For those with passive income. Requires proof of regular income, valid health insurance in Portugal, proof of accommodation, and a clean criminal record. You must demonstrate the intention to reside in Portugal for at least 16 months within a 2-year period.
Golden Visa
For investors. Options include investment in investment funds (minimum of €500,000), creation of at least 10 jobs, or investment in scientific research activities (minimum of €500,000).
D2 Visa
For entrepreneurs. Requires the presentation of a viable business plan and proof of financial means.
Fiscal Regime for Non-Habitual Residents (NHR)
What is the NHR regime?
The NHR is a special tax regime that offers benefits for 10 years. It includes a flat rate of 20% for employment income and high value-added activities in Portugal, and possible tax exemption on foreign income, such as pensions and dividends, as long as certain criteria are met.
Who can qualify?
To qualify, you must become a tax resident in Portugal and have not been a tax resident in the country in the previous five years.
What are the tax implications?
As a resident, you will be subject to Portuguese income tax on your worldwide income. However, Portugal offers the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime, which provides tax benefits for the first 10 years of residency. This can include tax exemptions on foreign-source income and a flat rate of 20% on certain Portuguese-source income.
Buying Properties in Portugal
1
Obtain NIF and Open Bank Account
Obtain a NIF (Tax Identification Number) and open a Portuguese bank account.
2
Search and Make an Offer
Search for properties and make an offer.
3
Contract and Taxes
Sign a promise of purchase and sale contract, pay the IMT (Municipal Tax on Onerous Transfers of Real Estate) and Stamp Duty.
4
Public Deed
Finally, sign the public deed.
Portuguese Citizenship
1
Residence Time
Generally, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship after legally residing in Portugal for 5 years. The process typically takes 1 to 2 years from application to approval.
2
Language Requirements
It is necessary to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language. This is usually done through a language proficiency test, known as CIPLE (Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira), which corresponds to the A2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
3
Dual Citizenship
Both Portugal and Brazil allow dual citizenship. When obtaining Portuguese citizenship, you do not need to renounce your Brazilian citizenship. This allows you to maintain the rights and privileges of both countries, including the possibility of having passports from both nations.
Health and Education System for Expatriates
Health System
Expatriates with legal residence in Portugal have access to the National Health Service (SNS) under the same conditions as Portuguese citizens. This includes primary and hospital care at reduced costs. However, many expatriates choose to have additional private health insurance to have faster access to specialists and treatments not covered by the SNS.
Schooling Options
There are several options: Portuguese public schools (free of charge), Portuguese private schools, and international schools. Portuguese public and private schools follow the national curriculum, while international schools generally offer international curricula such as the IB (International Baccalaureate) or the British curriculum. The choice often depends on the expected duration of the stay in Portugal and the family's linguistic and cultural preferences.
Work and Business in Portugal
Skills Transfer
The process varies depending on the profession and qualifications. For regulated professions (such as doctors, lawyers, engineers), it is necessary to obtain recognition from the respective Portuguese professional body.
Establishing a Business
A sole proprietorship (Empresário em Nome Individual) is simpler to establish and manage, but the owner is personally liable for the business's debts. A limited liability company (Sociedade por Quotas) offers limited liability to the partners, protecting their personal assets, but requires more formalities in its constitution and operation.
Remote Work
If you are a tax resident in Portugal (generally after 183 days in the country), you must declare your global income in Portugal, including income from remote work. You may be eligible for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime, which offers a flat rate of 20% for certain high-value professions.
Practical Aspects of Life in Portugal
How to open a bank account?
To open a bank account as a non-resident, you will generally need: a valid passport, proof of address in your home country, a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF), which can be obtained on the spot at a Tax Office, and often proof of income or employment. Some banks may require an in-person visit, while others offer online options.
How to bring pets?
To bring pets to Portugal, they must have: an identification microchip, a valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel if it's the first dose).
How does the inheritance law work?
Portuguese law applies to all real estate located in Portugal, regardless of the nationality of the owner. For movable property, the law of the deceased's habitual residence applies. However, a foreigner can opt to have the law of their country of nationality applied to their inheritance in Portugal, provided this is specified in their will.