Portugal explained, in English
Practical guides for people who live in or move to Portugal, and how the Portuguese state works. Each page lists its official sources and the date we checked them. Calculators and data pages are in Portuguese.
Everyday guides
Getting a tax number (NIF)The tax identification number (NIF) is needed to work, rent a home, open a bank account or buy a car. The request is free.Getting or renewing the Citizen CardThe Citizen Card (Cartão de Cidadão) is mandatory for Portuguese citizens. From age 25 you can renew it online and get it delivered at home.Residence permits and EU citizen registrationPeople from outside the EU usually need a residence visa and then a residence permit from AIMA. EU citizens register at the town hall.Social Security number and National Health Service numberAnyone who works needs a Social Security number (NISS). To use the National Health Service without paying for care, your user registration must be complete.Starting a company or working as self-employedTo work as self-employed you only need to register your activity with the tax office. To create a company, Empresa na Hora or Empresa Online do everything in one request.Car: circulation tax, registration and importThe car owner pays the circulation tax (IUC) every year. A buyer of a used car has 60 days to register it. IUC payment rules change in 2027.
How the state works
President of the RepublicThe head of state. The President is elected directly and does not govern, but signs or vetoes laws, appoints the Prime Minister and can dissolve Parliament.Assembly of the Republic (Parliament)The national parliament. It makes laws, approves the State Budget, scrutinises the Government and can bring it down.GovernmentIt runs the country's policy and directs public administration. It answers to the President and to Parliament.Courts and the Public ProsecutorCourts are independent and apply the law. The Constitutional Court checks whether laws respect the Constitution.Autonomous regions and local governmentThe Azores and Madeira have their own government and parliament. Across the country, municipalities and parishes run many everyday services.