Portugal – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Portugal, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Portugal’s international dialling code is 351. To place a call from outside the country, you first dial your country’s international access code — typically 00 throughout most of Europe, or 011 from North America — followed by 351 and then the complete nine-digit local number. From a mobile phone, you can simply enter the + symbol instead of the exit code, meaning a call to a Lisbon number would begin +351 21 XXX XXXX.

Every Portuguese phone number, whether fixed or mobile, is nine digits in length. The leading ‘0’ that once appeared before area codes was eliminated in 1999, and numbers now begin directly with their prefix — typically ‘2’ for fixed lines. This is a notable characteristic of the Portuguese system: unlike many countries where you omit a leading zero only when dialling from abroad, Portugal has no leading zero at all. The full nine-digit number is used in every situation, whether you are calling domestically or from another country.

Area codes in Portugal are generally three digits, though the two largest cities use only two-digit codes. Below are the area codes for the cities and regions that attract the most expat residents:

Mobile numbers are easy to identify because they begin with the digit 9 — any number formatted as +351 9XX XXX XXX is a mobile line. For domestic directory enquiries, dial 118, and for international directory assistance, dial 177.

Who are the major landline providers in Portugal, and how can you contact them?

Even though the telecoms market has been open to competition for some years, MEO continues to dominate the Portuguese fixed-line landscape and controls the majority of the country’s physical network infrastructure. You are free to select any provider for your landline service, but in many cases you will still be paying line rental to MEO, since its parent company, Altice Telecom, evolved from Portugal Telecom — the former state-owned telephone monopoly.

Most providers in Portugal package their home phone service together with broadband internet, television, and sometimes mobile phone plans. Taking multiple services from a single operator is usually both cheaper and more convenient than using separate providers. The principal landline operators are:

• MEO (Altice Portugal) — The dominant fixed-line operator. You can contact MEO customer service by calling 16200 from your landline or +351 969 001 620 from abroad. Website: meo.pt
• NOS — NOS is another major provider of landline services in Portugal, offering various plans including internet, television, and phone services. You can contact NOS customer service by calling 16990 from your landline or +351 911 690 400 from abroad. Website: nos.pt
• Vodafone Portugal — Vodafone is a popular provider of landline services in Portugal, offering different plans including internet, television, and phone services. You can contact Vodafone customer service by calling 16912 from your landline or +351 911 690 200 from abroad. Website: vodafone.pt
• DIGI / NOWO — The Romanian telecom group DIGI acquired NOWO in August 2024 and now operates both the NOWO brand and its own DIGI brand (digi.pt), offering aggressive pricing on fibre and mobile services. Website: digi.pt and nowo.pt

Bundled packages that combine television, broadband, and a home phone line typically cost somewhere between approximately €40 and €75 per month as of 2025, though exact figures depend on the operator, the internet speed chosen, and the length of the contract. Always consult each provider’s official website for up-to-date tariffs, as these are subject to change.

All telecoms operators in Portugal fall under the supervision of ANACOM (Autoridade Nacional de Comunicações), the national communications regulator. Consumer information, guidance, and the complaints process can all be found at anacom.pt.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Portugal, and how can you contact them?

The Portuguese mobile market is served by four main network operators: MEO, Vodafone, NOS, and DIGI. Alongside these, a number of MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) piggyback on the infrastructure of the big four to offer their own plans. Portugal has one of the highest rates of mobile phone ownership in the world — the total number of active handsets in the country already surpasses the size of the entire population.

The four principal operators and their contact details are:

• MEO — MEO, operated by Altice Portugal, is one of the largest mobile network providers in the country, known for its extensive coverage and reliable services. Customer service: 16200 (from Portugal) or +351 969 001 620 (from abroad). Website: meo.pt
• Vodafone Portugal — Vodafone’s 4G coverage is nearly ubiquitous across Portugal, providing consistent service even in areas where other networks might experience drop-offs. Customer service: 16912 (from Portugal) or +351 911 690 200 (from abroad). Website: vodafone.pt
• NOS — NOS is known for entertainment-focused packages, combining fibre and mobile services with strong TV add-ons and competitive promotions. You can contact NOS customer service by calling 1693 from your NOS mobile or +351 919 391 693 from abroad. Website: nos.pt
• DIGI — DIGI offers services without the need to sign a 24-month contract, meaning customers are free to negotiate and find better alternatives whenever they want for mobile services. Website: digi.pt

In terms of signal reach, Vodafone holds a slight lead with 4G LTE coverage extending to over 96% of the population, while MEO reaches 98% and NOS covers approximately 95%. The gap between operators becomes more noticeable in sparsely populated rural areas, where MEO’s long-established fixed and mobile infrastructure generally makes it the most dependable option.

