Portugal Real Estate Investment FAQ

Question 1

What is the first step to buying property in Portugal as a foreigner?

Accepted Answer

The first practical step is obtaining a Portuguese NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal — tax number). Without a NIF you cannot sign contracts, open a bank account, or complete any property transaction in Portugal. You can get a NIF at any Finanças office with your passport, or via a Portuguese lawyer using a power of attorney before you even travel to Portugal.

Question 2

Do I need to be in Portugal to buy property there?

Accepted Answer

No. You can complete a Portuguese property purchase entirely remotely via a power of attorney (Procuração). Your lawyer acts as your legal representative, signs the CPCV and Escritura on your behalf, and handles all tax payments and registrations. Many foreign buyers complete their first purchase without visiting Portugal at all.

Question 3

What is the deposit when buying off-plan property in Portugal?

Accepted Answer

For off-plan (em planta) property in Portugal, deposits typically work in stages: 10–20% at CPCV (promissory contract), further stage payments during construction (20–30%), and the balance at Escritura (final deed) on completion. All deposits should be paid to the developer's escrow or client account, never directly to individuals.

Question 4

How long does it take to receive keys after signing the final deed in Portugal?

Accepted Answer

For resale properties, keys are handed over immediately after the Escritura is signed at the notary. For new build and off-plan properties, completion depends on the construction timeline — typically 12–30 months from reservation. The developer provides a handover schedule at the point of contract signing.

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