How do I get legal status so I can open a bank account and get setteled in there Ect. Thanks in advance
Portugal - 2 Answers
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1 :
Assuming you have a UK passport then you have an automatic right to both live and work in Portugal, it's one of the benefits of EC membership. You are automatically legal but I believe you have to register with the local police, just a formality. Opening a bank account is just as easy, just turn up at your chosen branch with your passport as ID and it can be done while you wait. Better would be to choose a bank that has branches in the UK and have them set up the account before you travel. That way it's available immediately on arrival. The biggest problem will be finding a job, to make it work will be difficult without a knowledge of the language and right now jobs are scarce in Portugal. Without the language you might find some work in the tourist spots but it will be seasonal rather than permanent. Ian M
2 :
I am from the UK and lived in Portugal for 4 years between 1999 and 2003. You do not need any documentation to work and live there, but when I opened my bank account I did need to supply my bank with a "Financas" identity number (this is similar to our National Insurance number). This can be applied for at the local Finance office (it is easy to obtain, but ask any portuguese person to help you if you cannot speak the language). One thing that Portuguese authorities are very strict on is bringing original copies of your documentation (and sometimes you have to have documentation translated and formally stamped, which can be done at a lawyers office, or the British Embassy in Lisbon). Portugal is a wonderful country and the people are amazing - so much so, I married one of them :-) Boa viagem e boa sorte!
