If you’re a non-EU retiree thinking about moving abroad, Portugal’s Retirement Visa could be the right fit. This visa is made for non-EU citizens who want to settle in Portugal and take advantage of everything the country has to offer.
Unlike investment-based residency programs, this visa is aimed at people with steady passive income, like pensions or rental income. That makes it a realistic option for many retirees.
In this guide, we’ll cover what you need to know about the Portugal Retirement Visa.
Portugal Retirement Visa: Key Takeaways
⚠️ Portugal Nationality Law Changes 2025
On June 23, 2025, the Portuguese Government announced plans to amend the Nationality Law and the legal framework governing immigration. The proposals have passed the plenary vote on October 28, 2025, which marks a significant step forward in the legislative process.
Among the measures under discussion are an increase in the residence requirement for nationality from five years to ten years – seven years for nationals of CPLP and EU countries – and a change to how residency time is calculated, so that the clock would start when residency is issued rather than when the application is submitted.
These changes are not yet law. They must still undergo Presidential review. At that stage, the President may promulgate the law, issue a veto, or request a review by the Constitutional Court. The final text may still be amended, including any transitional provisions or possible grandfathering rules, but they might not be enacted because the law is not final until its promulgated.
For the latest information regarding these changes, read Portugal Nationality and Citizenship Changes 2025
Who can retire in Portugal?
Anyone can retire in Portugal, but the Portugal D7 Visa is specifically open to non-EU citizens. Also called the Passive Income Visa, it is a long-term residency program for people who can show proof of a steady passive income of at least the Portuguese minimum wage of €920.00 per month.
This reliable income stream can come from various sources, such as pensions, rental income, or dividends. As long as you can prove that you have enough money coming in without having to rely on government funds, you can qualify for the D7 Visa.
Other than the financial requirement (there is no investment required like with the Portugal Golden Visa), you’ll also need to show proof that you have a place to stay (either renting a property for a minimum of 12 months or buying real estate), can show that you have enough additional funds to support any dependents on the visa, and have a clean criminal record.
Retiring in Portugal as a US citizen
US citizens can retire in Portugal through the D7 Visa, just as any other non-EU citizen. In fact, the latest findings from our Global Intelligence Unit’s (GIU) Retirement Guide for US Citizens study revealed that Portugal is among the countries most Americans retire to.
While some parts of the US have weather similar to Portugal’s, many people from the East Coast find the Mediterranean climate appealing. Another draw to the Iberian Peninsula is Portugal’s excellent health service and a wide range of affordable private health insurance options. And, of course, the cost of living in Portugal is much lower than in most major US cities.
So, while US citizens can visit Portugal for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa, they do need a visa for longer stays or for retirement.
Retiring in Portugal as a UK citizen
Since the United Kingdom left the European Union, UK citizens are now also eligible for Portugal’s Retirement Visa. Same as with US citizens, British nationals can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. But if they want to remain longer and retire there, they must apply for the residency visa.
The requirements are the same regardless of citizenship, as long as it is non-EU.
How much money do you need to retire in Portugal?
Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in the EU, but how much money you need to retire can heavily depend on your lifestyle – and where in Portugal you choose to settle down. For example, while costs have risen over the last few years, the Algarve is still one of the more expensive regions for retirees, whereas the central and northern inland regions remain significantly more affordable.
Factoring in the cost of living in different regions, a single person can live comfortably outside Lisbon or Porto for €1,500 to €2,000 per month. Choosing to live in the heart of Lisbon, the amount needed for a comfortable lifestyle is closer to €2,000 and €3,000 per month. This includes rent, utilities, groceries, private health insurance, and the occasional dining out.
Realistically, if you want to retire in Portugal and have the opportunity to enjoy the many things Portugal has to offer, you should budget between €30,000 to €40,000 per year. Naturally, you’ll need to budget a bit more if you are a couple.
Benefits of the Portugal Retirement Visa
Other than Portugal’s amazing weather, there are several excellent benefits that come with living in the country through the D7 Visa.
1. Visa-free travel: You can explore the Schengen Area and move freely across the European Union without additional visas or travel permits.
2. Permanent residency and citizenship: After five years (for now) of legal residency, you can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
3. Rights as a Portuguese resident: You can access the Portuguese national health service and education system, and can access vocational training and professional development opportunities.
