MOVING TO PORTUGAL

Please note. That many of these things will not apply to you if you are moving from another EU (European Union) State and/or you are a citizen of the EU (European Union) due to the free movement of goods throughout the EU.

Below is a list of the documents you will need when planning an international removal to Portugal:

• Original Passport (Of the individual moving/importing the goods), stating place of residence abroad (and 1 certified copy)
• “Certificado de Bagagem” issued by the Portuguese Consulate at origin
• Detailed moving inventory in Portuguese
• Original Bill of Lading (OBL) / Air Waybill (AWB) – We will take care of this if completing the entire international removal to Portugal for you.
• Residence Certificate (Atestado de Residencia)
• Photocopy of air ticket or declaration (must include details, date of arrival, etc.)
• Photocopy of work contract (if applicable)
• Proof of application for Residence Permit
• Copy of Identity Card (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)
• Declaration as per EU regulations
• Copy of Visa

We recommend providing these as soon as possible to reduce delays with your removal to Portugal. Late receipt of documentation can lead to missed shipments, additional charges and penalties at Portuguese Customs. For your own protection, we will almost never ship your goods without the above in place.

• The Certificado de Bagagem must state that all the items are used and have been in the client`s possession for more than 6 months (do not show values).
• Residence Certificate (Atestado de Residencia) can be obtained by the transferee and issued by the Junta de Freguesia in which transferee’s residence in Portugal is situated; it must state that he/she has been residing there for less than 1 year and include the exact date of arrival in Portugal, if possible.
• If shipper is not a citizen of the origin country, proof of residency for a period of at least 12 months is required (photocopy of Identity Card, certificate issued by the Portuguese Consulate or Employment Contract from the origin country, etc.).
• Portuguese nationals are not required to provide proof of application for a Residence Permit.
• Transferees must be present for Customs clearance and must provide an exact date of arrival in Portugal.
• Although normal goods are duty free, Custom´s broker fees are generally required and are based ad valorem.
• Port handling charges and warehouse fees may be included in Custom’s broker fees but can be expensive; estimates should be requested from agent prior to import.

If you are unsure about what you need, one of our international move managers is always willing to help. Just call us on +44 20 7097 5335 , or fill out an international removal enquiry, and we’ll ease you through the process.

If you’re moving to Portugal, it’s very likely you’ll have to exchange a large amount of currency. Many people waste thousands doing this through their bank as they think there is no alternative; but we partner with Global Reach who specialise in doing just this. Global Reach will offer all Gerson Moving Services customers preferential rates when exchanging currency and guarantee to beat other rates you’re receiving. Ask one of our move managers about this, to find out more click here or give us a call: +44 20 7097 5335 .

We always advise taking out an insurance policy with us on every move. Although we like to think we’re the best in the industry, the odd accident can occasionally happen. For added peace of mind, make sure to speak to one of our move managers about this.

If you have already contracted us for your international removal to Portugal, then you can download the insurance form and email the completed form back to your international relocation manager.