Moving abroad for retirement is thrilling, but it does require some challenging choices. The trick is to find a place where life is both rewarding and affordable and where your new country's culture appeals to you.
If you're considering retirement abroad but are unsure which country would be best for you. We have the perfect guide.
Best Countries to Retire: Worldwide Guide
Based on our Global Retirement Index
1: Spain – Top cultural hotspot
2: Portugal – A brilliant all-rounder
3: Costa Rica – Switzerland of Central America
4: Italy – The art of slow living
5: Greece – Best mix of culture and tradition
6: France – Enjoying the best of life
7. Cyprus (Republic) – Europe’s sunshine island
8. Ireland - The easiest place to settle down as English is the official language
9. Belize - Tropical beauty and charm
10: Cyprus (TRNC) – Affordable Mediterranean living
11: Turkey – Culture, climate, value for money
12: Malta – Enchanting island, unique character
13: Panama – Land of opportunities
14: Argentina – Something for everyone
15: Chile – Stargazing and wine
16: Germany – Stability, high standard of living
17: Mexico – Living well, simply and affordably
18: Dubai – Retirement in style and splendor
19: Malaysia – Top Asian retirement destination
20: Paraguay – Most affordable in Latin America
Already Retired Abroad? Please help us help new foreign retirees!
If you are an expat retiree, tell us about your country of choice by participating in the Expatra Global Retirement Survey. It only takes 1 minute to fill out. Your contributions are the foundation of our Annual Global Retirement Index and help thousands of would-be retirees find their ideal country to retire to.
Read on to find out why these countries are the best countries to retire in the world and discover which countries are best for you.
1. Spain
When it comes to the richness of culture, sunshine, and warm weather, no other country quite matches Spain. Is it any surprise that it’s a favored destination among retirees seeking to make the most of their new life abroad?
Spain is an enticing retirement option with its warm climate, abundance of activities, and diverse landscapes.
But let’s not forget about money matters. To become a resident, you must demonstrate a higher income in Spain than in Portugal. And sadly, Spain doesn’t give any special tax benefits for retirees.
But don’t let this deter you- affordable options are still available, specifically in areas like the Spanish Costas, perfect for a leisurely retired life. Permanent residents benefit from access to Spain's excellent public healthcare system, which is a significant advantage for retirees. Additionally, it's important to consider property taxes when evaluating housing costs, as they can impact your overall financial planning.
You can get a cozy 2-bedroom flat in Alicante, located in Costa Blanca, for around $180,000. If you prefer something closer to the Mediterranean Sea, a similar apartment in Manilva, Malaga, in Costa del Sol, boasts stunning ocean views for roughly $220,000. Imagine enjoying your morning coffee while taking in the sea views from your balcony.
Of course, Spain has a lot more to offer than just gorgeous views. Spain has you covered if you’re looking for a place with high living standards. It has the second highest life expectancy in the world, next to Switzerland, and is known for its excellent and cost-effective healthcare. It’s also one of the safest countries in the world, making it a great option for a comfortable retirement.
Highlights:
- Non-lucrative visa income requirements – minimum €26,000 ($29,500) per year.
- A 2-bed apartment on the beachfront, in the heart of Águilas, Murcia, with sea views – €110,000 € ($125,000).
- One of the lowest prices for health coverage – from $786 a month for a couple.
Read more about retiring in Spain, Spanish healthcare, visa options, taxes, and more in our Living In Spain guide.
All the information on moving post-Brexit is in our Living In Spain After Brexit guide for UK citizens.
2. Portugal
Seeking all the essential elements of a comfortable retirement destination without overstretching your savings? Portugal might tick all your boxes!
Have you ever wondered why Portugal is becoming a popular choice for retirees? The answer is simple: this beautiful European nation offers an amazing quality of life at a reasonable cost.
Love the sun? Then Portugal could be your ideal place to retire. It’s blessed with a warm, sunny climate that promises over 3,000 hours of sunshine every year.
Add to that its high life expectancy, charming local culture, and competitive real estate prices, with significantly lower housing costs compared to the United States, and it’s easy to see why Portugal has made its way onto our list.
