Get access to free language assistance when dealing with official entities in Portugal.

You may sometimes encounter difficulties in dealing with official entities, particularly where complicated technical terms and laws are concerned. 

The High Commissions for Migration (ACM) has a telephone translation service (STT) that can assist you in contacting the service or entities with which you wish to communicate. 

The STT offers a database of 60 translators/interpreters and sets up a telephone conference between the manager of the service or institution, a translator and the migrant.

The service is available free of charge (customer only pays for the phone call) every working day between 9:00-17:00.

Migrant support land line: 00351 808 257257 

Migrant support mobile number: 00351 218 106 191

High Commissions for Migration 

Depending on the delivery company you can meet at a local post office or café and either take the parcel or have them follow you home to deliver

For this it is advisable that you contact your local mail services (correios) and you contract them for a rent of a “caixa postal”. Then all your mail is sent to such address.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | +351 91 070 2008 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

Many more drugs in Portugal are available without prescriptions at your local pharmacy, or alternatively visit a local doctor who will write you the needed prescription or send you to a specialist.

All our social event are a great resource to meet new people  On top of taht you might join any local community club in your area. Look for events within local newspapers and magazines.

You need to be actively looking and asking people, seek every opportunity. Join another online group, such as Meetup.

To gain a more heightened sense of belonging, it is essential to develop some basics in the Portuguese language.  Our language courses, online or at the school, are practical and focus on communicating right away in the language you need. Group classes for beginners will start in January, February, July, September and October. Individual classes can start anytime. Classes can be in person or online.

Read more here: 

Depending on what kind of job you're looking for you might go to Linked In or one of the many facebook groups. 

Jobs in the Algarve. 

At the arbitration center to resolve consumer disputes

Created on 9 March 2000 as a pilot project in the Algarve Tourism Region, based on a broad partnership of public and private entities, the center became autonomous in 2003 with the constitution of a non-profit association governed by private law, which oversees the services.

The Center is financed by public, state and municipal funds and constitutes a universal service for all consumers and companies to resolve consumer disputes that oppose them, also providing information on Consumer Law.

https://www.consumidoronline.pt/en/about/

Portugal is ranked 12th -15th on the international scale of medical quality. This is very good news, practically meaning that the doctors you are going to meet are well trained and up to date with practicing medicine!

Yes, there is a National Health Service. You can apply for your “Número de Utente” meaning “User number”. Which is your registration number with the “SNS – Serviço Nacional de Saúde” – National Health Service. Having this number and being duly registered opens the doors to the complete utilization of the Portuguese public system for your medical needs. *You do not have to have residency in order to apply for this.

Trauma cases, accidents and any other emergency situations will be fully treated by the nearest hospital (normally – a public one). Emergencies will be always treated without delays, regardless of your registration status with the National Health System records – The national emergency number is 112.

Portugal has a wide range of private clinics, hospitals, and diagnostic facilities. Many of them would work with your health insurance, but please remember – in some facilities an agreement with your insurer doesn’t necessarily mean that the doctor you are about to see is working with your insurance as well. Try to verify these technicalities when scheduling. 

The easiest way to perform blood tests in Portugal is through one of the many private laboratories widely spread in the country. Most of the labs work with insurers and even with the national health system. You will need to have a medical referral for the required test or blood work. If the referral is from your family practitioner in the public sector – the tests would be done almost or fully free of charge. If you will be using your private insurance a co-payment of about 1.5 euro/test will be charged.

This can be performed in the public or private hospitals or in specific imaging private clinics. All imaging examinations must be prescribed by a physician. When undergoing an imaging exam, please remember to ask for the disk (that would contain the images of your exam) and ask when you should expect the results. Sometimes clinics tend to send the results only to the referring physician, but you should insist on having the study and the report for your own records.

Most of the prescribed medications widely used by patients are available in Portugal. The name brand might be different or even the commercial dosage might change, and yet the needed medication is almost always available. In Portugal the active ingredient is used in the prescription and not the brand name. Generics are also an option and often available. 

The price of medicine is quite low, and chronic medications (when prescribed through the National Health System) is often free or sold for a very low fee as they are subsidized. *Be advised that some very specific medication may only be available through SNS.

Whichever health insurance you choose – be sure to understand what is it that you have adhered to. What does the policy cover, do you have waiting periods, what are the exclusions? 

These are crucial if you want to make the best use of your insurance and not end up paying out of pocket, co-payments or in full for medical services not covered by your policy.

We advise to have your “client profile” before looking for insurance proposals. That exercise might help you understand the balance between your expectations from the insurance, the coverages provided and your financial investment. 

A health plan is what you can join if you do not want to spend money on Health insurance. Portugal offers a very wide variety of “health plans” but if choosing this option, remember that these plans will only provide you with a discount in certain clinics. 

