Retiring in Portugal

Making Your Retirement in Portugal Easy: Local Expertise and Personalised Assistance

Portugal is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for retirement — and for good reason. A warm climate, affordable healthcare, relaxed pace of life, and safe communities attract thousands of retirees every year.

We help you plan your move with clarity, connecting you with the right professionals and local resources.

Talk to our team about your retirement plans, or start with our complete guide to Moving to Portugal.

Why Retire in Portugal

Portugal consistently ranks as one of the best countries in Europe for retirement. It offers a safe and stable environment, a warm climate, and a culture that values simplicity and social connection. English is widely spoken in key areas, and the cost of living — particularly outside major cities — remains manageable compared to many other Western countries.

Retirees are drawn to Portugal’s pace of life, mild winters, and a strong public healthcare system that becomes accessible with legal residency. Culturally, it’s a place where daily routines unfold slowly, and relationships with neighbours and the community take centre stage. Whether you’re looking for beach life, countryside calm, or a vibrant cultural setting, Portugal offers a wide range of options.

Lifestyle and Cost of Living

Life in Portugal tends to be slower, social, and focused on outdoor living. Local markets, public transport, walkable towns, and access to nature help maintain a balanced lifestyle that many retirees appreciate.

The cost of living is often significantly lower than in the US, UK, or parts of Northern Europe. While Lisbon and Cascais are more expensive, smaller towns and regions like the Silver Coast, Alentejo, and inland Algarve offer excellent value. Many retirees find they can maintain or improve their quality of life with a smaller budget.

Typical monthly expenses include rent or mortgage, food, health insurance (if private), and leisure — all of which can be adjusted depending on lifestyle preferences and location.

Residency and Visa Options for Retirees

Portugal offers several visa and residency pathways suitable for retirees. The most common is the D7 visa, designed for individuals with stable passive income — such as pensions, rental income, or retirement funds.

Once granted, the D7 visa allows you to live in Portugal and access public healthcare. After five years of legal residency, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship, if desired.

Applicants need to show proof of income, accommodation, and medical coverage. While the process is straightforward, it’s important to prepare documentation carefully and be aware of timelines.

We work with immigration professionals who help retirees choose the best path and handle the process with minimal stress.

Healthcare and Insurance

Portugal offers a public healthcare system (SNS) accessible to legal residents. For many retirees, this provides reliable, low-cost access to doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies.

That said, many newcomers also choose to take out private health insurance, which ensures faster access to specialists and English-speaking doctors. Private healthcare in Portugal is generally high quality and affordable by international standards.

We help you understand how to register for public healthcare, evaluate private options, and set up any necessary insurance policies before or after your arrival.

Choosing the Right Region

Portugal offers a wide variety of retirement destinations. Some retirees prefer the coast, while others look for peace and space inland. Each region has its own rhythm, climate, and cost profile.

Popular areas for retirees include:

• The Algarve: Known for its beaches, golf courses, and English-speaking expat communities
• Silver Coast: A quieter, more affordable alternative to the south, with authentic Portuguese character
• Lisbon and Cascais: Urban convenience with good services, culture, and international connectivity
• Alentejo: Wide open landscapes, rural charm, and privacy for those seeking tranquility
• Madeira or the Azores: Island living with dramatic scenery and a mild year-round climate

We help you compare options and identify the best location based on your lifestyle preferences, healthcare access, budget, and long-term goals.

How We Support Retirees

We offer tailored relocation support for retirees, including:

• Initial consultation and planning
• Visa and residency guidance through trusted legal partners
• Advice on regions and property options
• Help setting up utilities, banking, insurance, and healthcare
• Access to relocation specialists and ongoing local support
• Guidance on cultural adaptation, language, and local services

Whether you’re planning to retire this year or in the near future, our role is to simplify the process and ensure you feel prepared every step of the way.

Start Your Retirement Plan

Let’s make your move to Portugal a smooth and well-informed experience.

Contact us to begin your retirement planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I retire in Portugal without speaking Portuguese?

Yes, though learning the language over time will greatly improve your experience. In many areas, especially with private healthcare and expat communities, English is widely spoken.

Do I need private health insurance to retire in Portugal?

You’ll need proof of coverage to apply for a residency visa, and many retirees keep private insurance even after gaining access to the public system for faster service.

What’s the minimum income required for the D7 visa?

The income threshold changes yearly. As a guideline, the minimum is based on the Portuguese minimum wage – with higher amounts required for couples or dependents. We recommend verifying updated figures before applying.

Is my foreign pension taxed in Portugal?

It depends on your tax residency status and the country where the pension originates. Portugal generally taxes worldwide income for residents. Until the end of 2023, the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime provided favorable treatment of foreign pensions for a ten-year period, but this program is now closed to new applicants. Individuals who obtained NHR status before 2024 may continue to benefit until the end of their 10-year term. From 2024 onwards, a new regime known as the Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI) applies to certain highly qualified professionals, but it does not include pensions.

Can I buy property in Portugal as a retiree?

Yes. Foreigners can legally purchase property in Portugal. Whether you rent or buy, proof of accommodation is needed for visa applications.