Top 10 Reasons Why Portugal is the Perfect Retirement Destination
Thinking about where to retire? Portugal should be at the top of your list!
Even if you still have a few years to go, preparing for your retirement in Portugal might be the best decision you'll ever make.
Many of us dream of our retirement as a long-term project. However, more and more people are making that decision long before the date arrives, seeking great investment opportunities to secure a dream home abroad.
Retirement in Portugal
In an increasingly globalised environment, the world is our oyster. But with so many options to spend your golden years, choosing where and why may seem like a daunting task. However, there are places that have been a favourite with retirees for many years and Portugal is one of them!
Whatever your lifestyle, choosing Portugal to retire is definitely an excellent option. Find out why this beautiful stretch of paradise on the western edge of Europe is being chosen by people from all nationalities for an active and fulfilling retirement!
1. Sunshine All Year Round
Portugal is one of the sunniest places in Europe, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year! Whether you prefer to live near the coast or further inland, the mild climate is one of the main reasons why so many foreigners retire to Portugal.
2. World-Class Healthcare
Portugal is also well known for its excellent healthcare, ranked among the best on the planet by the World Health Organisation.
Depending on your nationality or residency status, access to Portugal's public health care services, known as the "Serviço Nacional de Saude" (SNS), may be free or cost minimal co-payments.
There are also various options for private healthcare that are renowned worldwide and accept multiple insurance plans.
3. Easy Residency Process
For EU citizens, retiring to Portugal is fairly straightforward as anyone can easily apply for a residence permit.
Non-EU citizens who want to retire to Portugal must obtain a residency visa for the first five years, after which it is possible to apply for permanent residence or citizenship. Although it is still possible to apply for the Golden Visa Program (which secures residency through investment in specific regions of Portugal), most retirees prefer to apply for the D7 Visa, a simpler option also known as the "Passive Income Visa".
4. Convenient Location
Portugal is a favourite for retirees who want to stay close to their loved ones abroad. Three international airports and low-cost daily flights to practically everywhere in Europe make Portugal perfect for travelling, visiting friends and family or receiving guests in your dream home!
5. Safety in Portugal
Portugal ranks as one of the world's most peaceful countries. But no one in Portugal needs statistics to know the country is safe! In small rural villages, it is still common for people to leave their doors unlocked.
6. Affordable Living
Property prices in Portugal continue to be reasonably priced despite the increase in demand in the last few years.
In regions such as Portugal's Silver Coast, a new build property near the coast, with modern architecture and a pool is much more affordable than in the US or European countries such as Belgium or the Netherlands.
The average cost of living in Portugal is also lower than that of most Western European countries.
7. Warm Hospitality
The Portuguese people are known for welcoming foreigners with open arms and warm smiles! It is customary for people to say “bom dia” when they walk into the café, regardless of knowing you. And don’t be surprised to find a bag of lemons at your doorstep every now and then!
The Portuguese way of life is kind and generous and will win your heart time and time again.
8. The simple life
Portugal offers all of the commodities of any other Western European country, but it also maintains a very simple and laid-back joy for life.
That small village feeling of belonging is still very common, and life in Portugal is made of simple pleasures. From enjoying delicious food to appreciating nature, every aspect of the Portuguese lifestyle was designed for slow living.
9. Tax Benefits for Retirees
Portugal’s Non-habitual Residency (NHR) programme offers tax advantages for new residents, making it financially appealing for retirees. The NHR status is available to anyone who has not been a tax resident in Portugal in the last five years, as long as they meet certain criteria.
10. Many locals speak English
Although it's useful to learn Portuguese, it’s always reassuring to know that most Portuguese people do speak some English. In more touristy areas of the country, especially along the coast, a large proportion of the locals speak foreign languages. However, even in the more rural towns where the elderly population might only speak Portuguese, their willingness to help foreigners never gets lost in translation!
My husband and I decided to retire early and make Portugal our home.
We began doing some research and watched YouTube videos and came across Dylan Herholdt (Portugal Realty agent). There was just something about him… He had very good vibes! We immediately reached out to him and our journey of moving to Portugal began. Dylan presented a variety of 'new build' options to us and we landed on the perfect choice! Our apartment complex in the Silver Coast will be complete by the end of this year. It has been a very exciting process and Dylan has been there through it all.
We are extremely pleased and would highly recommend Dylan and Portugal Realty to help make your Portugal dreams come true!!
Amy Valade 🇨🇦
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google review
Ready for your Portuguese adventure?
If you dream of retiring to a place with sunny skies, friendly locals, and an endless list of activities, Portugal is waiting for you!
READ MORE: Portugal is the World’s Best Place to Retire in 2023
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