Buying Real Estate in Portugal as a U.S. Citizen
Buying Real Estate in Portugal as a U.S. Citizen
Your Guide to Ownership, Hotspots, and Residency Opportunities in Europe’s Coastal Gem
Portugal continues to attract global buyers—and for U.S. citizens, it represents one of the most welcoming and opportunity-rich destinations in Europe. With full ownership rights, a streamlined legal process, and lifestyle perks that include world-class healthcare and access to residency, Portugal has become a top-tier option for relocation, investment, and long-term living.
Why Portugal?
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Affordable Luxury: Compared to other Western European countries, Portugal offers outstanding value on real estate, especially in scenic or coastal areas.
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High Quality of Life: Great weather, reliable infrastructure, clean cities, and a peaceful culture.
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Excellent Healthcare: Ranked among the top health systems in the world, with public and private options.
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Residency-Friendly: Programs like the D7 Passive Income Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa make long-term stays accessible for non-EU citizens.
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English-Friendly Environment: In major cities and coastal regions, English is widely spoken and services cater to expats.
Can U.S. Citizens Own Property in Portugal?
Yes—completely.
Portugal places no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate. U.S. citizens can buy property outright in their name, whether it’s a pied-à-terre in Lisbon or a coastal villa in the Algarve.
The country also offers one of the most transparent and regulated legal systems in Europe, with protections in place for foreign investors.
Golden Visa Update (2023 and Beyond)
The real estate investment pathway under Portugal’s Golden Visa program was phased out in 2023, but property buyers still have great residency options:
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D7 Visa: Designed for retirees or passive income earners (minimum monthly income ~€820–€1,000+).
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Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers earning over €3,000/month.
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Standard Residency Permit: Available to those who purchase a home and establish residency without needing an active income source in Portugal.
What’s the Buying Process Like?
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Hire a Local Lawyer (Advogado)
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Ensures due diligence, handles contracts, and represents your interests.
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Get a NIF (Tax Number)
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Required for all property transactions—can be obtained with legal support.
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Open a Portuguese Bank Account
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Needed for transferring funds and paying property taxes.
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Promissory Contract
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After due diligence, a contract is signed with a 10%–30% deposit.
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Deed of Purchase (Escritura)
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Finalized at the notary; your ownership is registered in the public land registry.
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Closing costs average 7–9%, including taxes, notary fees, and legal services.
Top Regions for U.S. Buyers
| Region | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Lisbon | Portugal’s capital with cultural charm, modern amenities, and growing tech/remote work hubs. |
| Porto | A historic city known for wine, art, and an increasingly trendy international community. |
| Algarve | Coastal paradise with golf resorts, beaches, and a large expat population—ideal for retirees. |
| Silver Coast | A quieter alternative to the Algarve, with beautiful beaches, medieval towns, and value buys. |
Why Buy with ITA Global?
From cultural integration to residency strategy, ITA Global offers more than real estate support—we provide an international relocation experience. Through custom scouting trips and our trusted local partners, we help U.S. buyers:
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Explore Portugal with confidence
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Meet legal and tax advisors
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Find and secure ideal properties
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Understand the visa and residency process
There’s only one way to buy international real estate—the ITA Global Way.
📌 Summary
Portugal offers U.S. citizens full property rights, excellent healthcare, and a stable European lifestyle—all without ownership restrictions. From Lisbon to the Algarve, it’s a destination that balances beauty, investment potential, and the chance to build a new life abroad.
