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If you’re buying real estate in Portugal, you’ve probably heard the term Caderneta Predial thrown around. As a property broker and buyer’s agent, I get asked about this document all the time—especially by international clients navigating the legal maze of Portuguese property.
So let’s break it down.
📑 What Exactly Is a Caderneta Predial?
The Caderneta Predial is essentially the property tax document (also called a land registry record). Issued by the Portuguese Tax Authority (Autoridade Tributária), it provides a detailed tax description of a property, whether urban or rural.
Think of it as the official identity card for a piece of property. It’s used for tax purposes, legal documentation, and property transactions. And yes—you’ll need it whether you’re buying a modern villa in the Algarve, a quaint townhouse in Alentejo, or a apartment in Lisbon.
🧾 What Does It Include?
The Caderneta Predial contains several important property details:
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Owner’s name
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Tax number (NIF) of the owner
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Property registration number
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Location and parish
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Property description (e.g. land, construction type, size)
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Property value (Valor Patrimonial Tributário, or VPT)
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Usage (residential, commercial, rural, etc.)
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Tax status and updates
This document is essential during real estate transactions, mortgage approvals, and inheritance claims.
💡 Where Can I Get It?
You can request it:
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Online, through the Portal das Finanças
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In person, at any Finanças (tax office) in Portugal
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Via your representative or lawyer
If you’re not yet a resident, your buyer’s agent (like us 😉) can assist by working with your legal team in Portugal.
🚨 Is the Caderneta Predial the Same as the Land Registry?
No, it’s not the same as the Certidão Permanente Predial (Land Registry Certificate). Here’s the difference:
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Caderneta Predial: Issued by the Tax Authority, focused on fiscal/tax matters.
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Land Registry (Certidão): Issued by the Land Registry Office, focused on legal ownership and encumbrances.
You need both for a complete due diligence when buying property for sale in Portugal.
🌍 Pro Tip: Use eSIMs When Visiting Portugal
If you’re planning a visit to scout properties or meet with banks and lawyers, don’t get stuck buying overpriced SIM cards at the airport. I recommend using Airalo, the world’s first eSIM store, which offers great coverage in Portugal for under €5.
👉 Get your eSIM with Airalo here
It’ll let you stay connected for mobile banking, appointments, maps, and more—without stress.
🧭 How Immo Lusitania Helps You
At Immo Lusitania, we don’t just send you listings—we help you through the entire buying process in Portugal.
As buyer’s agents, we:
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Help you understand crucial documents like the Caderneta Predial
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Work with vetted real estate agents and legal professionals
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Identify investment opportunities (renovation projects, villas near the coast, off-market homes)
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Assist with connections to banking, legal, and tax experts
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Translate complex real estate language into simple steps
Whether you’re looking for a villa in the Algarve, an apartment near the beach, or a peaceful farmhouse retreat, we’re here to connect you to the right people and make sure you’re fully informed every step of the way.
📲 Let’s Talk Real Estate
Buying in Portugal? Have questions about taxes, paperwork, or trusted partners?
👉 Reach out via our contact page
📞 Schedule a call via Calendly
📱 Or message me directly via WhatsApp
We love helping clients navigate the Portuguese real estate world—and we’ll connect you with the right professionals to make it a smooth journey.
FAQ: Caderneta Predial in Portugal
What is a Caderneta Predial used for?
It’s used for tax purposes, buying or selling property, and proving ownership and characteristics of a property.
Can I get it in English?
The document is only available in Portuguese. However, your lawyer or buyer’s agent can help translate and explain it.
Is the document always up to date?
Not necessarily. That’s why it’s essential to also request the Land Registry Certificate to cross-check details.
Do I need a NIF to request one?
Yes, for online access. If you’re not in Portugal, your representative can request it on your behalf.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal or financial advice. Immo Lusitania provides property brokering and relocation support in Portugal through a trusted partner network.
