The Guide to
Moving to Portugal

Some of the things that you will need to consider in the lead up to your move.

Getting organised

The Portuguese government is the most welcoming in Europe when it comes to expats. However, while moving there physically can be straightforward and quick-paced with little hassle from authorities or citizens of Portugal itself; dealing within their bureaucracy might take some time for those who want things done right away, but they will get done eventually!

If you're thinking about moving abroad, it's important to figure out what will be required of and cost before starting. These include things like getting visas or other permits as well as understanding how much time commitment is needed from your end depending on where in the world that might happen!

Relocation Services

You cannot take all your possessions with you on the plane, so it's important to find a shipping option that will be affordable and convenient. Shipping from Portugal is easy because they're located in an ideal location for air or sea freighting - but remember this choice depends largely upon how long you plan to stay before moving into another home!

Freight rate charges vary depending on several factors including:

  • The carrier
  • The mode of transportation
  • The materials being shipped (weight)
  • Documentation
  • Customs fees
  • Security
  • Fuel
  • The currency exchange

To get an idea of what your shipping rates may be, it's a good idea to compare the different carriers' freight calculators and get quotes from customer service.

Customs & Border Control

You might think that getting through Portuguese customs is a simple process, but it's not as easy when you're coming back from vacation with your arms full of souvenirs.

You will need to acquire a document referred to as the Certificado de Bagagem (Your Luggage Certificate) in order to move your possessions over to Portugal. To obtain your Certificado de Bagagem, you'll need to pay a visit to your nearest Portuguese consulate.

You will need to provide the consulate with a complete inventory of all your possessions that you wish to take in order to get the certificate.

You will then have 90 days, from the date on the certificate, to move to Portugal otherwise you will need to reapply.

Pets need planning

Your pet will need a travel document to move with you from Portugal. This is required for any type of animal, but especially dogs and cats since they're more susceptible than most other pets to air transport restrictions due to their size or health issues that can't be managed on-site by checkups at an international airport before departure time arrives - which means these furry travellers may not make it through security if there's no one present who knows how special this particular animal really needs (and cares).

The pet requirements are as follows:

  • They will need to be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15 digit pet microchip.
  • They must be up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
  • Depending on the country you're coming from, they must also undergo a rabies titre test.
  • Owners must be able to provide a health certificate upon their pet's arrival.

It's also important to note that certain breeds of dogs are either from entering the country or are considered dangerous and therefore must be accompanied by the owner at arrival. Non-vaccinated pets are also not permitted to enter the country.

To learn more about pet passports and import regulations, you can visit this site.

What & where to store you stuff

When you first arrive in Portugal, it's essential to find a place for all of your belongings. A storage company will allow the time necessary if they are running on a 24-hour clock and are very accommodating towards expats like yourself!

Search online near wherever "home" may be at first so as not to have any difficulties later down the road with finding one nearby or simply just need more space than what seems appropriate given how short-term most leases tend these days

Let's talk Vaccinations

Portuguese law does not require extra vaccinations for entering the country. All routine vaccines, such as those against measles and polio, are needed by Portuguese authorities when you enter the country- but it's also wise to make an appointment with your doctor before moving abroad just in case anything medical is required during residency there! The flu shot is worth getting in preparation; however, you do not need one if arriving without warning from another destination location which may have different guidelines.

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