EN
Call Us
EN
+351 910 066 171 info@movetocascais.com
Av. Aida 411, 2765-187 Estoril, Portugal

Every spring, thousands of residents in Portugal receive a tax refund from the government — a return of overpaid income tax (IRS). However, in 2025, many people were surprised to find that the refund amounts are significantly smaller than in previous years, and some even received notices that they owe additional tax.

What happened?

In 2024, the Portuguese government reduced IRS withholding rates. As a result, people received more money in their paychecks throughout the year. But this also means that in spring 2025, the tax authority is refunding much less than before.

The Portuguese Public Finance Council (CFP) estimates that total refunds will decrease by approximately €1.167 billion. This is a one-time effect — it is not expected to happen again in 2026.

How to avoid mistakes and unpleasant surprises?

To ensure your tax return is accurate and to avoid penalties:

  1. Visit the official tax portal — Portal das Finanças
  2. Check your information carefully:
    • Make sure all your income is reported correctly
    • Ensure that deductions (children, rent, insurance, education, etc.) are included
  3. Don’t rely solely on the automatic IRS submission — it may miss important personal details and deductions
  4. If you need to pay additional tax, do so by August 31 to avoid fines
  5. Keep a copy of your tax return — it may be required when applying for residency, a mortgage, or a rental contract

We explained in detail how and when to submit your IRS declaration for 2024 in our previous article.

The Easter holidays have just come to an end. With that in mind, we’d like to remind you about the public holidays and official days off in Portugal, which are important to consider when planning travel, handling documentation, or organizing work schedules.

Portugal has 13 official public holidays. If a holiday falls on a weekend, there will be no extra day off.

Official Public Holidays in Portugal in 2025:

  • 1 January (Wednesday) — New Year’s Day (Ano Novo)
  • 18 April (Friday) — Good Friday (Sexta-feira Santa)
  • 20 April (Sunday) — Easter (Páscoa)
  • 25 April (Friday) — Freedom Day (Dia da Liberdade)
  • 1 May (Thursday) — Labour Day (Dia do Trabalhador)
  • 10 June (Tuesday) — Portugal Day (Dia de Portugal)
  • 19 June (Thursday) — Corpus Christi (Corpo de Deus)
  • 15 August (Friday) — Assumption of Mary (Assunção de Nossa Senhora)
  • 5 October (Sunday) — Republic Day (Implantação da República)
  • 1 November (Saturday) — All Saints’ Day (Dia de Todos os Santos)
  • 1 December (Monday) — Restoration of Independence (Restauração da Independência)
  • 8 December (Monday) — Immaculate Conception (Imaculada Conceição)
  • 25 December (Thursday) — Christmas (Natal)

Additional Notes:

  • 4 March (Tuesday) — Carnival (Carnaval). This is not an official public holiday but may be granted as a day off at the employer’s discretion.

Regional Holidays in June:

June is a festive month in Portugal, with traditional celebrations dedicated to popular saints in different regions:

  • 13 June (Friday) — Saint Anthony’s Day (Dia de Santo António) — celebrated in Lisbon and other regions.
  • 24 June (Tuesday) — Saint John’s Day (Dia de São João) — widely celebrated in Porto and surrounding areas.
  • 29 June (Sunday) — Saint Peter’s Day (Dia de São Pedro) — observed in Sintra, Évora, and other municipalities.

Other Celebrated Days (Not Official Holidays):

  • 19 March (Wednesday) — Father’s Day (Dia do Pai)
  • 4 May (Sunday) — Mother’s Day (Dia da Mãe)

Keep these dates in mind, especially if you need to visit public offices or plan holidays during busy seasons.

This is important news for anyone living, working, or doing business in the European Union. According to a publication by Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation, starting in 2027, Ukrainian electronic signatures, seals, and electronic identification tools will be automatically recognized in all EU countries. This decision is outlined in the updated Ukraine–EU Work Plan on Electronic Identification.