But that’s not all. Portugal is also safe with a modern infrastructure, friendly locals, and a quality healthcare system. Legal residents can access the National Health Service, allowing them to register for public hospitals and health centers, paying for services as they go. All these factors make Portugal an appealing and affordable place for retirement.
With all these traits in its favor, it assures you of a sunny, contented, and reasonably affordable lifestyle.
Highlights:
- D7 visa financial requirements – minimum €12,000 per year.
- A reliable health plan for a couple – from $846 a month.
- Residency for investors under the Golden Visa program
Read more about living in Portugal, healthcare, visa options, and the NHR – a special tax regime for foreign retirees- in our Living In Portugal guide. Our Retiring To Portugal guide will help you plan your move to Portugal as an expat retiree.
Our Living In Portugal After Brexit guide will help UK citizens navigate the post-Brexit rules and regulations when moving to Portugal.
3: Costa Rica
Costa Rica has become a popular retirement choice, beating other American and European options.
Wondering what makes it special? Picture stunning views, peaceful beaches, amazing national parks, friendly locals, and a strong focus on wellness. It’s a one-of-a-kind mix that’s easy to adore! Additionally, excellent private health care is available and can be accessed through private insurance or cash payments.
Although it’s the most expensive South or Central American country, it’s noticeably cheaper than the European countries that surround it on our list.
You can find a lovely detached house in Jaco for around $120,000 or a secluded villa (with a pool!) for around $550,000.
Retirement visa income requirements are considerably lower than in Spain and Italy, and, better still, you don’t have to pay income tax!
If all this sounds too good to be true, it nearly is.
The only thing Costa Rica really falls down on is its national infrastructure.
There are plenty of unmade roads, but this isn’t a massive deal, and the amazing scenery certainly compensates for the extra time you might spend on the road!
Highlights:
- Pensionado Visa requires an income of just $1000 a month.
- There are no taxes on pension or investment income.
- Live green – more than 98% of its energy is renewable.
Read more about retiring to Costa Rica, the pros and cons, the cost of living, residency options, and more in our Living In Costa Rica guide.
4. Italy
Italy, known worldwide for its culture, earns its spot at number 4 mostly because of its amazing cultural appeal.
While Italy may not be the cheapest option, it excels in many other aspects, such as its superb climate, variety of beautiful locales, and extensive healthcare facilities. Expats can purchase health insurance to access private clinics and hospitals, ensuring high-quality care.
The cost of living in Italy can be a significant consideration due to its relatively high visa income requirements, which exceed those of Spain. Property costs vary greatly depending on the location.
For instance, a 2-bed apartment on the Adriatic Coast might only set you back $180,000, but a similar property on Lake Como could come with a $1.8 million price tag!
A potential way around these high property costs is taking part in Italy’s €1 property scheme. Keep in mind, though, that you would likely need to have funds set aside for refurbishments. But think of the fun – it could be your own little ‘Escape to the Chateau’ style project!
If you’re seeking more affordable options with stunning vistas, explore the southern regions of Italy.
Ultimately, Italy provides every essential element you might be seeking for your dream retirement, along with many delightful extras.
- Pensioners with a foreign-sourced income are taxed at a flat rate of 7% for the first ten years of residency if they move to Southern Italy.
- The elective residency visa (also known as the retirement visa) income requires a minimum of €31,000 ($35,000) a year for a single person.
- A reliable international health plan for a couple starts from $805 per month.
To learn more about retiring to Italy, your visa options and requirements, the cost of living, pros and cons, and more, read our Living In Italy guide.
5. Greece
Tourists have always loved Greece for its rich culture; now, more of us are choosing it as an ideal retirement destination.
It offers the same 7% flat tax rate for the first ten years of residency as Italy does, and property is considerably cheaper than in comparative European countries.
As with other Mediterranean countries, Greece has a reputation for great cuisine, a slow pace of living, and a climate that begs for outdoor living.
All this translates into a decent life expectancy (just ahead of Portugal) and flexibility in where (and how) you live while enjoying a Greek lifestyle.
One notable thing about Greece – more so than other tourist-heavy countries – is the clear difference between the high and low tourist seasons.
During winter, some islands can feel almost deserted and too quiet for most.
