Moving to Portugal with children
Moving to Portugal with a Child – Practical Checklist
Before the Move:
Choose visa type (e.g. D7, D8, D2) and include your child as a dependent.
Gather documents: birth certificates (apostilled), school records, medical history.
Research and apply to schools (public or private/international).
Get private health insurance (required for visa application).
Learn basic Portuguese as a family (Duolingo, YouTube, or kids' books).
After Arrival:
Attend SEF appointment to finalise residence permits.
Apply for NIF numbers for each family member.
Register with your local health centre (Centro de Saúde) for public healthcare.
Enrol child in school and register with local Agrupamento Escolar (if public).
Set up family doctor (médico de família) and schedule health checks.
Get Portuguese SIM cards and open a bank account.
Look into after-school activities (sports, music, clubs).
Top Family-Friendly Areas in Portugal
1. Coimbra Region (your home base – great choice!)
Excellent public schools, low cost of living, calm lifestyle.
Family-friendly parks, river beaches, and cultural events.
Growing expat community but still very Portuguese.
2. Cascais (near Lisbon)
Lots of international schools, safe and walkable, beach lifestyle.
Higher cost of living but strong support networks for expat families.
3. Porto Suburbs (e.g. Maia, Matosinhos)
Access to city amenities with quieter, more spacious living.
Mix of public and private/international school options.
4. Algarve (e.g. Lagos, Tavira, Loulé)
Sunny, laid-back, many expat families.
English widely spoken, but fewer public school immersion opportunities.
5. Central Silver Coast towns (e.g. Caldas da Rainha, Óbidos)
Affordable, authentic feel, more space and nature.
Decent schools, good infrastructure, less touristy than the Algarve.