Among the MVNOs worth considering, Lycamobile is the largest operating in Portugal, running on the Vodafone network and specialising in prepaid SIMs with affordable international calling rates — a draw for those who frequently phone family or contacts overseas. UZO and NOWO both use MEO’s network. One thing to watch out for: promotional rates advertised by MVNOs are frequently introductory offers. An attractive data deal may only apply for the first one or three months, so read the small print carefully before committing.

For accurate and current pricing, always verify directly on each operator’s official website, as tariffs are revised frequently. Portugal’s 5G rollout has made substantial progress, with base stations now installed across all 308 municipalities as of the end of 2023, spearheaded by NOS, Vodafone, and MEO.

How do I get a landline connected in Portugal?

If the property you are moving into does not already have a working phone line, the process of establishing one will most likely begin with MEO, since the company controls the physical network that other providers depend on. Even when you ultimately choose a different operator for your calls and broadband, the underlying line infrastructure will typically remain under MEO’s management. The steps to follow are:

1. Choose a provider and plan. Portugal’s major telecoms companies offer all-in-one home packages that combine your landline with broadband and television. Some extend these bundles to include mobile phone plans as well. Comparing bundled deals across providers is worthwhile, as the savings over individual subscriptions can be significant.
2. Gather your documents. You will be asked to provide proof of your address, a valid form of identification, and your bank account details. You will also typically need your Portuguese tax identification number (NIF — Número de Identificação Fiscal). To register for utilities, you typically need your NIF, proof of address (like a rental contract or deed), identification (passport or residency card) and bank details if setting up direct debit payments.
3. Contact the provider and place your order. Applications can be submitted through the operator’s website, via their telephone helpline, or in person at one of their high-street stores. MEO, NOS, and Vodafone maintain retail outlets across major cities and larger towns throughout the country.
4. Await installation. In towns and cities, the phone line should be installed within two days. In rural areas, this can take longer — potentially up to two weeks or more. Most customers in urban and suburban locations find their connection up and running within a week of placing the order.
5. Set up payment. You will be required to arrange a monthly direct debit or regular bank transfer when you sign the contract. Holding a Portuguese bank account makes this step significantly more straightforward.

Whether you rent or own your home does not usually make a meaningful difference to this process, though tenants should check with their landlord to see whether a telephone line or existing telecoms contract is already in place. Serviced or furnished apartments often incorporate all connectivity costs within the rent, so a separate provider arrangement may not be necessary in those cases.

When selecting a contract, bear in mind that longer commitments attract lower monthly rates in Portugal. Signing a 24-month agreement, for example, typically brings a considerably reduced monthly fee compared to a rolling monthly arrangement. Long-term contracts also frequently come with waived installation charges and other benefits. For the latest requirements and terms, consult your chosen provider directly or refer to ANACOM, Portugal’s telecoms regulator.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Portugal?

There are two main paths to getting mobile service in Portugal: a prepaid (pré-pago) SIM card, which requires no contract, or a postpaid monthly plan. Both options are accessible without much difficulty, though the documentation required differs between them.

Getting a prepaid SIM card

For many newly arrived expats, a prepaid SIM is the most practical starting point. You insert the SIM into your own unlocked handset, receive a Portuguese number immediately, and top up credit as needed — with no ongoing commitment or paperwork beyond an initial ID check. This approach is both affordable and flexible.

Prepaid SIMs from the major Portuguese operators can be acquired through several channels: online, where all providers sell and deliver SIMs through their websites (though without in-person guidance); at airport kiosks in the arrivals areas of Lisbon, Porto, and Faro airports, where staff are on hand to help with activation; at official brand stores operated by MEO, NOS, and Vodafone in city centres; or at certain supermarket chains such as Continente. Whichever route you choose, you will need to present your passport as identification at the point of purchase.