However, if a peaceful lifestyle is what you love most, this could be exactly what you’re looking for!
Highlights:
- A 4-bed house with Mediterranean sea views in Chania, Crete (a popular expert destination) can be found for around $283,000, enough to qualify you for Greek residency under the residence-by-investment program for non-EU citizens.
- Income requirements for a Financially Independent Person visa (the best option for retirement) – €2,000 a month for a single person.
- An international healthcare plan for a couple starts from $918 per month.
- Greece offers extensive healthcare facilities, including private hospitals that provide high-quality care.
To learn more about living in Greece, residency options, the
6. France
France ticks plenty of boxes as one of Europe’s best retirement destinations.
It’s well situated (and connected) within Europe, making it an ideal base for globe hoppers.
It’s safe, has great national infrastructure and healthcare services, and is often the benchmark for work-life balance. The availability and quality of health care in France are exceptional, with both public and private options accessible to residents.
After all, nothing says quality time, like a two-hour lunch break washed down with a few glasses of local wine.
On that subject, France has an incredible food and drink scene. This can come at a cost if you are not mindful of where in France you choose to live.
For example, property prices in Paris or the glitzy French Riviera need exceptionally deep pockets.
Don’t despair, though.
There are some amazing bargains if you research the regions well. You can find a 3-bed home in Normandy, Burgundy, or Lille for as little as $120,000.
Southern France is typically more expensive, but even in Provence, you can find an affordable property.
Highlights:
- If you take a company pension as a lump sum, you can qualify for a 7.5% flat tax with an uncapped 10% allowance, making France low-tax for retirees. Professional advice is a must!
- International healthcare for a couple starts from around $895 a month.
- Renovation properties can cost as little as $25,000.
You will find more information on living in France, property matters, the pros and cons, visa details, and more in our Living In France guide.
7. Cyprus Republic
Cyprus is a popular European holiday destination and stands out for permanent retirement.
The country has a robust infrastructure and life expectancy, and the cost of living is roughly the same as in Spain. The availability and quality of health care in Cyprus are excellent, with both public and private options accessible to residents.
Considering it’s an island, the property isn’t too expensive. You can find a 2-bed apartment in Larnaca for around $120,000.
But if you buy a house for a minimum of $350,000 and can prove an annual income of $30,000, you’ll get permanent residency under the residency-by-investment program.
One of its biggest draws is the weather – at 3,500 hours, Cyprus gets the most annual sunshine in Europe. However, this means very hot summers, so ensure your new house has air conditioning!
Highlights:
- A flexible tax system for retirees allows you to choose how to pay taxes every year: you can opt either for a 5% flat rate or the tiered system. If your annual income exceeds €25,000, the flat rate option starts saving you money.
- Well-connected and easy to travel to and from.
You can find more information about retiring to Cyprus, its healthcare, taxes, residency requirements, and more in our Living In Cyprus guide.
8. Ireland
If Guinness by a crackling fire or a stroll along windswept cliffs is what you want in retirement, then Ireland might just be your happily-ever-after.
Ireland offers top-notch healthcare, a strong social support system, and a level of safety and political stability that’s hard to beat. The cost of living can lean toward the pricier side, but it’s all about location. A charming cottage in the countryside or a home in smaller towns like Kinsale or Westport can be surprisingly affordable compared to the buzz of Dublin.
Renting is a popular option for retirees, with cozy village homes starting around €1,000 per month. If you’re eyeing something grander—a stone farmhouse overlooking a patchwork quilt of green fields—you’ll find plenty of options too.
From the rugged beauty of Connemara to the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, Ireland feels like stepping into a storybook. The pace of life here is slower, softer—a place where time stretches out just long enough for you to notice the magic in the little things.
And speaking of little things, there’s a deep sense of tradition in Ireland, woven into its music, its festivals, and even its food. A hearty Irish stew on a rainy day tastes like a warm hug for your soul.
English-speaking? Of course. Rich culture? You bet. Four seasons in a single day? Absolutely. But hey, that’s just part of the charm.
Highlights:
- Good healthcare: Reliable, accessible, and high-quality services.
- English-speaking country: No language barriers here—just friendly conversations.
If Ireland feels like the perfect fit for your retirement dream, dive into our Living in Ireland guide. Sláinte!
