NHR – High Added Value Activities recognition procedure

9 October 2019

The Portuguese Tax Authority released Circular No. 4/2019, of 8 October, amending the procedures relating to the recognition of high added value activities developed by non-habitual tax residents.


Considering the slowness of the process and possible need for an annual verification of the maintenance of the requirements, the previous recognition of the high added value activities is no longer in place.


The right to be taxed under the NHR tax regime rules, according to the PIT Code is acquired at the time the status is granted and the requirements relating to the professional activity framework should be verified annually.


Upon delivery of the annual income tax return, the taxable person shall invoke that declared income derives from activities from high added value occupations, subsequently proceeding to the delivery of all supporting documents, if requested by the tax authority.


In addition, the tax authority also presents clarifications on the documentation required to prove the exercise of some high added value activities and announces the disclosure of further information on the remainder activities listed.


http://info.portaldasfinancas.gov.pt/pt/informacao_fiscal/legislacao/instrucoes_administrativas/Documents/Circular_4_2019.pdf 

by Joana Loureiro Veríssimo • 2 October 2026
Discover how Portugal’s Golden Visa has changed, the investment routes still available in 2026, and the key legal considerations for international investors and families.
by António Pratas Nunes • 29 September 2026
Learn how Portugal's IFICI tax regime benefits startup founders and key hires with a 20% flat tax, R&D incentives, and foreign income exemptions.
by Soraia Pereira • 23 September 2026
Find out when you need to exchange a foreign driving licence in Portugal, including rules for EU/EEA, OECD, CPLP and other countries.
by Beatriz Sousa • 11 September 2026
Can asylum seekers be transferred to third countries? Explore the EU and ECHR legal limits, non-refoulement, safe third countries and judicial scrutiny.
by Javier Mateo • 4 September 2026
How civil status, filiation, foreign marriages, divorces and deaths can affect Portuguese nationality applications in cross-border families.
by Francisca Abrantes • 12 August 2026
Learn how Portuguese tax residence, Double Taxation Conventions and different income types can affect international individuals.
by Joana Loureiro Veríssimo • 7 August 2026
Working remotely does not automatically grant residence in Portugal. Understand the legal requirements and residence routes available to digital nomads.
by Jéssica Dos Nunes • 5 August 2026
Discover the legal options for recovering commercial debts in Portugal, including injunction procedures, enforcement actions and cross-border debt recovery.
by Danielle Avidago • 3 August 2026
Learn the legal routes to Portuguese nationality by descent for children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren under Portugal's updated Nationality Law.
More posts