As of 2024, prepaid SIM cards from the major operators are priced at approximately €5–€10 and typically include a small amount of pre-loaded credit. Check providers’ current websites for up-to-date pricing before purchasing.

Getting a postpaid contract

Expats who have established themselves in Portugal can sign up for a postpaid monthly mobile plan, provided they can supply the necessary documentation. This includes your Portuguese tax number (NIF), a copy of your passport or national identity card, evidence of a Portuguese home address, and your bank account details.

To get a monthly plan for your mobile phone, you need a tax number (NIF), a valid ID, and proof of a Portuguese address. This means newcomers who have not yet registered for a NIF or confirmed a local address may find postpaid contracts out of reach in the early days — making a prepaid SIM the sensible interim solution. This differs from some other countries where a foreign bank card and passport are sufficient to open a mobile contract; in Portugal, local documentation is a firm requirement.

If your handset was purchased outside Portugal, it may be locked to a foreign network and will need to be unlocked before a Portuguese SIM can be used. Many specialist shops provide this service, though the majority of modern smartphones sold by large retailers are already unlocked and ready for use with any compatible SIM.

If you are carrying a SIM issued in another EU or EEA country, EU roaming rules permit you to use your existing plan in Portugal without additional roaming fees. However, fair-use thresholds and speed restrictions may still apply, and if Portugal becomes your primary country of residence your home operator may limit extended roaming use. Switching to a local Portuguese SIM remains the most straightforward long-term arrangement.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Portugal?

The standard method for settling a telephone bill in Portugal is by direct debit or bank transfer. All the main operators provide online payment portals through which customers can configure automatic monthly payments or submit individual payments using a debit card, credit card, or bank transfer.

Regardless of which operator you select, bills are issued on a monthly cycle, and you will be expected to set up a regular payment method — either a direct debit or a standing bank transfer — when you first sign your contract. Having a Portuguese bank account makes this process straightforward and is by far the most convenient arrangement in the long run.

Paying in person is another option. Most providers have authorised payment locations, including post offices and physical retail outlets, where you can settle your account directly. Your provider’s website or customer service line will point you to the nearest of these. In Portugal, bills can also be paid at Multibanco ATMs — a widely used local convenience not commonly available in all other countries. Payshop agents, found in newsagents and corner shops across the country, are an equally popular option for settling utility bills without visiting a bank or provider store.

For prepaid customers, topping up a balance is simple. Credit can be added at participating shops, by telephone, at ATMs, or through your provider’s app or website. This flexibility means managing a prepaid account is easy even if you do not yet hold a Portuguese bank account.

Non-payment of a telephone bill will typically lead to service suspension. If you are encountering financial difficulties and struggling to keep up with payments, contacting your provider at the earliest opportunity is advisable — most operators have procedures for handling such situations before reaching the point of disconnection. Timescales and policies vary by provider, so always review the terms of your specific contract.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Portugal as a newcomer?

Get a local number early

Many everyday situations in Portugal — booking a medical appointment, arranging a hairdresser visit, or receiving a delivery — depend on having a local Portuguese number. Healthcare receptionists and local service providers often cannot or will not call international numbers due to the higher cost involved. Likewise, couriers who need to locate your address will only attempt to call if they have a local number to ring. Obtaining a Portuguese number early in your relocation will save a great deal of frustration in daily life.

EU roaming

If you hold a SIM card issued in another EU or EEA country, EU roaming regulations allow you to use your plan in Portugal at domestic rates. However, fair-use limits apply, and if Portugal becomes your main country of residence, your provider may restrict or charge for extended roaming use. Getting a Portuguese SIM is the cleanest long-term solution.

Number porting

It is possible to port an existing Portuguese number when switching providers. ANACOM oversees the number portability process, and transfers between Portuguese operators are generally completed within a few business days. Porting a non-Portuguese number to a Portuguese operator is not typically possible — you would need to obtain a new local number instead. Check with your new provider and visit anacom.pt for current portability rules.

eSIMs

All four major carriers in Portugal offer some level of eSIM compatibility, though there are important factors for visitors to consider before directly signing up with a provider. Vodafone offers eSIM service on compatible Apple and Android devices, with plans signed up for online. MEO requires an initial physical SIM if using MEO prepaid for the first time. NOS only allows purchasing an eSIM by visiting a retail store in person. Third-party international eSIM providers also work well in Portugal for short stays.

