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Transferring Money to Portugal for Property Buyers & Investors

Transferring large sums of money internationally is a critical part of buying property in Portugal. From initial reservation deposits to final completion payments, buyers must ensure funds arrive securely, on time, and in compliance with Portuguese banking and legal requirements.

Most property transactions in Portugal are completed in euros, meaning international buyers are exposed to exchange rate fluctuations throughout the buying process. Even small changes in the exchange rate between agreeing a price and completion can significantly affect the final cost of the property.

Many buyers choose to work with a specialist international money transfer provider rather than using traditional retail banks. Currency specialists typically offer more competitive exchange rates, lower transfer fees, and dedicated support for high-value transactions. This can result in substantial savings when transferring funds for property purchases, taxes, and legal fees.

Using forward contracts or rate-fixing tools allows buyers to lock in an exchange rate in advance, providing certainty over costs. This is particularly useful for off-plan purchases, staged payment schedules, or delayed completions common in the Portuguese property market.

Funds transferred for a property purchase must usually pass through a Portuguese bank account before completion. This account is used to pay taxes such as IMT and stamp duty, notary and registration fees, and final balances due to the seller. For guidance on setting up accounts, see our Portugal Banking Guide.

Buyers should coordinate money transfers closely with their Portuguese property lawyer to ensure payments align with contract deadlines and legal requirements. Lawyers will often provide precise payment instructions and confirm receipt of funds before authorising completion.

For those arranging finance, mortgage repayments, deposits, and associated costs may also involve ongoing international transfers. Our Portugal Mortgages Guide explains how lending and repayments are structured for non-resident buyers.

Property investors receiving rental income in euros should also consider long-term transfer strategies. Regular transfers back to a home country can be optimised using scheduled payments and rate alerts, helping to improve net returns and reduce exposure to market volatility.

Portugal does not impose restrictions on international money transfers for property transactions, but all transfers are subject to anti-money laundering regulations. Buyers should be prepared to provide documentation proving the source of funds, particularly for large or repeated transfers. Regulatory oversight is provided by the Banco de Portugal.

For related topics, explore our guides to Currency, Insurance, Taxes & Fees, and Legal Process.

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