Need to send money to Portugal? Here’s how to do it safely in 2025

Portugal is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for relocation, business, and investment. Whether you’re paying for property, sending funds to family, or settling an invoice with a local company, making an international transfer to Portugal requires more than just clicking “send” in your banking app. You need to ensure your payment is secure, compliant, and reaches the recipient without delays.

Explore our full range of global services to see how we help individuals and businesses handle safe, fast, and fully compliant transfers worldwide.

Why secure transfers to Portugal matter

Portugal’s banking system is part of the EU financial network, which means strict compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) rules. Banks may request supporting documents such as contracts, invoices, or proof of relationship before processing your transfer. Without proper documentation, payments can be delayed or even rejected. Choosing a method that anticipates compliance needs protects your funds and saves time.

Main scenarios for sending money to Portugal

• Personal remittances: Sending funds to family or friends for living expenses or special occasions.
• Property purchases: Paying for real estate, whether for investment or relocation, often with additional documentation.
• Business payments: Settling invoices with suppliers, service providers, or partners under commercial contracts.
• Education and services: Covering tuition fees, medical bills, or other professional services with clear payment references.

1. SWIFT bank transfers via trusted institutions

SWIFT transfers are widely accepted in Portugal and suitable for both high-value and regular payments. They offer detailed transaction tracking and compatibility with major Portuguese banks. To minimize issues, ensure your sending bank has experience with EU transfers and can provide comprehensive payment confirmations. Including precise payment references (invoice number, contract ID, property details) typically helps the receiving bank clear funds faster.

2. Licensed agency-model transfers

For clients who prefer not to change their current bank or transfer currency control, agency-model transfers are a secure option. A licensed intermediary processes the payment on your behalf, ensuring full compliance in both the sending and receiving countries. This approach is useful if your local bank has restrictive international policies or if alternative routing is required due to regional limitations.

3. Alternative payment routes for restricted cases

When direct transfers face delays or restrictions, partner banks in third countries can be used to route payments legally and efficiently. Properly structured alternative routes help maintain compliance while avoiding bottlenecks. This method is especially relevant during periods of heightened banking checks or when standard corridors are temporarily constrained.

4. Licensed online payment platforms

Regulated fintech solutions can provide faster settlement, competitive exchange rates, and multi-currency support. Always choose platforms licensed in both your country and Portugal to avoid compliance issues. Look for features like transparent fees, real-time status updates, and downloadable confirmations that match bank requirements.

5. Cryptocurrency transfers with local conversion

Some intermediaries accept cryptocurrencies such as USDT or BTC, converting them into euros in Portugal through regulated channels. This option offers flexibility for users with digital assets, but it must comply with Portuguese AML requirements. Proper documentation of the conversion and source of funds remains essential for a smooth receiving process.

Documentation requirements in Portugal

For most transfers, Portuguese banks may request:

• Proof of identity (passport or ID card)
• Invoice or contract for the payment
• Proof of relationship for personal transfers (where applicable)
• Source of funds declaration for higher-value transactions

Providing clear, legible documents that match payment details reduces additional questions from the bank and keeps processing times within typical ranges.

How to avoid delays and rejections

Common issues arise when transfer details and documents are inconsistent. Align the beneficiary name with the contract or invoice, avoid abbreviations that differ from legal names, and ensure payment references are identical across documents. Initiating the transfer earlier than the final due date also gives time to address potential compliance questions without pressure.

Multi-currency options

Portugal’s primary currency is the euro (EUR), but licensed operators can originate payments in USD, GBP, or other currencies and convert them upon arrival at competitive rates. If your income is multi-currency, consider a route that minimizes unnecessary conversions and matches the currency terms agreed with the recipient. For high-value deals, discuss the timing of conversion to reduce exposure to intraday rate swings.

Insurance and risk protection

For large transactions such as property purchases or business deals, optional payment insurance can protect against banking errors, regulatory changes, or counterparty defaults. While not mandatory, this layer of protection provides peace of mind and can be aligned with your contract milestones (for example, reserving, partial payments, and final settlement), ensuring that each stage is documented and safeguarded.

Practical checklist before you send

• Confirm the exact beneficiary name and IBAN as stated in the contract or invoice
• Align payment references (invoice number, contract ID) across all documents
• Prepare identity and source-of-funds documents in advance
• Choose a licensed route (bank, agency-model, or regulated platform) suitable for your case
• Retain confirmations and receipts for your records and potential audits

Why choose VelesClub Int. and UNIBROKER

VelesClub Int. and UNIBROKER offer tailored solutions for secure money transfers to Portugal:

• Licensed agency-model payments with compliance in both countries
• No need to switch your primary bank
• Alternative routes when direct transfers are unavailable
• Multi-currency and cryptocurrency support
• Optional insurance for added protection
• Coordination with Portuguese banks and legal advisors

Final thoughts

Sending money to Portugal in 2025 can be fast, secure, and fully compliant — if you choose the right method and work with experienced, licensed partners. Whether for personal, property, or business purposes, a well-planned transfer ensures your funds arrive safely and on time, with documentation that meets EU standards and Portuguese banking expectations.

Explore our full range of global services to discover how we can support your international transfers, business operations, and property transactions in Portugal and beyond.