Library
Permits, taxes, and the rules
that actually apply to you
What requires a permit, what does not, and what foreign owners get wrong about renovation tax in Portugal.
Regulatory Guide23 Jul 2026 · 10 min read
DL 97/2026: Does Portugal's New 6% Renovation VAT Actually Apply to You?
Portugal's 6% renovation VAT under DL 97/2026 has strict conditions. Most foreign owners don't qualify, here's who actually does.
Guide13 Jul 2026 · 10 min read
The 1951 Rule in Portugal Explained
The 1951 rule exempts pre-1951 Portuguese buildings from usage licences, which changes the permits and budget your renovation needs.
Guide6 Jul 2026 · 9 min read
Do You Need a Permit to Renovate a Bathroom in Portugal?
Most bathroom renovations need no permit at all. Here is exactly when a Comunicacao Previa or full Licenciamento applies, what it costs, and what happens if you skip it.
Guide6 Jul 2026 · 12 min read
IMT, IMI and Renovation Tax in Portugal: What Foreign Owners Actually Pay
Foreign buyers now pay 7.5% flat IMT. But buying in an ARU and renovating within three years can eliminate IMT entirely, cut VAT to 6%, and save over 40,000 euros.