How to Buy a House in Portugal
A Complete Guide for Foreign Buyers (2026). Learn how to buy a house in Portugal step by step. Legal process, costs, best areas, and expert tips for foreign buyers. Updated guide.
Buying a house in Portugal is not just a property transaction — it’s a lifestyle decision. From oceanfront villas to historic city apartments and peaceful countryside homes, Portugal offers safety, stability, and exceptional quality of life. This guide walks you through every step of buying a house in Portugal, clearly and practically.
Why Buy Property in Portugal?
Portugal consistently ranks among Europe’s most attractive destinations for property buyers due to:
Foreigners have the same property rights as Portuguese citizens — there are no restrictions on ownership.
Portugal consistently ranks among Europe’s most attractive destinations for property buyers due to:
- Political and economic stability
- Safe living environment
- Mild climate and coastal lifestyle
- Strong rental demand and long-term value
- Transparent property laws for foreigners
Foreigners have the same property rights as Portuguese citizens — there are no restrictions on ownership.
Step 1: Define Your Purpose and Budget
Before searching, clarify why you are buying:
Before searching, clarify why you are buying:
- Primary residence
- Holiday home
- Rental investment
- Lifestyle + investment combination
- Property price
- Taxes and fees (≈ 7–10%)
- Renovation or furnishing costs (if applicable)
Step 2: Choose the Right Location
Each region offers a distinct lifestyle:
- Lisbon
- Cascais
- Algarve
- Porto & North
- Altentejo & Silver Coast
Step 3: Get a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF)
To buy property in Portugal, you need a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal).
This is your first official step.
To buy property in Portugal, you need a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal).
- Required for property purchase, bank accounts, utilities
- Can be obtained remotely via a legal representative
- Takes 1–3 days
This is your first official step.
Step 4: Open a Portuguese Bank Account
While not legally mandatory, it is strongly recommended:
Most banks require:
While not legally mandatory, it is strongly recommended:
- Pay taxes and utilities
- Receive rental income
- Simplify transactions
Most banks require:
- Passport
- NIF
- Proof of address
- Proof of income
Step 5: Property Search & Due Diligence
Work with professionals who understand:
Key checks include:
Never skip legal due diligence — it protects your investment.
Work with professionals who understand:
- Local laws
- Licensing
- Construction standards
Key checks include:
- Legal ownership
- Building permits
- Habitation license
- Energy certificate
- No debts or liens on the property
Never skip legal due diligence — it protects your investment.
Step 6: Make an Offer & Sign the Promissory Contract (CPCV)
Once you agree on price:
Once you agree on price:
- A Promissory Purchase Contract (CPCV) is signed
- Typically requires 10–30% deposit
- Legally binding for both parties
- If the seller withdraws, they return double the deposit.
- If the buyer withdraws, the deposit is forfeited.
Step 7: Final Deed & Ownership Transfer
The final step happens at a Notary or Land Registry:
Before signing, you pay:
Congratulations — you now own a house in Portugal.
The final step happens at a Notary or Land Registry:
Before signing, you pay:
- IMT – Property Transfer Tax
- Stamp Duty – 0.8%
- You receive the keys
- The property is officially yours
- Registration is completed
Congratulations — you now own a house in Portugal.
Taxes & Ongoing Costs
- IMI (annual property tax): ~0.3–0.45%
- Utilities and condominium fees
- Income tax on rental earnings (if applicable)
Portugal offers clear and predictable tax structures
Should You Buy Remotely?
Yes. Many buyers purchase without traveling by using:
This is increasingly common and fully legal.
Yes. Many buyers purchase without traveling by using:
- Power of attorney
- Trusted legal and real estate teams
- Digital signatures and video tours
This is increasingly common and fully legal.
Final Thoughts
Buying a house in Portugal is a smooth and secure process when done correctly. The key is working with experienced professionals who combine real estate expertise, legal knowledge, and lifestyle understanding.
Portugal isn’t just a place to buy property — it’s a place to belong.
Buying a house in Portugal is a smooth and secure process when done correctly. The key is working with experienced professionals who combine real estate expertise, legal knowledge, and lifestyle understanding.
Portugal isn’t just a place to buy property — it’s a place to belong.
Eugenia Zaitseva
Real Estate Agent | Interior & Landscape Designer
Interested in buying renting or selling property in Portugal?
Let me make this process easy and smooth for you.
Contact me now:
+351 93 680 38 74
info@insideoutdesign.co
Let me make this process easy and smooth for you.
Contact me now:
+351 93 680 38 74
info@insideoutdesign.co
Eugenia Zaitseva
Real Estate Agent | Interior & Landscape Designer
Interested in buying renting or selling property in Portugal?
Let me make this process easy and smooth for you.
Contact me now:
+351 93 680 38 74
info@insideoutdesign.co
Let me make this process easy and smooth for you.
Contact me now:
+351 93 680 38 74
info@insideoutdesign.co
Feel free to contact
I'd love to discuss your request
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