4. Family reunification: The Portugal D7 Visa allows you to bring close family members, which include a spouse, children under 18, dependent parents, siblings, or children over 18.
Retirement Visa Eligibility and Requirements
The application process is straightforward, but several requirements must be met to ensure eligibility before you proceed.
- Passive income: You must prove that you receive a steady and reliable monthly passive income of at least €920.00.
- Nationality: You must be a non-EU citizen.
- Financial self-sufficiency: You must demonstrate that you have enough money in a Portuguese bank account to support yourself in Portugal for the first year.
- Proof of accommodation: You must have a confirmed address where you will be staying in Portugal. This can be shown with a rental agreement or a document from a Portuguese resident confirming that you will live in their home.
- Clean criminal record: A background check is required to ensure you have no criminal history.
- Bank account: You need to open a bank account in Portugal. Your passive income doesn’t have to be paid into it monthly, but your funds for financial self-sufficiency must be transferred into it.
- Tax identification number: Anybody who wants to move to Portugal long-term must have a tax identification number, or NIF.
- Physical presence: You must spend at least 16 months in Portugal during the initial two-year period.
Minimum passive income requirement
Demonstrating a regular passive income of at least €920.00
Eligibility criteria
- Be either non-EU, non-Swiss, or non-EEA
- Make the minimum investment for your chosen route, which starts at €250,000
- Have a clean criminal record
- Spend a minimum of seven days in Portugal for the first year, then no less than 14 days each subsequent two-year period
Golden Visa investment options
- Contribute to a qualified Portugal Golden Visa investment fund worth at least €500,000
- Investment or donation in the arts or reconstruction of national heritage worth at least €250,000
- Science or Technology research contribution of at least €500,000
- Creation and maintenance of ten jobs during the required period
- Incorporation of a company or reinforcement of a company’s share capital, in either case with an investment of €500,000
Best Places to Retire in Portugal
Here are some of the best places to consider for retirement in Portugal:
Lisbon
Lisbon has become one of Portugal’s most popular places to retire, thanks to its sunny weather, fascinating history, lively culture, and beautiful architecture. The city’s mild Mediterranean climate and easy access to stunning beaches mean you can enjoy outdoor activities all year. Retirees also benefit from Portugal’s excellent healthcare system and a cost of living that is often lower than in other major European cities, making it easier to enjoy a comfortable and worry-free retirement.
Porto
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, sits along the Douro River and is known for its scenic views. The city combines historic character with modern comforts, making it an appealing place to live. With its riverside location, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and historic buildings, Porto provides retirees with a beautiful and interesting place to enjoy their retirement.
Algarve
The Algarve is one of the most popular places to retire in Portugal, thanks to its beautiful coastline, sunny weather all year, and laid-back way of life. The region also offers modern healthcare, good transport links, and plenty of amenities, making daily life comfortable and convenient for retirees.
Cascais
Cascais sits on Portugal’s Atlantic coast and is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic promenades, and historic sites. For retirees, it’s a peaceful place to enjoy daily life by the sea. The town’s proximity to Lisbon provides retirees with easy access to the capital. Cascais combines natural beauty, local culture, and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for retirees looking to settle in Portugal.
Funchal (Madeira)
Funchal offers retirees a peaceful place to enjoy their retirement, with green landscapes and views of the Atlantic Ocean. The mild climate in Funchal means comfortable weather all year, making it easy for retirees to spend time outdoors, whether hiking, gardening, or relaxing in the city’s parks and gardens..
Ponta Delgada (Azores)
Ponta Delgada is the largest city in the Azores, offering a unique mix of natural beauty and relaxed island living. With its volcanic scenery, ocean views, and mild climate, it’s an appealing choice for retirees looking for a peaceful yet vibrant place to settle. Alongside its natural beauty, Ponta Delgada has a lively cultural scene. Retirees can enjoy museums, galleries, and local festivals that highlight the Azores’ unique heritage.
Why choose Global Citizen Solutions for your Immigration Visa?
GLOBAL APPROACH BY LOCAL EXPERTS
- GCS has offices located across Portugal.
- Members of the US-Portugal and UK-Portugal Chambers of Commerce in Portugal, and the Investment Migration Council (IMC).
- Our expert team can help you throughout your journey to secure your Visa.
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- Our successful track record in applications provides reassurance to applicants.
- We have helped clients from more than 35 countries secure residency in Portugal.
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