Buying property in Portugal? Here’s how to pay securely in 2025

Portugal remains one of Europe’s top destinations for property investment, offering stunning landscapes, a warm climate, and attractive residency programs like the Golden Visa. But paying for real estate from abroad isn’t as simple as sending money to a friend — it involves compliance with Portuguese banking rules, foreign exchange requirements, and legal safeguards for both buyer and seller.

Explore our full range of global services to see how we help clients handle secure, compliant international payments for property and other major transactions worldwide.

Why property payments to Portugal require careful planning

When buying property in Portugal, especially from abroad, funds typically need to be transferred in euros (EUR) through regulated channels. Portuguese banks apply strict anti-money laundering (AML) checks, and for foreign buyers, documentation proving the source of funds is mandatory. Without proper compliance, transfers may be delayed or even blocked — potentially putting your purchase at risk.

Main scenarios for property payments in Portugal

• Direct purchase from a developer: Paying in stages, often with escrow protection.
• Secondary market purchase: Full payment upon signing the final deed (escritura).
• Off-plan investments: Structured payment plans tied to construction milestones.

1. SWIFT bank transfers to Portugal

SWIFT is the most common method for high-value property payments. It allows you to send funds directly to the seller’s or notary’s account, with full tracking and detailed confirmations. Always ensure the beneficiary account matches the name in the sales contract to avoid compliance issues.

2. Escrow accounts for buyer protection

In many property deals, especially with developers or agencies, an escrow account managed by a licensed notary or lawyer is used. Funds are held securely until all contractual conditions are met, reducing the risk for both parties. While escrow may involve additional fees, it offers peace of mind for overseas buyers.

3. Licensed agency-model transfers

For buyers who wish to avoid changing their primary bank or who face limitations on direct international transfers, agency-model payments offer a compliant alternative. Licensed intermediaries process the transfer on your behalf, ensuring all documentation meets Portuguese banking standards.

4. Alternative payment routes for restricted cases

Some buyers may be located in countries where direct transfers to Portugal are slow or restricted. In such cases, funds can be routed through partner banks in third countries, maintaining full legality while avoiding bottlenecks. This method is especially useful for clients under regional banking constraints.

5. Cryptocurrency transfers with regulated conversion

Some intermediaries accept cryptocurrencies such as USDT or BTC, converting them into euros within Portugal through licensed financial institutions. This method offers flexibility for clients with digital assets, but must still comply with AML and source-of-funds requirements.

Required documentation for property payments

To process your payment smoothly, Portuguese banks and legal representatives may request:

• Signed purchase agreement or promissory contract
• Proof of identity (passport or ID card)
• Source of funds documentation (bank statements, sale agreements, etc.)
• Payment references matching the contract details

Ensuring your documentation is complete and consistent helps speed up the transaction and avoids last-minute delays.

Currency conversion and timing

While payments must ultimately be in euros, the timing of currency conversion can affect the final amount received by the seller. Licensed operators can help lock in favorable exchange rates and plan transfer schedules to minimize exposure to currency fluctuations.

Insurance and risk protection

For high-value property transactions, optional payment insurance can protect against unforeseen risks such as bank errors, sudden regulatory changes, or even seller default. This layer of security is particularly important for buyers who cannot be physically present during the transaction.

How to avoid common mistakes

• Sending funds to accounts not listed in the sales contract
• Failing to match payment references with contract details
• Not providing full source-of-funds documentation in advance
• Ignoring exchange rate timing, leading to shortfalls on arrival

Why choose VelesClub Int. and UNIBROKER for your property payments

VelesClub Int. and UNIBROKER specialize in secure, compliant property payment solutions for buyers worldwide:

• Licensed agency-model transfers with full documentation support
• Coordination with Portuguese banks, notaries, and legal teams
• Alternative routes for clients facing banking restrictions
• Multi-currency and cryptocurrency options
• Optional payment insurance for added security
• Transparent fee structures and exchange rate planning

Final thoughts

Paying for property in Portugal from abroad requires more than just transferring funds — it’s about ensuring every step is secure, documented, and legally compliant. By choosing the right payment method and working with experienced, licensed professionals, you can protect your investment and complete your purchase with confidence.

Explore our full range of global services to find tailored solutions for your international property payments, business transfers, and cross-border financial needs.