Related Services

The crediting of social security contribution periods allows contributions made in another country to be considered for social protection purposes in Portugal. This mechanism is particularly relevant for Brazilians, CPLP citizens, foreign workers, and returning Portuguese nationals who carried out professional activities abroad and wish to secure rights within the Portuguese Social Security system.

WHAT IS THE CREDITING OF CONTRIBUTION PERIODS?

It refers to the recognition by the competent authorities of contribution periods made abroad, allowing:

• Fulfillment of minimum contribution periods required for pension eligibility
• Access to social benefits
• Totalization of contribution periods
• Protection in cases of disability, old age, or survivors’ benefits

Portugal has bilateral agreements and is also bound by European regulations that allow coordination between social security systems.

WHO CAN BENEFIT?

The crediting may be requested by:

• Workers who contributed in Brazil or countries with bilateral agreements and later became residents in Portugal
• Citizens of the European Union
• Citizens of CPLP countries
• Portuguese emigrants who returned to Portugal
• Professionals with an international contribution history

Each case requires an individual analysis of the contribution history and applicable international agreements.

HOW DOES THE PROCESS WORK?

The procedure may involve:

• Requesting specific forms from the Portuguese Social Security
• Communication between the institutions of the countries involved
• Submission of contribution records
• Verification of the legal framework under international agreements

Proper preparation of the application is essential to avoid delays or refusals.

IMPORTANCE OF LEGAL ASSISTANCE

Specialized legal assistance allows:

• Strategic analysis of the contribution history
• Identification of the most appropriate legal framework
• Proper organization of documentation
• Communication with the competent authorities
• Security in the consolidation of future rights

The crediting of contribution periods is a key step to ensure long-term stability and social protection.

INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL SECURITY PLANNING

For workers with a professional career in more than one country, early social security planning is essential to maximize rights and avoid contribution gaps.

Proper analysis can directly influence the value of the future pension and the most appropriate time to apply for benefits.

The Statute of Equal Rights and Duties allows Brazilian citizens residing in Portugal to enjoy rights equivalent to those of Portuguese citizens, under the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Consultation signed between the two countries. This legal framework strengthens integration and expands access to civil, professional and political rights within Portuguese territory.

WHAT IS THE STATUTE OF EQUALITY?

The Statute of Equality grants Brazilian citizens who hold a valid residence permit in Portugal the possibility of applying for:

• Equality of civil rights and duties
• Equality of political rights (subject to additional requirements)

Once granted, the beneficiary is legally treated similarly to a Portuguese citizen in several areas.

WHO CAN APPLY?

The Statute of Equality may be requested by:

• Brazilian citizens with a valid residence permit in Portugal
• Legal residents with regular immigration status
• Individuals over 18 years of age
• Those without legal restrictions preventing the request

The application is submitted to AIMA – Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum, the authority responsible for migration matters in Portugal.

RIGHTS INCLUDED

With the granting of the Statute of Equality, Brazilian citizens may:

• Exercise civil rights under the same conditions as Portuguese citizens
• Access public positions and functions (except for certain constitutional restrictions)
• Participate in administrative and social life
• Request equality of political rights, including the right to vote, when applicable

It is important to note that the Statute of Equality does not grant Portuguese nationality, but it significantly expands the rights of Brazilian residents.

EQUALITY OF POLITICAL RIGHTS

Equality of political rights may be requested separately, provided that additional legal requirements are met.

This regime allows, for example:

• Registration in the electoral roll
• Participation in local and national elections, according to the applicable legal framework

IMPORTANCE OF LEGAL ASSISTANCE

The application for the Statute of Equality requires:

• Prior verification of legal requirements
• Proper organization of documentation
• Correct submission of the application
• Follow-up with the competent authorities

LEGAL INTEGRATION WITH SECURITY

The Statute of Equality represents an important instrument of integration for Brazilian residents in Portugal, ensuring greater legal stability and expanded rights.

For analysis of your case and verification of eligibility, personalized legal guidance is recommended.

