In an increasingly globalized world, individuals and families often own assets across multiple jurisdictions and navigating complex legal systems.

The buying and selling of off-plan properties is becoming a trend in today’s property market. As house prices rise, buying a property off-plan – or under construction – is proving to be an increasingly popular choice among buyers in Portugal.

On April 1, 2026, the Portuguese Parliament (Assembleia da República) approved, at the committee stage, a new decree revising the Nationality Law (Law no. 37/81, of October 3).  Find out what the key amendments are in this Legal Alert. 

Thinking about moving to Portugal? From visa options to tax benefits — navigating relocation can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. Our latest guide breaks down everything you need to know. 

Foreign investors must consider several practical aspects when pursuing a property construction project in Portugal.  
One of the most important things is to know the local legislation and regulations. It is crucial to understand the licensing requirements for building in Portugal. This includes building licenses, environmental permits, municipal approvals, and local zoning regulations that can influence the type of construction allowed on the land. 

Portugal has become an attractive destination for many people. Whether for those who wish to discover our country as tourists or for so many others who wish to establish their residence and work here, seeking quality of life and safety.

REITs, or Real Estate Investment Trusts, are companies that own, operate, or finance income-producing’ real estate properties, such as office buildings, apartments, shopping malls, hotels, and warehouses. They allow individuals to invest in large-scale real estate without directly buying or managing properties, providing a way to earn income through dividends from rental or mortgage revenue.

MATLAW has just expanded its operations to the north of Portugal with the opening of a new office in the center of Porto, joining its existing offices in Lisbon and the Algarve (Almancil).

MATLAW has just strengthened its team by hiring three new lawyers for its offices in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve. Rui Manuel Parente will join the Lisbon office, Marlene Figueira de Sá the Algarve office and José Pedro Gonçalves Pereira the Porto office.

Following its review earlier this summer of the Immigration Law, the Constitutional Court has now examined the amendments to the Nationality Law proposed by the government in response to a request for preventive constitutional review submitted by the Socialist Party.

The new Law 67/2025, of 24 November, has recently been published in Diário da República and strengthens criminal protection against the illegal occupation of properties, making such conduct a crime even in the absence of violence and speeding up the return of properties to their owners.

The Portuguese Government is preparing a comprehensive revision of the Legal Framework for Urbanization and Building (RJUE) and the complementary measures of the Urban Simplex, after concluding that the changes introduced by Decree-Law No. 10/2024 of January 8 did not achieve the expected objectives of simplification and reduction of deadlines. 

Real estate financing in Portugal has changed and has become more demanding. For development projects, the combination of stricter banking rules, ESG criteria and the need for solid planning documentation requires meticulous preparation. For foreigners who want to buy a home, conditions remain attractive, but with tighter requirements and greater scrutiny.

Portugal continues to attract thousands of freelancers each year - creative professionals, consultants, and digital nomads who see the country as a safe, affordable, and inspiring homebase. But working independently here requires more than just finding clients. It means understanding how taxation, social security, residency, and compliance interact within one of Europe’s most complex - yet opportunity-rich - legal systems. 

On 11 November 2025, the Portuguese Ministry of Finance published Ordinance No. 382/2025/1, which establishes the annual update of the currency depreciation coefficients applicable to assets and rights disposed of during the 2025 fiscal year. 

The new Immigration Law, was enacted on October 16, 2025, following review by the Constitutional Court, and introduces substantial changes to the legal framework governing the entry, residence, family reunification, and issuance of work visas for foreign nationals in Portugal. 

Portugal remains one of the most attractive destinations for international property buyers. According to the latest data (Idealista, 2025), international demand continues strong in regions such as Madeira, the Algarve, and the Azores, with buyers from France, the UK, the USA, and Germany leading the way.

The Nationality Law may undergo significant changes following the presentation by the Government of Montenegro of Draft Law No. 1/XVII/1.ª. This initiative aims to apply stricter rules on the attribution, acquisition, loss, and consolidation of Portuguese nationality. We have selected the main measures under discussion so that you can follow what may change. 

Moving to Portugal offers an attractive blend of mild climate, rich culture, and high quality of life. For U.S. citizens considering this transition, understanding the residency process is crucial. Below, we outline the key steps, visa options, and legal requirements to make your move smooth and compliant.

With the official announcement of the end of the Golden Visa program in Spain, the debate about the future of these investment programs has returned to the spotlight. But what changes (or not) for Portugal? And how can the country continue to attract qualified foreign investment, now focusing on innovation, funds, and business creation?

Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) are essential instruments for foreign investors looking to acquire property in Portugal, as they ensure that income is not taxed twice – both in the country of residence and in Portugal. These agreements are fundamental for efficient tax management, allowing resident and international investors to optimize their tax burden.

Acquiring Portuguese nationality is a crucial topic for foreign residents who see Portugal as their home. With the publication of Organic Law No. 1/2024, a fundamental change was introduced in the calculation of the legal residency period required to obtain Portuguese citizenship by naturalization.

The Land Registry Regime arises from an undeniable need to understand our territory. Although Portugal is a relatively small country, the exact geometry and ownership of many properties remain unknown, which, of course, hinders the proper administration of our land.

With Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 elections, many Americans, especially those from the states of Washington, Oregon, and Colorado, have been considering relocating to Portugal to seek a new lifestyle and avoid the politically polarized climate in the United States.

Whether you're relocating for work, retirement, or investment opportunities, understanding the requirements and procedures for permanent residency will ensure a smooth transition to life in this beautiful country.

Below, we answer the most common questions about obtaining permanent residence in Portugal.