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In a world increasingly marked by mobility and the pursuit of new horizons. And the dream of leaving behind the familiar and venturing to the captivating landscapes of Europe has enticed many Australians.
For those seeking a gateway to the Old Continent, Portugal emerges as an alluring choice. With its temperate climate, endless stretches of pristine beaches, and an inviting atmosphere that can make anyone feel right at home.
And Portugal beckons as the ideal destination for Australians looking to embark on their European adventure.
What do Portugal and Australia have in Common?
Warm and Friendly People
Portuguese people are knows for their warmth and friendliness, which can make newcomers feel welcome and at ease. Their hospitality can reminiscent of the friendly Australian spirit.
Beautiful Coastlines
If you’re from a coastal region in Australia, Portugal’s stunning coastline along the Atlantic Ocean can remind you of home. The beaches and coastal towns in Portugal offer a coastal lifestyle that may feel familiar.
Wine Production
Both countries have thriving wine industries. Portugal is renown for its Port wine and Vinho Verde, while Australia is knows for its diverse wine regions, such as the Barossa Valley and Margaret River.
Café Culture
Portugal has a strong café culture, where people gather at local cafes for coffee, conversation, and relaxation. If you’re accustom to the café culture in Australia, you’ll find it easy to adapt to this aspect of Portuguese life.
How to Move from Australia to Portugal: Step-by-Step Guide
Australians planning to move to Portugal need to follow the key immigration steps to secure their legal status. Since Australians are non-EU citizens, anyone staying more than 90 days must start by applying for a residence visa, which allows for long-term stay.
After arriving in Portugal, the next step is attending an appointment with AIMA to complete the residency process.
Step 1: Obtain your NIF number
The NIF is your Portuguese tax identification number. You’ll need it for almost everything—opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, or submitting your visa application. Australians can get a NIF either through a tax representative in Portugal or directly at a Finanças office once in the country.
Step 2: Open a Portuguese bank account
A local bank account is required for visa applications and later for everyday life in Portugal. It provides your IBAN, which you’ll need to show financial means, make payments, and manage living expenses.
Step 3: Secure accommodation in Portugal
You must provide proof of accommodation—either a rental contract, a long-term booking, or a property deed. This is a mandatory document for your visa submission and later for your AIMA appointment.
Step 4: Arrange travel/visa-compliant insurance
Before applying for your visa, you need health or travel insurance that covers medical expenses and repatriation in the Schengen Area. The coverage must be valid for the full duration of your intended stay until you receive your residence permit.
Step 5: Submit your visa application
Australians apply for a Portuguese residence visa at the nearest VFS or Portuguese consulate. You’ll submit forms and supporting documents, including proof of funds, accommodation, insurance, criminal record checks, and your NIF and bank account details.
Syep 6: Attend your biometric appointment at AIMA
After arriving in Portugal with your approved visa, you must attend a biometric appointment at AIMA. Here, your fingerprints, photo, and documents are verified. Once approved, you receive your residence permit, officially granting you the right to live in Portugal.
Required Document For Moving to Portugal from Australia
The initial step in your move from Australia to Portugal is to apply for a Portuguese residence visa. To do so, you must submit the appropriate documentation to one of the Portuguese consulate offices in Australia.
- Visa Application Form
- A Valid Passport
- A Portuguese tax payer number (NIF)
- Two recent passport-size photos
- Criminal Record certificate
- Valid travel insurance, including medical coverage and repatriation
- Evidences of the qualification visa requirement (passive income, job contract, remote work, investment, etc)
- Documentary evidence of having accommodation in Portugal
- Proof of sufficient means in Portugal (latest 3 months bank statements)
- Declaration with the reasons for requesting Portuguese Residency
Visa Options for Moving to Portugal From Australia
Portugal D7 Visa for passive income holders
Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa, was introduces in 2007 by the Portuguese government, allowing non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to apply for temporary residency in Portugal.
Retirees and individuals with a minimum regular minimum passive income of €870 per month can apply for the Portugal D7 Visa. This income can include pensions, real estate, royalties, dividends, financial investment, or intellectual property.