TAX REGIME FOR NEW RESIDENTS IN PORTUGAL (NHR)

END OF THE NHR AND NEW TAX INCENTIVE (IFICI)

The former Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime was repealed with effect from January 1, 2024, and new applications are generally no longer accepted.

However, transitional rules were established for specific situations, particularly for taxpayers who already met certain requirements before the legislative change. Verification of eligibility under the transitional framework requires an individualized analysis, considering tax residency dates, contracts, and other relevant elements.

NEW REGIME: IFICI – TAX INCENTIVE FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

Replacing the former NHR regime, the IFICI – Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation was created under the Portuguese Tax Benefits Statute.

This new regime is intended for highly qualified professionals, researchers, university professors, and workers employed by entities whose activities are recognized as strategic in the areas of innovation and technology.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM IFICI?

The regime may apply to:

• Professionals performing activities considered to have high added value
• Workers employed by certified entities or entities recognized under the applicable legal framework
• Taxpayers who have not been tax residents in Portugal during the previous five years
• Individuals who become tax residents in Portuguese territory

Access to the regime depends on strict compliance with the legal criteria and submission of the application within the applicable deadlines.

TAX BENEFITS OF THE NEW REGIME

When the legal requirements are met, the IFICI may allow:

• Application of a special 20% personal income tax rate on qualifying employment or self-employment income
• A specific regime for certain types of foreign-source income, in accordance with double taxation agreements and applicable tax rules

It should be noted that the new regime is more restrictive and technically demanding than the former NHR, requiring prior validation of the activities performed and of the employer or contracting entity.

TAX PLANNING AND LEGAL SECURITY

Relocating to Portugal requires strategic tax planning, particularly in the post-NHR context.

Specialized legal assistance allows:

• Verification of possible eligibility under the transitional regime
• Assessment of eligibility for the IFICI regime
• Structuring of the change of tax residency
• Ensuring compliance with deadlines and reporting obligations

Each situation should be analyzed individually, considering the professional profile, the origin of income, and the international tax structure involved.

Registration at a public health center in Portugal is an essential step to ensure access to the National Health Service (SNS) and primary healthcare services. This procedure is particularly relevant for foreign residents, citizens of CPLP countries, Brazilians, workers, students, and family members under family reunification who need to regularize their access to the public healthcare system.

WHO CAN REGISTER AT A HEALTH CENTER?

The following individuals may apply for registration:

• Portuguese citizens
• European Union citizens residing in Portugal
• Brazilian and CPLP citizens with a residence permit
• Foreign nationals with a valid visa or residence authorization
• Applicants for international protection, according to the applicable legal framework

Registration depends on the individual’s immigration status and proof of residence within the area covered by the health center.

DOCUMENTS GENERALLY REQUIRED

Although it may vary depending on the specific case, the registration request may involve:

• Valid identification document
• Residence permit or visa
• Proof of address in Portugal
• SNS User Number (if already assigned)
• Tax Identification Number (NIF)

Proper organization of documentation helps prevent refusals or delays in the process.

SNS USER NUMBER

After registration, an SNS User Number (Número de Utente) is assigned, allowing:

• Access to medical consultations
• Monitoring by a family doctor (when available)
• Prescription of subsidized medication
• Access to medical tests and specialist care
• Hospital care within the public healthcare system

This number is essential for full integration into the Portuguese healthcare system.

LEGAL ASSISTANCE IN THE PROCESS

Registration at a health center is part of the broader process of legal integration in Portugal and should be handled with strategic attention, particularly within the context of immigration and residence procedures.

The assistance of a lawyer can be important to verify eligibility for registration, provide guidance on the required documentation, and support the applicant in situations of refusal or denial.

Enrollment in educational institutions in Portugal is a fundamental step for national and international students who wish to attend public schools, private schools, universities, or polytechnic institutes in the country. The procedure may vary depending on the level of education and the student’s immigration status, requiring attention to legal requirements and administrative deadlines.

