IVA
Published 5 November 2026, 22:39
Imposto sobre o Valor Acrescentado
VAT. On the mainland the rates are 23%, 13% and 6%; in Madeira 22%, 12% and 4%; in the Azores 16%, 9% and 4%. Small businesses may charge no IVA under article 53 of the code as long as the previous year's turnover did not exceed €15,000; the threshold remains the same for 2026.
Where you come across it. On every receipt and invoice; for the self-employed, when issuing recibos verdes and filing IVA returns.
An IVA representative (article 30 of the IVA code) and a tax representative for general matters are two different appointments; only someone who is themselves registered for IVA in Portugal can act as an IVA representative. A person living outside the EU and the EEA needs an IVA representative even if electronic notifications are switched on. The threshold is based on the previous year's turnover, but if you exceed it by more than a quarter (€18,750) during the current year, the normal regime applies immediately.
Official website: portaldasfinancas.gov.pt
Guides
How to open an atividade and work on recibos verdes How to reduce IRS with e-Fatura, receipts and tax deductions Can't pay your IRS in one go: how to set up an instalment plan How to bring your own car to Portugal How to find and check a lawyer in Portugal and agree on the fee How to deal with NHR and apply for IFICI in Portugal How to get a D2 visa for business and freelancing in Portugal How to pay Segurança Social contributions as a self-employed worker Your first weeks after moving to Portugal: what to do, in order Your employer won't give you an employment contract: what to doLatest news
State to pay about 80% of an electric car's price for low-income families, up to €15,000. Used cars qualify too 7 November 2026, 19:31 Temporary permits allow six months away, poorer families are promised 80% of an EV’s price, and DIGI threatens to leave 7 November 2026, 02:34