Portugal at a glance
| Entry | Schengen 90/180 · ETIAS not yet live |
|---|---|
| Retiree visa | D7 · EUR 920/mo (2026) |
| Base | Lajes Field · Azores |
| Time zone | UTC+0 · Currency: euro |
| Cost of living | Roughly USD 1,600–1,850 a month. |
| Money · language · time | Euro (EUR) · Portuguese · UTC+0 |
Entering Portugal
Schengen rules: 90 days in any 180 without a visa. The EU Entry/Exit System is running. ETIAS pre-travel authorization has not started yet and no firm date has been set.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- D7 (passive income) visa: income at least Portugal's minimum wage (EUR 920/month in 2026), plus 50% for a spouse and 30% per child. Many consulates also expect about a year of that amount in savings. Applications go through AIMA, which has backlogs.
VA care and benefits in Portugal
No VA medical facility. FMP reimbursement. A Social Security Federal Benefits Unit is in Lisbon.
Vets in Portugal are already in the group
Ask about visas, hospitals and FMP claims from people who've done it there.
Healthcare
Residents can register with the national health service (SNS), but waits are long. Private insurance is required for the visa.
Where veterans live
- Algarve (Lagos, Tavira): Climate and English-speaking communities.
- Lisbon / Cascais: International, but rents have climbed.
- Porto: Second city.
- Terceira, Azores: Near Lajes Field.
Cost of living and property
Roughly USD 1,600–1,850 a month. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle, and health insurance is extra.
No restrictions on foreign ownership.
Watch out for
The old Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax break on pensions is closed to new residents. Expect normal progressive tax rates.
Veteran organizations
American Legion posts under the Department of France. See all veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
What is Portugal's D7 visa income requirement?
At least the Portuguese minimum wage, EUR 920 a month in 2026, plus 50% for a spouse and 30% per child.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.