WHO CAN ENROLL IN THE PORTUGUESE EDUCATION SYSTEM?

The following individuals may apply for enrollment in Portugal:

• Portuguese citizens
• Citizens of the European Union
• Brazilian students and citizens of CPLP countries
• Foreign nationals holding a student visa or residence permit
• Minors reunited under the family reunification regime

Each case must be analyzed considering age, academic history, and documentation status.

ENROLLMENT IN PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

For enrollment in public schools, the following are usually required:

• Identification document
• Proof of residence
• Tax Identification Number (NIF)
• SNS User Number
• Social Security Identification Number (NISS)
• Academic records or certificate of qualifications

In cases of international transfer, equivalence or recognition of studies completed abroad may be required.

ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION IN PORTUGAL

For universities and polytechnic institutes, the process may involve:

• Application through the general admission system or the international student status
• Recognition or equivalence of foreign diplomas
• Compliance with specific academic criteria
• Proof of regular immigration status

The correct legal framework is essential to avoid rejection or delays in enrollment.

RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN DIPLOMAS

Students who completed their education abroad may need:

• Academic degree recognition
• Equivalence of qualifications
• Certified translation of documents
• Apostille or consular legalization

Prior analysis of documentation helps avoid administrative obstacles.

LEGAL ASSISTANCE IN THE ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Specialized legal assistance allows for:

• Guidance on the applicable regime (national or international)
• Support in the recognition of foreign studies
• Strategic organization of documentation
• Regularization of immigration status for academic purposes
• Intervention in cases of refusal or additional requirements

Enrollment in educational institutions is often part of broader processes such as immigration, family reunification, or residence for study in Portugal, requiring proper legal coordination.

ACADEMIC PLANNING WITH LEGAL SECURITY

For students and families relocating to Portugal, advance planning is essential to ensure academic continuity and compliance with official deadlines.

Proper structuring of the process ensures stability, integration, and full access to the Portuguese education system.

Family Reunification is a right provided under Portuguese law that allows family members to join a holder of a valid residence permit in Portugal, promoting family unity and legal stability.

With the amendments introduced by Law No. 61/2025 of October 22, the family reunification regime now establishes more structured criteria, deadlines, and requirements for assessing applications, reflecting legislative developments applicable from October 2025 onwards.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FAMILY REUNIFICATION

To request family reunification in Portugal, the holder of a valid residence permit must comply with the fundamental principle of demonstrating family ties and possessing the means necessary to ensure the integration of family members in the country.

NEW RULE: MINIMUM RESIDENCE PERIOD

Under the new law, as a general rule, the residence permit holder must have legally resided in Portugal for at least two years before applying for family reunification. This change aims to ensure greater stability and prior integration in the national territory.

IMPORTANT EXCEPTIONS TO THE TWO-YEAR PERIOD

The law maintains important exceptions in which the two-year residence requirement may be reduced or waived, namely:

• Spouse or partner in a recognized de facto union who has lived with the residence permit holder for at least 18 months prior to entry into Portugal — allowing the request after 15 months of valid residence of the holder
• Minor children or dependent incapacitated individuals — not subject to the minimum two-year period
• Spouse or equivalent partner who is, together with the residence permit holder, the parent or adoptive parent of a dependent minor or incapacitated person — not subject to the minimum two-year period
• Holders of special residence permits (e.g., highly qualified employment or specific investment programs) — not subject to the minimum two-year period

These exceptions allow greater flexibility in situations involving strong family ties or the protection of vulnerable dependents.

