Buying property in Portugal as a foreigner

Every purchase starts with a NIF, the Portuguese tax number. Non-residents can get it remotely through a fiscal representative. You will also need a Portuguese bank account for the mortgage repayments. Both can be arranged before you travel.

Your budget is not the property price. On top of the deposit, plan for IMT transfer tax, 0.8% stamp duty on the purchase, 0.6% on the loan, notary, registration and bank fees. Since 2026, non-residents and second homes pay a flat 7.5% IMT.

Check the numbers with the IMT calculator and read the true cost of buying property in Portugal.

Non-residents are usually financed at 60–80% of the price or valuation, whichever is lower; residents can reach 90%. Banks also cap your monthly debt payments against your income.

Estimate your payment in the mortgage calculator, see how Portuguese rates are built and read the complete non-resident mortgage guide.

Nationality matters less than residency and the currency of your income. See our guides for British buyers and American buyers.

An approval in principle tells you exactly what you can afford and makes your offer credible. We present your file to several banks at the same time, in English, and negotiate rate, spread, insurance and fees. See how it works.

Once you agree a price, buyer and seller sign the CPCV and you pay a deposit, often 10–30%. Have a lawyer check the property's registration, licences and debts first. Unfamiliar terms? Use our mortgage glossary.

Banks require life and home insurance for the mortgage, but you do not have to buy them from the bank. Independent policies are often cheaper. Get a quote.

The bank valuation, final loan offer and IMT payment come before the deed. On the day, the loan is released, the deed is signed and the property is registered in your name.