Documents needed to get a mortgage in Portugal – 2025
Updated checklist and expert tips to streamline your mortgage approval in 2025 –
✅ Updated for 2025 – Last revised on April 9, 2025
📋 Table of Contents
💡 Why These Documents Matter
Portuguese banks are strict about documentation, especially when lending to non-residents or foreign buyers. Submitting the correct paperwork from the start will:
✅ Speed up approval
✅ Improve your loan terms
✅ Avoid frustrating delays
Most banks require these documents before issuing a mortgage pre-approval.
🗂 General Personal Documentation
Required for each applicant — whether single or joint mortgage.
📄 Valid Passport (copies + bring originals if applying in person)
💳 Portuguese NIF (tax number) – How to get one
🧾 Proof of Address – Recent utility bill in your name
📊 Recent Bank Statements (usually last 3–6 months)
💸 Proof of Savings / Assets
🏦 Bank Reference Letter – If your bank is different from the mortgage lender
📃 Existing Mortgage Statement – If you already own property elsewhere
💼 Employment-Based Documents
Required for each applicant — whether single or joint mortgage.
📄 Valid Passport (copies + bring originals if applying in person)
💳 Portuguese NIF (tax number) – How to get one
🧾 Proof of Address – Recent utility bill in your name
📊 Recent Bank Statements (usually last 3–6 months)
💸 Proof of Savings / Assets
🏦 Bank Reference Letter – If your bank is different from the mortgage lender
📃 Existing Mortgage Statement – If you already own property elsewhere
🧾 Self-Employed or Business Owners
If you own 20%+ of a business or are a freelancer:
Last 3 years of company accounts (P&L + balance sheet)
Last year’s personal tax return
Last 3 months of business bank statements
Accountant’s declaration (can help clarify foreign income)
🏠 Other Income Sources
If you have passive income, you’ll need proof:
Rental Income:
Lease agreement(s)
Last 3 months of rental income bank statements
Investments:
Copies of bonds, dividends, or investment certificates
Alimony/other sources:
Legal agreements or verified transfer records
🏡 Property Information
You don’t need to have a property selected, but if you do:
Include the property details, listing, and agent contact
Optional: signed reservation agreement or offer
📥 Download the Full Checklist (PDF)
📘 Click here to download the full 2025 Mortgage Document Checklist
Use this before leaving your home country or scheduling your mortgage meeting in Portugal.
Personal docs
Employment vs self-employed
Additional income sources
Property details
✅ Extra Tips to Stay Ahead
📦 Gather your documents before traveling to Portugal
✍️ Ensure documents are translated if required by your bank
🔐 Use a licensed mortgage broker to guide the process
🔗 Link to: Ultimate Guide to Mortgages in Portugal, Mortgage Calculator
❓ FAQs
📌 Can I get pre-approved for a mortgage without a property?
Yes. Portuguese lenders can issue a pre-approval based on your documents alone.
📌 Do I need my documents translated into Portuguese?
Not always — but banks may require a certified translation for income documents.
📌 Can I send documents digitally?
Yes, most lenders accept PDFs, but originals or notarised copies may be requested later.
Further Mortgage Advice & Reads
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