9. Belize
Belize, a small Central American gem, has quietly become one of the most appealing destinations for retirees. With its laid-back Caribbean lifestyle, English as the official language, and stunning natural beauty, it’s a place where you can truly unwind.
One of the biggest advantages of retiring to Belize is the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program, which offers substantial benefits for foreign retirees, including tax exemptions on income earned outside the country and duty-free importation of personal goods.
Property prices vary depending on the region. You can find lovely beachside homes starting around $150,000, while luxurious properties in Ambergris Caye or Placencia can go upwards of $500,000. Rental options are also affordable, with beachfront apartments starting at $1,200 per month.
The tropical climate is a dream for sunseekers, and the Belize Barrier Reef—one of the largest in the world—offers unparalleled opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and boating.
It is a great place if you are looking for sun, chill and not to far from the North America.
Highlights:
- QRP program benefits – Significant tax exemptions and duty-free imports for retirees.
- English-speaking country – No language barriers for English-speaking expats.
For a detailed overview of living in Belize, including costs, healthcare, residency requirements, and more, check out our Living in Belize guide.
10. North Cyprus TRNC
Understandably, most of Cyprus’s benefits also apply to North Cyprus.
The biggest difference is that it falls under the Turkish administration, which impacts immigration rules.
A massive advantage of living in North Cyprus is no tax on retirement income.
As such, it makes for an attractive choice, especially if you are a citizen of one of those countries that don’t need a visa to visit South Cyprus (US, UK, Canada, and many others).
Doing so means you can enjoy all the benefits of South Cyprus while residing there at a much lower cost.
Life in North Cyprus is very affordable.
You can find a 3-bed house in great condition with a swimming pool close to Girne (Kyrenia) for around $170,000. A 2-bed apartment in a popular location starts from $75,000.
You can rent a 2-bed apartment in the center of Kyrenia for as little as $450 a month.
A health insurance policy will cost around $928 for a couple, a few hundred dollars cheaper than South Cyprus.
However, you will find that local private insurance is really cheap, while medical services are well-developed and the hospitals are modern and well-equipped. Private health care can be accessed through private insurance or cash payments.
Highlights:
- No tax on retirement income.
- The same sunshine as in the Republic of Cyprus.
- Beautiful coastline and beaches, plus South Cyprus shopping and infrastructure available as Brits, USA citizens, Canadians, etc., can cross the border without a special visa.
To learn more about moving to North Cyprus, how much it costs, and the paperwork involved, visit our Living In North Cyprus guide. For further questions on retirement, read our Retiring To North Cyprus FAQ.
11. Turkey
Speaking of Turkish jurisdictions, Turkey itself is next on our list.
It’s a great option for retirees because there’s no tax on pensions, and the cost of living is super low.
A property can cost as little as $50,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment in Antalya, although a nicer apartment in the same area costs around $140,000.
Buying $400,000 worth of property gets you a full Turkish passport, making it an attractive option for expats. You can find more details in our Buying A Property In Turkey guide.
The climate is great, the country is rich in natural beauty, and it is breathtaking in some regions.
Turkey has a distinct culture, a fascinating blend of West and East.
You won’t find many places like it, and this, along with its inexpensive lifestyle, is arguably its biggest draw.
Highlights:
- Very cheap citizenship for investment option – $400,000 worth of property gets you a Turkish passport.
- Good healthcare – one of the top destinations in the world for medical tourism. Local private healthcare is very affordable, with private hospitals providing high-quality care.
- Simplified residency process – everything is online now.
- There is no tax on pensions.
To learn more about living in Turkey, the cost of living, healthcare, where expats live, and more, read our Living In Turkey guide.
Plus, we have a great guide on the best places to live in Turkey, which you’ll also find useful.
12. Malta
Rounding out the top 10 is Malta, a tiny island between Italy and Africa.
Many expats say that from the start, you either fall in love with Malta or don’t get it at all.
Malta can be expensive, noisy, and dusty, but if you love what it offers, the drawbacks won’t get in the way.
Malta is sunny, rich in history and heritage, relaxed, and safe. Despite being the tenth-smallest country in the world, property prices are still affordable.