What does this mean in practice, if the plan is successfully implemented?

Ukrainian citizens will be able to legally sign documents, contracts, and agreements with European companies and government institutions from anywhere in the world — using the “Diia.Signature-EU” tool. This will also open new opportunities for migration, business registration, residency applications, and bank account openings, all without unnecessary bureaucracy or intermediaries.

Ukraine will become the first non-EU country whose digital identity is fully integrated into the European system on equal terms with EU member states. This will be made possible through the new EU regulation — eIDAS 2.0 — which governs electronic identification and trust services.

A phased recognition of certain types of Ukrainian e-signatures will begin as early as 2026. By 2027, full automatic integration is expected — all Ukrainian electronic identification tools and trust services will be recognized in the EU on equal terms with those of EU countries.

These changes open up a range of new opportunities. Strategic planning can begin now: registering a business in the EU, securing legal status, developing online products, and building a career on the international stage — all using Ukrainian documents and digital identity.

Starting April 1, 2025, the tax return form filing period for the 2024 fiscal year has officially begun in Portugal. This process is mandatory for most taxpayers, and it’s important to understand who must file and the applicable deadlines.

Filing deadlines

Tax returns for 2024 must be submitted between April 1 and June 30, 2025. Missing the deadline may result in fines ranging from €200 to €2,500.

Who must file a tax return

You are required to file a tax return if:

  • You were a tax resident in Portugal in 2024 — meaning you lived in the country for more than 183 days or had a permanent address, even if your income came from abroad.
  • You received income from Portugal, even if you were not a resident in 2024.
  • You were employed, self-employed, freelancing, renting out property, or had any similar source of income.

How to file the return

The tax return is submitted online via the official Finanças portal.

To file, you will need:

  • Your Portuguese tax number (NIF)
  • A registered account (username and password)

If you haven’t registered on the Finanças portal yet, it’s recommended to do so as soon as possible. You’ll need a valid NIF to create the account.

Why it’s important

Filing your tax return on time allows you to:

  • Avoid fines for late submission
  • Receive a tax refund if excess tax was withheld during the year
  • Claim deductions for education, healthcare, rent, and eligible purchases — potentially saving you hundreds of euros

What happens after filing

Once your return is submitted:

  • If you owe tax, it must be paid by August 31
  • If you are due a refund, the amount will be transferred to your bank account within a few weeks

Automatic tax return

If you have a simple financial situation — for example, you are a company employee and your employer withheld taxes for you, or a pensioner — the tax authority may generate an automatic return. However, it’s still recommended to review it manually before submission to avoid mistakes.

Need help?

If you’re unsure how to complete your tax return form or afraid of making a mistake, it’s worth seeking professional assistance. Our team provides tax consultations and accounting services and will be happy to help you file your return correctly and on time, as well as answer any related questions.

The European Union has once again delayed the launch of the ETIAS pre-travel authorisation system. It is now expected to be implemented no earlier than late 2026, with full operation likely starting in 2027.

The main reason for the delay is the postponed implementation of another crucial system:
EES (Entry/Exit System) — a digital database that will monitor border crossings of third-country nationals entering or leaving the EU.
Its launch is currently scheduled for October 2025.

While we wait, let’s break down what ETIAS and EES are all about.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is an online pre-travel authorisation for citizens of countries that currently enjoy visa-free access to the EU.

Who will need to apply for ETIAS?

  • Citizens of third countries (e.g. Ukraine, USA, UK, Canada) entering the Schengen Area without a visa
  • Only for short stays: tourism, business trips, visiting friends/family (up to 90 days)
    Planning to study, move, or work? You’ll need a visa or residence permit.

What if I have EU residency or a visa?

If you hold a residence permit or a national visa from a Schengen country —
ETIAS is not required.

How long is ETIAS valid?

  • Up to 3 years, or until your passport expires
  • You can enter and leave the EU unlimited times,
    as long as you follow the 90/180-day rule

How to apply?

