Buy Your Property in Portugal

We offer you a step-by-step guide to buying a property in Portugal, whether you already live in the country or are planning to move from abroad.

Real estate agent showing an empty apartment to a couple in Lisbon

We work together with specialist mortgage professionals, who help you assess your financing options and get the best mortgage offer available.

How we help you

Assessing your borrowing capacity.

Searching for and selecting the ideal property for you.

Support reviewing the financial and legal terms.

Coordination with specialist mortgage professionals.

We make sure you understand all the financial and legal aspects involved in buying your home in Portugal, so you can make decisions with confidence and peace of mind.


Frequently Asked Questions about Buying a House in Portugal

Can I buy a house in Portugal without being a resident?+

Yes. You don’t need to be a resident of Portugal to buy a property. However, requirements can vary from person to person, especially when bank financing is needed. That’s why, before moving forward, it’s important to review your personal, financial, and tax situation.

What do I need to buy a house in Portugal?+

The first step is to get a NIF, the Portuguese Tax Identification Number. It’s one of the essential requirements for completing the purchase and handling all the tax procedures related to the property. If you don’t have a NIF yet, we can help through our partners (additional service). After that, you need to determine whether the purchase will be made with your own funds or through a mortgage.

Can I buy a house with my own funds?+

Yes. If you have the necessary capital to make the purchase, bank financing is no longer required. Even so, you should factor in the taxes and costs associated with the purchase, in addition to the price of the property itself. We can help you understand, from the start, what the total investment will be.

Can I get a mortgage in Portugal as a foreigner or non-resident?+

Yes, it’s possible. However, banks assess each situation individually, and requirements can vary depending on factors such as your country of residence, income, type of employment contract, the currency in which you’re paid, your financial situation, and the value of the property. Through our credit intermediaries, we can help you review your situation and understand the options available across different banks.

How much of a down payment do I need to buy a house in Portugal?+

As a general guide, you may need at least 10% in own funds, though this can be higher depending on the buyer’s profile. For those without stable income in Portugal, for example, the bank may require a larger down payment. That’s why it’s important to have a financing assessment done before choosing a property.

Do I need to be a tax resident in Portugal to buy a house?+

No. You can buy a property in Portugal while being a tax resident in another country. However, your resident or non-resident status can affect the taxation applicable to the purchase, as well as some aspects of financing. That’s why we always recommend an individual tax assessment before buying.

Does becoming a tax resident in Portugal change the taxes I pay on the purchase?+

It can. The taxation of a purchase depends on several factors, including the value of the property, its intended use, and the buyer’s tax situation. There are also specific rules for non-resident buyers, so it’s incorrect to assume all buyers pay the same taxes. Whenever necessary, we can refer you to our specialized tax professionals.

What are the main taxes and costs when buying a house?+

Buying a property involves, among others, IMT (property transfer tax), Imposto do Selo (stamp duty), and costs related to the deed and registration. The final amount depends on the property and the buyer’s situation. Before making an offer, it’s important to know not just the price of the house, but the total cost of the purchase.

Do I need to be in Portugal to buy a house?+

Not necessarily. In certain situations, the process can be prepared and managed remotely, including through a power of attorney. Whether physical presence is required depends on the specific situation and the procedures involved.

Can I buy a house in Portugal as an investment rather than to live in?+

Yes. You can buy a property for investment, rental, or as a second home, even without being a tax resident in Portugal. However, the taxation and applicable rules may differ depending on the purpose of the property. Whenever necessary, we can refer you to the right professionals to review your situation.

Can I buy a house in Portugal before moving to the country?+

Yes, and it’s a fairly common situation. Many people start the buying process before their final move to Portugal. In that case, it’s especially important to arrange your NIF, financing, documentation, and tax setup in advance.

Buying a house in Portugal isn’t just about finding the right property. It’s about making sure your financial, tax, and documentation situation is ready for the purchase. At Relocations.PT, we support you at every step and, whenever necessary, refer our clients to specialists in the relevant areas, so the whole process is simpler, safer, and well guided.