Your Bridge To Portugal
Specialized legal support for US citizens and international clients relocating to Portugal.
Expert legal advice for your new beginning.
Expert Legal Guidance for Your New Beginning
Moving to Portugal doesn’t mean navigating complex legal systems alone. As an English-speaking solicitor based in Portugal, I offer expert legal support at every stage of your relocation process — From purchasing property and setting up a business to visa applications and residence permits.
Meet Margarita Aleksanyan
Margarita Aleksanyan is a Portuguese legal professional assisting international clients with their property and immigration matters in Portugal.
Originally from an international background, she works with clients from different countries who are looking to acquire property, relocate or establish themselves in Portugal.Her practice places a particular focus on real estate, providing legal assistance to clients throughout the different stages of buying, selling and owning property in Portugal. This includes property due diligence, review and preparation of contracts, promissory purchase and sale agreements (CPCV), conveyancing, registration and other legal formalities related to property transactions.
She also assists individuals and families with immigration and residency matters, including residence visa applications such as the D7 Visa, D8 Digital Nomad Visa and other applicable visa categories, as well as family reunification and residence permit procedures. She provides legal assistance in English to international clients seeking to acquire property, relocate or establish themselves in Portugal.
Immigration Services
I guide you through Portugal’s various visa pathways, including:
- Assistance with (D7), suitable for retirees, religious people and people who live off their own income
- Complete support for Digital Nomad Visa (D8) applications, requiring proof of income equivalent to four times the minimum monthly salary in force in Portugal
- Guidance for Golden Visa investors, including the recent 2025 program changes
- Documentation preparation and submission to Portuguese authorities
- Representation during interviews and application processes
- Support in obtaining residence cards and meeting stay requirements
From initial application to receiving your residence permit, I handle the entire process, allowing you to focus on planning your new life in Portugal.
Real Estate Transactions
Purchasing property in Portugal involves specific legal requirements for foreign buyers. My services include:
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Drafting and reviewing promissory purchase and sale agreements to protect your interests
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Conducting thorough due diligence on properties to identify potential issues
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Guiding you through the entire purchase process, from reservation to final deed
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Ensuring compliance with regulations specific to foreign buyers
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Handling property registration with Portuguese authorities
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Advising on property transfer tax (IMT) and stamp duty obligations
With property prices averaging €2,750/m² nationally and up to €7,500/m² in premium Lisbon areas, having expert legal guidance is essential to protect your investment.
Estate Planning and Inheritance
Protect your assets and provide for your loved ones with comprehensive estate planning services:
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Drafting wills that comply with both Portuguese law and your home country’s regulations
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Creating executor appointments to ensure your wishes are carried out
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Preparing donation agreements for lifetime asset distribution
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Managing heir declarations (habilitação de herdeiros) and succession planning
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Resolving inheritance disputes through mediation or legal representation
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Advising on tax-efficient estate planning strategies for international clients
My cross-border expertise ensures your estate plan works seamlessly across jurisdictions.
Corporate and Commercial Law
For entrepreneurs and investors establishing businesses in Portugal:
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Legal assistance in company formation, modification, or dissolution
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Drafting and reviewing partnership agreements, bylaws, and shareholder agreements
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Providing compliance guidance for corporate governance and regulatory filings
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Representing clients in mergers, acquisitions, and business restructuring
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Advising on tax obligations for foreign-owned businesses
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Supporting business visa applications for company founders and key employees
I help you navigate Portugal’s business landscape with confidence and legal compliance.
Additional Legal Support
My comprehensive legal services also include:
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Representation in notarial acts and public deeds
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Legal assistance in debt recovery and claims management
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Support for administrative processes, including licensing and permits
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Mediation and negotiation services to resolve disputes amicably
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Guidance on tax obligations for foreign residents
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Ongoing legal support as you establish your life in Portugal
How we Assist our Clients
- English–Speaking Legal Support: Clear communication in English at every stage of your legal process in Portugal.
- Real Estate Legal Assistance: Full support with property purchases, sales, due diligence, contracts, conveyancing, and registration.
- Immigration & Residency Support: Guidance on residence visas, including D7 and D8, family reunification, and residence permits.
- Personalized Assistance: Tailored legal support based on your specific needs and circumstances.
- Transparent Fees: Clear, upfront information on fees and included services before you proceed.
- Ongoing Legal Support: Continuous assistance throughout your property transaction, relocation, or establishment in Portugal.
How We’ll Work Together
- Initial Consultation: We’ll discuss your objectives, circumstances and the legal assistance you require.
- Assessment & Legal Guidance: We review your situation and identify the legal requirements and steps involved.
- Documentation: We prepare, review and organize the necessary legal documents for your matter.
- Applications & Transactions: We assist with the relevant procedures, including property transactions, contracts, registrations and immigration applications.
- Follow–Up & Representation: We monitor the process and, where applicable, represent you before the relevant Portuguese authorities and institutions.
- Ongoing Support: We remain available throughout the process, providing legal assistance as your property or immigration matter progresses.