For many, retiring abroad is an opportunity to live a peaceful and comfortable life. More and more countries are offering special programmes for senior citizens, combining access to healthcare, safety and a high quality of life. Find out which countries are in the top 10 best countries in the world to retire to
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More and more pensioners are considering moving abroad to live in comfortable conditions, enjoy security and have access to quality healthcare and social protection. A new ranking by Global Citizen Solutions has identified the countries that offer the best conditions for older people.
Experts evaluated countries based on 20 criteria, grouped into six key sub-indices: procedures for obtaining status, citizenship and mobility, economic situation, taxation, quality of life, as well as safety and integration. Each country was assigned a score on a 100-point scale.
Who are the leaders?
Portugal took first place with a score of 92.61 points. It is recognised as the safest country in Europe and offers a high quality of life. For pensioners who are not EU citizens, there is a D7 visa, which is issued to individuals with a stable passive income of at least €870 per month. After five years of residence under this status, you can apply for permanent residence or citizenship.
Second place goes to Mauritius. In Mauritius, pensioners over 50 can apply for a 10-year residence permit. To do this, you need to confirm an annual income of about $24,000. The warm climate, affordable housing and advanced healthcare make the country an attractive option for relocation.
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Top 10 best countries to retire to
Portugal
Mauritius
Spain
Uruguay
Austria
Italy
Slovenia
Malta
Latvia
Chile
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Frequantly
asked questions
Which countries offer special visas or residence permits for pensioners?
Portugal (D7), Spain (visado no lucrativo), Italy (elective residence), Malta (Retirement Programme), Cyprus, Greece, Mauritius (Retired Non-Citizen), Panama (Pensionado), Uruguay — all of them have clear tracks for people with passive income.
How much money do you need per month to live comfortably as a pensioner in Europe?
In Southern Europe, the benchmark is €1,200–1,800 per person (excluding rent in large cities). In capital cities and Scandinavia, it is €2,000–3,000+. It all depends on the city and lifestyle.
Where is the cheapest place to live abroad as a pensioner?
Most often — Portugal (not the capital), Greece, Spain (provinces), Bulgaria; outside Europe — Mauritius, Mexico, Panama, Thailand, Turkey (resorts outside of hype locations).