Moving to Portugal from the US: Complete 2026 Guide for Americans
Moving to Portugal from the US in 2026: visa routes, realistic timelines, pre-departure steps, taxes, healthcare, banking, and what life looks like once you arrive.
Simple Portugal guides for foreigners.
The practical guide to life in Portugal. Reliable information on visas, taxes, housing, banking, healthcare, and everyday life — in plain English.
Latest updated guides
Medicare and Moving to Portugal - Should You Cancel Part B
The Part B cancellation question is the biggest Medicare decision US expats face. Here's the real maths, the hidden Medicare Advantage trap, and what to do before you leave.
US Citizens in Portugal: FATCA, FBAR, and Annual IRS Obligations
Living in Portugal does not end your US tax filing obligations. Here's what American expats actually need to file, the traps that cost people thousands, and how to stay clean.
US Social Security Payments While Living in Portugal
You can receive US Social Security in Portugal, but the payment setup, tax treatment, and annual SSA requirements work differently than most people expect. Here's the practical detail.
Which US Bank Account to Keep When You Move to Portugal
Moving from the US to Portugal? See which US bank accounts Americans abroad commonly keep, what to set up before leaving, and how FBAR fits in.
Shipping Belongings from the US to Portugal
A practical guide to shipping household goods from the US to Portugal, including the Certificado de Bagagem, customs exemption, hidden costs, timing mistakes and what is worth bringing.
How to Rent an Apartment in Portugal from the US
A practical guide for Americans renting in Portugal before arrival, including NIF, remote viewings, lease registration, deposits, fiador problems and visa accommodation proof.
FBI Background Check for Portugal Visa How to Get the Apostille Right
Americans applying for a Portugal visa usually need an FBI Identity History Summary issued within 90 days and apostilled by the US Department of State. Here is the safe timeline.
Portugal Citizenship Law Published: Lei Orgânica n.º 1/2026
Lei Orgânica n.º 1/2026 has been published in Diário da República. Learn who now needs 7 or 10 years, what happens to pending applications, and what applicants should do next.
IRS Jovem Portugal 2026 Who Qualifies and How to Claim It
IRS Jovem Portugal 2026 explained for foreigners: who qualifies, the 10-year schedule, transitional rules, age cut-off, income cap, employer withholding and how to claim it.
Portugal Tax Calendar 2026 Key IRS IMI and e-Fatura Deadlines
Portugal tax calendar 2026 for foreign residents: key IRS, e-Fatura, IMI, IUC, recibos verdes and payment deadlines, including March review and 31 August IRS payment.
e-Fatura Portugal 2026 How to Validate Invoices for IRS
Learn how e-Fatura works in Portugal, the 2 March 2026 invoice deadline, the 16–31 March review window, IRS deductions, rent, pharmacy rules and common mistakes.