Consular corner

I thought I might start off this little series of articles for The Portugal News with the topic of registering to vote in Portugal, given the upcoming local elections later in the year.

By Jocelyn McCall Ferreira , in Politics, United Kingdom · 30 Jun 2025, 10:31 · 0 Comments

Registering to vote in Portugal

I have always appreciated the sense of duty and privilege voting gives. When I turned 18, I remember the enthusiasm and excitement I felt when I was able to vote in local elections. As a foreigner living in Portugal, I felt I was part of the making of the community I lived in. I recall going to my high school not to sit in a classroom but to cast my vote, my voice and my beliefs in democracy. Fast forward a good twenty-five years and I still get the same sense of pride in voting. And if you have chosen Portugal as your home, you can be part of that process too.

If you are a foreigner living in Portugal, you may be eligible to vote. British nationals have to fulfil two requirements: Be a legal resident in Portugal for over 3 years, 5 years if registering at 17 years old, and have registered to vote in the Portuguese electoral system.

Registering to vote is quite simple and takes place at the local parish council, or Junta de Freguesia in Portuguese. You must register at the Junta de Freguesia of the address on your residence title/card. You will need to take your passport, your residence card (temporary or permanent), and it is wise to bring a utility bill with your name and address on it. The Junta de Freguesia registers you on the Parish Census and will tell you where you need to go to vote once the date is announced. This is usually the local primary or middle/high school, depending on the locality. Don’t leave registering for long, because registration closes 60 days before the election date, which is likely to be in October (date to be confirmed). For more information and FAQs, visit the Portal do Eleitor - Foreign citizens residing in Portugal

How does the British Consulate support British nationals abroad?

From lost passports to emergencies, the British Consulate is a vital lifeline for UK nationals facing difficulties in Portugal. Whether someone is arrested, hospitalized, a victim of crime, or dealing with the death of a loved one, consular staff are trained to step in with calm, practical support.

They can issue emergency travel documents, help contact loved ones, and coordinate assistance during crises like natural disasters or mass accidents. For the thousands of British nationals living in Portugal, the Consulate also provides ongoing support—offering guidance on local services, residency issues, and community engagement.

While they can’t pay bills or offer legal advice, they connect people with local resources.

You can contact the British Consulate by telephone on (+351) 213 924 000 or webform UK help and services in Portugal - GOV.UK | GOV.UK - Help for British people abroad

Jocelyn McCall Ferreira is the British Vice Consul based in Portimão, supporting British nationals in Portugal and Cape Verde. Born in Scotland and raised in the Algarve, she is bilingual and brings a strong understanding of both cultures to her role.

Appointed in April 2024, Jocelyn holds an MBA and has a diverse professional background in banking, tourism, and the aviation sector, including 15 years at Faro Airport.

Passionate about the outdoors and sports, she’s not shy of a challenge and describes her role as a privilege and honour.