Building projects over strong relationships
A law firm focused on legal advice in all areas of real estate law.
We strive to be close to our clients, committing to transparency and proactivity, and conducting our work with the highest ethical and technical standards to achieve the most effective solutions for the matters entrusted to us.
Services
Leasing: Residential, Commercial, Rural
We also offer comprehensive legal services in all matters related to maximizing returns on real estate assets in Portugal.
Real Estate Transactions (property transfer agreements)
A real estate transaction generally aims to transfer ownership of a real estate asset from one party to another, ensuring the buyer obtains a clean title and that all legal, regulatory, and financial obligations are defined and fulfilled.
Real Estate Development: construction and related service contracts
At MATLAW, we offer comprehensive legal support for real estate development, covering all stages from land acquisition to construction and final sale.
Urban Planning: land use, zoning, and urban rehabilitation
We provide specialized legal advice on urban planning, land use, and licensing for real estate projects of any kind, including urban rehabilitation projects.
Leasing: Residential, Commercial, Rural
We also offer comprehensive legal services in all matters related to maximizing returns on real estate assets in Portugal.
Tourism: regulation, licensing, management, and operation of tourism developments
For clients operating in the tourism and local accommodation sectors, we provide tailored advice for licensing, operation, and leasing of properties for tourism purposes, ensuring compliance with applicable regulatory law, and coordinating operations between developers, tenants, and operators.
Real Estate Financing: financing contracts for real estate projects and associated guarantees
At MATLAW, we support our clients in negotiating and contracting the terms, conditions, and guarantees of financing agreements, whether they are investors or beneficiaries of the investment.
Real Estate Taxation: advisory on property and real estate income taxes
Owning, acquiring, operating, or selling property in Portugal—as well as relocating individuals or businesses to the country—has significant tax implications. Currently, real estate in Portugal is subject to six different types of taxation.
Corporate Real Estate
Real estate investments are often made through corporate vehicles, whether they are perfomed by commercial companies, cooperatives, or real estate investment funds.
Inheritance & Family Law
Our clients rely on us for assistance with estate planning, particularly regarding assets located in Portugal (including wills and lifetime asset transfers), as well as for managing negotiation, contracting, and registration processes for the distribution of assets in estates opened in Portugal or abroad. These matters are often handled through both negotiation and court proceedings, depending on complexity.
Real Estate Arbitration and Litigation
When conflicts are not resolved through out-of-court methods, we support and represent our clients in judicial and arbitration proceedings. The disputes we handle relate to all our areas of practice — from public law issues like tax and zoning, to civil and commercial disputes such as contracts, asset division, leasing, construction, and other private matters.
Portuguese Residency & Citizenship
We assist our clients with all types of immigration and relocation matters in Portugal.
Latest News, Events, and Press
Buying a property in Portugal: step-by-step guide and common mistakes to avoid
Portugal remains one of the most attractive destinations for international property buyers. According to the latest data (Idealista, 2025), international demand continues strong in regions such as Madeira, the Algarve, and the Azores, with buyers from France, the UK, the USA, and Germany leading the way.
LEGAL ALERT: Amendments to the Portuguese Nationality Law and the Foreigners Law: what may change?
The Nationality Law may undergo significant changes following the presentation by the Government of Montenegro of Draft Law No. 1/XVII/1.ª. This initiative aims to apply stricter rules on the attribution, acquisition, loss, and consolidation of Portuguese nationality. We have selected the main measures under discussion so that you can follow what may change.
Residency Essentials for Moving to Portugal: A Guide for U.S. Citizens
Moving to Portugal offers an attractive blend of mild climate, rich culture, and high quality of life. For U.S. citizens considering this transition, understanding the residency process is crucial. Below, we outline the key steps, visa options, and legal requirements to make your move smooth and compliant.
Goodbye to the Golden Visa in Spain: where does Portugal stand in this equation?
With the official announcement of the end of the Golden Visa program in Spain, the debate about the future of these investment programs has returned to the spotlight. But what changes (or not) for Portugal? And how can the country continue to attract qualified foreign investment, now focusing on innovation, funds, and business creation?
Double Taxation Agreements and tax planning: how to minimize tax burden when investing in Portugal
Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) are essential instruments for foreign investors looking to acquire property in Portugal, as they ensure that income is not taxed twice – both in the country of residence and in Portugal. These agreements are fundamental for efficient tax management, allowing resident and international investors to optimize their tax burden.
New Residency Time Calculation for Portuguese Nationality: What Changes and How It Impacts Applicants?
Acquiring Portuguese nationality is a crucial topic for foreign residents who see Portugal as their home. With the publication of Organic Law No. 1/2024, a fundamental change was introduced in the calculation of the legal residency period required to obtain Portuguese citizenship by naturalization.