Can I buy property in Portugal?

There are no restrictions on who can buy property in Portugal, aside from those affected by international sanctions.

International buyers even from outside the European Union (EU) have the same rights as Portuguese nationals when it comes to buying property, including land.

However, if you are not an EU citizen your time in Portugal will be restricted to 90 days in every 180 days. To live in Portugal full time you will need to apply for a visa.

You will also be liable to property taxes and, depending on what you’ll be using the property for, you may also have to pay income tax.

Buying in Portugal as an EU citizen

There are no restrictions for EU citizens buying in Portugal. However, it’s worth noting that the national language is Portuguese. So, if you don’t understand Portuguese you may need assistance in the buying process as all documents will be prepared in Portuguese.

While banks are stricter regarding mortgages for non-residents, it is possible to get a mortgage in Portugal as a foreigner.

If you wish to reside in Portugal long-term as an EU citizen, you will be required to carry an identity document (ID) or valid passport on you. You will not need a residence permit to move from one EU country to the other. If you are moving to Portugal for work, study, to live with family or to retire, you will be required to register your presence with the local authorities.

Buying in Portugal as a non-EU citizen

There are no restrictions on non-EU citizens in Portugal when it comes to buying property. It’s only when you wish to reside in the country for 90 days or more in every 180, when you’d need to obtain a long-stay visa. This is an essential step if you intend to live in Portugal, regardless of your reason for living there long-term.

Your country of origin will influence how easy it is for you to get a mortgage in Portugal. Portuguese banks will lend to non-EU citizens; however, they tend to get a lower loan-to-value than Portuguese nationals.

It is worth noting that US citizens are not able to stay in the EU indefinitely without applying for a visa.

Can a foreign buyer invest in Portuguese property?

Property in Portugal has been a popular investment for overseas buyers. However, things have got more complicated since the new “Mais Habitação” law came into effect last year, intended to control short-term rental. Some areas only allow for long-term rental, for example, to avoid outpricing locals from the property market and overtourism. Check with your lawyer before committing to an investment property.

Can I “work from home” in my Portuguese property?

If you’re a non-EU citizen, you may spend up to half a year in Portugal under the 90/180-day rule. If you wish to stay longer, there are several visas open to you, including the new digital nomad visa.

If you are spending less than that time in Portugal and remaining a tax resident in your home country, then you are essentially working while on holiday, so th