Lisa and Tim USA to Olhao

Posted by: @ttbritt22

Importing a North American vehicle / motorcycle - (USA does not have certificate of conformity)

Welcome.

That one needs a lot of research. It is do-able but depending on the vehicle the cost of conversion to comply with EU requirements means it's not worth doing financially.
Keep in mind that each adult can only import one vehicle free of ISV. If both vehicles are in one name use the ISV exemption on the car, motorcycle ISV rates are less painful on the wallet. Alternatively transfer ownership of one vehicle to the other of you at least 6 months before you move so you can each claim the exemption.

Hi Lisa and Tim,

Konni and I are on our journey as well. The supplemental insurance  bank account you can get at the same place. It's weird for us Americans, but you can buy health insurance from the banks here. I'm sure you can do better than the bank health insurance, but it can be done!

We worked with Ei! to get our NIF and bank account and it was easy peasy.

Good luck on your journey!

Welcome Lisa and Tim! We're moving from the East Coast quite soon, and have gone through at least a first round of what you're looking at. Here's where we stand:

1. We're using a local lawyer to handle everything - given our complete lack of Portuguese, we thought we'd take the easy way out

2. We're not taking a vehicle, but we also found that shipping furniture is an expensive proposition, so watch out for the tipping point on shipping vs replacement - e.g. our $900 sofa would cost about $750 to send over. But apparently sending stuff TO Europe is currently cheaper than the other direction - lots of shippers trying to get loads going east. A 20" foot container from the East coast to Portugal will set you back round $7500+ (incl packing, moving, and delivery in Portugal).

3. Private Health insurance - highly advise using a broker (we're using Winsurance with support from Serenity - great combination of services!). All private plans have waiting periods, and most will NOT cover pre-existing conditions, so step carefully. Luckily its apparently not that difficult to switch later, unlike the myriad restrictions in the US.

But, you've got the most important step started - this forum is chock full of info and knowledgeable people (like @old-bloke).

All the best, and hope its a smooth journey!

@zoom Hi this is Leif and Susan & I are are planning to move to Portugal in May 2022.  We are using Ei and Jerry @ Expats Portugal mentioned Global International Relocation for household goods shipment.  GIR has come in a little over the $7500 (US) you mentioned, (for a 20Ft Sea container).  Just curious if you've worked with another company so I could do some comparison shopping.  Thanks!