Portugal has become an increasingly attractive destination for real estate investors, not only for its quality of life and political stability, but also for its favorable tax regime for long-term rentals. In recent years, the government has introduced several incentives to promote housing stability and encourage landlords to lease properties for longer periods. If you’re considering renting out property in Portugal, understanding these tax advantages can make a significant difference to your overall returns.
When you rent out property in Portugal, the income you receive is generally subject to Personal Income Tax (IRS). Tax residents in Portugal may choose to aggregate rental income with their total taxable income (subject to progressive rates up to 48%) or apply a flat autonomous rate, while non-residents are typically taxed at a flat 28% on net rental income (subject to the purpose of the lease). However, for long-term residential leases, the government offers progressively reduced tax rates to reward longer commitments.
One of the key features of Portugal’s housing policy is that the longer the lease term, the lower the tax rate applied to rental income. This measure encourages landlords to opt for long-term agreements, providing more stability in the rental market. As a general reference, the applicable rates are:
| Lease Duration | Tax Rate | Notes |
| Less than 5 years | 25% | No reduction |
| 5–10 years | 15% | ---------------- |
| 10–20 years | 10% | ---------------- |
| Over 20 years | 5% | Minimum rate |
These reduced rates apply provided that the contracts are properly registered with the Portuguese Tax Authority (Portal das Finanças) and comply with all relevant legal requirements.
In Portugal, tax applies to net rental income, meaning landlords can deduct allowable expenses before calculating the taxable base. Typical deductible expenses include property maintenance and repairs, insurance, property tax (IMI), condominium and management fees, and utilities paid by the landlord. These deductions can significantly improve the net return on investment. However, these deductibilities should be reviewed with a qualified tax advisor.
By opting for long-term leases, landlords in Portugal can enjoy tax rates as low as 5%, benefit from tenant stability, and potentially reduce vacancy and turnover costs. For investors seeking a balance between stable income and fiscal efficiency, the long-term rental market in Portugal can offer financial advantages.
