Can a foreigner get a mortgage in Portugal?

Yes. Foreigners — including non-residents — can get a mortgage in Portugal. Banks typically finance up to 70-80% of the property value for non-residents (90% for residents), and approval depends on income, tax documents and the property appraisal.

How does mortgage approval work in Portugal for foreigners?

The bank checks your income (via tax returns), credit history, tax residence and the property appraisal. Approval usually takes 2-6 weeks. A BdP-registered intermediary can submit your file to multiple banks at once and compare the best offers.

What documents do foreigners need for a mortgage in Portugal?

Typically: passport, proof of income (tax returns, payslips), bank statements, NIF (Portuguese tax number), and the property purchase contract. Non-residents may need additional documentation depending on the bank.

What is the maximum mortgage LTV for non-residents in Portugal?

Non-residents can usually borrow up to 70-80% of the property value (LTV), meaning a 20-30% down payment is required. Residents can reach 90% LTV with life insurance. Some banks offer exceptions for higher-value properties or specific profiles.

Home financing for foreigners

Mortgage for foreigners in Portugal

Home financing for non-residents: we compare 12 partner banks, guide documents and taxes, and help you buy with a free analysis.

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What matters when buying from abroad

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LTV up to

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Typical response

Step-by-Step Process

The path to buying property in Portugal as a foreigner

Get Your NIF (Tax Identification Number)

The essential first step. Without a NIF you cannot open a bank account or buy property. Obtainable at Finanças with your passport and proof of address. Takes 1-2 days.

Open a Portuguese Bank Account

Required for the mortgage. Many banks allow remote opening. Some require an initial deposit. Documents: passport, NIF, proof of income.

Mortgage Pre-Approval

We help compare offers from multiple banks. Pre-approval gives you a maximum loan amount so you can search with confidence. Documents: home country tax returns, bank statements, employment contract.

Sign the CPCV (Promissory Contract)

Once you find the right property, sign the promissory contract. Typically requires a 10-20% deposit. The CPCV legally binds both parties to the purchase.

Deed (Escritura Pública)

The final purchase act. Before the deed, you must pay IMT and Stamp Duty. The deed is signed at a notary. The bank transfers the loan directly to the seller.

Calculate Your Property Taxes

IMT and Stamp Duty — the tax costs many foreign buyers don't know about

Calculate the taxes due when buying property in Portugal

IMT & Stamp Duty Calculator

Property Value

€50,000.00€1,500,000.00

Property Purpose

The property purpose determines which IMT tax table applies.

Buyer Tax Residence

Region

Buyer(s)

Number of Buyers

Buyer's Age

Young Buyer IMT Exemption

Buyers up to 35 years old may qualify for a full IMT and Stamp Duty exemption on their first primary residence.

✅All buyers are aged 35 or under

No buyer is a dependent for tax (IRS) purposesNo buyer owns a residential property (full or partial)No buyer has owned a residential property in the last 3 yearsHousehold taxable income ≤ €81,199.00 (6th IRS bracket)

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Exempt

Primary residences up to €106,346.00 are exempt from IMT.

Total Tax

€0.00

IMT (Property Transfer Tax)Exempt

Stamp Duty (0.8%)€0.00

Effective IMT Rate0.00%

Indicative calculation. Actual values may vary. Does not replace consulting a specialist. Financial Options Lda is registered with Banco de Portugal as a Credit Intermediary.

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Required Documents

What you'll need for a mortgage application in Portugal

Personal Documents

✓ Valid passport (copy)
✓ NIF (Tax Identification Number)
✓ Proof of address (utility bill)
✓ Marital status (translated certificate if applicable)

Financial Documents

✓ Latest tax return from home country
✓ Last 3 payslips
✓ Last 3 months bank statements
✓ Employment contract or proof of income
✓ IMT and Stamp Duty payment receipt (at the end)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy property in Portugal without being a resident?

Yes. You don't need to be a Portuguese resident to buy property. Portuguese banks finance non-residents, though typically with a lower LTV — usually 70-80% of the property value, requiring a 20-30% down payment.

How much are the taxes when buying a home?

Use our IMT tax calculator. The two main taxes are: IMT (progressive, 0% to 8% of property value) and Stamp Duty (0.8% fixed). For a €200,000 primary residence, IMT is approximately €3,200 + €1,600 Stamp Duty.

Do I need a Portuguese guarantor?

Not necessarily. Many banks approve mortgages for foreigners without a Portuguese guarantor, as long as income is properly documented. However, having a guarantor can improve your terms. Each case is assessed individually.

How long does the purchase process take?

The typical process takes 2-4 months from simulation to deed. The longest phases are credit approval (2-4 weeks) and document preparation. The NIF can be obtained in 1-2 days.