Understanding the AMI License in Portugal: A Key Requirement for Real Estate Professionals

When navigating the world of real estate in Portugal, one term you’ll frequently come across is the AMI license. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply exploring investment opportunities in Portuguese property, understanding what the AMI license entails is crucial. This certification not only serves as a hallmark of credibility and legality but also ensures that the agent or agency you're working with is authorized to operate in the Portuguese real estate market.

In this blog post, we’ll break down what the AMI License Portugal is, why it’s important, how to verify it, and what it means for foreign investors and locals alike who are working with Portuguese property agents.

What is an AMI License?

The AMI license (Licença AMI) is a mandatory certification issued by IMPIC (Instituto dos Mercados Públicos, do Imobiliário e da Construção) — the Portuguese regulatory body that oversees the real estate and construction sectors. AMI stands for “Atividade de Mediação Imobiliária,” which translates to “Real Estate Mediation Activity.”

Any individual or company looking to operate as a real estate agent in Portugal must obtain this license. It certifies that the agent or agency meets all legal requirements to practice real estate mediation, which includes facilitating the buying, selling, or leasing of property on behalf of clients.

Why is the AMI License Important?

For clients, the AMI license acts as a safeguard. It ensures that the real estate agent they are dealing with is registered, qualified, and operating within the bounds of Portuguese law. This becomes especially important in a market where real estate investment is booming, and where foreign buyers may not be fully aware of local regulations.

An agent with a valid AMI license is obligated to follow ethical business practices and is held accountable by IMPIC. If any disputes or issues arise, clients have a formal channel through which they can lodge complaints.

For property buyers or sellers, working with agents who have an AMI license significantly reduces the risk of fraud, misrepresentation, or poor advice. It is a key indicator that the agency is trustworthy and professional.

AMI Number Registration: What to Look For

Every licensed real estate agency in Portugal is assigned a unique AMI number upon successful registration. This number should be clearly displayed on the company’s website, promotional materials, and business cards. It acts like a license plate for real estate businesses, providing transparency and traceability.

If you're unsure whether a particular agent or agency is legitimate, you can verify their AMI number registration directly on the IMPIC website. This public database allows anyone to search and confirm the licensing status of Portuguese property agents.

Here at Portugal Investment Properties, our AMI license is proudly displayed and verifiable, reflecting our commitment to legal and ethical business practices.

The Licensing Process: Who Can Get an AMI License?

To obtain a real estate license in Portugal, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Business Registration: The agency must be legally registered as a business in Portugal.

• Professional Qualifications: At least one person in the company must have the qualifications or relevant experience in real estate mediation.

• Financial Security: The agency must hold liability insurance and demonstrate financial responsibility to protect clients’ interests.

• Compliance with Regulations: The applicant must adhere to specific administrative and operational guidelines set by IMPIC.

This rigorous process ensures that only those who are serious, qualified, and compliant can operate legally as real estate agents in Portugal.

What It Means for Foreign Investors

Portugal’s real estate market has attracted a growing number of foreign investors, thanks to programs like the Golden Visa, Non-Habitual Residency, and overall lifestyle appeal. However, this has also led to an influx of unlicensed or unregulated operators trying to benefit from this demand.

For international buyers, ensuring that your agent holds a valid AMI license is essential. Language barriers and unfamiliarity with local laws can make buyers vulnerable, which is why working with registered Portuguese property agents is the safest approach.

Additionally, licensed agents are often better connected with notaries, legal advisors, and local municipalities, streamlining the property transaction process and reducing the chances of delays or legal complications.

How Portugal Investment Properties Upholds Licensing Standards

At Portugal Investment Properties, we understand the value of trust, especially when working with international clients looking to invest in a foreign country. Our real estate license in Portugal is fully compliant and up to date, and our team is trained to uphold the highest standards of service and transparency.

We provide full disclosure of our AMI number and encourage prospective clients to verify it. We also collaborate closely with certified legal professionals and financial advisors to provide a comprehensive and secure property buying experience.

Conclusion

The AMI license is not just a bureaucratic formality — it is a critical layer of protection and professionalism in Portugal’s real estate market. Whether you are a local resident or an international investor, always ensure that your agent or agency holds a valid AMI number registration. Doing so not only safeguards your investment but also ensures a smoother, more transparent transaction.

At Portugal Investment Properties, our commitment to operating as fully licensed Portuguese property agents gives our clients peace of mind and confidence. We’re here to guide you through your real estate journey in Portugal — legally, professionally, and with your best interests at heart.