Portugal Accelerates Evictions: New Law Removes Automatic Suspension During Appeals

What happened

On 29 July 2026, Portugal's government announced new measures to accelerate eviction proceedings. Key changes include: - Removing the automatic suspension of eviction orders while an appeal is pending. - Reducing the unpaid rent threshold for initiating eviction proceedings to two months.

Why it matters for international residents

International residents who rent in Portugal need to be aware of these changes. Landlords can now move faster to evict tenants for non-payment. Tenants also lose the ability to delay eviction by filing an appeal, as eviction can proceed during the appeal process. This reduces tenants' leverage and increases urgency for resolving rental disputes.

What to do next

- If you are a tenant, ensure you pay rent on time. If you face financial difficulties, communicate with your landlord early to negotiate a plan. - If you are a landlord, understand the new rules to enforce your rights. Consider consulting a legal professional for specific situations.

Sources

- Portugal Resident: "Portugal moves to accelerate evictions, remove automatic suspension during appeals" (29 July 2026). Link