  • Online via the official website
  • Cost: €7
  • Free for those under 18 or over 70
  • In most cases, approval takes 10 minutes,
    but it can take up to 30 days if further checks are needed

What is EES (Entry/Exit System)?

EES is a digital system that records the entry and exit of third-country nationals into the Schengen Area. It will replace passport stamps and allow automatic tracking of how long someone stays in the EU.

More info: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees_en

Why is EES being introduced?

  • To enhance security
  • To automate visa-free travel controls
  • To accurately track stays in the Schengen Area

Who does EES apply to?

  • Citizens of third countries entering the Schengen Area without a visa for up to 90 days
  • Does not apply to those with residence permits or long-term visas

What data will EES collect?

  • Biographical data (name, date of birth, nationality)
  • Biometric data (fingerprints, photo)
  • Entry and exit location/time

How will it affect travellers?

  • Overstaying will be instantly recorded
  • Biometric data will be mandatory at the border
  • No more passport stamps
  • Data stored for 3 years

On April 1, 2025, Portugal signed an agreement launching a new program called Via Verde — a simplified and faster mechanism for issuing work visas to foreign nationals. This new scheme promises faster processing times and transparent rules for large companies.

What’s changing?

Last year, Portugal shut down the Expression of Interest system, which had accumulated over 440,000 pending applications.
It is now being replaced by Via Verde — a “green corridor” for processing work visas for foreign workers, available only through large companies.

Key features of Via Verde:

• Visa issued within 20 working days after in-person submission at the consulate, but the employer should be previously approved
• Centralized application process designed to be faster and more efficient (in theory)

How will Via Verde work?

• The employer submits an application and sends a document package to DGACCP
• The documents are automatically forwarded to the consulate in the applicant’s country
• A date is set for submitting the visa application
• AIMA and UCFE conduct background checks
• If approved, the visa is issued directly at the consulate

Employer requirements:

To use Via Verde, the employer must:
• Sign an employment contract with the worker before submitting the visa application
• Provide preliminary training (in Portugal or abroad)
• Guarantee housing for the worker (specific criteria to be confirmed)

Who can participate:

• Companies that are part of business associations with 30+ members
or
 • Companies with 150+ employees
• Companies with an annual turnover of €25–250 million
• Must have no outstanding tax debts and hold an active digital certificate (certificado digital ativo)

Who cannot apply under this new scheme:

 • Small and medium-sized businesses
• Private individuals
• Migrants themselves — the employer must now initiate the process

When does the program start?

It is expected that applications can begin from April 15. We’re keeping an eye out for updates.

The time to register children for educational institutions in Portugal for the next academic year is approaching. Submitting your application on time ensures a place in your preferred kindergarten or school.

Key Registration Dates

The application process is divided into several stages:

  • April 22 – May 31, 2025 – Registration for kindergartens and 1st grade of primary school.
  • June 16 – June 27, 2025 – Enrollment for 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 11th grades.
  • July 1 – July 11, 2025 – Registration for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.
  • July 15 – July 22, 2025 – Enrollment for 10th and 12th grades.

How to Register Your Child

Registration is done online through the official Portal das Matrículas.

Required Documents

To submit an application, you will need:

  • Child’s identification document: passport or birth certificate.
  • Parent or guardian’s identification document: passport or residence permit.
  • Proof of residence: rental contract or utility bill.
  • Academic records: for students transferring from another school.
  • Medical record with vaccinations: an updated list of the child’s vaccinations.

Important Information

Even if parents do not yet have a residence permit (residência), they can still apply for school enrollment and select up to five preferred schools in their area.

Useful Links

Need Help with Registration?

Move to Cascais is ready to assist you at every stage of the registration process. We offer consultations and support in preparing the necessary documents to ensure your child secures a place in the desired school.

AIMA has launched a new page allowing residents to make changes to their residency card or request a duplicate online. Now, you can make an appointment for these procedures without in-person visits, waiting in lines, or making phone calls.

