Buying Property in Portugal: What Documents You Need to Complete the Purchase
Buying or selling a property in Portugal involves a series of procedures and the submission of essential documents to ensure a legal, safe, and transparent transaction.
This article, written by Rafaela Martins, real estate consultant at The Reach Team | RE/MAX Collection, offers a complete overview of the documentation required to buy a home in Lisbon and throughout Portugal.
Documents for Portuguese Buyers
Portuguese buyers must gather a set of personal and financial documents proving their identity and purchasing capacity.
These include the Citizen Card or Identity Card, the Tax Identification Number (NIF), proof of marital status and marriage regime, as well as proof of permanent residence and profession.
It is also necessary to have a Portuguese bank account (IBAN), which will be used to make payments.
If the buyer is a legal entity, they must present a company card, commercial certificate, or a legally recognized power of attorney.
Documents for Foreign Buyers
Foreign buyers must first obtain a Portuguese NIF (Tax Identification Number), which is mandatory for any real estate transaction in Portugal.
This can be requested in person at the local Tax Office (Finanças) or online through the official tax portal, by submitting an identity document and proof of address.
Citizens outside the European Union, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein must apply for a NIF through a tax representative who resides in Portugal.
In addition to the NIF, it is necessary to present a valid passport or EU Citizen Card, proof of residence, proof of profession, and proof of a Portuguese bank account to be used for payment.
Buyers Applying for Financing
Those who choose to finance their purchase through a mortgage loan must prepare additional documentation.
Banks usually require proof of income (the last three payslips), the previous year’s tax return and settlement note, bank statements for the last six months, and a list of financial commitments showing any existing loans.
A statement of employment relationship issued by the employer is also commonly requested.
Documents from the Seller and the Property
The buying process also requires an analysis of the property’s and seller’s documentation.
This includes the seller’s Citizen Card or Identity Card and Tax Identification Number, or a commercial registration certificate if it is a company.
The Land Registry Certificate (Caderneta Predial) must be up to date, containing the fiscal description, location, property area, and taxable value.
The Permanent Land Registration Certificate (Certidão Permanente), issued by the Land Registry Office, confirms current ownership and the absence of mortgages or encumbrances. This certificate is valid for six months.
Other important documents include:
- Occupancy License (Licença de Utilização)
- Energy Performance Certificate (Certificado Energético)
- Property Floor Plan (Planta do Imóvel)
- Technical Housing File (Ficha Técnica da Habitação), required for properties built after March 2004
- Mortgage Release (Distrate), if applicable
- Condominium Debt-Free Declaration (Declaração de Ausência de Dívidas ao Condomínio)
Additional Costs and Final Steps
In addition to the documents, the buyer should consider taxes and fees associated with the transaction.
The main ones are the Municipal Property Transfer Tax (IMT), the Stamp Duty (Imposto do Selo), and the costs of deed and registration.
The Preliminary Sale and Purchase Agreement (CPCV) is optional but widely used to formalize the commitment between buyer and seller before the final deed.
The public deed officially transfers ownership and is followed by the registration of the property under the buyer’s name at the Land Registry Office.
Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Property in Portugal
What are the basic documents required to buy a house in Portugal?
Citizen Card or passport, NIF, proof of residence, proof of income, and, if applicable, proof of a Portuguese bank account.
Is it mandatory to have a tax representative to buy property in Portugal?
Only foreigners residing outside the European Union, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein must have a tax representative to obtain a NIF and complete real estate transactions.
What documents must the seller provide?
In addition to identification, sellers must provide the Land Registry Certificate, Permanent Land Registration Certificate, Occupancy License, Energy Certificate, and, if applicable, the Mortgage Release and Condominium Declaration.
Is the CPCV (Preliminary Sale and Purchase Agreement) mandatory?
No. The CPCV is optional but widely used to safeguard the conditions of the transaction before the final deed.
What additional costs should I consider besides the property price?
IMT, Stamp Duty, notary and registration fees, and possible condominium or maintenance expenses.
Final Considerations
Buying property in Portugal is a safe and transparent process when guided by specialized professionals.
The expertise of a team like The Reach Team | RE/MAX Collection ensures that all documentation complies with legal standards and that every stage of the purchase proceeds clearly and securely.
Lisbon and Cascais remain among the most stable and valuable real estate markets in Europe, offering genuine investment opportunities and exceptional quality of life.
By Rafaela Martins
Real Estate Consultant – The Reach Team | RE/MAX Collection
Sources Consulted
- Portuguese Tax Authority (Portal das Finanças)
- Land Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Predial)
- Idealista.pt – Guide to Buying Property in Portugal
- Doutor Finanças – How to Buy a House in Portugal
- Casafari Market Data
- Bank of Portugal – Mortgage Guidelines
