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Support for Older Migrants in Portugal

Healthcare, Loneliness, Activities & Financial Help

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What is it about?

Getting older can be difficult, especially if you are far from home. Many older migrants may feel lonely or need help with daily life, health, or money.

This article explains some types of support, how to apply, and/or where to get more information.

Financial Help

Solidarity Supplement for the Elderly (CSI)

What is it?

A monthly payment for people with low income.

Who can get it?

  • Over 66 years and 5 months
  • Lived in Portugal for at least 6 years
  • Have low income and little savings

How much?

Up to €630 per month (can also give discounts on medicines, doctors, glasses, dental care, and energy bills).

How to apply:

  1. Online: Segurança Social Direta → Pensões → Complemento Solidário para Idosos
  2. Or in person: At a Social Security office (Serviço de Atendimento da Segurança Social).

Documents you need:

  • Citizen Card or Residence Card
  • Tax Number (NIF)
  • Social Security number
  • Proof of residency and income.

Daily Support and Healthcare

Home Help (Serviço de Apoio Domiciliário – SAD)

Workers visit your home if you cannot manage daily tasks. They help with:

  • Washing, hygiene, and cleaning
  • Cooking or meal delivery
  • Transport to medical appointments
  • Social activities and safety devices (e.g., tele-assistance)

How to apply:

  • Ask at your local Parish Council (Junta de Freguesia) or Social Security office
  • You can also contact your local Misericórdia (charity organisation) or private social institutions (IPSS)

Residential Care Homes (Nursing Homes – Lares de Idosos)

Safe homes where older people can stay permanently or temporarily. They provide:

  • Medical and personal care
  • Meals and activities
  • Social contact while staying close to family

How to apply:

  • Through Social Security, your Parish Council, or directly at a licensed care home
  • Ask for a place (“pedido de vaga”) and bring ID, health card, income proof, and medical report

Family Caregiving (Acolhimento Familiar)

Families can look after older relatives at home. This provides a safe, loving environment and can delay the need to move into a care home.

How to apply:

  • Register through Social Security offices
  • A formal agreement is signed with the caregiver family and Social Security

Fighting Loneliness

Community Centres (Centros de Convívio)

  • Offer activities, games, and cultural events
  • Help older people make friends and avoid isolation

How to apply:

  • Ask at your local Parish Council or Community Centre.

Day Centres (Centros de Dia)

  • Spend the day with others, enjoy meals, join activities, and return home in the evening

How to apply:

  • Contact your Parish Council or Social Security
  • Application usually requires ID, proof of address, and health card

Night Reception Centres (Centros de Noite)

  • For older people who feel lonely or unsafe at night
  • You can sleep there in a safe environment and return home during the day

How to apply:

  • Apply through Social Security or at the centre directly

Holiday and Leisure Centres (Centros de Férias e Lazer)

  • Trips, group activities, and holidays
  • A break from routine, relaxation, and new friendships

How to apply:

  • Ask at Community Centres, Social Security, or senior associations in your area

Support for Portuguese Citizens Abroad

Social Support for Disadvantaged Older Emigrants

  • For Portuguese citizens aged 65+ living abroad who are in serious need
  • May include financial help, medical support, or family assistance

How to apply:

  • Contact your Portuguese Consulate or Embassy
  • They will request documents proving your situation

Visiting Portugal for Disadvantaged Older People Abroad

  • For Portuguese citizens aged 65+, living outside the EU, who have not visited Portugal in more than 20 years or cannot afford the trip

How to apply:

  • Apply through your Portuguese Consulate.
  • Provide proof of age, citizenship, and financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this service.

Yes, you may qualify for the Solidarity Supplement (CSI). Apply online or at Social Security.

Where we are

Rua Carvalho Araújo 66-B
1900-140 Lisboa
Portugal

How to Get Here

  • Metro: Linha Verde (Green Line) - Alameda Station
  • Bus: 708, 730, 742, 794

Opening hours

Mon, Tue, Thu
10:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30
Wednesday (Extended)
Until 19:30
Friday
Until 18:30
No appointment needed. Just walk in.

Contact info

+351 964 809 959