Buying property in Portugal as a foreign national is a well-established, straightforward process. Here is what to expect:

A NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is Portugal's tax identification number — required before completing any property purchase. Obtainable at any local Finanças office or through a Portuguese lawyer with power of attorney, typically within 1–2 business days.

Learn More - Official tax portal:  Portal das Finanças 

A Portuguese property lawyer (solicitador or advogado) will conduct title searches, verify no liens or encumbrances, review contracts, and guide you through the notary process. Strongly recommended for all foreign buyers.

Sellers have their own property lawyer who can write up and review offers and a local independent notary to conclude the sale.

Once an offer is agreed, both parties sign a Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda (CPCV) — a legally binding promissory contract. The buyer typically pays 10–30% deposit at this stage. If the buyer withdraws, the deposit is forfeited. If the seller withdraws, they must return double the deposit. 

Seller requires a 20% deposit to sign a CPCV.

The final deed is signed before a Portuguese notary. The balance is paid and ownership transfers. Legal completion of the sale. 

Sellers require verification of receipt of funds prior to ownership transfer.

• IMT (Property Transfer Tax) — sliding scale based on purchase price

• IS (Stamp Duty) — 0.8% of purchase price

• Notary and land registry fees — typically €1,000–€2,000

• Legal fees — typically 1–1.5% of purchase price

Buyers are advised to consult a Portuguese property lawyer for current IMT rates.

Sellers will not pay any commission for Buyer's Agent. If the buyer chooses to work with a real estate agent, they assume all responsibility to negotiate and pay any commission for their agent. Typical commission in Portugal is 5% plus VAT. 

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