Not every business in Portugal requires a permit, but many business activities do require a licence, registration, or prior notification. Which obligations apply to you depends on the sector in which you operate.
For every type of business activity, you are required to assign a code: the Classificação das Atividades Económicas (CAE). It is important to determine your CAE code in advance and to check whether your activity is subject to licensing requirements. Operating without the proper licence can lead to fines or even the closure of your business.
Sectors that typically require a licence include construction and real estate, hospitality and tourism, transport, health & wellbeing, education, and security. Examples include contractors, real estate agents, restaurants, alojamento local, travel agencies, taxi services, childcare, and medical or beauty practices. These activities are often supervised by authorities such as IMPIC, Turismo de Portugal, ASAE, or the local municipality.
For trade and e-commerce, a prior notification is usually sufficient, except when selling alcohol, tobacco, or medical products. Liberal professions and digital services—such as consultancy, IT, marketing, and coaching—generally do not require a specific licence, but they must be correctly registered with Finanças.
Do not assume that the scale of your activities (“it’s only small”) or the target group you serve (for example, non-residents) makes a difference—these factors do not exempt you from legal requirements.
Not sure? Have your activity reviewed in advance to ensure you start your business in Portugal properly and legally. Ver e Ouvir can assist you with this.