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Understanding the Legal System in Portugal: What Expats Need to Know 🇵🇹⚖️

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Moving to Portugal? If you're used to an Anglo-Saxon legal system (like in the US or UK), you might be surprised by how things work here. Portugal follows the civil law tradition, which means laws are codified and judges interpret them based on statutes rather than past rulings. Here are some key differences to keep in mind: ✅ No Legal Precedents: Unlike in common law systems, past court decisions don’t set binding precedents. Each case is judged mainly on the written law. ✅ Notaries Are a Big Deal: In Portugal, many legal transactions (buying property, business contracts, wills) must go through an official notary , who certifies and registers documents. This can add bureaucracy but also provides security. ✅ Landlord-Tenant Laws Favor Tenants: Evicting a tenant in Portugal is much harder than in the US. Rental agreements have strong legal protections for tenants, which is great for long-term renters but tricky for landlords. ✅ Fewer Lawsuits & Million-Dollar Settlement...

Mortgaging in Portugal: A Guide for Foreign and Non-Resident Buyers

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  Buying property in Portugal through financing is possible for both residents and non-residents, but mortgage conditions vary depending on nationality, residency status, and banking policies. Below is an overview of what to expect based on different buyer profiles. 1. Portuguese Citizens Residing Abroad (Non-Residents) Portuguese nationals who live outside Portugal but want to purchase property in the country have access to local mortgages under special conditions. Banks often classify them as non-resident buyers , meaning: ✅ Loan-to-Value (LTV): Up to 70%-80% of the property’s appraised value or purchase price (whichever is lower). ✅ Interest Rates: Generally similar to resident rates, but can be slightly higher. ✅ Income Assessment: Global income is considered, but some banks may apply currency conversion risks for non-EUR earnings. ✅ Required Documents: Proof of income, tax returns, Portuguese tax number (NIF), and credit history from the country of residence. 💡 Tip: If you h...

Relocation & Conciérge Services in Northern Portugal 🚚 Making Portugal Feel Like Home

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'Extraordinary' Relocation & Concierge Package  Hassle-Free Rental Experience in Northern Portugal Relocating to Portugal? Our 'Extraordinary'  Package is designed for international clients seeking a stress-free transition to the North of Portugal. From property searches to legal paperwork, we handle every step, ensuring you arrive with everything set up and ready to go . ✅ Remote Convenience – Set everything up before arriving in Portugal . ✅ Expert Guidance – Local expertise, legal insights, and personalized support. What’s Included? Pre-Arrival & Rental Assistance: 🔎 Rental Market Research – 75+ hours of research tailored to your needs. 🏡 Property Visits & Reports – 6 in-person visits by our team with detailed feedback. 📄 Lease Agreement Review – Legal verification to ensure fair terms. 📝 Translation of Lease Agreement – Bilingual if required, for full clarity. Concierge & Bureaucratic Support: 🏦 Bank Account Setup – Assistance in openin...

Taxes in Portugal: Residing in Portugal and Working for a Foreign Business

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- If you work abroad but maintain your tax residence in Portugal, you will need to declare in Portugal all income earned during the fiscal year, both in Portugal and abroad, as per Article 15 of the Personal Income Tax Code (CIRS). However, the foreign country where you work will also tax your income , which theoretically could mean double taxation, which obviously doesn't make sense.  - How to avoid double taxation? There are two mechanisms in place: either you activate the existing convention with the country in question (if there is one), or Portugal unilaterally reduces or eliminates that taxation, according to Article 81 of the CIRS . - Which countries have agreements with Portugal and how can I activate them? According to the Portal das Finanças, as of 2022, there are 77 conventions in force with countries around the world. Remember, if there is a bilateral agreement that prevents double taxation, you will need to activate it through a tax residency certificate. Here are s...