Portugal crowned world’s best retirement destination

High standard of living, quality healthcare and strong sense of personal safety add to Portugal’s headline attractions of sunshine and stunning scenery

Portugal has been crowned the most attractive destination in the world for retirees in 2025 by Global Citizen Solutions’ Global Retirement Report.

Encompassing data from Numbeo and international indexes, the report observes that “high standards of living and quality healthcare with relatively low day-to-day expenses [are] an ideal combination for retirees on fixed incomes.”

Elements such as “high personal safety, supportive local attitudes, and the ability to communicate and participate fully in daily life” were also considered as part of the ranking of 44 countries, with Portugal taking the top spot.

A pleasant climate, charming cities and idyllic rural and coastal scenery all add to Portugal’s attractions as a retirement destination, with the Global Retirement Reportpointing out that early retirees are also drawn to the Iberian country.

Portugal’s D7 visa, which offers a path to long-term residency rights in exchange for proof of stable income, means that the process side of moving is clear and easy to navigate. The report states that Portugal boasts one of the fastest processing times in Europe for passive income and retiree visa applications, with routine times of two to four months.

Myriad further factors supported Portugal’s top-of-the-table position as the world’s best retirement destination. These ranged from social infrastructure considerations to the country’s Global Peace Index security score and its English proficiency rating. The country’s proximity to the UK is another plus, making it easy for friends and family to visit.

For retirees, early retirees and those currently eagerly planning their golden years, the Moving to Portugal Show and Seminars is making expert advice and guidance freely available at its upcoming events in London and Edinburgh. Taking place on October 16 (London) and November 21 (Edinburgh), the shows will deliver expert seminars on legal and financial planning, property investment, healthcare access, pensions, relocation logistics, residency permits and more.

Visitors will also be able to network with presenters and with a carefully curated selection of exhibitors, with the entire event focused around serving the informational and practical needs of those considering moving to Portugal. The London Moving to Portugal Show will also feature estate agents and representatives from multiple regions of Portugal, showcasing a wide range of property types and price points.

Christina Hippisley
Christina Hippisley

Christina Hippisley, General Manager of the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK, says: “Portugal is an outstanding destination for retirees and well-deserving of being crowned the world’s top retirement location. We would encourage anyone currently considering their retirement, and the quality of life they want from it, to come along to one of our shows and find out more.

“From relocation, property, finance and legal specialists to those who have already made the move, our goal is to connect retirees with the information and contacts they need for a seamless move.”

The Moving to Portugal Show is free to attend, with registration required online in advance:

London: https://London-MTP-2025.eventbrite.co.uk

Edinburgh: https://MTP-Edinburgh.eventbrite.co.uk 

For more information, contact the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK: 

00 44 7463 689666 | www.portuguese-chamber.org.uk | www.movingtoportugal.org.uk

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Portugal Resident is your online source for news and articles in Portugal.

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