Moving to Portugal from the UK: The Complete 2026 Guide

Thinking about moving to Portugal? You're not alone. Thousands of UK residents make the move every year, drawn by the sunshine, lower cost of living, and relaxed lifestyle. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Why Move to Portugal?

Portugal consistently ranks as one of the best places for British expats. Here's why:

• Climate: Over 300 days of sunshine per year in the Algarve
• Cost of living: 20-30% lower than the UK on average
• Healthcare: Excellent public and private healthcare systems
• Safety: One of the safest countries in the world
• English spoken: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Visas and Residency After Brexit

Since Brexit, UK citizens need to apply for residency to live in Portugal long-term. The main options are:

• D7 Visa: For retirees and those with passive income
• D2 Visa: For entrepreneurs and business owners
• Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers
• Golden Visa: Investment-based residency (minimum €500,000)

You'll need to apply at the Portuguese consulate in the UK before you move. Processing typically takes 2-3 months.

Shipping Your Belongings

This is where we come in! After 30 years of helping people move to Portugal, here's our advice:

What to Bring

• Sentimental items and family heirlooms
• Quality furniture you love
• Electrical items (Portugal uses the same plugs as the UK)
• Books, artwork, and personal collections

What to Leave Behind

• ✕Heavy winter clothing (you won't need much!)
• ✕Old or worn furniture (cheaper to replace)
• ✕Items that won't suit the climate (heavy curtains, thick carpets)

Customs and Documentation

Post-Brexit, there's more paperwork involved. The good news? We handle all of it for you.

You'll need to provide proof of residency in Portugal to import your household goods duty-free. We'll guide you through the exact requirements based on your situation.

How Much Does It Cost?

Removal costs depend on:

• Volume: How much you're moving (measured in cubic metres)
• Collection location: Where in the UK
• Delivery location: Where in Portugal
• Services needed: Packing, storage, assembly

Use our Volume Calculator to estimate your move size, then contact us for a free quote.

Timeline: When to Start Planning

Ready to Make the Move?

We've helped over 5,000 families move to Portugal since 1996. We know the route, the paperwork, and the pitfalls to avoid. Let us make your move stress-free.