You will still be paying money out of your pocket.

Portugal still does not have a unified medical record system. Hence, your medical history will be registered separately in every hospital / clinic you might attend. 

Some private networks have an application where you can see your medical history (yet, you’ll practically have your file divided between 2, 3 or 4 apps). 

Please be aware of this fact and if possible – save you medical documents in an orderly manner. Certain medical information is available on the SNS data base for national health facilities.

Who can I contact to help me navigate the Healthcare system in Portugal?

Serenity is your go-to company when it comes to healthcare in Portugal. Whether it is a matter of clinical decision making, receiving reliable advice regarding your medical condition, or navigating your way within the labyrinth of the Portuguese health system – the only number you’d have to remember is Serenity’s number. 

These are the tools you’ll need when interacting with health providers / pharmacies / insurers: 

• Serenity’s phone number – 930 422 191.

• NIF – as you know, nothing happens in Portugal without your NIF.

• Número de Utente (SNS number). You’ll need that for any encounter in the public system; getting vaccinated; in order to have your prescription filled (even by a private healthcare service provider) or when collecting a prescription from a pharmacy.

• Your medical insurance card, or at least have your policy number handy.

• Photo ID.

Serenity’s “check-list” for your encounter (our professional inputs for the consultation/exam).

If you are not from the EU, you will need a health insurance to present to the legal authorities. 

Content delivered by Jim Player Insurance Agency. | www.jimplayer.pt | Tel: 289.395.662 Almancil   

With a good health insurance, you’ll not only get (parts of) the consultations and treatments covered, but it'll also allow you to avoid being put on a waiting list in case you require an operation or consultation. A waiting list can take up to several weeks or months

Content delivered by Jim Player Insurance Agency. | www.jimplayer.pt | Tel: 289.395.662 Almancil  

Yes, up to 74 years of age it can be done automatically on the system, after that age it has to be submitted to the insurance company. And in some cases only a discount card is available. 

Content delivered by Jim Player Insurance Agency. | www.jimplayer.pt | Tel: 289.395.662 Almancil   

The normal costs with the purchase of a property in Portugal are usually related to the transfer tax (IMT), stamp duty and then registration and notarial deed costs.

When for habitation IMT cost will vary depending on the purchase price for the property and it can be less than 6% for properties with prices lower than € 574.323,00,  a fixed rate of 6% of the price for properties between € 574.323,00 and € 1.000.000,00 and 7.5% of the price for properties above € 1.000.000,00

When for rustic land the IMT is of 5% of the price.

For other type of properties the tax is of 6.5% of the price.

The stamp duty tax is a fixed value of 0.8% of the price.

The registration costs are of € 250 for each property and the notarial deed costs start at around € 350.

Also, and in case the purchaser wishes to consult/instruct a lawyer to act on his/her behalf legal fees are also part of the additional costs related to such representation which are usually of 1% of the purchase price + VAT. It can vary obviously.

My advise if to obtain an estimation on all purchase costs in order that all funds can be prepared for each step.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

Depending on the type of property you can rent it or give the property for holiday rentals (alojamento local). These are not the only limited options but some of them.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

Depending on the area that you may be looking for to invest so it may be the result for that too. For example the cities work very well for long term rentals and the touristic areas for short term rentals or the so called alojamento local.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

For a normal habitation purpose the only documents required are the energetic certification and the habitation license No rental license is required. 

For the touristic rental (Alojamento Local) you will need the same documents also need to register the property online for such purpose in order that it is part of the national list of AL. Without such registration, severe fines are applicable.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

Depending on the type of services and of the law office the costs/legal fees will vary. What is usually known is that for procedures related to the purchase and sale of properties the normal fees may be around 1% + VAT.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

You can only build on lands that are located within the city council outlined plan approved for each area. Usually these are urban only and each specific location will have its own building capacity and conditions. So it is important to always confirm with a local architect or lawyer.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

The signature of the final deed is signed by the party directly OR but its appointed representative if a Power of Attorney duly signed and with all required formalities is issued for such purpose. This is the same for any contracts that you may need to sign.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

For this purpose you will need to have a contract that will support the exchange of names. It can be a promissory contract that allows such transfer, a final deed relative to the purchase of the property, a rental contract, etc. 

For this you will need to show such document and then take the meter readings and aks for the transfer of the contracts into your name also giving your ID, address and fiscal number.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your taxpayer identification number in Portugal. 

The NIF is required for a variety of everyday activities such as opening a bank account, getting a phone subscription, and signing up for health insurance. The NIF is sometimes referred to as the Número de Contribuinte.

Order online and receive your NIF from the comfort of your living room.

CONVENIENT

Order your Portugal NIF using a simple online form.

FAST

Simply complete the online form to get the process started. You can expect to receive your Portugal NIF within 1-2 weeks.

