How to get from the airport to the city in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Faro and Madeira
How to get from the airport to the city in Portugal: metro, bus, taxi and Uber from Lisbon, Porto, Faro and Madeira airports, with prices and journey times.
Where to start
Studying in Portugal
Coming to study at a Portuguese university: visa, tax number, housing and everyday basics.
Your university's international office is your best first contact: it knows the enrolment calendar and the documents it needs from you. EU students register like other EU citizens; students from outside the EU usually apply for a study visa before travelling.
Housing near universities in Lisbon and Porto goes fast before the start of the academic year — begin early and never pay a deposit for a room you haven't seen.
Your route, step by step
A typical order — your own may differ. Tick off steps as you go.
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Check whether you need a study visa
EU students register like other EU citizens. Students from outside the EU usually apply for a study visa before travelling.
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Get your tax number (NIF)
Usually the first number you need — for a lease, a bank account and contracts.
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Find a place to live
Start with a short-term rental, then sign a registered lease. Never pay a deposit for a flat you haven't seen.
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Get a Portuguese phone number Coming soon
Useful for banks, MB Way and appointment text messages. Check the loyalty period (fidelização) before signing a contract.
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Open a bank account Coming soon
Banks usually ask for ID, your NIF and proof of address. A Portuguese account also lets you use MB Way.
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Register at your health centre
Get your SNS user number (número de utente) at the health centre for your address.
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Sort out public transport
In big cities a monthly pass is usually better value than single tickets if you travel every day.
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