Can a foreigner or non-resident get a mortgage in Portugal?

Yes. Portuguese banks lend to foreigners and non-residents. Broker Rafael Fonseca compares partner banks to find the best conditions for your case, at no cost to you.

How much down payment do I need to buy a home in Portugal?

As a non-resident you typically need a larger down payment, because banks finance up to around 70% of the value (residents can reach 80-90%). A free assessment gives your exact number.

How much will a Portuguese bank finance for a foreigner?

Usually up to about 70% of the property value for non-residents, depending on your income, country of residence and the bank.

Do I need a Portuguese NIF and bank account?

Yes, you need a NIF (Portuguese tax number) and normally a Portuguese bank account. Rafael guides foreign buyers through both.

Who pays the mortgage broker? Does it cost me anything?

The bank pays the broker, not you. Rafael service is free to the client: bank comparison and full paperwork handling at zero cost.

How long does the mortgage process take until the deed?

A pre-approval takes from a few days to a couple of weeks once documents are ready; the full process depends on the bank and property. Rafael replies within 24 hours.

Can I get a mortgage in Portugal using income from my home country?

Yes. Banks accept foreign income with the right documentation. Rafael prepares the file so the bank understands your situation from abroad.

Which regions do you cover and what languages do you speak?

Porto and the North of Portugal, and buyers across the country. Free video call in English, Portuguese or Spanish.

Mortgage in Portugal for Non-Residents & Americans (2026)

Non-residents, including Americans, can get a Portuguese mortgage — most banks finance 60–70%.

By Rafael Fonseca, credit intermediary (Banco de Portugal no. 4525) · Updated October 2026

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Key numbers

60–70%

What most banks finance for non-residents.

Up to 40 years

Loan term, depending on age.

30–40%

Typical deposit, plus purchase costs.

BdP 4525

Registered credit intermediary.

How it works

1. Free video call

We review your profile.

2. We compare banks

We compare mortgage offers.

3. Approval to deed

We support you until the deed.

Why Rafael

5.0 on Google · 66 reviews.
Economist / MBA in Finance, 30 years in finance.
In Portugal since 2017.
English, Spanish, Portuguese.

Questions

Can a non-resident get a mortgage in Portugal?

Yes. Non-residents, including Americans, can apply for a mortgage from a Portuguese bank. Approval is subject to the bank’s assessment and criteria.

How much can I borrow as a non-resident?

Most Portuguese banks finance 60–70% of the property value for non-residents. The exact amount depends on the bank’s assessment and your case.

Can I use my US income to get a Portuguese mortgage?

Yes. Portuguese banks can assess income earned in the United States, including income paid in US dollars. They review your income, debts, and credit history, and documents may need to be translated when necessary.

Do I need to live in Portugal or have a NIF?

You do not need to live in Portugal to apply as a non-resident. The process includes obtaining a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and a Portuguese bank account.

How long does mortgage approval take in Portugal?

It usually takes several weeks. The timing depends on the bank and on whether all the required documents are ready.

How much does a mortgage broker cost?

The first consultation is free. Any fee is explained in writing before you commit.

Documents you will usually need

Passport
Portuguese tax number (NIF)
Proof of address
Recent payslips or, if self-employed, tax returns
Last tax return
Bank statements from the last few months
Credit report from your country, when available
Employment contract or proof of income
Details of existing loans

The exact list depends on the bank.

What can slow your approval

Deposit below 30%.
Purchase costs not planned (IMT, stamp duty 0.8% + 0.6%, notary, valuation).
Foreign income and currency (banks may apply a margin on non-euro income).
Life and home insurance required by the bank.
Existing debts.

Talk to Rafael

Call +351 965 406 326