RELIABLE

We'll keep you updated on every step of the process. If you have any questions, you can always reach out via chat or email.

Check this site to get your NIF and use the discount code EXPATCENTRE to get $10 off your purchase. 

Open a Portuguese bank account from anywhere in the world.

If you need a Portuguese bank account, we’ve got you covered.

We help anyone outside Portugal open a Prestige account with Millennium BCP.

Turn weeks into minutes. 

Skip the Apostille by getting your signature recognized by a law firm in Portugal.

WHITE GLOVE SERVICE

Your account comes with a private bank manager who will assist you in opening your bank account and act as your point of contact with Millennium BCP.

EASY AND CONVENIENT

Let us do the heavy lifting. We’ve streamlined the process of opening a bank account in Portugal to 5 easy steps.

Check this site to get open a bankaccount and use the discount code EXPATCENTRE to get $10 off your purchase. 

Portugal’s NHR regime essentially offers a ten-year tax holiday for new residents. Under NHR, those employed in Portugal in a ‘high value-added’ profession pay a flat 20% income tax rate (instead of the usual rates up to 48%) and just 10% on foreign pension income. Non-habitual residents can also receive most foreign income tax-free in Portugal, such as employment income, interest and some capital gains. You could qualify for NHR if you have not been Portuguese resident within the last five years.  

Content delivered by Blacktower Financial Management  | ‭www.blacktowerfm.com

+351 289 355 685

manuela.robinson@blacktowerfm.com

To be considered as a tax resident in Portugal according to the rules of taxable residency:

 a) stay in Portugal more than 183 days in a period of 12 months;

 b) to have a house that can be considered as usual residence in december 31st of the year in question. 

Not been taxed in Portugal in the last five years.

Content delivered by Blacktower Financial Management  | ‭www.blacktowerfm.com

+351 289 355 685

manuela.robinson@blacktowerfm.com

- request a portuguese tax identification number (nif);

- register as a tax resident;

- register as a non-habitual resident.

Content delivered by Blacktower Financial Management  | ‭www.blacktowerfm.com

+351 289 355 685

manuela.robinson@blacktowerfm.com

The NHR regime was designed to promote the transfer of residency to Portugal for investors, specialized professionals and entrepreneurs.

The special regime for non-habitual residents applies to single persons and provides for the reduction or the exemption from income tax of dependent or independent workers, regarding pensions, capital gains and other income (interests, royalties, dividends) for a period of ten years.

Content delivered by Blacktower Financial Management  | ‭www.blacktowerfm.com

+351 289 355 685

manuela.robinson@blacktowerfm.com

This number is required for many acts: issue of invoices and receipts for any acts, services or items acquired in Portugal, payment of taxes such as the transfer tax payable before or on completion on purchase of properties, opening bank accounts, etc.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

The health care number  is needed when you are to access any hospital, “Centro de saúde” or medical clinic. 

There are specific numbers given:

Fiscal numbers for invoices and receipts, tax declarations, etc.

Número de utente for heath system related intenventions.

Número de segurança social   which is the social security number also required when deductions are done for work being developed in Portugal

You are usually considered Portuguese tax resident after 183 days here, but it can be earlier if you have a permanent Portuguese home – potentially even the day you arrive. Once you are resident in Portugal, your worldwide income and certain gains become liable for Portuguese taxation, so make sure you are prepared for this.

Remember: UK nationals must be able to demonstrate settled residence in Portugal before 31 December 2020 to retain the automatic right to remain and access citizens’ rights post-Brexit.

Content delivered by Blacktower Financial Management  | ‭www.blacktowerfm.com

+351 289 355 685

manuela.robinson@blacktowerfm.com

We have 2 solutions for you: 

1) As "Finances" , the administtrative ofice of the council Loulé, is currently closed, you need to phone them and they will take down your details and give you over the phone a MB Reference for you to pay online or at the ATM. All thats needed is: Your name, Car number plate, Your fiscal number. This converstion will have to be in Portuguese, so be prepared.

2) Go online to www. portaldasfinancas.pt to  download the form from the finanças website and pay online or by multibanco. Look for: "Eu preciso pagar meo imposto do caro". (I need to pay the car tax.) Or log in and find your profile.

The form has the payment instructions. 

* Or use this link to read how to do it.

There are differnt options: simply go to the Via Verde website or to your local CTT postoffice. You would have to be able to understand  Portuguese though.  In case you find it too difficult, simply ask a lawyer to take care of it. For reasonable prices, we recommend this lawyer in Loulé. 

Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

The golden visa or ARI program (residence permit through investment) grants residence permits to foreign investors in countries such as Portugal.

The investor enjoys the advantages of residency in the country, free access to travel around Europe, the possibility of family reunification in the program and the possibility of acquiring citizenship after a few years.