Premium locations with great sea views can be pricey, but there are bargains if you venture off the coast.
For example, you can find a 2-bed apartment between Bugibba and St Paul’s Bay, close to modern amenities, with no sea views but not far from the coast, for around €155,000 ($176,000).
Malta has a special retirement program. To qualify, you must purchase or rent a property of a certain value and meet a few other conditions. You can find more details on this in our Living In Malta guide.
Tip: Are you looking for a peaceful retreat? Go to Gozo, you won’t regret it.
Malta’s not for everyone; it’s a pretty small island. But if size doesn’t matter, Malta could be the ideal place to enjoy your golden years.
Highlights:
- It is an epic location, as proved by how many great TV dramas and films were filmed there (Game of Thrones, Troy, and Gladiator, among others).
- It is easy to qualify for the retirement program, as you only need to own or rent a property in Malta as your principal place of residence in the world.
- 15% flat tax under the retirement program on income remitted in Malta.
- Malta’s Golden Visa scheme is the fastest route to EU citizenship.
- International healthcare for a couple starts from around $895 a month. Expats can purchase health insurance for access to private clinics and hospitals.
13. Panama
Panama isn’t a gigantic name on the global tourist scene, but its reputation among American retirees and other expats looking for an enticing retirement destination with a warm tropical climate continues to grow.
The retirement visa income requirement is just $ 1,000 per month. However, it should be lifelong and, when granted, comes with a wide range of benefits.
These include duty exemption on imported cars and household goods and, more unusually, a 50% discount on cinema tickets and a 25% discount at restaurants.
Its visa benefits and location in Central America have led to a cosmopolitan and diverse community that’s easy to integrate into.
Property is comparatively more expensive than in Costa Rica, its neighbor.
A 2-bed apartment in Bocas del Toro in Panama can set you back around $313,000.
However, Panama’s main advantage over Costa Rica is the visa benefits mentioned above. Besides, Panama has probably the best infrastructure in the entire region. The availability and quality of health care in Panama are excellent, with both public and private options accessible to residents.
Then, there are beaches straddled along the Pacific and Caribbean coastline, with gorgeous surrounding landscapes. Even if you live in Panama City itself (as many expats do), the best beaches are just a short drive away.
Highlights:
- Panama Retirement Visas (Visa Pensionado) – a minimum of $1,000 monthly to qualify.
- The visa comes with a huge list of discounts.
- No income tax on pensions.
To learn more about the opportunities available to expats, including the pros, cons, costs, and lifestyle, read our Living In Panama guide.
Check out our Retiring To Panama guide for further information.
14. Argentina
Argentina is Chile’s next-door neighbor, so it is fairly similar in terms of cultural appeal and weather.
However, as the second-largest country in South America (and the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world), there’s much greater diversity in where to live.
Argentina is a fascinating mix of Latin American and European cultures. Buenos Aires – the Paris of South America- has a strong European feel.
The country is huge and stunning, with 35 national parks. There’s something for everyone. Whatever you are looking for, you can almost certainly find it.
Much like its neighboring countries, you don’t have to pay income tax on pension income. Better yet, the cost of living is almost half that of Chile.
There are two visa options: the rentista visa for expats with passive income and the pensionado visa if you have a state lifelong pension.
Income requirements for the Pensionado visa – A minimum of 30,000 Argentine Pesos a month should come from the social security system in the country of origin.
For the rentista (the most suitable for retirees with various passive income sources), you need to demonstrate a minimum of $2,000 per month in passive income.
Argentina’s healthcare infrastructure puts it on par with more developed nations. Expats can purchase international health insurance to access private clinics and hospitals.
An international healthcare policy for a couple starts from around $817 a month, making it cheaper than in some European countries.
Highlights:
- You could buy a vineyard in Tunuyan for a cool $300,000!
- Argentinian cuisine is known for its religious reverence for steak.
- It is modern and urbanized, and for the more adventurous, rural areas have incredibly affordable properties.
Find out more in our Living In Argentina guide.
15. Chile
In most metrics, Chile is on par with its Central American neighbors.
Property prices are similar to those in Panama, although visa income requirements are higher.
