Can I Buy Property in Portugal If I’m Not Portuguese?

Aqua Vista
Jun 10
3 min read

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a beautiful villa or apartment in Portugal but aren’t a Portuguese citizen, you might be wondering: Can I actually buy property there? The answer is a resounding yes.

Sunset over a rocky coastline; vibrant orange sun reflects on calm ocean, with cliffs and distant waves under a colorful, cloudy sky.

Portugal is one of the most welcoming countries in Europe when it comes to foreign property ownership. Whether you’re looking for a second home, a retirement retreat, or a lucrative investment, the Portuguese property market is open to you — regardless of your nationality.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Portugal? Here’s What You Need to Know

The good news is that there are no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate in Portugal. You can buy property as an individual, as a couple, or even through a company. Buyers from outside the EU, including the UK, USA, Canada, and beyond, are all eligible to purchase homes in Portugal.

The Buying Process for Foreigners

Buying property in Portugal as a foreigner is relatively straightforward, especially with the right guidance. Here are the key steps:

Get a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF) – You’ll need this to carry out any official or financial transactions in Portugal.
Open a Portuguese Bank Account – Often required for payments and mortgage purposes.
Find Your Property – Work with a trusted real estate developer or agent to find the perfect home.
Promissory Contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda) – A legal document that outlines the sale agreement and requires a deposit (usually 10%–30%).
Final Deed (Escritura) – The official transfer of ownership takes place at a notary, and the property is then registered in your name.

Do I Need Residency or a Visa to Buy in Portugal?

No, you don’t need to be a resident to purchase property in Portugal. You can buy as a tourist or non-resident without any limitations.

However, if you plan to live in Portugal, you will need to apply for a visa or a residence permit. Popular routes include:

D7 Visa – Ideal for retirees or passive income earners.
Digital Nomad Visa – For remote workers.
Golden Visa (currently under reform) – Previously allowed residency through investment, including real estate.

Can I Get a Mortgage as a Non-Resident?

Yes, many Portuguese banks offer mortgages to international buyers. Non-residents can typically borrow around 60%–70% of the property’s value, depending on the bank, country of origin, and personal financial situation.

Mortgage approval may take a few weeks and usually requires documents like proof of income, tax returns, and credit history.

What Taxes & Costs Should I Expect?

Foreign buyers pay the same taxes as locals. Here’s what to expect:

IMT (Property Transfer Tax) – Varies depending on the value and type of property.
Stamp Duty (Imposto do Selo) – 0.8% of the purchase price.
Notary & Registration Fees – Usually between 1%–2% of the property value.
Annual Property Tax (IMI) – Ongoing municipal tax based on the assessed value of the property.

Explore this in more detail by reading our blog on Tax Benefits for Property Buyers in Portugal: Why It Pays to Invest

Why Portugal Is a Top Choice for Foreign Buyers

Portugal consistently ranks as one of the best places to live and invest in Europe, and it’s easy to see why:

Stable, safe, and welcoming environment
Excellent healthcare and education
Warm Mediterranean climate
Diverse landscapes—from beaches to vineyards
Strong rental potential and long-term property appreciation

Whether you’re interested in vibrant cities like Lisbon or Porto, or relaxing coastal destinations in the Algarve or Silver Coast, there’s something for everyone.