The purpose of the ARI program is for the country to receive investments that are used to encourage the local economy, maintain the national heritage, among other objectives.

Content delivered by Blacktower Financial Management  | ‭www.blacktowerfm.com

+351 289 355 685

manuela.robinson@blacktowerfm.com

1. Acquisition of a Real Estate asset with construction completed at least 30 years ago or located in an urban rehabilitation area, with execution of rehabilitation works for a total value of at least 350.000 euros or 280k in low population density territory;

2. Acquisition of a real estate asset with a value of at least 500.000 euros free of charges and encumbrances. The investor can buy more than 1 property, since the minimum amount of 500.000 euros is invested or 400k in low population density territory;

3. Transfer a capital of a minimum value of 1 million euros;

4. Transfer a capital of a minimum value of 350.000 euros to be invested in research and investigation activities;

5. Transfer a capital of a minimum value of 250.000 euros to be invested in artistic productions;

6. Create a company in portugal with at least 10 working places

7. Transfer a capital with a value of at least of 350,000 euros for the acquisition of units of investment funds or venture capital funds, aimed at the capitalization of companies that are incorporated under Portuguese Law, whose maturity at the time be at least five years, and at least 60% of the value of the investments must be made on commercial companies based in the national territory;

8. Transfer a capital with a value of at least of 350,000 euros for the constitution of a commercial company with head office in Portugal, together with the creation of five permanent job positions , or to increase the share capital of a commercial company with head office in national territory already established, with the creation or maintenance of jobs, with a minimum of five permanent employees and for a minimum period of three years.

- Processing time is only 3 to 6 months; 

- Residence card for 5 years, renewed after the 2nd and the 4rd year;

- Possibility of working in Portugal and travel within the 26 countries in the Schengen area;

- Family reunification of all the persons who cohabit permanently with the investor, without making further investment;

- Minimum stay of 7 days each year;

- Possibility to apply for Portuguese nationality after 5 years of residency in Portugal;

- Enjoy a residence in an European country, with several resources, stability, safety and life quality.

Austria. Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

For retirees or holders of own income who wish to reside in Portugal. They may enjoy the status of non-habitual residents and thus have reduced taxes and retirement pensions with taxation of only 10% in Portugal, for income or pensions sourced outside Portugal, provided they have been taxed in their country of origin.

- Reduced income taxation;

- Tax benefits (wtih NHR);

- Very low cost of living;

- Low minimum wage, which facilitates proof of economic means;

- Culture, entertainment and gastronomy very appreciated;

- Safety and quality of life: 

- Portugal has the 3rd place in the global peace index. 

- For the American market that they score high on English proficenty globally.

You may sometimes encounter difficuites in dealing with official entities, particularly where complicated technical terms and laws are concerned. 

The High Commisiones for Migration (ACM) has a telephone translation service (STT) that can assist you in contacting the service or entities with which you wish to communicate. 

The STT offers a database of 60 translaters/interpreters and sets up a telephone conference between the manager of the service or institution, a translator and the migrant.

The service is available free of charge (customer only pays for the phone call) every working day between 9:00-17:00.

Migrant support land line: 00351 808 257257 

Migrant support mobile number: 00351 218 106 191

High Commisiones for Migration 

The United Kingdom is no longer a Member of the European Union as from January 31st 2020.

With the entry in force of the Withdrawal Agreement on 01 February 2020, the EU legislation in matter of the free movement of EU citizens is still applicable during a transitional period (until December 31st 2020).

Regarding the right of free movement and residence, every right shall be maintained until the end of 2020 as if the United Kingdom were a Member of the European Union. This means that the citizens of the United Kingdom may perform the same right of free movement and residence until December of this year.

For such, however, the nationals of the United Kingdom must be legally living in Portugal until the end of the transitional period and continuing living there.

The Withdrawal Agreement does not require physical attendance of the host Member State at the end of the transitional period. The temporary absences (less than six consecutive months) do not compromise the right of permanent residence.

Because Portugal has opted by non-demanding the change of the residence status to the United Kingdom nationals, and their relatives, so far, the proceeding of issuing the documents of residence is kept unchanged.

Subsequently, the British citizens continuing living in Portugal under the Withdrawal Agreement will be issued new residence documents.

What happened on 1 February 2020?

The transition period started on 1 February 2020. This time-limited period was agreed as part of the Withdrawal Agreement and will last until at least 31 December 2020. Until then, it will be business as usual for citizens, consumers, businesses, investors, students and researchers in both the EU and the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom will no longer be represented in the EU institutions, agencies, bodies and offices but EU law will still apply in the United Kingdom until the end of the transition period.

What is the timeline of the transition period? Can it be extended?

The transition period started on 1 February 2020 and will end on 31 December 2020, unless before 1 July 2020 the European Union and the United Kingdom mutually decide to extend it. This can only be done once, for a period of 1 or 2 years.

