Tenants Can Register Rental Contracts If Landlords Fail to Do So

New rule allows tenants to register unregistered leases to access tax benefits and housing supports.

Beginning August 1, 2025, a new rule in Portugal allows tenants to take control when landlords fail to register rental contracts. This tenant-first policy means renters can independently declare their lease contracts using the Finance Portal, a move that unlocks several financial and legal benefits. By doing so, tenants gain access to tax deductions, eligibility for rental assistance through programs like Porta 65, and formal proof of address for bureaucratic purposes such as school registration or visa renewals.

The process requires tenants to submit a copy of the lease agreement along with supporting documentation electronically. Once submitted, tenants are officially recognized by tax authorities as legal occupants. If the landlord later registers the contract, tenants are required to update their submission to avoid duplication. This new mechanism promotes greater transparency in the rental market, supports tenants in securing essential services, and pressures landlords to fulfill their legal obligations. Experts view this as a progressive step toward balancing power between landlords and tenants in an increasingly tight and competitive housing market.
https://www.theportugalnews.com/news/2025-03-14/tenants-can-register-rental-contracts/96223