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Plan Your Move to Portugal (July–Sept 2025): Expert Guide
- Jul 7
- 3 min read
Introduction: Why Summer 2025 is the Ideal Time to Move to Portugal
Summer (July to September) is one of the most active periods for international relocations to Portugal—especially for families aligning moves with school schedules and for retirees escaping extreme weather elsewhere. But to make the most of this sunny window, you’ll need a smart, step-by-step relocation checklist. This guide offers an expert-backed plan to make your summer move seamless.
✅ Step-by-Step Checklist: How to Relocate to Portugal (July–Sept 2025)
1. 📅 Plan Your Timeline (Start: Early July)
Book flights and temporary accommodations early (Lisbon and Porto fill fast).
Apply for the appropriate visa (D7, Digital Nomad, or Family Reunification).
Secure moving insurance and begin gathering essential relocation documents.
2. 🏠 Find Housing or Temporary Stay Options
Check short-term rentals on Idealista or Flatio for your landing period.
Use local Facebook groups and relocation agents for long-term searches.
Schedule virtual or in-person viewings before arrival if possible.
💡 Tip from the Pros: Choose housing within 30 minutes of key services like public transport, international schools, or language centers.
3. 🚛 Hire a Reputable Relocation Company
Choose movers with experience in Portugal import regulations (especially for cars, pets, or electronics).Top-rated international movers include:
AGS Movers
Crown Relocations
Global International Movers Lisbon
🧠 Expert Tip: Request a pre-move survey and ask for customs brokerage support.
📌 EEAT Element: Get quotes and guidance from certified movers listed by the International Association of Movers (IAM).
4. 📚 Sort School Enrollments (If Applicable)
July–August is a tight window to enroll in Portuguese public or private schools.Required documents:
Proof of residence
Child’s school records
Vaccination card. Some international schools offer rolling admissions through late August.
5. 💬 Brush Up on Everyday Portuguese
Enroll in a quick-start Portuguese course to navigate daily interactions.Recommended A1/A2 crash courses:
Edpro PLA Course
Instituto Camões Summer Modules
🎯 Mid-Content CTA:
“Secure your A2 language certificate this summer — Enroll now in the PLA Course!”
6. 💡 Setup Utilities & Internet Before You Arrive
Once your rental is confirmed, contact utility providers:
Electricity: EDP, Galp
Water: Local municipal services
Internet/Mobile: MEO, Vodafone, NOS
🧰 Pro Tip: Use a NIF (tax number) and Portuguese bank account to speed up activation.
7. 📂 Pack Smart & Handle Customs
What to pack: Legalized documents, climate-appropriate clothing, electronics with adapters, and prescription meds.What not to bring: Bulky furniture, restricted food products, or anything requiring voltage conversion.
🧳 Pack by category:
Essentials suitcase
Work/study bag
Documents folder
Checked luggage
📋 Final 10-Point Pre-Move Checklist (For July Arrivals)
✅ Visa confirmed
✅ Housing secured
✅ School enrollment submitted
✅ Utilities pre-scheduled
✅ PLA course enrolled
✅ Movers booked
✅ Documents translated & notarized
✅ Health insurance updated
✅ Bank account + NIF ready
✅ SIM card or eSIM plan arranged
💬 FAQs: Summer Relocation to Portugal 2025
📌 What is the best month to move to Portugal during summer?
Answer: Late July to early August offers good weather and time to enroll kids in schools before the September term starts.
📌 Can I enroll my child in school after arriving in August?
Answer: Yes, but options may be limited. Start the process early and contact schools directly.
📌 Do I need to speak Portuguese to move?
Answer: No, but basic A1/A2-level knowledge makes settling in much easier. Many services are still not fully English-friendly.