Changing Your Address in Portugal (Because Almost Everyone Moves Again)
One of the least talked-about realities of moving to Portugal is this:
Your first address is rarely your final one.
Most people arrive on a short-term rental, a temporary contract for a visa, or somewhere that works “for now”. Then life settles, priorities shift, and you move again. Sometimes within months.
The good news? Changing your address in Portugal is very doable. The less good news? You need to update it in more than one place, and Portugal won’t automatically join the dots for you.
Here’s how to do it properly, without panic, misinformation, or ten browser tabs open at once.
If you’re planning a move from abroad, our relocation services to Portugal can help you secure visa-compliant housing and plan your move.
1. Update Your Address with Finanças (Tax Office)
This one matters. A lot.
Your address on file with Finanças is your official tax residence, and many other systems rely on it being correct.
Option A: Online (Portal das Finanças)
You can update your address through your Portal das Finanças account.
Be aware that:
You’ll usually receive a confirmation letter by post to your new address
That letter includes a code you must enter online to complete the change
If you don’t receive the letter, the process stalls
This is why people think it “didn’t work”.
Option B: In Person (Often Faster)
You can book an appointment via the Finanças portal or walk in (location dependent) with:
Proof of your new address (rental contract or deed)
ID
Your NIF
If you go in person, you normally get your updated NIF confirmation the same day. For many people, this is the least stressful route.
2. Update Your Address with AIMA
If you’re a resident, this step is essential.
You do not need to guess or rely on Facebook advice. AIMA provides an online process.
How to do it
Use the official contact form:
https://contactenos.aima.gov.pt/contact-formSubmit:
Your new address
Proof of address (rental agreement or deed)
AIMA will review it and let you know by email if they need you to attend in person.
In most cases:
No appointment is required
Confirmation arrives by email
Typical response time is around two weeks
This matches real-world experience from people who’ve done it recently.
3. Cars and Motorbikes: Change the Address on Your Registration
If you own a car or motorbike, this is a separate step. It doesn’t update automatically.
You have two main options:
Option A: Through ACP
Small fee
Very straightforward
Less paperwork stress
Option B: Directly via IRN
Walk-in is often possible
Bring your new address details
Updated registration cards typically arrive 2–3 weeks later
If you’re already juggling banks, utilities, and removals, ACP is often worth the fee.
4. Don’t Forget the “Secondary” Updates
Portugal is wonderfully compartmentalised. That means you must tell each organisation separately.
Make a checklist for:
Banks
Health centre (Centro de Saúde)
Private health insurance
Utilities
Mobile phone contracts
Driving licence (if applicable)
Some will update instantly. Some will send letters. None will talk to each other.
A Final Reality Check
Moving again after you arrive in Portugal is normal.
People arrive with limited knowledge, limited time, and visa pressure. Once you understand areas, transport, seasons, and daily life, your needs change.
The system expects that. You just have to keep your paperwork tidy!
