Your first 30 days in Portugal.

• Passports and visasAt least six months left on each.
• Birth and marriage certificatesApostilled, with certified Portuguese translations.
• Criminal record certificatesCheck how recent they must be.
• School reports and vaccination recordsFor every child.
• Your NIF (tax number)Get it before you arrive. It unlocks everything.
• Private health insuranceUntil you join the national health service.
• Digital copies of everythingOne folder, on your phone.

• Portuguese phone numberBanks and services send codes by text.
• Portal das Finanças passwordArrives by post, so request it early.
• Bank accountPassport, NIF and proof of address.
• Electricity, water and internetBook internet now; it can take weeks.
• AIMA appointmentConfirm date, documents and address.

From experience: carry printed copies to every appointment. Paper still wins.

• Atestado de residênciaProof of address from your Junta de Freguesia.
• Número de utente (SNS)Register at your health centre, per person.
• Social security number (NISS)Needed to work, useful for much more.
• School enrolmentPublic via Portal das Matrículas. Apply early.
• Chave Móvel DigitalSign in to government services online.
• Driving licenceCheck exchange rules and deadlines with IMT.
• Toll transponderVia Verde makes motorways effortless.

From experience: before you sign a lease, see the area twice: on a weekday school run and on a Saturday. Your address shapes your schools, your health centre and your daily life.