What status will the United Kingdom have during the transition period?

The United Kingdom is no longer a Member State of the European Union since 1 February 2020. As a third country, it will no longer participate in the EU’s decision-making processes.

However, during the transition period, all institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the European Union continue to hold the powers conferred upon them by EU law in relation to the United Kingdom and to natural and legal persons residing or established in the United Kingdom throughout the transition period.

What has been agreed on citizens’ rights?

The right for every EU citizen and their family members to live, work or study in any EU Member State is one of the foundations of the European Union. Many EU and United Kingdom citizens have made their life choices based on rights related to free movement under Union law. Protecting the life choices of those citizens and their family members has been the first priority from the beginning of the negotiation.

The Withdrawal Agreement safeguards the right to stay and continue their current activities for over 3 million EU citizens in the United Kingdom, and over 1 million UK nationals in EU countries.

Who is protected by the Withdrawal Agreement?

The Withdrawal Agreement protects those EU citizens residing in the United Kingdom, and UK nationals residing in one of the 27 EU Member States at the end of the transition period, where such residence is in accordance with EU law on free movement. The Withdrawal Agreement also protects the family members that are granted rights under EU law (current spouses and registered partners, parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren and a person in an existing durable relationship), who do not yet live in the same host state as the Union citizen or the UK national, to join them in the future.

Children will be protected by the Withdrawal Agreement, wherever they are born before or after the United Kingdom’s withdrawal, or whether they are born inside or outside the host state where the EU citizen or the UK national resides. The only exception foreseen concerns children born after the United Kingdom’s withdrawal and for which a parent not covered by the Withdrawal Agreement has sole custody under the applicable family law.

Which rights are protected?

The Withdrawal Agreement enables both EU citizens and UK nationals, as well as their respective family members, to continue to exercise their rights derived from Union law in each other’s territories, for the rest of their lives, where those rights are based on life choices made before the end of the transition period.

Union citizens and UK nationals, as well as their respective family members, can continue to live, work or study in the host state as they currently do under the same substantive conditions as under Union law, benefiting in full from the application of the prohibition of any discrimination on grounds of nationality and of the right to equal treatment compared to host state nationals. The only restrictions that apply are those derived from Union law or as provided for under the Agreement. The Withdrawal Agreement does not prevent the United Kingdom or Member States from deciding to grant more generous rights.

Residence rights

The substantive conditions of residence are and will remain the same as those under current EU law on free movement.

In essence, EU citizens and UK nationals meet these conditions if they are: workers or self-employed; or have sufficient resources and sickness insurance; or are family members of some other person who meets these conditions; or have already acquired the right of permanent residence and are therefore no longer subject to any conditions.

The Withdrawal Agreement does not require physical presence in the host state at the end of the transition period – temporary absences that do not affect the right of residence and longer absences that do not affect the right of permanent residence are accepted.

Those protected by the Withdrawal Agreement who have not yet acquired permanent residence rights – if they have not lived in the host state for at least five years – will be fully protected by the Withdrawal Agreement, and will be able to continue residing in the host state and acquire permanent residence rights in the host state also after the United Kingdom’s withdrawal.

EU citizens and UK nationals arriving in the host state during the transition period will enjoy the same rights and obligations under the Withdrawal Agreement as those who arrived in the host state before 31 January 2020. Their rights will be subject to the same restrictions and limitations, too. The persons concerned will no longer be beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement if they are absent from their host state for more than five years.

10.08.2020

Source: SEF site https://imigrante.sef.pt/en/brexit/

Content provided by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer based in Loulé, Algarve

e.mail: gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

Tel: +351 289 073 860

If you are a UK national registered as a resident in Portugal before the transition period ends on 31 December 2020, you will see little change when the UK fully leaves the EU on 1 January 2021. By being settled here, you will lock in citizens’ rights under the Withdrawal Agreement, including the right to live, work and study in Portugal, and uninterrupted access to healthcare, pension and social security benefits for as long as you remain resident in Portugal. 

UK nationals who are not Portuguese resident by the deadline are likely to be treated as ‘third country’ non-EU/EEA citizens from 2021. This includes being limited to spending no more than 90 days in a 180-day period in Portugal without a visa. 

When it comes to taxation, your tax treatment as an expatriate is determined by the UK/Portugal tax treaty that exists independently of the EU, so there is no reason for anything to change here post-Brexit. 

However, there are situations where non-EU/EEA assets are taxed differently to domestic/EU assets. For example, a UK main home may no longer be eligible for capital gains tax relief in Portugal once the UK fully leaves the EU in 2021. 

Also, once the UK government is no longer be bound by EU freedom of movement rules for capital, it could potentially gain more scope to tax non-residents on UK income and assets.

