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Portugal
Southern Europe • Europe
Overview
Portugal ranks 7th globally on the 2025 Global Peace Index and 6th on the EF English Proficiency Index, making it one of the safest and most accessible European destinations for US expats. The D7 passive income visa requires just €870/month (~$950) - the lowest threshold in Western Europe. Lisbon and Porto have seen rents double since 2019, but secondary cities like Braga, Coimbra, and the Algarve remain 40% more affordable. Portugal's NHR tax regime offers significant benefits for the first 10 years. The country provides a clear path to EU citizenship after 5 years of residency.
Visa Options
D7 Passive Income Visa
For retirees and those with passive income (pensions, investments, rental income)
Min. $820/mo
~8 weeks processing
Path to citizenship
Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers employed by companies outside Portugal
Min. $3,280/mo
~6 weeks processing
Path to citizenship
Highlights
- ✓Ranked 7th safest country globally (2025 Global Peace Index)
- ✓D7 visa requires only €870/month income - lowest in Western Europe
- ✓6th highest English proficiency worldwide (EF EPI 2025)
- ✓Path to EU citizenship after 5 years
- ✓NHR tax regime offers 10 years of benefits
- ✓Excellent public healthcare system
Considerations
- !Lisbon/Porto rents doubled since 2019 - secondary cities 40% cheaper
- !Golden Visa real estate option eliminated in 2023
- !Bureaucracy slow - SEF appointments difficult to book
- !Winter heating costs high (buildings not well insulated)
- !August vacation period slows everything down
Quick Stats
Affordability45/100
Healthcare Quality75/100
Safety85/100
English Spoken60/100
Data updated 1/7/2026