Moving from South Korea to Portugal

Similarities can encourage ex-pats to move from South Korea to Portugal! Do the lifestyles match in quality and cost? Let’s find out.

article by Viv Europe - Official Legal and relocation partner to KipperTree.

April 17, 2023

Read the full article here

Moving to Portugal

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, immerse yourself in history and culture, or simply enjoy a slower pace of life, this country has something for everyone. Portugal is a vibrant country with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a laid-back lifestyle that attracts expats and tourists. Are you interested in making a move from South Korea to Portugal? Keep reading!

The idea of starting over in a completely different country may seem daunting, but don’t worry; Portugal is an exciting and welcoming place for ex-pats. Over the years, the ex-pat community has grown, which means that you’ll find other South Koreans living their dream lives here.

So how can you make the big move? What documents will you need, and how different is life in Portugal? Is the weather as harsh as in South Korea? What does public healthcare look like? We’ll answer all these questions and more. Happy reading!

How to move from South Korea to Portugal

While relocating can be exciting, it requires careful planning and preparation. This article covers all you need to know, from the Visa application to the general documentation needed, so sit back, relax, and continue reading. 

Before we begin, you should know that the culture can be very different from South Korea. So it is essential to research and learn about Portugal’s culture, language, and lifestyle. 

It may help to know that Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve are popular living choices among expats. This is especially true for those who wish to work. Whether you wish to work here or retire, we’ll discuss housing and living costs in detail later.

Needless to say, you should also obtain the necessary paperwork before you move from South Korea to Portugal. You’ll need a valid Passport and Visa to enter Portugal and a work permit, residency permit, or other documentation for your extended stay. 

How can I apply for a Portugal Residence Visa from South Korea?

First up – gathering all necessary documents! 

Your Passport, proof of income, and proof of health insurance should be with you before you schedule an appointment at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in South Korea. You can find a comprehensive list of required documents on their official website.

Next, you will submit your application and all the required documents in your scheduled appointment, along with the fee, which is usually €90. Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to wait for a decision which can take several weeks or even months.

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a Portugal Residence Visa, allowing you to stay in Portugal for an extended period. That’s your permit to the country as a non-EU expat.

It is advisable that ex-pats check with the Portuguese embassy or consulate in South Korea for specific requirements, especially because of the time-consuming and confusing process. In case you’re getting confused, Viv Europe can help you figure things out at your own pace.

What are the types of Portugal Residence Visa that Koreans may apply for?

There are various options available that ex-pats can apply to. One such choice is the Passive Income Visa. This is popular among Koreans who have sufficient support and wish to reside in Portugal without engaging in any kind of work activity. It’s basically the Visa retirees apply for.

You may also apply for a Student Visa if you wish to study in Portugal or a Work Visa if you have a job offer in Portugal. There is also a Family Reunification Visa for those who have family members already living in Portugal and wish to join them. The other famous Visa is the D2 Business Visa, which enables South Korean business owners and entrepreneurs to launch operations in a central European market. Portugal has gained popularity as Europe’s Silicon Valley, with numerous emerging corporations and excellent infrastructure to develop a business.

Documentation needed in general

If you want to move from South Korea to Portugal, you need documents that act as your entry key. It’s important to note that different Visa applications require different documents. For example, for the D7 Visa, you must show proof of sufficient passive income. And for the D1 Work Visa, you’ll need to have an official contract with a Portuguese company.

A general list of documents is listed below:

Valid Passport;

Signed Visa application form: South Korean nationals will need a Visa to stay in Portugal for more than 90 days. The Visa application process can take several weeks, so it is important to start early;

Proof of livelihood and accommodation in Portugal;

Criminal Records Certificate issued by your country of origin (and other recently visited countries);

Health Insurance: You should obtain health insurance before moving to Portugal to ensure you are covered in case of illness or injury;

Permission to consult the Portuguese criminal registry by SEF;

Driving License: If you plan to drive in Portugal, you only need this.

Obtaining a Residence Permit to live in Portugal from South Korea

The process for obtaining a Residence Permit in Portugal can vary based on your individual circumstances. But, generally, it involves applying through the Portuguese embassy or consulate in South Korea.

As mentioned earlier, you’ll need a valid Passport, financial proof to support yourself, and a potential job offer or proof of self-employment. You may also need to provide a criminal record check and medical certificate.

Once you have obtained your Residence Permit, you will need to obtain a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF). NIF is required to legally work or conduct business in the country and can be obtained through the Portuguese tax office.

The NIF Number is also needed to open a bank account in Portugal. 

What are the benefits of moving from South Korea to Portugal?

If you’re exhausted from your fast-paced South Korean life, you may find the Portuguese relaxed lifestyle to match your requirements. Plus, it offers a high quality of life at a relatively low cost, as you could tell by the topics we discussed. 

A major benefit of Portugal is its emerging tech market, strategic business location, and public healthcare, which is open to even ex-pats. Also, its affordable housing options and mild climate can be appealing if you don’t enjoy the harsh Korean winters.

Last but not least, the country’s strong sense of community makes the ex-pats feel welcomed and included in local events and activities. On a side note, Portugal has a rich cultural heritage and a strong food and wine culture that you will thoroughly enjoy exploring in your free time.

To read more about how to move to Portugal from South Korea read the full article here.