For peace of mind, take personalised advice to establish whether there are any potential implications of Brexit and solutions for your family’s circumstances.

British Expats in Portugal

There's many Brits in our closed facebook group as well. Join us!

A new challenge these last days.

For EU residents under normal circumstances this could be obtained simply by going to the tax department and asking for such number showing some documents at the moment of request and handing certified copies.

However due to Covid measures the tax department is not accepting to provide for this service directly at the departments and asks that all is applied online in the use of an access code. 

Therefore and until new measures are implemented or these restrictions are softened you will need to ask that someone in the use of their access code asks these for you on e-balcão page.

It happens that the system is done in a way that this is only able to be completed if the person assumes a fiscal representation of you and commits to be responsible for you before the tax department, showing a signed declaration that you accept the fiscal representation (with notarized signature) and giving powers to that person to apply for the numbers on your behalf, adding certified copies of the passports, proof of address, etc.

This is a "detail" that the systems needs to improve because EU citizens/residents are not demanded to have fiscal representatives appointed. 

There fore this is a situation that is now in place for all EU citizens but will need to be corrected in due course. 

Meanwhile for UK citizens due to Brexit will now also have to indicate a fiscal representation starting Jan 2021 anyway. Same as for all non EU residents.

For all non EU residents/citizens and starting Jan 2021 for all UK residents/citizens there is always a need to appoint a fiscal representative for the fiscal number application.

This is a service usually provided by tax services or accountancy companies. 

After the fiscal number is obtained and until you become a tax resident in Portugal the tax representative will receive everything on your behalf and will be responsible for all your tax matters in Portugal.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

Financial services were one of the key areas left out of the final trade deal with the EU agreed on December 24th. 

As a result, from 1st January 2021, UK financial services lost their right to 'passport' their financial services to the EU and so some of the UK's leading banks (Lloyds, Barclays, Nationwide Building Society etc.) have either closed client account who are registered as living outside the UK, or have written to give notice that they will.

For British expats living in Portugal with financial ties to England (either by way of salaries, pensions, rental income etc, loan repayments etc) this has resulted in a financial burden as they can be subject to unfavourable exchange fees and bank transfer costs by redirecting payments from the UK directly to their Portuguese account.

Lumon has setup a legal entity in Ireland (still part of the EEA) which allows clients to send their funds in Sterling to their client account to then forward these on to their Portuguese account at much more favourable exchange rates and without bank receiving fees.

Content delivered by Lumon, Specialists in Currency Transfers.  

Please contact Megan Holland for more info.

‭+351 910 098 381‬

Banks part of the Single European Payments Area (SEPA) are not suppose to charge more for cross-border payments than domestic ones, regardless of the currency. 

The scheme came into effect in December 2019, to which the UK remains a part of. That said however, 'receiving fees' are being seen across EU countries (including Portugal) despite UK payments going through SEPA to their overseas EU account. 

In Portugal, clients are reporting an average fee of 16€ for each deposit made from a UK account via SEPA. When combined with unfavourable currency rates, this can really eat into the budget of monies received (such as pensions etc).

Foreign Currency Direct has setup a legal entity in Ireland (still part of the EEA) in which Portuguese banks are still recognising as being part of SEPA and so the receiving fees are not being charged. Clients to send their funds in Sterling to their client account to then forward these on to their Portuguese account at much more favourable exchange rates and without bank receiving fees.

Content delivered by Lumon, Specialists in Currency Transfers.  

Please contact Megan Holland for more info.

‭+351 910 098 381‬

Absolutely. 

Most high street banks offer currency exchange services however this is not their specialism. Currency Brokers only specialise in foreign exchange services and so through their vast turnover of trading currency, they can negotiate excellent commercial rates with their counterparties, which means they can typically offer you much smaller margins than those typically offered by high street banks, resulting in big savings to you. 

We strongly recommend you speak with only reputable and regulated Currency Brokers to ensure your money is in safe hands. We have taken a survey of our members and feel confident to recommend Lumon for all your currency needs.

Content delivered by Lumon, Specialists in Currency Transfers.  

Please contact Megan Holland for more info.

+351 910 098 381

Always choose a Currency Broker who is authorised by a regulatory body (such as the Financial Conduct Authority) and have a licence to act as an Electronic Money Institution. 

Also ask them to provide you with a letter from their bank which shows that your money will be held in a segregated account from their and ask them what safeguarding measures are in place. 

We would also recommend that you choose a company which has been in operation for more than 10 years, at the least.  

We feel confident in recommending Lumon to our clients, having build up a good reputation over their 20 years of providing bank-beating exchange rates with customer service at their focus.

Content delivered by Lumon, Specialists in Currency Transfers.  

Please contact Megan Holland for more info.

