Good news first: foreigners can buy property in Portugal with no restrictions, on the same terms as locals, whether or not they live in the country and whether or not they're EU citizens. Thousands of international buyers complete purchases here every year.
What you'll need
- A NIF (Portuguese tax number) — non-negotiable for buying; non-residents from outside the EU may need a fiscal representative.
- A Portuguese bank account — for the deposit, completion funds and ongoing bills.
- A lawyer — independent legal representation to run due diligence and protect your interests.
- Proof of funds — banks and notaries must verify the lawful source of money.
Mortgages for non-residents
Portuguese banks lend to non-residents, generally at a lower loan-to-value (often around 60–70%) than for residents, so expect to fund a larger share yourself. Rates and conditions vary, so compare offers.
Does buying give residency?
No. Since October 2023, buying real estate does not qualify for the Golden Visa. Property ownership can, however, support other routes such as the D7 (passive income) or D8 (digital nomad) visas. For the current investment routes, see our Golden Visa page, and read about tax on the NHR & tax page. Always take professional legal and tax advice for your situation.