Want to know how to buy a car in Portugal? First you must decide if you want to buy new or second-hand, and what characteristics you are looking for in your car. After that, just start searching.
Just moved here, and want to know how to buy a car in Portugal? There is plenty on offer.
If you have decided to buy a second-hand car then there are two options. You can go straight to a dealership or you can try to buy one off a private owner. If you choose the latter, you’ll probably get a better deal, but through a dealership you will be entitled to a one-year guarantee, minimum, plus they help deal with the red tape. Learn all you need to know.
How to buy a car in Portugal: Look online
If you want to know how to buy a car in Portugal, sites such as standvirtual or sapo have a wide range of cars to search through. You can filter your search according to the characteristics you are looking for, and make a first selection of the ones you are interested in. When you go to actually see the car, though, make sure to look over every detail, so that you don’t get swindled.
You can have a mechanic accompany you to check it over. This is quite common in Portugal, and the owner won’t be bothered by it.
Ask to see the documents
Another thing to look out for is the car’s documents. Make sure they are up to date and that the car you are buying matches the specifications in the car’s registration, or Documento Único Automóvel (DUA).
The documents can also tell you if the car is mortgaged or if it belongs to a third party, but to be safe you might want to get to the Conservatória do Registo Automóvel and double check. If there is an issue with ownership or mortgage then the vehicle can only be sold with the permission of the financial institution or bank that owns the car or financed its purchase.
Check the service history
If all the paperwork is in order and the car seems all right to you, don’t forget to make sure it has been serviced. If the service history is with the original maker, all the better. The log book will tell you if there has been any serious malfunction that might come back to haunt the car in the future.
Registration and insurance
If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, then it’s time to deal with the paperwork. You’ll need an ID, a Portuguese tax number and address in the country.
The first step is to get the car registered in your name. To do so you need to fill in a form at the Instituto dos Registos e Notoriado or at your local Citizen’s shop. You have 60 days to get everything in order.
To get the ownership changed you’ll need to take a registration form, filled in and signed by both buyer and seller, and the current registration (DUA), as well as copies of both IDs.
But one of the first things you need to do is get car insurance. You cannot drive an uninsured car in Portugal.
How to buy a car in Portugal: What if its new?
If you want to buy a new car then things are even easier. Just get a quote from the maker of your choice and keep an eye out for special deals from other makers for similar models, to make sure you’re getting the best for your money.
When you buy from a dealership it will handle all the paperwork. All you need to do is give them the documents they ask you for and transfer the money.
Taxes
Different taxes apply depending on if it is a new or a second-hand car. Both have to pay the Single Circulation Tax (IUC) through the Tax Office. When you are buying a new car, however, you also have to pay the Vehicles Tax at the moment of purchase.
The IUC is due yearly on the month of the car’s license plate issue. If it is a new car, then, this will coincide with the sale.
Here you can learn all about how to get a license plate for your car in Portugal.
Now that you have decided to buy a car, and will be needing insurance, find out how the Golden Key Account can help you when it comes to making the best choices for you and for your needs.
FAQs
Registration and insurance
Can I buy a car in Portugal without residency? ›
You will need the following to buy a car in Portugal: Proof of Portuguese residence, for example a residence permit or proof that you rent or own a home in Portugal. Valid ID such as a passport.
Can a non resident register a car in Portugal? ›
Temporary admission procedure
The vehicles concerned must have a permanent registration number in another Member State and must be registered in the name of a citizen who is not resident in Portugal. They must also be brought into Portugal by their owners or lawful keepers for their private use.
How much does it cost to legalize a car in Portugal? ›
Officially register your car in Portugal
Although you already applied for your documento unico, you will only get it a few weeks after registering your car. Head to your local civil registry conservatory with your documents to register your vehicle. Registration costs around 50 to 60 euros.
How much is vehicle tax in Portugal? ›
Previous to IUC, average cars used to pay a yearly tax of just 10€~50€. After IUC was implemented, this yearly tax was increased to an average of 100€~300€. The most polluting vehicles, diesel +2.500cm3 and +250g/km CO2 pay something like 1.000€ every year.
How long can you live in Portugal without becoming a resident? ›
How long can a US citizen live in Portugal? US citizens may enter Portugal for up to 90 days for business or for tourism without the need for a Portuguese visa. If you would like to move to Portugal and spend more than three months there, then you'll need to get an appropriate visa or a residence permit.
How much money do you need to get residency in Portugal? ›
Residency requirements in Portugal
| Quick Facts | |
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| Type of investments available for residency purposes | Substantial capital transfers into qualifying investment funds, for financing research or Artistic activities, or other purposes (EUR 500,000 or EUR 250,000 in some cases) |
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As a foreigner, you will need the following documents to buy or sell a car in Portugal: Proof of residency in Portugal (a home rental contract, proof of purchase of real estate or a resident's card); Portuguese tax number (NIF); Proof of Identification (citizen card, passport, driver's license, ...).
How long can you have a foreign car in Portugal? ›
A vehicle with a foreign license plate can only be in Portugal for a maximum of 180 days during a year and even during that period, it must meet certain conditions only applicable to vehicles with license plates from EU countries: the driver must not reside in Portugal.
Can I bring my car from US to Portugal? ›
After customs clearance, you must officially register your vehicle with the relevant Portuguese authorities (Institute for Mobility and Transport, or IMT). This process can be carried out at any local civil registry office and must be done within 180 days of importing your vehicle into the country.
Many expats opt to buy a car in Portugal, a process made relatively simple with the correct documentation. However, it's still useful to have some guidance on the right dealerships and to be aware of potential pitfalls so you avoid being taken advantage of.
What is the best car to buy in Portugal? ›
In Portugal the best selling car in 2023 was the Peugeot 2008 with 6,770 sales (+12.8%) and 3.4% market share. In 2nd ranks previous year's leader the Dacia Sandero with 6,424 sales (+27.1%), followed by the Peugeot 2008, last years leader, at 6,236 (+24.5%) and the Renault Clio in 4th with 5,765 sales (+38.1%).
Is it cheap to buy a car in Portugal? ›
Car Prices in Portugal
The average price for a car in Portugal in 2020 was €32,444, up almost €5,000 in 5 years. While buying a used car is more affordable than a new one, they are still expensive compared to other European countries.
How to buy a car in Portugal? ›
You'll need an ID, a Portuguese tax number and address in the country. The first step is to get the car registered in your name. To do so you need to fill in a form at the Instituto dos Registos e Notoriado or at your local Citizen's shop. You have 60 days to get everything in order.
How do I legalize my car in Portugal? ›
How to register a car in Portugal
- Start at an inspection center. First of all, you must take your car to an inspection center. ...
- Next go to customs. Secondly, you need to go to a customs agent. ...
- Lastly, use the “register a car” service at IMTT to complete your journey. ...
- Don't forget the car insurance.
The cost of shipping can vary depending on your starting point. Shipping a vehicle from the United States to Portugal may typically range between €2,500 and €3,500, considering factors like the car's size and shipping method.
Can you buy property in Portugal without being a resident? ›
Portugal allows foreign nationals, including US citizens, to purchase real estate within its borders. If you would like to live in the country for more than three months, you will, however, need to secure Portuguese residency.
How to buy a new car in Portugal? ›
You'll need an ID, a Portuguese tax number and address in the country. The first step is to get the car registered in your name. To do so you need to fill in a form at the Instituto dos Registos e Notoriado or at your local Citizen's shop. You have 60 days to get everything in order.