Coverage in rural and popular expat areas

DIGI still is not able to provide a reliable service in deep rural areas. For those settling in the Algarve hinterland, the Alentejo, or the rural stretches of the Silver Coast, MEO tends to be the most dependable operator for both mobile data and fixed broadband. In urban centres such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve coastal towns, all major operators deliver strong 4G coverage and rapidly expanding 5G availability.

Maintenance fees on prepaid SIMs

If you do not make a phone call or send a text, many Portuguese networks will charge a taxa de manutenção (maintenance fee). MEO, for example, deducts €1 per month from your credit every month that you are inactive (as of 2024). Review the specific terms of your prepaid plan and make occasional use of your account to prevent your balance from quietly eroding.

Bundling services

Operators typically reward customers who combine multiple services — broadband, television, a home phone, and a mobile plan — with discounted rates compared to taking each product individually. Longer contracts also bring down the monthly cost substantially; a 24-month agreement will generally work out considerably cheaper per month than a rolling arrangement. For expats intending to stay in Portugal for the longer term, bundling is normally the most cost-effective way to manage telecoms expenses.

Infrastructure quality

Portugal has invested heavily in its telecoms infrastructure and now operates a modern, high-capacity network. According to the Speedtest Global Index by Ookla, Portugal ranks 22nd in the world for internet speed, with an average Wi-Fi download speed of 214.20 Mbps. Most expats relocating to Portugal find the standard of connectivity notably strong compared to many other southern European destinations.

Frequently asked questions about telephone services in Portugal

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Portugal?

You cannot port a non-Portuguese number to a Portuguese network operator. If you wish to keep using your existing foreign number, you can do so via your current provider’s roaming arrangements, though long-term residency may affect your right to use EU roaming at domestic rates. Most people who relocate permanently acquire a Portuguese number and inform their contacts of the change.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Portugal?

You can obtain a prepaid SIM card at one of the mobile provider’s shops. You will need to provide an address, but do not normally have to provide proof of address — you may, however, have to provide a copy of your passport or ID card. For a postpaid contract, proof of a Portuguese address is required.

What is a NIF and do I need one for a phone contract?

A NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is a Portuguese tax identification number. To get a monthly mobile plan, you need a NIF, a valid ID, and proof of a Portuguese address. You do not need a NIF for a basic prepaid SIM card. A NIF can be obtained from any local tax office (Finanças) and is one of the first things to arrange when you arrive in Portugal.

Is it easy to top up a prepaid SIM in Portugal?

Yes — top-ups are widely available. Top-up is possible at participating shops, by phone, or at ATMs. Payshop agents (found in newsagents, post offices, and convenience stores throughout the country) also accept top-ups. You can also top up online via your provider’s app or website.

Which mobile provider has the best coverage in rural Portugal?

MEO is the best choice for those prioritising network coverage, particularly in rural areas or for users who need consistent and reliable service across the country. If you are moving to a remote area of the Alentejo, the interior Algarve, or northern rural regions, MEO is generally recommended. DIGI still is not able to provide a reliable service in deep rural areas.

Can tourists or new arrivals get a postpaid mobile contract in Portugal?

Expats in Portugal are eligible to sign up for postpaid plans as long as certain requirements are met, including a NIF, a copy of a passport or identity card, proof of local address, and a bank account number. Tourists and very recent arrivals who have not yet obtained these documents are typically limited to prepaid SIM cards until they establish local residency.

Are eSIMs available in Portugal?

All four major carriers in Portugal offer some level of eSIM compatibility. Vodafone allows eSIM signup online; NOS requires an in-store visit; and MEO may require an initial physical SIM for new prepaid customers. Third-party international eSIM providers also work on Portuguese networks and can be a useful bridge while you arrange a local contract.

Where can I complain if I have a dispute with my telecoms provider in Portugal?

If a problem arises with your phone service, the first step is to raise the matter directly with your provider using their official complaints procedure, details of which can be found on their website. If the issue remains unresolved, you may escalate your complaint to ANACOM, Portugal’s telecoms regulator, at anacom.pt. Independent support and consumer advice is also available from DECO, the Portuguese consumer protection association, at deco.proteste.pt.