UK NATIONALS' EU RIGHTS AFTER BREXIT - Our view

6 November 2018
Until Brexit becomes fully effective - which will depend on a lot of yet unknown factors and, if not reversed, most probably subject to a relatively long "transition period" - an UK citizen keeps full rights as an EU citizen. Then, even if he ends up losing such rights, if at the time he is a resident of Portugal, he will in all probability keep full rights of residence in Portugal as though he were an EU citizen, and have, so to speak, a "quasi-EU" status, which has already been more or less guaranteed by the EU and the UK.

We cannot, of course, guess the future, but we feel confident that UK citizens who move to Portugal before March 31st 2019 - along with the many thousands of other Portugal-resident Brits - won't face any adverse consequences. It is therefore highly unlikely that, for example, he will be subject to any minimum stay requirements.
by Javier Mateo 18 February 2026
Javier Mateo | Lawyer
by Danielle Avidago 13 February 2026
Getting married in Portugal as a foreigner? Discover legal requirements, documents, prenuptial rules, and Civil Registry steps for a secure wedding.
by Luís Maria Branco 12 February 2026
Despite proposed reforms, the five-year residence requirement remains in effect. Learn how the current Portuguese Nationality Law applies to naturalisation applicants.
by Domingas Andresen Guimarães 11 February 2026
Married abroad and seeking divorce in Portugal? Learn about jurisdiction, residency requirements, applicable law, and how to file for divorce in Portugal.
by LVP Advogados | Tax Team 10 February 2026
Understand the Portugal-UK Double Taxation Agreement and Tax Information Exchange Agreement, including scope, key provisions, and cross-border tax cooperation.
by LVP Advogados | Tax Team 3 February 2026
Portugal Taxes In 2026: Key Tax Planning Considerations, Legislative Developments, Corporate Tax Changes, Property Taxation, and Special Tax Regimes for Businesses and Individuals.
by Danielle Avidago 29 January 2026
Expiring residence in Portugal? UK nationals and their families can secure lawful status and protect their long-term residence under the Withdrawal Agreement.
by LVP Advogados | Tax Team 28 January 2026
Learn how to navigate tax returns, from income reporting to IRS filing, with step-by-step guidance for accurate payments or refunds.
by Javier Mateo 23 January 2026
Learn how international graduates in Portugal can stay and work legally under Article 122, transitioning from student to professional residence without leaving the country.
More posts