What services are available online?

  • Request a duplicate residency card (e.g., in case of loss)
  • Make changes to personal data (e.g., address change)

What do you need to submit a request?

To apply, you need to prepare the following documents:

  • A registered email address
  • A digital copy of your passport
  • A digital copy of your residency card
  • Proof of reason for data change (if requesting data change)
  • A police report of loss (if requesting a duplicate card)

Application deadlines

Requests must be submitted no later than 90 days before the expiration date of the residency card.

You can submit your application on the official page: contactenos.aima.gov.pt/contact-form.

Since March 18, an amendment to the law has come into force in Portugal, according to which students who have legally resided in the country for more than two years under any type of residence permit cease to be considered foreigners and gain access to reduced tuition fees at universities.

Previously, even holders of student residence permits who studied in Portuguese school before, paid tuition at foreign student rates, which were 3–4 times higher than those for Portuguese citizens. Now this has changed.

Tuition fees

  • National students – about €700 per year
  • Foreign students – from €2000 and above

Who is no longer considered a foreign student:

  • Portuguese and EU citizens
  • Family members of portuguese/EU citizens
  • Individuals who have legally resided in Portugal for more than two years continuously on January 1 of the year of university enrollment, regardless of the type of residence permit, including their children
  • Holders of student residence permits, if they studied in portuguese secondary schools

When the changes take effect

The new rules apply from the 2025/2026 academic year and are only applicable to new applicants. Those who already have the status of a foreign student will retain it until the completion of their studies. To benefit from the law, it is necessary to have resided in Portugal for more than two years continuously on January 1 of the year of enrollment.

This reform eliminates discrimination and makes higher education more accessible for those who already live in Portugal and plan to stay.For more detailed information, please refer to the official decree on the Diário da República website.

The cancellation of the Golden Visa program is a shock to the country’s real estate market.

The Golden Visa program, launched in 2012, allows anyone outside the EU to obtain a residence permit after making significant investments in Portugal.Under this scheme, investors can obtain residence or citizenship by investing in real estate, business and job creation. Obtaining a residence permit through the purchase of real estate was particularly popular.

The decision to end the program was made after several years of criticism. The program, which mainly benefited rich foreign investors, led to an increase in real estate prices, especially in popular cities such as Lisbon and Porto.

In announcing the decision, Portuguese Prime Minister Miguel Costa stressed that the government was committed to putting the interests of the Portuguese people first and addressing public concerns about the Golden Visa program. The suspension of the program is effective immediately and remaining applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The move has drawn mixed reactions. Some argue that the program has played an important role in attracting foreign investment, stimulating growth in the real estate sector and creating jobs. Others argue that ending the program could have a negative impact on the Portuguese economy.

However, it is worth noting that the program has led to price distortions in the housing market, making it increasingly difficult for locals, especially young people, to find affordable housing. Another concern of the Government is the potential for money laundering and tax evasion, which is a threat to national security.

The abolition of the golden visa scheme is not a spontaneous act, as Portugal is under increasing pressure from the EU to reform or abolish the program. Other EU countries, such as Malta and Cyprus, have already seen their citizenship-for-investment schemes overhauled, resulting in tighter rules and increased transparency.

It remains to be seen how the abolition of the golden visa will affect the Portuguese real estate market and the economy as a whole. There may be difficulties in the short term, but eventually the market will adapt, leading to more sustainable growth and more affordable housing for locals. The Portuguese government has said it intends to introduce alternative measures to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth, while avoiding the potential drawbacks associated with the golden visa program. Details of the new measures have not been disclosed, but officials emphasize that they will ensure a fair and transparent investment climate.

As Portugal says goodbye to the Golden Visa program, it is at a critical juncture in balancing economic opportunity with protecting the interests of its citizens. The coming months will show the real consequences of this bold decision and determine the future of foreign investment in the country.