You also don’t pay income tax on pensions, so you automatically have more money to play with than elsewhere.
Property in its capital, Santiago, is more expensive than elsewhere, but you can get some great value for your money.
Spending between $670,000 and $1.3 million could get you anything from a 2-bed apartment to a 5-bed villa with a pool.
However, if you’re up for a more interesting project, spending $43,000 could get you a riverside plot of land in Los Lagos – perfect for building your own home!
Being able to drive is a must, especially if you plan to explore. If you’ve ever driven in countries like New Zealand or Canada and been astounded by the tremendous mountain views, you’re going to love the driving experience in Chile.
Chile has excellent cultural appeal, and the weather isn’t to be sniffed at.
The country is such a long strip of land that you can choose your preferred climate. Settle down in the North for a dry desert climate. Opt for central areas for a Mediterranean feel. Go to the south for rainier maritime weather.
Chile is also famous for its beautiful starry skies with little light pollution and a clear view of the spectacular southern sky.
And let’s not forget the wine. Chilean wines are delicious and reasonably priced.
Highlights:
- Diverse landscape ranging from the Andes mountains to the driest place on Earth: the Atacama Desert.
- A fantastic choice for wine lovers – Chile is a hotspot for new-world wines.
- International healthcare plans start from around $1,200 for a couple. Chile offers both public and private health care options, with quality and affordability often praised by expats. Public health services are available to legal residents, while private insurance is required for certain visa types.
You can get more information about expat life in Chile, including the cost of living, where to live, the pros and cons, visa and residency options, and much more in our Living In Chile guide.
16. Germany
Germans have a reputation for being efficient and well-managed.
Unsurprisingly, the same is true for Germany. If well-managed, safe, and scenic, combined with four distinct, well-defined seasons, sounds appealing, Germany might be perfect for you.
Like its neighboring European countries, Germany’s cost of living and property is on the higher end.
However, you must balance this against the top-level infrastructure and public services (you’d be lucky to find a train running late in Germany!).
Winters in Germany are…well…wintery, which equates to fewer sunshine hours than every country on the list so far.
However, winter walks are magical; you could always take up skiing and skating to make the most of it.
It has great natural diversity, ranging from the northern coastline to the wintery Alpine regions of the south, which are great for hiking and being outdoors in all seasons.
Germany is a great choice if you’re looking for a country that’s not in a hot climate, runs like clockwork, and has wholesome food and some splendid beer.
Highlights:
- Amazing natural diversity.
- Top-quality healthcare. Germany offers both public and private health care options, known for their high quality and affordability compared to the United States.
- The coastline isn’t considerable; there are better choices if this is a top priority.
For more information on Germany, its pros and cons, cost of living, and more, read our Living In Germany guide.
17. Mexico
Mexico is famed for its cultural appeal, simpler lifestyle, and fantastic weather.
Its location ensures its position as one of the best countries to retire in for Americans who want to be close to the United States but also a country with a passionate cultural heritage and a lower cost of living.
Simplifying your lifestyle is the best way to destress and live longer and happier.
Add affordable property, a lower cost of living, good quality healthcare, amazing outdoors, and a good dose of sunshine, and what you get is a perfect recipe for a happy retirement.
The cost of living is about a third of that in the United States. Your US or Canadian dollar, British pound, or Euro go a long way when converted to Pesos Mexicanos.
The choice of locations is so big it can be a problem to decide where in Mexico you want to live.
Of course, there are quite a few expat hotspots, but their popularity pushes the prices.
A 2-bed house with breathtaking ocean views in Ensenada, Baja California, can be found for around $300,000.
Be prepared to pay around $179,000 for a decent 2-bed apartment somewhere like Quintana Roo or a bit more to get a nice villa in a more rural area.
Highlights:
- Quality private health insurance starts from around $1,500 a month and gets you services often on par with the USA. Private hospitals and specialists offer high-quality care at relatively low cost, making healthcare accessible and reliable.
- The quality of Mexican food and culture pretty much speaks for itself.
- Temporary residence income requirements – $2,400-$2700 a month.
To find out more about living in Mexico, the costs, pros and cons, and other details, read our Living In Mexico guide.