ELIGIBLE FAMILY MEMBERS

The following may be included in the reunification request, among others:

• Spouse or recognized de facto partner
• Minor or dependent children
• Adult unmarried children studying in Portugal
• Dependent ascendants (parents)
• Minor siblings under legally recognized guardianship
• Other family members in legally equivalent situations

REUNIFICATION WITH FAMILY MEMBERS ALREADY IN PORTUGAL

Law No. 61/2025 also establishes a transitional rule of 180 days after its entry into force. During this period, the holder of a residence permit may request family reunification for family members who are already present in the national territory and who entered legally, provided they meet the legal requirements set out in Article 98 of Law No. 23/2007.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURE

The reunification request must be submitted to AIMA – Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum, and must be accompanied by documentation proving:

• Identity and legal residence of the permit holder
• Family ties and verified relationship
• Means of subsistence and adequate housing
• Other requirements established by the applicable legal framework

IMPORTANCE OF LEGAL ASSISTANCE

Specialized legal assistance is essential to:

• Assess the specific eligibility of the residence holder and family members
• Identify applicable exceptions that may waive or reduce the residence period
• Prepare documentation strategically to avoid refusals
• Monitor the process with AIMA and consulates, when necessary

Family reunification is a decisive step in the migration journey of those seeking stability and integration in Portugal, requiring personalized analysis and strict compliance with the applicable legislation.

The professional relocation service for companies in Portugal is intended for organizations that wish to hire and transfer foreign employees in a legal, efficient, and strategic manner.

International talent mobility requires strict compliance with immigration, labor law, and social security regulations, ensuring that the professional can work in Portuguese territory without legal risks for the company.

WHAT IS PROFESSIONAL RELOCATION?

Relocation involves the set of procedures necessary to allow a foreign worker to:

• Obtain the appropriate visa to work in Portugal
• Apply for a residence permit
• Regularize tax and social security status
• Be formally integrated into the company’s organizational structure

The process may vary depending on the professional’s profile and the contractual framework.

MOST COMMON SITUATIONS

The service is particularly relevant for:

• Multinational companies transferring employees to Portugal
• Startups and technology companies recruiting international talent
• Highly qualified professionals
• Executive and management positions
• Specialized technicians
• Employees under intra-company mobility arrangements

STAGES OF THE RELOCATION PROCESS

The relocation process may involve:

• Analysis of the legal framework of the employment contract
• Application for a residence visa for professional activity
• Obtaining a residence permit
• Issuance of NIF and NISS
• Registration with Social Security
• Support with relocation and administrative regularization

Each stage must be coordinated in an integrated manner to avoid delays or compliance issues.

BENEFITS FOR THE COMPANY

Specialized legal assistance allows for:

• Reduction of legal and tax risks
• Compliance with Portuguese immigration legislation
• Strategic planning of international mobility
• Faster integration of the employee
• Prevention of fines and administrative penalties

Proper structuring of the relocation process protects both the company and the professional, ensuring contractual stability and legal security.

RELOCATION AND BUSINESS STRATEGY

In a competitive global environment, the ability to attract and integrate foreign talent is a strategic factor for business growth in Portugal.

Coordination between immigration law, labor law, and taxation is essential for the success of international mobility.

For a personalized analysis of your company’s case and the structuring of the relocation process, specialized legal guidance is recommended.

Recognition of foreign diplomas in Portugal is the procedure that allows academic degrees obtained outside the country to be validated, making them officially recognized for academic and professional purposes.

The process is regulated by the Directorate-General for Higher Education (DGES) and is essential for those who intend to:

• Pursue further studies in Portugal
• Register with a professional regulatory body
• Practice a regulated profession
• Participate in public recruitment procedures
• Enhance academic qualifications in the job market

TYPES OF ACADEMIC DEGREE RECOGNITION BY DGES

In Portugal, there are three distinct forms of recognition, each with its own purpose and criteria.

1. AUTOMATIC RECOGNITION

Automatic recognition applies to foreign academic degrees that appear on a list previously approved by DGES.

This procedure:

• Is faster
• Does not require a detailed analysis of the curriculum
• Applies to degrees issued by institutions and countries previously recognized

It is suitable when the foreign diploma clearly corresponds to an equivalent Portuguese degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate) and meets the legal requirements for that purpose.

2. LEVEL RECOGNITION

Level recognition grants equivalence to a foreign academic degree in terms of its level (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate), but not to a specific study program.

