Retirement is the time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. For many people, this means traveling and exploring new cultures. But with so many countries to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones are the best for retirees.
Retirees can find several countries in the world that have a low cost of living and quality lifestyle. In this article, you can find out the best countries to retire to, whether you’re an American retiree or an expat. Or you may just be looking for the best country on this list. Let’s start then.
Top Countries To Retire
The US News & World Report conducted a survey about countries. There are certain attributes on which the countries are ranked. They asked people who are at least 45 years old and who identify as upper-class members. According to the survey, the attributes are:
- Hospitality
- Is a place I would live
- Pleasant climate
- Favorable tax environment
- Affordability
- Property rights, and
- A well-developed public health system.
Let’s now take a look at these best countries for expats to retire.
New Zealand
The survey indicates that New Zealand is the best country to retire in the world. It’s located in the southeast of Australia. It is home to the great landscape such as beaches and great mountains. The country also enjoys an interest in tourism, from tourists from all around the world. New Zealand also offers a growing economy and great educational facilities.
If you want to retire in New Zealand, there are two visa options. One of them is The Temporary Retirement Category. According to this, you must be 66 years of age or older. The required investment for this category is at least NZ$750,000. You also need to have a proof of having settlement funds that amount to the same. Also, you must have an annual income of at least NZ$60,000.
The other option is The Parent Category. It requires you to have a child who is a resident or a citizen of New Zealand. Through this visa, you can stay in the country indefinitely. The required investment amount is NZ$1 million.
Switzerland
Switzerland ranks second in the list of the top countries to retire. It’s a small country but it’s one of the wealthiest countries in the world. The country offers you economic stability, safety, low corruption, and economic stability.
Switzerland offers a retirement visa for retirees worldwide. Criteria differ depending on whether you’re an EU or non-EU citizen. The country also provides a well-developed healthcare system. If you want to benefit from that, you need to enroll in the system. In addition, you must make payments on a monthly basis.
Spain
In the list of the best countries to retire, Spain is at the third rank. The country has a high quality of life in addition to its laid-back lifestyle. Also, Spain has a mild climate which anyone can adapt to easily.
While it’s easy for EU citizens to retire in Spain, there are some requirements for non-EU citizens. For example, you need to provide proof of funds, health insurance, and a valid passport.
An easy way to retire in Spain also exists through the Golden Visa Program. By investing in a qualifying option, you can become a resident of Spain. If you choose the real estate option, you’ll get both a house and residency right. The required real estate investment amount starts from €500,000.
Portugal
Portugal is especially among the best countries for American retirees. The country has a lot to offer including a mild climate and stunning beaches. Besides that, it offers a low cost of living and great healthcare services. Portugal is also a very safe country both in Europe and worldwide.
Like Spain, Portugal offers a Golden Visa Program as well. In addition, there’s a D7 Visa you can apply for. D7 Visa offers an easy retirement process for expats. If you have a regular passive income, you can apply for this program. As a result of this, you’ll get a legal residence with your family.
Australia
Among the best countries to retire 2022, Australia is listed as the fifth rank. The country also ranks second in the United Nation’s quality of life index. Like the other countries above, Australia has developed healthcare services and low crime rates. You can choose from two types of retirement visas, to retire in Australia. These are the Standard Retirement Visa and Permanent Retirement Visa.
In short, there are many best countries to retire to spend your retirement years. Don’t wait longer and relocate to one of them!
