Can I buy a car in Portugal as a non-resident?

Cruising Portugal: Buying a Car as a Non-Resident

Portugal, with its stunning coastline, historic cities, and delicious cuisine, attracts visitors from around the globe. Many find themselves falling in love with the country and considering a longer stay, perhaps even purchasing property. For those envisioning exploring Portugal beyond the typical tourist routes, owning a car becomes almost essential. But can you buy a car in Portugal if you’re not a permanent resident?

The short answer is: yes, you can! While you don’t need full residency to purchase a vehicle, it’s not quite as simple as walking into a dealership with a wad of cash. To successfully register a car in Portugal, you’ll need to demonstrate a legitimate connection to the country.

Think of it this way: the Portuguese authorities need assurance that you’re not simply using a tourist visa to circumvent taxes and regulations. This is where the required documentation comes in.

Proving Your Connection: The Key to Car Ownership

To register a car in Portugal as a non-resident, you’ll need to provide proof that you have a tie to the country beyond a standard tourist visit. This can be achieved in a few ways:

• Valid Residence Permit: This is the most straightforward option. If you have a temporary residence permit, such as a D7 visa for passive income holders or a Golden Visa for investors, you’re typically eligible to purchase and register a car.
• Property Rental or Ownership: If you rent or own property in Portugal, this can serve as proof of your connection. You’ll need to provide documentation such as a rental agreement (contrato de arrendamento) or property deed (escritura). These documents need to be legally valid and verifiable.

Beyond proof of your connection to Portugal, you’ll also need the standard identification documents:

• Passport: This is your primary form of identification.
• NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal): This is your Portuguese tax identification number. You’ll need this for almost any financial transaction in Portugal, including buying a car. You can obtain a NIF from the local tax office (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira).

Navigating the Process:

Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you’ll be able to purchase a car. You can choose to buy a new or used vehicle from a dealership or private seller. Be sure to research different models and compare prices before making a decision.

After purchasing the car, you’ll need to register it with the Portuguese authorities. This involves:

• Paying the necessary taxes and fees: These will vary depending on the age, engine size, and value of the car.
• Obtaining car insurance: This is mandatory in Portugal.
• Completing the registration process at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT): The IMT is the Portuguese institution responsible for transport and mobility.

Important Considerations:

• Language Barrier: If you don’t speak Portuguese, it’s highly advisable to bring a translator with you during the purchase and registration process.
• Consult with a Professional: Consider consulting with a lawyer or accountant specializing in property and residency matters in Portugal. They can provide tailored advice and ensure you are compliant with all regulations.
• EU Importation: If you are importing a car from another EU country, you’ll need to follow specific procedures and may be subject to additional taxes.

Buying a car in Portugal as a non-resident is certainly achievable with the right documentation and preparation. By understanding the requirements and navigating the process carefully, you can enjoy the freedom of exploring the country at your own pace and on your own terms. So, start gathering your documents, researching your options, and get ready to hit the road!