Changes to IUC (Road Tax) Payments in Portugal

Starting in 2026, significant changes will be introduced to the way the Imposto Único de Circulação (IUC) — Portugal’s road tax — is paid. The payment date will no longer depend on the vehicle’s registration month. Instead, a single fixed annual deadline will apply to all taxpayers, with payments due by the end of February each year.

Under the new rules, if the tax amount does not exceed €100, it must be paid in full by the end of February. For tax amounts above €100, vehicle owners will have the option to pay in two instalments — the first by the end of February and the second by the end of October.

Taxpayers may also choose to make a full payment in February, even when the amount exceeds €100.

This change simplifies the IUC payment process, introducing a more consistent and predictable annual tax schedule for all vehicle owners in Portugal.