18. Dubai
Dubai, yes, we know, it’s not a country! It’s one of the major cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, it is probably the world’s most prominent expat hotspot, and with the Dubai Retirement Program being well underway, promising the very best of international living, it has a well-deserved place on our list, country or not!
Dubai has a reputation for opulence, which is no more obvious than how expensive it can be. The cost of property is on par with some Western European countries, and the cost of living is higher.
The weather in Dubai is exactly what you might expect: sunny, dry(with humidity), and very, very hot.
Temperatures drop to a cool 12 degrees C in the winter and rise to the mid-40s in summer. Almost everywhere is air-conditioned, so don’t expect to spend too long lounging in direct sun in July.
The country is an expat melting pot; around 90% of its population are foreign-born residents. Consequently, life here is tailored for expats and their needs.
You will find anything you want in terms of facilities and healthcare, comprehensive and modern.
One massive benefit of Dubai’s soaring wealth is its infrastructure.
Everything you need is within easy reach.
The shopping and hospitality scenes are top-notch, with endless activities and entertainment options.
Highlights:
- The sunniest nation in our top 20.
- International healthcare for a couple starts at around $1,500 a month. Expats can purchase international health insurance for access to private clinics and hospitals.
- No income tax in Dubai.
Read more about expat life in Dubai in our Living In Dubai guide.
19. Malaysia
Malaysia is the only Asian country in our top 20 and has plenty to offer as an interesting alternative destination.
Its low cost of living and location in Southeast Asia means it has a fast-growing expat population.
Many are drawn in by its retirement visa program, known as Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H), which gives you a long-stay renewable visa and government incentives.
Under this program, you must deposit a certain amount of money in the local bank account; the amount differs depending on the MM2H tier you have chosen.
Any money you bring into the country is tax-exempt, and after one year, you can withdraw a certain percentage from your deposit for a property purchase.
While the income requirements are certainly higher than in other countries on our list, obtaining a visa is arguably much simpler if you have the finances.
Combine this with its ideal location in Asia, decent cultural appeal, and amazing food, and you have an excellent choice for retirement. Expats can also purchase international health insurance for access to private clinics and hospitals.
Highlights:
- MM2H program is specifically designed to attract foreign investors over retirement age.
- It is close to Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and more.
- Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia have surprising cultural and economic differences, giving you distinct regions to settle down.
For more information, visit our Retiring To Malaysia Guide.
20. Paraguay
Paraguay’s main draw from a retirement perspective is its cost of living.
Although countries like Turkey and Argentina have lower everyday costs, property in Paraguay is about a sixth of that in the latter. Importantly, visa income requirements are very low, too; proving a monthly income of $1,300 provides various import tariff exemptions.
Paraguay is landlocked, so you should look elsewhere if the sea is an important factor.
As with other South American countries, it only has two seasons (wet and dry) but boasts more sunshine hours than its neighbors.
It would make a great base of operations for retirees wanting to explore more of South America.
You can easily travel throughout the continent, exploring and enjoying different countries and regions.
So, while there may not be a coastline in Paraguay, you can take your pick of the continent’s finest.
Highlights:
- No tax on foreign-sourced income
- Cheapest country in our top 20. Paraguay offers both public and private health care options, with quality and affordability that make it an attractive choice for retirees.
- It’s a stable, both economically and politically.
Find out more about this undiscovered paradise in our Living In Paraguay guide.
The 20 best retirement destinations – summary
And there we have it, the top 20 nations for retirement abroad.
We’ve provided a lot of inspiration to help you find your ideal place to retire.
Visiting these countries yourself is the best way to experience them. However, feel free to contact us if you have any questions about the places listed here.
With our large network of expat readers, we can connect you to the right people for more details.
How we evaluate each country: housing costs
The best foreign countries are the ones that give you the best compromise possible between living costs and everything that matters for a happy retirement.
The Expatra team annually evaluates the 40 most popular countries. Our main data source is the Expatra Global Retirement Survey, which asks retirees to rate their retirement destination’s infrastructure, climate, ease of settling down, value for money, safety, healthcare, and friendliness.
Other data sources include the Happy Planet Index, LivingCost.org, Global Property Guide, and World Population Review.
Healthcare costs are provided by our partners International Insurance.
