Can foreigners buy property in Portugal in 2026?

Obtain a Portuguese NIF (tax identification number) because it is required for tax and transaction steps. Decide how funds will reach Portugal and ask banks, lawyers, and notaries what source-of-funds evidence they require.

Use an independent Portuguese lawyer or solicitor who represents you rather than the seller or estate agent. Agree the scope in writing: title review, contract review, tax checks, licensing, condominium information, signing, and registration.

If you need a mortgage, obtain a realistic financing decision before a binding promise contract. Portuguese bank valuation and credit approval may not match the asking price or your expected timetable.

The Certidão Permanente Predial shows the registered owner, current legal charges, and pending registry requests. The caderneta predial from the Tax Authority identifies the property for tax purposes. These records must match the home and seller.

Depending on the building, the transaction may also require a use licence, energy certificate, technical information, and condominium documents. Ask about approved floor plans and alterations. An enclosed balcony, converted garage, pool, or extension may exist physically without matching municipal records.

For an apartment, review condominium meeting minutes, regular fees, debts, planned works, and disputes. In older Lisbon and Porto buildings, future roof, façade, lift, or structural work can change the real purchase cost.

Commission an independent building survey. A bank valuation is for lending security, not a full inspection of moisture, roof, wiring, plumbing, insulation, or unauthorised work.

Many purchases use a contrato-promessa de compra e venda, or CPCV (the property sale promise contract), before the final deed. It usually sets the price, deposit, completion date, conditions, default consequences, and items included. Do not sign or transfer the deposit until legal checks and any financing conditions are protected in the text.

The buyer pays IMT (property transfer tax) and Imposto do Selo (stamp duty) before completion. IMT varies with the property type, value, location, and intended use. The Tax Authority calculates it using the relevant taxable base and current tables. Stamp duty on the property transaction is charged at the official rate on the value used for IMT.

After the deed or authenticated private document is completed, the ownership must be registered at the Property Registry. Casa Pronta can combine several transaction and registration steps.

Owners pay IMI (annual municipal property tax) under the applicable municipal and property rules. Budget for condominium fees, insurance, maintenance, utilities, and possible tax on rental income or sale.

Tax residence, property ownership, and immigration residence are separate. Buying through a company or with foreign financing can add legal and tax complexity.