When you decide to leave the country for a period longer than 6 months, there are many things to take care of, and one of them is changing your tax address. This change of residence to abroad means that in the eyes of the Portuguese authorities, you are to be considered a "non-resident".
This guide simplifies deregistering your residency with the Portuguese authorities, namely with the Tax and Customs Authority (AT) and Social Security, where we'll cover what your tax residency address is, and why it's important to update it, especially to the deregistration process itself.
What is the tax residency address?
Your tax residency address, also known as your domicile, is your official residence for tax purposes. Keeping it up-to-date ensures proper communication and awareness of your tax obligations.
Why change your tax residency address?
Maintaining an accurate tax residency address is crucial, not only but especially when moving abroad. Deregistering ensures:
Tax Compliance: Avoid paying unnecessary taxes in Portugal and potential double taxation issues.
Clear Communication: Maintains transparency with both Portuguese and new country tax and other governmental authorities.
Legal Security: Ensures compliance with tax laws in your new country of residence.
The deregistration process
You must change your tax address if you are planning to reside in a foreign country for more than 6 months. You have a maximum of 60 days to communicate your new tax residence to the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority (AT).
Foreign residents in Portugal who do not have a Citizen Card can change their tax address with the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority (AT). Those who have a Citizen Card or Identity Card cannot change their tax address at the Tax Office, as this must be done through the respective card.
In case of moving to a country that is not part of the European Union, you may have to appoint a tax representative in Portugal.
How can we assist you?
Relocate Now offers assistance with deregistering Portuguese residency with the Tax and Customs Authority (AT) by:
Clarifying the steps involved and ensuring you have all the necessary documentation.
Communicating your new tax residency address to the Portuguese authorities ( on your behalf.
Excluding assistance with AIMA and City Hall procedures
What is the estimated time to complete?
Our typical timeframe for processing the Portuguese residency deregistration requests is 48 hours after all necessary documentation is received and approved. Nevertheless, the tax authorities’ acceptance timings vary, taking an average time is 10 business days. This timeline may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the responsiveness of the tax authorities.
What are our fees?
Our service fee for deregistering your Portuguese residency is as follows:
Service Fee: €50 (Euros) + VAT.
This fee covers the comprehensive support provided by Relocate Now to ensure a smooth and compliant deregistration from Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm leaving Portugal for 3 months. Do I need to deregister?
I'm leaving Portugal for 3 months. Do I need to deregister?
No, deregistration is only required if you plan to be out of Portugal for more than 6 months.
What if I miss the 60-day deadline to deregister?
What if I miss the 60-day deadline to deregister?
While penalties are uncommon, it's best to deregister within the timeframe.
Do I have to present proof of residing in another country to deregister from Portugal?
Do I have to present proof of residing in another country to deregister from Portugal?
Indeed, you must mandatorily present proof of residing in a foreign country to request the change of address and respective deregistration from Portugal.
Do I need a tax representative if I move outside the EU?
Do I need a tax representative if I move outside the EU?
Potentially. Appointing a tax representative is recommended for non-EU countries, but we recommend consulting with a tax professional for your specific situation.
In which scenario would I require a tax representative when moving outside the EU?
In which scenario would I require a tax representative when moving outside the EU?
When holding any assets (property, cars, or tax obligations) in Portuguese territory you must mandatorily appoint a tax representative in case of moving outside the EU.
What if my situation is more complex (e.g., owning property in Portugal)?
What if my situation is more complex (e.g., owning property in Portugal)?
While we can handle most deregistrations, complex situations may require additional tax advice.
Does Relocate Now's service include assistance with AIMA (Autoridade para a Imigração, Media e Assuntos Culturais) or City Hall procedures?
Does Relocate Now's service include assistance with AIMA (Autoridade para a Imigração, Media e Assuntos Culturais) or City Hall procedures?
No, Relocate Now's deregistration assistance currently excludes AIMA and City Hall procedures. These entities may handle separate registrations or requirements specific to your situation. We recommend contacting them directly for any questions about their processes.