Buying guide for Portugal

The essentials for buying in Portugal with confidence, in shops or online.

Prices and VAT

Prices shown to consumers always include VAT (IVA). The standard rate is 23% in mainland Portugal, 22% in Madeira and 16% in the Azores; some goods, such as many foods and books, have reduced rates.

Invoice

The shop must issue an invoice or invoice-receipt. If you are a resident, ask for your tax number (NIF) to be included: the expenses count towards income tax deductions. Keep the invoice – it is your proof of purchase for the guarantee.

Guarantee

New goods bought from a business have a legal guarantee of 3 years (for second-hand goods a shorter period may be agreed, but never less than 18 months). If the product is faulty you can ask for repair or replacement and, in some cases, a price reduction or a refund.

Online and distance purchases

• As a rule you have 14 days to withdraw from the purchase without giving a reason.
• Check the company's details (name, address, VAT number) and the delivery and return conditions before paying.
• Use secure payment methods and be wary of prices that look too good to be true.

Exchanges in shops

Exchanging a product that is not faulty is not required by law: it depends on the shop's policy. Ask before buying and have it noted on the receipt.

Tax Free for visitors

If you live outside the European Union you can get the VAT back on purchases you take home in your luggage. Ask for the Tax Free form in a participating shop and have it validated at customs when leaving the EU.

Complaints

Every shop must have a Complaints Book (Livro de Reclamações), also available at livroreclamacoes.pt. To settle a dispute without going to court you can use an Alternative Dispute Resolution body.

General information, not legal advice. Always check the conditions with the seller.