Best countries for expats to retire | Top 8 ones to know of

Best countries for expats to retire | Why is it necessary?

Retirement is one of those factors that everyone looks forward to. Of course, after working hard for so many years, it is quintessential to just relax. As a matter of fact, people these days choose to retire abroad to make the best of the years ahead. While choosing a retirement destination, there are many factors to consider. So, to help you make a perfect choice, here are the 8 best countries for expats to retire.

The eight best countries for expats to retire

#1. Costa Rica

Located in Central America between Panama and Nicaragua, Costa Rica is a beautiful country. It features lush jungles, pristine beaches, and expansive nature parks. With a tropical climate, sun-soaked landscapes, active outdoor culture, and friendly locals, it offers an excellent standard of living. This makes Costa Rica one of the best countries for expats to retire. The country is known for its affordable medical and living costs and a laid-back approach to life. Also, with its sustainable tourism practices and overwhelming natural beauty, Costa Rica is a sought-after tourist attraction.

#2. Panama

Listed amongst the best countries for expats to retire, Panama is a gorgeous country situated amidst the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean in Central America. It experiences a warm tropical climate with breezy weather conditions and pleasantly moderate temperatures. Home to stunning beaches, towering mountains, rolling hills, and grassy highlands, the country is all about natural beauty. All in all, with a safe living environment and excellent medical facilities, it is one of the best countries. Also, it houses several bustling cities with urban infrastructure, giving you the best of both worlds. 

#3. Mexico

From bustling cities to remote rural retreats and desert landscapes, Mexico is one of the best countries for expats to retire. Whether you are looking for a rustic atmosphere or all the modern amenities, Mexico has everything you need to enjoy a comfortable and relaxing life. All in all, situated next to the United States’ southern border, it enjoys a balmy climate and affordable living costs.

#4. Colombia

Touted as one of the best countries for expats to retire, Colombia features a perfect combination of cosmopolitan and colonial. Home to gorgeous beaches, thick rainforests, and majestic mountains, the country has something for everyone. With a highly affordable living cost and excellent healthcare infrastructure, it can serve as a beautiful destination for a life of ease and comfort. As a matter of fact, the application process for obtaining a visa to Colombia is very straightforward. There are several amazing cities in Colombia, like Bogata, Cartagena, Medellin, and so on.

#5. Portugal

Situated in Europe, Portugal is a charming country that houses sun-drenched beaches of the Algarve and the incredible cities of Porto and Lisbon. Counted amongst the best countries for expats to retire, it features an exceptional urban lifestyle and old-world charm. With a low living cost, world-class healthcare system, low crime rate, and friendly locals, Portugal is a pretty safe, affordable, and enjoyable country to retire in. Also, it is a highly admired and sought-after destination visited by thousands of tourists all around the year. 

#6. Ecuador

Ecuador is a mesmerizing country perched along South America’s west coast. It features a delightful combination of pleasant climate, vibrant cultural heritage, and rich environmental diversity. As a matter of fact, the country is perfect for enjoying a lovely retirement. It is the home to the thick Amazon jungle, the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands, and the breathtaking Andean highlands. With affordable prices, modern living amenities, and an easygoing lifestyle, it is known for being one of the best countries for expats to retire. With several gorgeous places that have remained unspoiled by commercialization, it is also an emerging tourist destination that welcomes thousands of visitors throughout the year. 

#7. France

All in all, France is a magnificent European country known for its haute cuisine, fine wine, and glamorous lifestyle. Dotted with modern cities, mountain retreats, sun-drenched beaches, and rural hideaways, it is listed amongst the best countries for expats to retire. With a top-tier healthcare system, modern living amenities, and reasonable housing costs, it is a great country to live in. France’s rich cultural heritage and laidback way of life add value to the life of the locals. In addition, the country features many places that attract many tourists from all over the world all year round. 

#8. Spain

Situated on the Iberian Peninsula, Spain is a melting point of diverse cultures and landscapes. Located along the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, it is home to sunny beaches. In addition to this, Spain is also famous for historic cities, scenic rural retreats, and snow-covered peaks. With a low cost of living and a relaxing atmosphere, Spain is considered one of the best countries for expats to retire. It also offers excellent healthcare services and all the modern living amenities you could want in your life of retirement. 

Key takeaways

• As a matter of fact, your retirement destination should allow you to enjoy the years ahead in comfort and ease. 
• Additionally, it is quintessential to ensure that the destination has a relaxing atmosphere and a low cost of living.
• So, choose one of the best countries for expats to retire listed above for a relaxing and pleasant experience.

Liked this blog? Then read Cost of living in Ireland | A quick guide to everything you must know!

FAQs

Question 1: Which are some of the other great countries to retire in?

Answer: In addition to those listed above, some of the other best countries for expats to retire, include Malta, Uruguay, Malaysia, Vietnam, Peru, Thailand, Cambodia, and Ireland.

Question 2: Which factors should I consider while choosing my retirement destination?

Answer: Some of the significant factors to consider while choosing your retirement destination include the cost of living, ease of owning and buying property, ease of obtaining a resident visa, cost of renting accommodation, and healthcare facilities.

Question 3: Do countries require any documentation to allow an individual to retire there?

Answer: Yes, to allow you to retire abroad, most countries usually ask for proof that you have a certain minimum income from social security, investment income, or pension.