Settle in — Portugal

Step by step

1. 1

   Get your NIF

   The Portuguese tax number is required to buy, open a bank account or sign a contract. It is issued by Finanças; non-EU non-residents need a tax representative.

2. 2

   Open a bank account

   A Portuguese account makes paying for the property, taxes and bills easier. Our credit partners can pre-qualify you before you arrive.

3. 3

   Sign the promissory contract (CPCV)

   The promissory contract sets the price, conditions and deed date, with a deposit (often 10 to 30%).

4. 4

   Pay IMT and stamp duty, sign the deed

   Before the deed (escritura), the buyer pays IMT (transfer tax) and Imposto do Selo (0.8%). The deed is signed before a notary or at Casa Pronta, then registered.

5. 5

   Sort out your residence

   EU citizens: registration certificate at the Câmara Municipal after 3 months. Non-EU: a visa, then a residence permit from AIMA.

6. 6

   Health, social security, tax

   Register with the health centre (número de utente), get a NISS if you work, and review your tax residency with an accountant (over 183 days a year).

General information, to be checked against your situation. Your advisor and our partners (lawyer, accountant) will support you.