Portugal among the world’s best places to retire in 2022

2 February 2022

According to the 2022 Annual Global Retirement Index from International Living, Portugal is among the World’s Best Places to Retire, coming fourth on the top 10 ranking. 


This Index is a “selection of outstanding destinations where you can live a healthier and happier life, spend a lot less money, and get a whole lot more” and it is informed by writers who actually share their own experience in each country, “where they’re gathering their intelligence” and coming up with handful information about each destination. The ranking’s criteria range from Housing, Benefits, Residency, Fitting in/Entertainment, Development, Climate, Healthcare, Governance, Opportunity, and Cost of Living. 


As mentioned, Portugal ranks 4th on the Index, following three Central America countries: Panama (1st), Costa Rica (2nd) and Mexico (3rd). The indicators where Portugal scored the most are Healthcare, Climate and Development. 


When it comes to describing the country, it is mentioned that even though there are “vibrant cities full of Old-World charm, miles of golden sandy beaches, green, rolling hills, some of the best healthcare in the world, low cost of living, and safety”, in fact, what is on top of the preferences by the correspondents is the Portuguese people. 


The Index by the numbers:

Clear contracts define roles, pay, hours, terms, and collective agreements.
by Margarida Tempera 9 September 2025
The Portuguese Labour Code sets rules on contract types, form, and procedures. Clear contracts ensure compliance and reduce financial and reputational risks.
In practice, Article 123 is a narrow and highly discretionary instrument.
by Luís Maria Branco 8 September 2025
This provision establishes exceptional residence permits for cases outside Article 122, covering national interest, humanitarian grounds, and public activities.
With legal guidance, investors can enter Portugal’s property market confidently and minimise risks.
by Tomás Melo Ribeiro 2 September 2025
Buying property in Portugal blends lifestyle and investment. Conformity with the law ensures a valid, compliant, and protected transaction from start to finish.
You’ll need a medical stay visa—tourist visas don’t grant access to healthcare in Portugal.
by Danielle Avidago 1 September 2025
Portugal is a well-regarded destination for quality healthcare in Europe, with advanced facilities, affordable costs, and a growing international reputation.
Portugal reformed nationality laws, allowing adults born here to obtain citizenship based on birth.
by Joana Loureiro Veríssimo 26 August 2025
Many adults born in Portugal to foreign parents may be unaware that they have a legal right to acquire Portuguese nationality, even without a childhood application.
Marriage is a significant personal status act with wide legal consequences for family and property.
by Margarida Tempera 25 August 2025
For Portuguese citizens who marry abroad, the marriage is valid where it was celebrated but only gains legal effect in Portugal after being properly transcribed.
Corporate tax (IRC) exemption isn’t automatic—it requires formal approval by the Finance Minister.
by António Pratas Nunes and Tomás Melo Ribeiro 22 August 2025
In Portugal, non-profit entities like foundations and associations benefit from a distinct corporate tax regime that recognises their public interest mission.
Entry declaration within 3 days is required under Article 77 of Portugal’s Foreigners’ Law.
21 August 2025
Foreign nationals entering Portugal by land must file a PSP entry declaration within three days, as passport stamps or SIBA forms are no longer accepted as proof.
Most residence permits limit absences to 6 consecutive or 8 non-consecutive months from Portugal.
by Sara Sbai Oliveira 14 August 2025
Holding a residence permit in Portugal grants rights—but also strict obligations. Failing to meet stay requirements can lead to losing your residency status.
A start-up’s legal status defines its access to tax and legal incentives under Portuguese law.
by Margarida Resende 13 August 2025
In today’s innovation-driven economy, start-ups have emerged as agile business models, responding swiftly to the evolving demands of a tech-focused global market.
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