Best Places to Live in Portugal: Cities and Regions Compared
Where to live in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Coimbra, the Algarve, Madeira, the Azores and more compared on housing, jobs, climate and lifestyle.
Where to start
Retiring to Portugal
Living on a pension or savings: the passive-income visa route, healthcare and your tax position.
Non-EU retirees usually apply for the national visa for people with passive income — pensions, rental income or investments — often called the D7. Income requirements are linked to Portuguese reference values and change over time, so check the current figures for your consulate. Check EU citizens can follow the EU citizen route.
Health cover and tax are the two areas worth planning early: private health insurance is often part of a visa application, and becoming tax resident affects how your pension is taxed.
Your route, step by step
A typical order — your own may differ. Tick off steps as you go.
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Apply for a visa for passive income (D7) Coming soon
For people living on pensions, rental income or investments. Income requirements change — check the current list for your consulate.
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Get your tax number (NIF)
Usually the first number you need — for a lease, a bank account and contracts.
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Get your residence permit from AIMA Coming soon
A residence visa is usually linked to an AIMA process. Keep every document and follow AIMA's own messages for dates.
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Find a place to live
Start with a short-term rental, then sign a registered lease. Never pay a deposit for a flat you haven't seen.
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Open a bank account Coming soon
Banks usually ask for ID, your NIF and proof of address. A Portuguese account also lets you use MB Way.
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Register at your health centre
Get your SNS user number (número de utente) at the health centre for your address.
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Understand your tax position
Becoming tax resident affects foreign income and pensions. Talk to a certified accountant before you move if you can.
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