Main characteristics:

• Simpler assessment than specific recognition
• Does not require detailed curricular equivalence
• Suitable for general academic or professional purposes

This type of recognition is often sufficient for job applications or continuation of studies when automatic recognition does not apply.

3. SPECIFIC RECOGNITION

Specific recognition is the most detailed and rigorous procedure.

In this case:

• A comparative analysis of the study plan is carried out
• Detailed curricular documentation may be required
• The decision is made by a Portuguese public university
• Additional academic requirements may be imposed

This recognition is usually required for regulated professions or when equivalence to a specific Portuguese degree is necessary.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

The request may involve:

• Foreign diploma
• Academic transcript detailing the curriculum
• Syllabi of the academic courses or subjects
• Certified translation of documents
• Apostille or consular legalization

Proper preparation of documentation is essential to avoid additional requirements or rejection of the request.

IMPORTANCE OF LEGAL ASSISTANCE

Specialized legal assistance allows for:

• Identifying the most appropriate type of recognition
• Assessing procedural risks and timelines
• Strategically organizing documentation
• Supporting cases of rejection or additional requirements
• Integrating the recognition process with immigration or professional registration procedures

Diploma recognition is often an essential step in work visa processes, residence permit applications, registration with professional associations, or academic applications in Portugal.

ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL PLANNING WITH LEGAL SECURITY

For foreign professionals and students, validation of their academic degree is a decisive step toward full integration into the Portuguese labor market.

Proper preliminary analysis and correct framing of the request before DGES provide greater predictability and legal certainty throughout the process.

Residence registration in Portugal for European Union (EU) citizens is the mandatory procedure for nationals of Member States who intend to remain in Portuguese territory for a period longer than three months.

Although EU citizens benefit from the right to free movement, the registration formalizes residence and ensures the full exercise of rights in Portugal.

CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION FOR EUROPEAN UNION CITIZENS

After three months of residence in Portugal, the EU citizen must request the Certificate of Registration for European Union Citizens from the City Hall (Câmara Municipal) of their area of residence.

The certificate:

• Formalizes legal residence in Portugal
• Is valid for five years
• Allows access to public services
• Is required for tax, employment, and banking purposes

REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION

The EU citizen must demonstrate one of the following situations:

• Exercise of professional activity in Portugal (employment or self-employment)
• Availability of sufficient financial resources for themselves and their family members
• Enrollment in an educational institution
• Valid health insurance, when applicable

The assessment of the requirements should be carried out strategically to avoid refusals.

RESIDENCE REGISTRATION FOR FAMILY MEMBERS OF EU CITIZENS

Family members who are not nationals of a European Union Member State must apply for a Residence Card for Family Members of a European Union Citizen before the competent authority.

Family members may include:

• Spouse
• Recognized partner in a de facto union
• Minor or dependent children
• Dependent ascendants
• Other family members in specific situations provided by law

The residence card is generally valid for five years, and renewal applications must be submitted to AIMA – Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum.

DOCUMENTATION GENERALLY REQUIRED

The process may involve:

• Valid identification document
• Proof of residence in Portugal
• Proof of family relationship
• Proof of means of subsistence
• Health insurance, when applicable

Proper organization of documentation is essential to ensure swift approval of the application.

IMPORTANCE OF LEGAL ASSISTANCE

Specialized legal assistance allows for:

• Verification of the appropriate legal framework
• Strategic structuring of the application
• Prevention of refusals or additional requirements
• Support in cases of refusal or documentary irregularities
• Integration of the registration with tax and professional planning

Residence registration is an essential step for those who intend to live, work, or study in Portugal with legal stability.

ESTABLISHING RESIDENCE IN PORTUGAL WITH LEGAL SECURITY

Although the European Union regime facilitates mobility, compliance with administrative formalities is essential to ensure full access to rights and avoid future complications.

A personalized analysis of each case helps ensure legal compliance and smooth integration in Portugal.