Is Stamp Duty Due When A Portuguese Resident Gives A Gift To A Non-Resident?

When a Portuguese resident makes a gift to someone living abroad, a common question arises: does Portugal charge Stamp Duty because the donor is resident? In this episode, we clarify when Stamp Duty applies—and who is liable under Portuguese law.

🔎 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1️⃣ The Key Rule: Asset Location Comes First

Under Articles 1(1) and 2 of the Código do Imposto do Selo, Stamp Duty is due only if the gifted asset is located in Portugal.

➡️ Portugal’s system focuses on where the asset is, not on where the donor or recipient lives.

2️⃣ Who Pays the Stamp Duty

Where Stamp Duty applies because the asset is located in Portugal:

• The recipient (donee) is the person liable for the tax

• The Portuguese-resident donor is not taxed

This allocation of liability is consistent across gratuitous transfers.

3️⃣ Gifts of Assets Located Outside Portugal

If the gifted asset is located outside Portugal:

• The gift falls outside the Portuguese Stamp Duty system

• No Stamp Duty is due, even though the donor is Portuguese resident

4️⃣ Practical Takeaway

For gifts from Portuguese residents to non-residents:

• Portuguese-situs asset → Stamp Duty may apply (recipient pays)

• Foreign-situs asset → No Portuguese Stamp Duty

Correctly identifying the location of the asset is therefore essential.

This episode explains why asset location—not tax residence—drives Stamp Duty on gifts in Portugal, helping donors and recipients avoid incorrect assumptions and filings.