yet adventurous lifestyle.
Aveiro
Often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal," Aveiro is a picturesque city known for its canals, colorful boats, and charming atmosphere. It offers a slower pace of life, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle of larger cities like Lisbon or Porto.
Aveiro is also a hub for seafood lovers and has a growing tech and startup scene, providing both professional and leisure opportunities. Its coastal location allows easy access to beautiful beaches, while the city itself is rich in art nouveau architecture and cultural events, making it an attractive destination for expats.
Navigating Healthcare and Education in Portugal
Once you’ve decided to make the move and chosen your perfect location, it’s important to understand the local education and healthcare systems in Portugal. Whether you’re seeking treatment, registering for healthcare, or enrolling your children in school, having a good grasp of these systems can make your transition smoother.
Portugal's 25th-best education system is well-recognized internationally and provides a variety of higher education options for adults and recent high school graduates.
Accessing Healthcare
Portugal’s healthcare system, Servico Nacional de Saude (SNS), is largely free and provides access to citizens and foreign residents, including Irish retirees who may use an S1 form to complete their access.
To access public healthcare, expats in Portugal must first obtain a tax identification number (NIF), then register for an SNS user number at a local health center with a social security card, passport or ID card, and residence permit.
Education Options
For those with children, Portugal offers a variety of education options. International schools in Portugal offer English-language instruction and curriculum options, including:
- International Baccalaureate
- American
- British
- German
- French
- Religious programs
Portugal has over 100 higher education institutions, with public university tuition around €1,000 annually, while private costs can be near €5,000 per year.
If you’re interested in alternative educational methods, you can also explore Montessori and Waldorf schools, and adults have access to vocational and ongoing education programs.
Long-Term Residency and Citizenship
Once you’ve settled into life in Portugal, you might start considering longer-term plans. Irish citizens can apply for permanent residency and citizenship in Portugal after meeting specific requirements.
However, it’s worth noting that a student’s residence permit does not count towards the five years required for permanent residency.
To apply for Portuguese citizenship, you must:
- Have resided in Portugal for at least five years
- Demonstrate proficiency in Portuguese
- Meet additional requirements, such as sufficient funds and housing
Portugal allows dual citizenship, so you can maintain your original nationality while acquiring Portuguese citizenship. The application process for Portuguese citizenship generally takes between 6 months to 1 year from submission of the complete application.
A SEF appointment is necessary for the biometric data collection and to finalize the residency or citizenship application.
Permanent Residency
Obtaining permanent residency in Portugal is a straightforward process. You need to have lived in the country continuously for at least five years and hold a temporary residence permit.
Non-EU/EEA citizens can apply for permanent residency after five years of holding a temporary residence permit in Portugal.
If you’ve followed the Golden Visa route, you can apply for permanent residency after five years.
Portuguese Citizenship
To apply for Portuguese citizenship, you must:
- Have resided in Portugal for at least five years
- Meet additional requirements, including proving proficiency in Portuguese at level A2 or higher, typically by passing the CIPLE exam
- Provide a valid passport, birth certificate, criminal record certificate, evidence of ties to Portugal, and proof of legal residence.
Portuguese citizenship confers the right to vote, access to local education rates, the ability to pass citizenship on to descendants, and permits holding dual citizenship with other countries.
Golden Visa Program
For non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, the Golden Visa program offers an attractive route to residency in Portugal. The program grants residency to individuals who make an investment that meets a minimum requirement, currently set at €500,000 in total value.
The procedure for obtaining a Golden Visa includes strict due diligence, particularly in ensuring the transparency and legality of the investment sources.
After selecting an investment option and taking care of financial prerequisites, the final step is to complete the payment for the investment.
The Portugal Golden Visa typically takes around 8 to 10 months to process. This timeframe may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Investment Options
The Golden Visa program offers a variety of investment options, including:
- Venture capital funds, designed to maximize capital gains
- Private equity funds that focus on yearly dividends
- Contributions to the Portuguese arts, national heritage, or culture through a donation of €250,000
- Investments in scientific and technological research of a minimum of €500,000
These are recognized forms of investment under the Golden Visa program.
Minimum investment amounts for both venture capital and private equity funds are typically over €500,000, with funds specifically tailored for Golden Visa investors often having a lower minimum and shorter maturity periods.
Benefits and Requirements
The Golden Visa program offers several benefits to EU citizens in European countries. Holders gain the right to live, work, and travel freely within the EU and are eligible for family reunification. They must also satisfy only low minimum stay requirements to retain their status.
To be eligible for residency or citizenship, Golden Visa applicants must:
- Maintain their investment for five years
- Comply with minimum stay requirements
- Have a clean criminal record
- Prove that their funds come from outside Portugal.
Summary
In conclusion, moving from Ireland to Portugal is a big decision, but one that can bring numerous benefits. Whether you’re attracted by the sunnier climate, lower cost of living, or attractive retirement options, Portugal offers a wealth of opportunities.
Understanding the administrative processes, from visa and residency requirements to healthcare and education systems, will ensure a smooth transition. Whether you’re planning to move to Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, or elsewhere, Portugal offers a warm welcome and a great quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I live in Portugal as an Irish citizen?
Yes, as an Irish citizen, you have the right to live in Portugal for more than 3 months if you are employed or self-employed in Portuguese territory. Consider your employment options in Portugal if you plan to move there.
What is the criteria for moving to Portugal?
To move to Portugal, you may need a passport, a completed visa application form, and valid travel insurance. EU citizens have the right to permanent residence after living legally in Portugal for five consecutive years. All non-EU/EEA citizens require a visa and residence permit, obtainable at a Portuguese embassy or immigration authorities.
Where do most Irish expats live in Portugal?
Most Irish expats in Portugal live in the Algarve region, which is considered one of the best places to retire in the world (CNN, Forbes).
Do Irish citizens need private health insurance when moving to Portugal?
Answer: While Irish citizens can access Portugal's public healthcare system, having private health insurance ensures quicker access to specialists and broader coverage, especially during the initial transition period.
Can I bring my pet to Portugal from Ireland?
Yes, you can bring your pet to Portugal from Ireland as long as it has an EU pet passport or a third-country official veterinary certificate, a microchip, and a valid rabies vaccination.
About Movingto
Movingto is a leading immigration law firm that specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the complex process of relocating to Portugal. With a team of experienced lawyers and immigration experts, Movingto.io provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
Why Choose Movingto?
- Expertise and Experience: Our lawyers have extensive knowledge of Portuguese immigration law and years of experience assisting clients with various visa applications, including the D7 Visa, Golden Visa, Startup Visa, and Family Reunion Visa.
- Personalized Approach: We understand that every client's situation is different. Our lawyers take the time to listen to your goals and provide personalized advice and guidance throughout the process.
- Comprehensive Support: Movingto.io offers a comprehensive range of services beyond legal advice, including assistance with document preparation, property search, and relocation planning.
- Competitive Fees: We offer competitive fees and transparent pricing so that you know exactly what to expect.
- Exceptional Client Service: Our team is committed to providing exceptional client service. We are responsive, attentive, and always available to answer your questions.
Whether you are an entrepreneur seeking to establish a business in Portugal, a retiree looking to enjoy the country's favorable tax regime, or a family seeking to reunite in Portugal, Movingto.io is here to guide you every step of the way.
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