Since Brexit, moving from the UK to Portugal means applying as a non-EU citizen, the same as Americans and Canadians. The route is well-trodden and entirely doable. Here is the 2026 version, step by step, including the documents that take longest.

Choose your visa

The D7 suits those living on a pension or other passive income (at least €920 a month for one person in 2026). The D8 suits people working remotely for clients or an employer outside Portugal (around €3,680 a month). Both add 50% for a spouse and 30% per child, with savings of roughly €11,040 expected in a Portuguese account.

The document that takes longest: the ACRO certificate

UK applicants need an ACRO Police Certificate, then need it legalised with an apostille by the FCDO Legalisation Office. Start it early: the ACRO certificate takes around ten working days for standard service, and the FCDO apostille adds more time on top. The certificate has a limited validity once issued, so line the timing up with your application rather than getting it too soon.

The order that works

• Get your NIF (Portuguese tax number) via a fiscal representative.
• Open a Portuguese bank account and deposit the required savings.
• Gather documents: ACRO certificate with apostille, proof of income, accommodation, and health insurance.
• Book and attend your visa appointment at a VFS Global centre in the UK (London, Manchester or Edinburgh).
• Move to Portugal within the visa window and attend your AIMA residency appointment.

Money and pensions

UK state and private pensions can usually be received in Portugal, and the UK and Portugal have a double-tax treaty so you are not taxed twice on the same income. The old NHR tax break is closed to new applicants, so budget for normal Portuguese tax and get cross-border advice on your pensions, especially any tax-free lump sums, before you transfer anything.

Frequently asked questions

Can I still move to Portugal after Brexit?
Yes. You apply as a third-country national through a D7 or D8 visa, like other non-EU citizens.

How long does it take?
Typically twelve to eighteen months from gathering documents to holding a residency card.

Plan your move with the Move Plan

Sources

• ACRO Criminal Records Office (police certificates): acro.police.uk
• UK FCDO, get a document legalised (apostille): gov.uk/get-document-legalised
• Portuguese visa submissions in the UK (VFS Global): vfsglobal.com; visa thresholds: vistos.mne.gov.pt

General information for June 2026, not legal or tax advice. Related reading: the Ultimate D7 Visa Guide and How to Apply for Your NIF.