Portugal D8 Visa for digital nomads
The D8 Visa also know as, Digital Nomad Visa Portugal, was introduce in October 2022 by the Portuguese government, allowing non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens with monthly income of €3,480 to apply for temporary residency in Portugal while working remotely from Portugal. The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa has two different routes:
Temporary Stay Visa
The Temporary Stay Visa is perfect if you don’t want to apply for permanent residency. But you would like to stay in Portugal for an extend period. The Visa is valid for one year and can be extended for another two years.
Residence Permit
The Residency Visa is a good solution if you want to stay in Portugal for more than one year. Please note that your Temporary Resident Visa is only valid for four months and within this period you need apply for a Temporary Residency Permit.
Portugal Golden Visa for Investors
The Portugal Golden Visa program in Portugal, also known as the Residence Permit by Investment Program, is an investment immigration program that grants residency and citizenship rights to foreign investors who make a significant economic contribution to the country.
- Investment Funds: Minimum €500,000 invested in eligible investment or venture capital funds.
- Business Investment: At least €500,000 to set up a company in Portugal and create five permanent jobs.
- Scientific Research: €500,000+ invested in approved public or private research projects.
- Cultural Heritage Contribution: Often called the Cultural Golden Visa—€250,000 supporting arts or heritage restoration.
- Job Creation: Establish a company and create ten jobs.
For the last three options, investments in low-density areas benefit from a 20% reduction.
Processing Time for Immigrate to Portugal from Australia
Get In Touch With a Portugal Immigration Specialist
Portugal Residency Advisors® has assisted numerous international families in successfully relocating to Portugal and securing residency. Discover how our trusted, all-in-one solution makes your move simple and successful.
Cost of Living in Portugal vs Australia
According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Lisbon offers a noticeable contrast to Canberra. Overall consumer prices and groceries in Lisbon are about 41% lower, making everyday expenses far more manageable. For example, items like fresh vegetables, fruit, bread, and dairy tend to be significantly cheaper in Portugal. Even eating out at local restaurants or cafés is generally more affordable compared to Australia.
Utilities also show a difference. Monthly expenses such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water are typically lower in Lisbon than in Canberra, helping reduce the overall cost of maintaining a household.
Housing adds to Lisbon’s appeal. Rent prices are around 24.1% lower than in Canberra, giving expats more affordable accommodation options. This financial advantage allows newcomers to redirect savings toward travel, dining, or lifestyle experiences as they settle into life in Portugal.
Best Cities for Australians to Live in Portugal
Lisbon
The Lisbon capital offers a vibrant urban lifestyle, a rich cultural scene, and a diverse expat community. With its historic neighborhoods, proximity to the coast, and excellent public transportation, it’s a popular choice for expatriates.
Porto
Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto, is known for its charming old town, wine culture, and artistic atmosphere. The cost of living in Porto is generally lower than in Lisbon.
Cascais
This coastal town, Cascais, near Lisbon is famous for its stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and a relaxed lifestyle. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a beachfront environment.
Faro
Located in the Algarve region, Faro offers a Mediterranean climate, historic architecture, and a slower pace of life. The Algarve is also known for its beautiful beaches.
Aveiro
Known as the “Venice of Portugal” due to its picturesque canals and colorful boats, Aveiro is a charming and laid-back city on the coast.
How to Get Portuguese Citizenship After Legal Residency
Australians who legally reside in Portugal for five years can either keep renewing their temporary residency or apply for Portuguese citizenship through naturalization.
Citizenship offers full rights, including the ability to vote, live and work anywhere in the EU, and apply for a Portuguese passport. The Portuguese passport ranks highly—14th on the 2023 Global Passport Index—and provides visa-free access to about 175 countries as of 2024.
This makes international travel much easier, allowing passport holders to explore a wide range of destinations without needing a visa in advance.
Portugal Taxes
Portugal’s tax system is an important part of planning a move from Australia, especially if you’re considering long-term residency. Understanding how tax residency works, how personal income is taxed, and how the Double Taxation Agreement between the two countries protects you can help you make informed financial decisions before relocating.
Tax Residency in Portugal
Australians become tax residents in Portugal if they spend more than 183 days in the country per year or have a permanent home available. Once tax-resident, global income becomes taxable in Portugal.
