How to retire in Portugal

Retiring in Portugal is easier than you might think, and is an incredibly popular choice for retirees looking for sun, safety, and a calmer pace of life.

However, making the decision to move is only the start and a host of questions come next: Where should you live? Which visa fits your situation? How does healthcare work?

All these questions can feel a little overwhelming, so we’re here to help walk you through the process.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• Why Portugal is such a great fit for retirees
• The best regions to consider, and what they’re really like day-to-day
• How the D7 visa works, and how AIMA fits into the process
• What you’ll need for banking and housing when you arrive
• How healthcare works, and when to use private versus public insurance
• And the key mistakes to avoid so your move stays smooth

By the end, you’ll know what retiring in Portugal actually involves, and how to prepare with confidence.

Ready? Let’s get into it!

Why choose Portugal?

Portugal offers a blend that’s hard to match: a warm climate, a slower pace of life, a low cost of living, and a public healthcare system that’s respected across Europe.

It consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world, and the residency process is beautifully straightforward for most retirees.

People also love Portugal for:

• The 10-year Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime
• Affordable private healthcare options alongside the public SNS
• English spoken widely in major cities and expat areas
• A strong, growing community of retirees who’ve already made the move

Given all these benefits, it’s no surprise that you’ll find retirees from all around the world in Portugal, often settling in small communities that feel warm and familiar.

Popular regions to retire in

The Algarve

Portugal’s southern coast is the classic retirement choice, offering beaches, golf, sunshine, and large English-speaking communities.

Whilst the weather stays warm year-round, and healthcare is affordable and easy to access, the Algarve can be tourist-heavy in the summer, and property prices are slightly higher than elsewhere.

Lisbon & the Cascais Coast

If you want a mix of culture, convenience, and coastal living, this region is ideal.

Lisbon offers museums, restaurants, and international flights, whilst Cascais offers calm, sea views, and walkable neighbourhoods.

The cost of living is the highest in Portugal, but in return you’ll have access to some of the best hospitals and public transport networks in the country!

Porto & Northern Portugal

Northern Portugal is a quieter, cooler region with a strong sense of tradition. Think wine country, river views, and slower daily rhythms.

Housing tends to be more affordable, however there typically are fewer English speakers than you’ll find in Lisbon or the Algarve.

Central Portugal

For authenticity and value, Central Portugal is one of the best-kept secrets. Cities like Coimbra, Tomar, and Leiria offer history, nature, and fewer crowds.

Some services may be more restricted or less accessible in rural areas, however the rich culture and peaceful landscapes make central Portugal perfect for many.

Is retiring in Portugal right for you?

Portugal offers a lifestyle that feels easy to love, but, as always, moving abroad always comes with a few trade-offs (including visas, paperwork, and language basics).

People who settle in well usually:

• Explore different regions before buying
• Learn a little Portuguese (you can get by without it, but it goes a long way!)
• Understand how healthcare works
• Prepare early for visa requirements

If Portugal feels like it could be home, the next step is to fill yourself in on visa requirements, and submit your application when ready.

Let’s walk through the details.

How to apply for a Retirement Visa (D7)

Most retirees use the D7 visa, designed for people with stable passive income (like pensions or investments).

It’s a straightforward process, but before getting started it helps to know what AIMA is, and what it.

AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) is Portugal’s immigration authority.

You’ll apply for your visa at your local consulate, but once you arrive in Portugal, AIMA handles your residence permit appointment and final approval.

You’ll need to show:

• Regular passive income (around €820/month per person)
• Proof of accommodation (rented or owned)
• Portuguese NIF (tax number)
• Criminal background check
• Valid private health insurance (such as our expat health insurance)
• Passport and basic documentation

Health insurance is required for the D7 visa and must cover your full stay until you're registered with the public system.

Feather’s expat health insurance is designed for people relocating to Portugal. It’s accepted for the D7 visa, easy to set up online, and flexible enough to use while you settle into the SNS.

Opening a Portuguese bank account

Opening a bank account might seem like a small step, but it’s essential for visas, rent, and most everyday expenses.

To open an account, you’ll need:

1. Your NIF (tax ID)
2. Passport
3. Proof of address
4. Proof of income or visa documentation

Some banks allow remote setup, whilst others require an in-person visit. Popular options include Millennium BCP, Novo Banco, and ActivoBank.

Finding a home: Should you rent or buy?

Once you’ve landed in Portugal and have begun to look for a place to live, you might find yourself wondering whether to rent or buy.

Renting

This is the safest way to start, giving you time to learn the area, test the lifestyle, and avoid rushing into big decisions.

Most landlords ask for 2–3 months rent upfront, proof of income, and your ID and NIF.

Platforms like Idealista and Imovirtual are your best starting points.

Buying property

Foreigners can buy property freely in Portugal. There are no special restrictions, as there are in some other countries.

To purchase a house/apartment, you’ll need:

• NIF
• Bank account
• A lawyer (advogado) for due diligence
• A notary for the final deed

Property prices vary dramatically by region, so comparing your options and exploring in person is highly recommended.

Understanding healthcare: Private vs public (SNS)

Once you’ve become a legal resident, you can access the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS). It offers high-quality care with low fees for appointments, tests, and medications.

To register for SNS, follow these four steps:

1. Get your residence permit
2. Visit your local Centro de Saúde
3. Bring your NIF, ID, and proof of address
4. Receive your SNS number

Until then, you’ll need private health insurance. Many retirees keep both private and public insurance, using SNS for everyday care and private coverage for faster appointments or extra benefits.

Feather’s expat plan works across Portugal and the EU, making it a strong option whether you’re applying for a visa or already living here.

Learn more about how to join the public healthcare system in Portugal.

Conclusion

Retiring in Portugal offers an inviting blend of sun, safety, and community, making it an appealing choice for many.

With its laid-back lifestyle, array of beautiful regions, and accessible healthcare, Portugal provides the perfect backdrop for your retirement dreams.

By understanding visa requirements, exploring housing options, and preparing for healthcare, you can confidently navigate the transition to life in this charming country!