Portugal - the world’s leading destination for retirement

Published on 30th July, 2025

Portugal has been ranked as the top global destination for international retirees, according to the latest report on retirement migration trends. The study, conducted by the Global Intelligence Unit of Global Citizen Solutions, a leading advisory firm specialising in investment migration, analysed a broad selection of countries across key metrics, including quality of life, tax efficiency, relocation ease, and global mobility.

The 2025 Global Retirement Report ranked 44 countries and their corresponding passive income visa options for retired people. With an overall score of 92.6 out of 100, Portugal emerged as the only country to surpass the 90-point threshold, standing out as a clear leader in retirement appeal. The country scored particularly high in several categories, including:

• Citizenship and Mobility: 95.3

• Economics: 94.9

• Quality of Life: 95.0

• Relocation Procedure: 85.6

• Integration: 95.8

• Tax Optimisation: 75.0

These high marks reflect Portugal’s consistent commitment to providing a secure, welcoming, and enriching environment for international retirees.

The report also identifies Mauritius and Spain as top contenders, rounding out the top three global retirement destinations for 2025. European countries dominated the rankings overall, with Austria joining Portugal and Spain among the frontrunners thanks to their exceptional healthcare systems, safety, and cultural vibrancy.

Beyond Europe, the study notes that retirement migration is now a global phenomenon. From the Americas to Asia, countries are expanding visa and residency offerings tailored specifically for retirees, creating new opportunities for those seeking to optimise their lifestyle, healthcare access, and financial planning in their later years.

For retirees considering a move abroad, this report offers the most up-to-date, data-driven insight into the most attractive global destinations, and once again, Portugal has been ranked first.

The top 5 countries in the report were:  1. Portugal, 2. Mauritius, 3. Spain, 4. Uruguay, 5. Austria.

These countries scored highest across all dimensions, making them the most attractive global destinations for retirees in 2025.

To discuss your new home in Portugal, contact our knowledgeable and professional team of multi-lingual Property Advisors. Email hello@PortugalProperty.com or call us on +351 308 800 878 or 0800 014 8201 free from the UK.

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Published in: Guide to Portugal / Miscellaneous / Portuguese Life