Real Estate Legal Services for French Buyers
Expert guidance for France citizens buying property in Portugal
Important Information
French buyers benefit from EU citizenship - no visa required and straightforward banking. Key difference: Portugal has no 'délai de rétractation' (cooling-off period) after signing the CPCV, so ensure thorough due diligence before signing. Language similarities make learning Portuguese easier.
Visa & Residence Options
- No visa required - EU free movement rights
- Can live, work, and buy property freely
- Simply register as resident after 90 days
- Access to Portuguese healthcare system
Why Portugal?
- • Transparent buying process
- • No restrictions on foreign buyers
- • Strong legal protection for buyers
- • Excellent quality of life
How French Buyers Purchase Property in Portugal
Step-by-step guide tailored to your nationality
Step 1
Obtain NIF (straightforward for EU citizens)
Step 2
Open Portuguese bank account (easy with EU ID)
Step 3
Engage bilingual lawyer for contract review
Step 4
Sign CPCV (similar to French compromis de vente)
Step 5
Note: No 'cooling off' period like in France
Step 6
Complete due diligence and surveys
Step 7
Sign Escritura at notary and pay taxes
Need help with any of these steps? Our team has extensive experience working with international buyers.
Contact UsTax & Legal Considerations for French Buyers
Important tax and legal factors specific to your nationality
Double Tax Treaty
Yes - Portugal has a double tax treaty with your country
The France-Portugal Double Tax Treaty provides favorable treatment for French residents purchasing in Portugal. EU freedom of movement allows unlimited stays.
Need Expert Guidance?
Our team specializes in helping French buyers navigate Portuguese property law and taxation.
Schedule a ConsultationCommon Concerns
- Language similarity makes integration easier
- Tax residency rules between France and Portugal
- NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) tax benefits
- French pension taxation in Portugal
- Notary differences between French and Portuguese systems
- Inheritance law differences (forced heirship)
Popular Locations for French
Explore the most sought-after areas for France buyers
Frequently Asked Questions for French
Common questions from France citizens about buying property in Portugal
Can French buy property in Portugal?
Yes, French can freely purchase property in Portugal without any restrictions. The process is straightforward, and Portugal welcomes foreign investment in real estate. You will need to obtain a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and open a Portuguese bank account to complete the purchase.
Do French need a visa to buy property in Portugal?
French buyers benefit from EU citizenship - no visa required and straightforward banking. Key difference: Portugal has no 'délai de rétractation' (cooling-off period) after signing the CPCV, so ensure thorough due diligence before signing. Language similarities make learning Portuguese easier.
What taxes do French pay when buying property in Portugal?
French pay the same taxes as Portuguese citizens: IMT (property transfer tax) ranging from 0-8% depending on property value and type, Stamp Duty at 0.8% of the purchase price, and annual IMI (municipal property tax) between 0.3-0.45%. Portugal has a double tax treaty with France, which helps prevent double taxation on property income and capital gains.
How long does it take for French to buy property in Portugal?
The typical property purchase process for French takes 1-3 months from initial offer to final deed signing. The timeline depends on factors like mortgage approval (if applicable), due diligence complexity, and notary availability. Our team can help expedite the process by ensuring all documentation is properly prepared.
Do French need a Portuguese lawyer to buy property?
While not legally required, it is strongly recommended that French engage a qualified Portuguese lawyer for property transactions. A lawyer conducts thorough due diligence, reviews contracts, ensures clear title, identifies any encumbrances or debts, and protects your interests throughout the purchase process.
What are the main concerns for French buying in Portugal?
Key concerns for French include: Language similarity makes integration easier; Tax residency rules between France and Portugal; NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) tax benefits. Our legal team specializes in addressing these nationality-specific concerns and ensuring a smooth property transaction.
Ready to Buy Property in Portugal?
Schedule a consultation with our legal experts who specialize in helping French buyers navigate Portuguese real estate law.
Schedule a Consultation