+351 910 098 381

A good Currency Broker can act as your eyes and ears on the currency market, which can be exceedingly volatile. 

The slightest exchange rate fluctuation can significantly alter the cost of the property so having a Currency Broker (such as Lumon) on your side, can make a huge difference in the pocket as they will guide you as to the best time to exchange your currency. 

You will only receive the rate of exchange on the day from the Bank, so you will never how much your home will cost you on the day! 

They also offer more services than your banks too, such as Forward Contracts, Rate Alerts, Stop Loss and Limit Order, which all support you getting the best deal on your currency transfer. 

Once you have made the move, Currency brokers (like Lumon) can help keep your Euro account topped up with a Regular Payment Plan.

*Content delivered by Lumon, Specialists in Currency Transfers.  

Please contact Megan Holland for a no-obligation consultation..

+351 910 098 381

Don’t assume what was tax-efficient in your home country is the same in Portugal. For example, if you are a Portuguese resident, UK investments such as ISAs and insurance bonds lose their tax benefits, with interest or dividends taxable in Portugal. If you cash-in these investments as a Portuguese resident, capital gains tax can also apply. 

Remember too that, once you are living in Portugal and spending euros, keeping savings in another currency makes your income vulnerable to exchange rate fluctuations. Ideally you should hold some assets in euros to limit risk or consider arrangements with currency flexibility.

Portugal offers the potential to enjoy extremely favourable tax treatment, especially on capital investments. Ask your adviser about opportunities available to Portuguese residents that can offer tax-efficiency as well as estate planning and currency benefits.

Take personalised financial advice to make sure your investments are suitably diversified and set up in the best way for your particular circumstances, goals and risk appetite. 

Content delivered by Blacktower Financial Management  | ‭www.blacktowerfm.com

+351 289 355 685

manuela.robinson@blacktowerfm.com

The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your taxpayer identification number in Portugal. 

The NIF is required for a variety of everyday activities such as opening a bank account, getting a phone subscription, and signing up for health insurance. The NIF is sometimes referred to as the Número de Contribuinte.

Order online and receive your NIF from the comfort of your living room.

CONVENIENT

Order your Portugal NIF using a simple online form.

FAST

Simply complete the online form to get the process started. You can expect to receive your Portugal NIF within 1-2 weeks.

RELIABLE

We'll keep you updated on every step of the process. If you have any questions, you can always reach out via chat or email.

Check this site to get your NIF and use the discount code EXPATCENTRE to get $10 off your purchase.  https://www.bordr.io

When comparing to banks worldwide, US banks offer terrible rates of exchange. 

There a few fees associated when making a transfer to Portugal:

-          international wire transfer fee each time you make a transfer (flat fee which varies bank to bank, typically between $30-$50)

-          the margin on the exchange rate (a certain percentage added on top of the live interbank rate of exchange, anywhere between 4-8%).

* Content delivered by Moneycorp, Specialists in International Currency Transfers. To discover your benefits, feel free to open up a no-obligation account and receive a quote.

Open a Portuguese bank account from anywhere in the world.

If you need a Portuguese bank account, we’ve got you covered.

We help anyone outside Portugal open a Prestige account with Millennium BCP.

Turn weeks into minutes. 

Skip the Apostille by getting your signature recognized by a law firm in Portugal.

WHITE GLOVE SERVICE

Your account comes with a private bank manager who will assist you in opening your bank account and act as your point of contact with Millennium BCP.  https://www.bordr.io

EASY AND CONVENIENT

Let us do the heavy lifting. We’ve streamlined the process of opening a bank account in Portugal to 5 easy steps.

Check this site to get open a bankaccount and use the discount code EXPATCENTRE to get $10 off your purchase. 

-          A currency exchange company specializes in international payments and purchases their currencies wholesale, which means they are able to pass on the savings to the client.

-          They offer far more competitive rates of exchange than a bank (the margin taken on top of the live rate of exchange is less than a bank).

-          Moneycorp has Client Safeguard Accounts in multiple countries, oftentimes allowing clients to avoid the international wire fees charged by banks.

-          Moneycorp offer No Transfer Fees, so whether you transfer the whole amount to Portugal or split it up in 10 payments, is up to you.

-          A dedicated currency specialist is assigned to each client, to provide live quotes, help them target a favourable rate and walk them through the transfer process.

-          You can choose how to secure your exchange: spot contract, limit orders or forward contracts, where you can Lock In to a rate for 2 years.

* Content delivered by Moneycorp, Specialists in International Currency Transfers. To discover your benefits, feel free to open up a no-obligation account and receive a quote.

-          US banks are strict when it comes to initiating international wire transfers and oftentimes require you to be present at the branch in order to sign off on the transfer. 

It is important that you plan ahead, because if you are already abroad, you may not be able to access your money. 

