Buying Property Remotely: How to Purchase Real Estate in Portugal Without Being in the Country
Can you really buy a property in Portugal without stepping foot in the country? The answer is yes — and many foreign buyers are doing exactly that.
Whether you're still planning your relocation, live on another continent, or simply want to secure a second home in the sun, remote property purchases in Portugal are entirely possible in 2025.
Thanks to legal mechanisms, technology, and experienced professionals on the ground, the process is now more streamlined than ever.
Here’s how it works:
1. Choose a Trusted Real Estate Agent and Lawyer
This is the most important step. Buying remotely means you’re relying heavily on professionals, so choose carefully.
Look for a real estate agency that works transparently, shares videos and virtual tours, and keeps constant communication.
Hire an independent Portuguese lawyer who specializes in real estate and can represent your interests from start to finish.
A good agent and a good lawyer are the foundation of a secure remote transaction.
2. Grant a Power of Attorney (Procuração)
To sign documents and complete the purchase process, you’ll need to issue a Power of Attorney (POA).
This can be done in your country of residence, through a notary.
The POA must then be apostilled under the Hague Convention (1961).
The document will grant your lawyer (or someone you trust) the legal right to act on your behalf — for example, to request your tax number (NIF), open a bank account, sign the promissory contract, and attend the deed signing.
3. Rely on Virtual Tours, Videos, and Remote Viewings
Today’s real estate agencies in Portugal are well-equipped to help remote buyers:
Video calls from the property, including walkthroughs
Pre-recorded videos and drone footage of the area
Floor plans and legal documentation sent by email
Regular updates and honest feedback
Some buyers even send family or friends to visit properties in person while they attend via video.
4. Secure Your Fiscal Number and Bank Account
Your lawyer (using the POA) can:
Request your NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) — your Portuguese tax number
Open a Portuguese bank account, which is helpful for transferring funds, paying taxes, and setting up utilities
5. Sign the Promissory Contract (CPCV) Remotely
Once the ideal property is found and the terms are agreed upon, your lawyer will:
Review and sign the promissory contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda)
Transfer the deposit (usually 10–20%) to secure the deal
This step formalizes the sale and protects both buyer and seller.
6. Final Deed Signing (Escritura)
Your lawyer can represent you at the final deed signing, using the POA. The property will then be officially transferred to your name and registered in the Land Registry.
You’ll receive copies of the final deed and registration documents by post or email.
Conclusion:
Yes, You Can Buy Remotely — Safely and Legally
In 2025, more and more international buyers are choosing to buy real estate in Portugal without being physically present. Whether due to distance, scheduling, or convenience, remote buying is a secure option — when done correctly.
With the right legal support and a trustworthy agency, you can:
Explore properties virtually
Sign contracts from abroad
Complete the transaction remotely
And arrive in Portugal with keys in hand!
Have questions or want help finding a reliable team in Portugal?
We’re here to assist. Send an email to: info@algarvegems.com
📍Discover what is the: "apostille under the Hague Convention " - CLICK HERE!
🔍 Still unsure where to begin?
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