Personal Income Tax (IRS)
Portugal applies a progressive tax system on personal income, including pensions, with rates starting at 13% and going up to 48%, depending on your income bracket.
Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)
Australia and Portugal have a Double Taxation Agreement that helps prevent being taxed twice on the same income, offering clarity and protection for Australians relocating to Portugal.
Portugal Healthcare
Portugal’s public healthcare system, known as the SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde), provides reliable and affordable care to residents. Most services are free or come with very low co-payments, making it easy to access everyday medical support. Each patient is typically assigned a family doctor, who handles general care, follow-ups, and referrals within the system.
Many residents also choose to use private healthcare to complement the SNS. Private clinics offer faster appointments, more flexibility, and wider specialist availability, and private insurance remains relatively affordable. Together, the SNS and private options give newcomers a well-rounded and dependable healthcare experience.
Australian Expats in Portugal
To connect with the Australian community in Portugal, you can explore social media groups, expat forums, and local expatriate associations.
Additionally, you may encounter fellow Australians in larger cities, coastal areas, and expat-friendly regions, where expat communities tend to be more prominent. Here are some examples:
- Internations
- Expat.com
- ExpatsBlog
Is Portugal a Safe?
Portugal has earned a strong reputation as one of the safest countries in the world. In the 2023 Global Peace Index, it ranks 7th, well ahead of Australia at 22nd. The country’s low crime rate, stable social environment, and reliable legal system all contribute to a calm, secure atmosphere.
This sense of safety, combined with a welcoming and diverse community, makes Portugal an appealing destination for people from around the globe.
Can Australians Buy Property in Portugal?
Absolutely, both foreigners and Australians have the opportunity to acquire real estate in Portugal, and there are typically no substantial limitations on property ownership.
Regardless of whether you hail from a European Union (EU) nation or a non-EU nation, Portugal welcomes property buyers from various backgrounds.
It’s essential to understand that property ownership in Portugal is distinct from the process of securing residency status, and non-EU citizens may not necessarily require a residency visa to invest in a second home in Portugal.
Country Comparison Portugal vs Australia
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Local Expertise
We know Portugal. Due to our extensive local knowledge, we believe that concentrating our services in a single country destination is the best way to give you the most thorough and useful information.
Honest Guidance
We recommend what’s best for you based on an extensive process experience that saves time and money to clients. Our pricing is clear and competitive, and we don’t sell services that make us more money.
All-in-One Solution
One single channel of communication for the entire process. We provide you with a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of your move, from identifying the ideal residency visa to finding your new home or helping you to settle.
Seamless Process
Technology plays a very important role in our company. We minimize our clients’ involvement in paperwork. We are customers ourselves and we know how to serve you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australians need a visa to live in Portugal?
Yes, Australians need a visa to reside in Portugal for an extended period. The most common visa for retirees is the D7 Visa, which is for individuals with sufficient income to support themselves.
How do I apply for a Portuguese D7 Visa?
You can apply for a D7 Visa through the Portuguese consulate or embassy in Australia. You’ll need to provide proof of income, health insurance, and other required documents.
Is it easy to find accommodation in Portugal?
Portugal has a range of housing options, and expats can find apartments, houses, or even traditional quinta (country estates). Some popular areas for expats are Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
What is the cost of living in Portugal compared to Australia?
Portugal generally offers a lower cost of living compared to Australia, especially in terms of housing and daily expenses. However, it’s essential to consider your specific lifestyle and location.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to live in Portugal?
While speaking Portuguese is helpful, many expats in Portugal get by with basic English, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.
What is the healthcare system like in Portugal?
Portugal has a well-regarded healthcare system. Expats can access public healthcare with the Portuguese National Health Service or opt for private healthcare plans.
Are there any tax implications for Australian expats in Portugal?
Since there is no Double Taxation Agreement (DTS), Australians may have tax obligations in both countries. It’s advisable to consult with tax professionals to ensure compliance with tax laws.
What is the climate like in Portugal compared to Australia?
Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, offering mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The climate can be similar to some parts of Australia but with regional variations.
Can I bring my pets to Portugal from Australia?
Yes, you can bring your pets to Portugal, but you’ll need to follow specific pet importation regulations and ensure they are microchipped, vaccinated, and meet health requirements.
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