Utilities & Internet Setup in Portugal: July 2025 Guide

Canute Fernandes
Jul 14
2 min read

set up internet and gas in Lisbon — How to activate utilities in Portugal in July 2025?

New in Portugal? Here’s How to Set Up Utilities Fast

Landing in Portugal in July 2025? Whether you're moving into a rental or just got the keys to your new home, one of the first things you’ll need to do is activate your essential services: electricity, gas, water, and internet.

This quick-start guide walks you through each step, platform, and provider — so you’re not left in the dark (literally).

🧾 What You Need Before You Can Activate Utilities

Before you can set up any service, make sure you have:

✅ NIF (Portuguese tax number)
✅ Proof of residence (rental contract or property deed)
✅ Valid ID (passport or EU citizen card)
✅ Portuguese IBAN (for direct debits)

⚡ Electricity & Gas: How to Activate

Most Portuguese homes are powered by EDP, GALP, or Endesa for electricity and/or gas.

Steps to Activate Electricity or Gas:

Call or register online (most portals offer English versions)
Provide: NIF, lease contract, address, IBAN
Choose plan (fixed or variable rate)
Schedule meter reading or technician (if needed)

📦 Tip: If you're renting, check if utilities are already active — many leases include EDP in the name of the landlord.

💧 Water Supply Activation

Water is managed by municipal councils (Câmara Municipal). Each region has its own water company (e.g., EPAL in Lisbon).

Steps:

Visit the local water company website or office
Submit proof of residence + ID
Some municipalities allow digital setup
Initial deposit may be required (~€30–€50)

🌐 Internet & Mobile: Setup in 3–5 Days

The main providers for broadband and mobile are:

MEO
NOS
Vodafone Portugal
NOWO (smaller regions)

Packages Often Include:

Fiber Internet
Landline
Mobile Data
TV Channels

📞 Setup can take 3–5 business days; bring NIF + IBAN + proof of address when visiting stores or ordering online.

🧠 Insider Tips from Relocation Experts

“Always ask if the building has fiber infrastructure — it can impact your options.”- Lisbon-based Property Consultant

“Set up direct debits (débito direto) to avoid missed payments. Many services offer discounts for auto-pay.”- Expat & Admin Support Specialist

📚 Learn Everyday Utility Vocabulary in Portuguese

Navigating service contracts, call center menus, and in-person appointments is a lot easier when you understand basic Portuguese utility terms.

🎯 Smart Move: Start the PLA Língua de Acolhimento course and build practical language skills now — essential for making phone calls, understanding bills, and managing issues as a resident.

🎓 Enroll today in the PLA Portuguese Course for Newcomers👉 https://www.edpropt.org/courses-application-form/pla-portuguese-lingua-de-alcohimento

💡 Utility Activation Checklist

✅ NIF + Portuguese IBAN

✅ Proof of residence (rental or deed)

✅ Choose providers and plans

✅ Request direct debit

✅ Schedule install dates

✅ Save customer service numbers

❓ FAQs: Utilities & Internet Setup Portugal (July 2025)

📌 How long does it take to get utilities turned on?

Electricity and water: 1–3 days if previously connected. Internet: 3–5 days depending on availability.

📌 Can I activate utilities before arriving?

Yes, with a power of attorney or if your lease allows early setup. Some landlords do this on your behalf.

📌 Do I need a Portuguese bank account?

Highly recommended. Most providers require IBAN for monthly billing.