-          Prior to leaving the US, visit your local bank and discuss options available to access your account while abroad. This may include a PIN transfer system or setting up ACH capabilities. Note: if you change your cell phone number while abroad, this may cause you to lose your US bank online access, as you will not be able to receive the PIN text from the bank.

-          Using moneycorp, you have the option to pre-fund your account with US Dollars and to hold them on account until you are ready to make exchanges and transfer in the future, Once funds are in your moneycorp account, you can easily initiate transfers over the phone or using our online system.

* Content delivered by Moneycorp, Specialists in International Currency Transfers. To discover your benefits, feel free to open up a no-obligation account and receive a quote.

A new challenge these last days. Due to Covid measures the tax department is not accepting to provide for this service directly at the departments and asks that all is applied online in the use of an access code. 

There fore and until new measures are implemented or these restrictions are softened, you will need to ask that someone in the use of their access code asks these for you on e-balcão page.

It happens that the system is done in a way that this is only able to be completed if the person assumes a fiscal representation of you and commits to be responsible for you before the tax department, showing a signed declaration that you accept the fiscal representation (with notarized signature) and giving powers to that person to apply for the numbers on your behalf, adding certified copies of the passports, proof of address, etc.

This is a "detail" that the systems needs to improve because EU citizens/residents are not demanded to have fiscal representatives appointed. 

There fore this is a situation that is now in place for all EU citizens but will need to be corrected in due course. 

For all non EU residents/citizens and starting Jan 2021 for all UK residents/citizens there is always a need to appoint a fiscal representative for the fiscal number application.

This is a service usually provided by tax services or accountancy companies. 

After the fiscal number is obtained and until you become a tax resident in Portugal the tax representative will receive everything on your behalf and will be responsible for all your tax matters in Portugal.

Content delivered by Graciete Botelho Freitas, Lawyer | +351 289 073 860 | gbf@gracietebfreitas.com

Northeren Americans can stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within an 180 day period.

Please keep in mind that:

The date of entry is considered as the first day of stay.

The date of exit is considered as the last day of stay.

Pay attention to the period you spend in the Schengen, since overstaying always results in consequences as fines or deportation, even when it is unintentional.

Many people get confused when it comes to the 90/180 rule. But, the rule is very simple. The 180-day period keeps rolling. Therefore, anytime you wish to enter the Schengen, you just have to count backwards the last 180 days, and see if you have been present there for more than 90 days throughout that period.

Read more about Schengen visa.

In case you're making several trips per year to Portugal/Europe, this calculator can be helpful to calculate your legal length of stay. 

Americans in Portugal the Expat Group 

American Expats, Immigrants & Friends in Portugal & Spain: Leaving the USA

Americans & Friends PT

Americans Living In Portugal

There's many Americans in our closed facebook group as well. Join us!

* Content delivered by Moneycorp, Specialists in International Currency Transfers. To discover your benefits, feel free to open up a no-obligation account and receive a quote.

Canadians in Portugal

There are  Canadians in our closed facebook group as well as in our members group. Join us!

* Content delivered by Moneycorp, Specialists in International Currency Transfers. To discover your benefits, feel free to open up a no-obligation account and receive a quote.

If you are married to a Portuguese citizen for more than 3 years (with children) you are eligible.

If you do not have any children, you need to be married to a Portuguese citizen for 6 years.

If you are a resident in Portugal, after 5 consecutive years of holding residency, you are eligible to apply for citizenship.

Content delivered by OS Migration, operating from Portugal

 claudia@osmigration.co.za  ‭+351 920 576 355‬  https://www.facebook.com/osmigration/ 

An Apostille authenticates the seals and signatures of officials on public documents such as birth certificates, court orders, criminal records etc used by foreign governments to assess the authenticity of an official signature

Content delivered by OS Migration, operating from Portugal 

claudia@osmigration.co.za  ‭+351 920 576 355‬  https://www.facebook.com/osmigration/ 

Once you have submitted your application to SEF, the residence card can take up to 90 days to be processed and finalised.

Content delivered by OS Migration, operating from Portugal 

claudia@osmigration.co.za  ‭+351 920 576 355‬  https://www.facebook.com/osmigration/ 

As a main applicant, you will need a minimum of €8,800 as a lumpsum in your account as well as have a passive income of €820 per month. In a family application, your partner will need a minimum of €4400 and a child under the age of 18, €2650.

Content delivered by OS Migration, operating from Portugal 

claudia@osmigration.co.za  ‭+351 920 576 355‬  https://www.facebook.com/osmigration/ 

As a D7 visa holder, you need to reside in Portugal for a minimum of 183 days consecutively or 8 months travelling in and out of the country.

Content delivered by OS Migration, operating from Portugal 

claudia@osmigration.co.za  ‭+351 920 576 355‬  https://www.facebook.com/osmigration/