IMT Explained: How It's Calculated in 2026
Complete guide to the Property Transfer Tax (IMT) in Portugal. Brackets, examples and rules for 2026.
The Property Transfer Tax (IMT — Imposto Municipal sobre Transmissões Onerosas de Imóveis) is paid by the buyer when purchasing property in Portugal. It is due at the time of the notarial deed.
What is IMT?
IMT is governed by the IMT Code (CIMT), art. 17, and its brackets are updated annually in the State Budget. For 2026 the tables were published in Law No. 75/2025 of 30 December.
How is it calculated?
IMT uses progressive marginal rates with a deduction parcel. The formula is:
IMT = Value × Table rate − Deduction parcel2026 Table — Primary residence (mainland Portugal)
| Acquisition value | Rate | Deduction parcel |
|---|---|---|
| Up to €101,917 | 0% | — |
| €101,917 – €139,411 | 2% | €2,038.34 |
| €139,411 – €190,086 | 5% | €6,220.67 |
| €190,086 – €316,772 | 7% | €10,022.33 |
| €316,772 – €607,528 | 8% | €13,199.05 |
| €607,528 – €1,050,400 | 6% (flat) | — |
| Above €1,050,400 | 7.5% (flat) | — |
Worked example
Purchase of a primary residence for €250,000 on the mainland:
- Value: €250,000 — falls in the 7% bracket
- IMT = €250,000 × 7% − €10,022.33 = €17,500 − €10,022.33 = €7,477.67
Use the IMT calculator to calculate automatically.
Secondary residence vs. primary residence
For secondary residences, rental, or urban without specific purpose, there is no zero-rate first bracket: IMT starts at 1% from the first euro.
Youth IMT — full exemption up to age 35
Since 2023, buyers aged 35 or under acquiring a first primary residence on the mainland benefit from:
- Full exemption for properties up to €324,058
- Partial exemption between €324,058 and €648,022
See the detailed article: Youth IMT: exemption for buyers under 35
Madeira and Azores
The autonomous regions apply their own tables with slightly higher thresholds. Use the calculator and select the correct region.
Out of scope
IMT has specific rules for:
- Inheritances and gifts — exempt or reduced rates
- Exchanges — taxation on the difference in values
- Transfer of shares in property companies
For these cases, consult a certified accountant.
Source: CIMT art. 17, State Budget 2026 (Law No. 75/2025 of 30 December). Verified for 2026.