James Cave

James Cave is the founder of Portugalist.com, a website he created in 2016 to make moving to Portugal more simple. He’s also the author of Moving to Portugal Made Simple, now in its second edition and with more than 400 reviews on Amazon. Through Portugalist, James has helped thousands of people plan their move and settle into life in Portugal with clear, trustworthy, and up-to-date information. Portugalist has been featured in countless publications including the WSJ, New York Times, and Independent.

How to Apply for the D7 With Rental Income

A smiling couple stands in a modern living room as a woman hands them a set of keys. The couple is dressed casually and showing excitement. The woman is holding a clipboard, suggesting a house or apartment agreement signing. The setting is bright and welcoming.

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Written by: | Last Updated: November 4, 2025

Let’s talk about the D7 visa – it’s one of the most popular options for moving to Portugal, and for good reason. The main draw? You only need to show a regular passive income equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage. …

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Last modified: November 4, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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Can I Move to Portugal If I Have a Criminal Record?

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Written by: | Last Updated: November 4, 2025

Thinking about moving to Portugal but worried your minor criminal record might be a problem? Concerned about the clean criminal record requirement for visas like the D7, Digital Nomad Visa, and golden visa? You’re not alone, and this is a …

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Last modified: November 4, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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How To Get a Número de Utente (SNS Number) in Portugal

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Written by: | Last Updated: November 4, 2025

If you’re familiar with the NIF (tax number) in Portugal, get ready to add another crucial number to your list: the número de utente or SNS number. This number is your gateway to the Portuguese public healthcare system, and it’s …

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Last modified: November 4, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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Signing the Deeds (Escritura) in Portugal

A couple sits at a table with a man in a suit. The man from the couple is signing a document while the woman, smiling, rests her hand on his shoulder. The suited man watches attentively. The table has papers and a cup on it.

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Written by: | Last Updated: November 4, 2025

The last big step in the house buying process in Portugal is the signing of the Deed of Purchase and Sale or Escritura de Compra e Venda (commonly referred to as the escritura). This is the point where you hand …

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Last modified: November 4, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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Understanding the Promissory Contract

A man and a woman sit at a table, reviewing and signing a document together. The man, wearing glasses and a light blue shirt, holds a pen and signs the paper, while the woman in a black dress with lace sleeves looks on attentively.

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Written by: | Last Updated: November 4, 2025

A major step in the Portuguese property buying process is putting down a deposit and signing the promissory contract. You’ve already made an offer, but the promissory contract confirms you want to go ahead with the sale. Although putting down …

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Last modified: November 4, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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Madeira for Digital Nomads

Panoramic view of a hilly landscape in Madeira, Portugal featuring terraced farming and scattered houses. The scene is lush and green, extending towards a distant horizon under a partly cloudy sky. A winding road traverses the lower part of the hills.

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Written by: | Last Updated: October 31, 2025

While Lisbon has long reigned as the premier destination for digital nomads in Portugal, the idyllic island of Madeira has been quietly but steadily making its mark on the global digital nomad scene. Historically known for its appeal to retirees …

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Last modified: October 31, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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Portuguese Permanent Residency: What Changes When You Hit the 5-Year Mark?

A picturesque public square in Portugal with a large ornate fountain featuring statues, surrounded by historic buildings under a clear blue sky. Purple jacaranda trees are in bloom, and pedestrians walk leisurely on the intricate black and white cobblestone pattern.

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Written by: | Last Updated: October 31, 2025

As you learn about Portuguese visas and residency requirements, you’ll hear terms like temporary residency, permanent residency, and Portuguese citizenship used a lot. Trying to understand the differences can be confusing, particularly if it’s your first time moving abroad. In …

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Last modified: October 31, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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Retiring in The Azores

A scenic view of lush green farmland on Pico, Azores, divided by hedgerows on a sloping landscape leading to a coastline with deep blue ocean waters. A few scattered houses and farm buildings are nestled amidst the patchwork of fields, with hills in the background and a partly cloudy sky overhead.

Is Portugal better or is the grass just greener?

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Written by: | Last Updated: October 31, 2025

Nestled in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores offer a unique retirement destination for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life. As an autonomous region of Portugal, these nine volcanic islands combine European charm …

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Last modified: October 31, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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Moving Back to Portugal: What You Need to Know

A person stamps a passport at a wooden desk. Several stamps and ink pads are scattered on the desk, along with a few documents. The person is wearing a white shirt and a blue tie.

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Written by: | Last Updated: October 31, 2025

Have you lived in Portugal before and are now considering a return? You’re not alone. Many people who have experienced life in this beautiful country often find themselves drawn back to its sunny shores, relaxed lifestyle, and rich culture. Whether …

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Last modified: October 31, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

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Can Brits Buy A Property in Portugal After Brexit?

A charming facade features a green door and a wooden door, both framed by stone walls. Cascading purple wisteria blossoms wrap around the entrance, their lush foliage nearly covering the doors. Cobblestone pavement adds to the quaint, picturesque scene.

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Written by: | Last Updated: October 31, 2025

Brexit has left many people scratching their heads, especially those who dreamed of spending more time in Europe. It’s natural to have questions about how this change might affect your plans, particularly when it comes to buying property abroad. If …

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Last modified: October 31, 2025. Since its creation, this page has been updated 0 times. If you see any errors, please get in touch.

Thinking about Moving to Portugal?

Portugalist has been running since 2016 (10 years now!) and during that time we've helped countless people move to Portugal. Whether you're weighing up the D7 against the Golden Visa, wondering whether to rent or to buy, or just trying to figure out which part of Portugal is right for you, we'd be happy to help.

Talk To Us

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