CTT in Portugal

Everything New Residents Need to Know About CTT in Portugal

If you’ve recently moved to Portugal, understanding how the country’s postal system works is essential for managing your everyday life. Whether you need to receive packages, pay bills, or interact with government services, the CTT (Correios de Portugal) will likely become part of your routine.

In this guide, we’ll cover what CTT is, how to find your nearest branch, how to use their services, how to create an account, and how to deal with customs when receiving international packages.

What Is CTT?

CTT (Correios de Portugal) is the official postal service in Portugal. Established over 500 years ago, CTT offers a wide range of services, including:

  • Mail and parcel delivery (domestic and international)
  • Banking through Banco CTT
  • Bill payments and utility services
  • Government document deliveries
  • SIM cards and telecom products

CTT also partners with customs for international shipments, so it’s the go-to organization for handling incoming packages from abroad.

🔗 Official CTT Website

How to Find a CTT Post Office Near You

CTT has hundreds of locations across Portugal. To find the closest one:

  1. Visit the CTT Store Locator
  2. Enter your postal code or address
  3. View available services at each location (e.g., Banco CTT, parcel pickup)

Alternatively, you’ll also find “CTT Points” inside local businesses (like papelarias or small shops) where you can drop off or collect parcels.

Common Uses of CTT for Residents

Here’s how most residents use CTT in their daily life:

  1. Receiving and Sending Mail
  • Domestic and international options are available
  • Track packages on the CTT Tracking Page
  1. Paying Bills
  • Use CTT to pay electricity, water, gas, and toll invoices
  • Can be done in-store or via your CTT account/app
  1. SIM Cards and Internet
  • Purchase MEO or NOS SIM cards and data plans at many CTT branches
  1. Banking Services
  • Open an account with Banco CTT, which has no maintenance fees
  • Great for expats who need a Portuguese IBAN
  1. Government Mail
  • You’ll receive official documents like residency approvals or tax letters through registered mail, often via CTT

How to Create a CTT Online Account

    1. Having a CTT online account is incredibly useful for tracking packages, scheduling deliveries, and managing customs payments.

      Steps to Create an Account:

      1. Go to the CTT Registration Page
      2. Enter your name, NIF (Portuguese tax number), email, and address
      3. Choose a secure password and confirm your identity (email/SMS)
      4. Log in via the CTT Login Portal

      You can also download the CTT app on iOS or Android for mobile management.

How to Deal With Customs in Portugal (Via CTT)

When receiving packages from outside the EU, you’ll need to go through Portuguese customs clearance, often managed directly through CTT.

Here’s how it works:

  1. You’ll receive a notification by SMS or email from CTT when your parcel arrives in Portugal.
  2. Log into your account and go to Desalfandegamento (Customs Clearance)
  3. Provide necessary documents:
    • Invoice or proof of purchase
    • Identification (passport or residence card)
    • Payment of VAT and handling fees

Once processed, your parcel will be delivered or made available for pickup.

💡 Pro Tip: Packages under €45 from non-commercial sources may be exempt from customs duties, but you still might pay VAT.

Useful Tips for CTT New Users

  • Always use a full Portuguese address format when sending or receiving mail (including postal code and locality)
  • You can redirect parcels to lockers or other pickup points via the app
  • For frequently ordered online goods, consider using CTT Lockers (cacifos CTT) for convenient 24/7 pickup
  • Many e-commerce sites in Portugal integrate directly with CTT for shipping

 

Final Thoughts

The CTT system in Portugal is reliable, modern, and accessible—even for new residents. Whether you’re sending a birthday card to family back home or trying to clear a package through customs, having a good handle on CTT’s services will make your life smoother.

For more info or support, check out the official CTT FAQ page or visit a branch in person.