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Retirement Visa programs

Retirement visa programs are special immigration pathways that allow retirees to reside long-term in a foreign country. These visas typically offer extended stay periods, ranging from one year to permanent residency, depending on the country’s policies. They are designed for individuals who have reached retirement age and can demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.

Retirement Visa programs Benefits

Your own retirement goals may include:

  • Reduced tax exposure (inheritance, wealth, etc.).
  • A higher purchasing power and living standard.
  • Access to affordable, long-term healthcare.
  • Potential for long-term residency/ citizenship.
  • Visa free access to more countries for travel.
  • Educational or other benefits for self or family.
  • An alternative to citizenship by descent, citizenship by investment or nomad visas.

Retirement visa requirements

Eligibility differs by country and by applicant. We can help do a full eligibility assessment.

  • Your own circumstances – e.g., age, financial status, family makeup – establish eligibility.
  • The criteria differ for each country and program – monthly income, health cover, necessary residency periods, etc.
    Each country has its own requirements for:

Supporting documentation.

  • Proof of sufficient resources.
  • A personal interview (some countries only).
Program page Side

Request a price breakdown
and eligibility evaluation

Countries With The Best Retirement VISA Programs

Africa
Kenya Mauritius South Africa

Americas
Argentina Belize Brazil Chile Costa Rica
Dominican Republic Ecuador Mexico Nicaragua Panama
Uruguay
Asia & Oceania
Australia Cambodia Fiji Malaysia New Zealand
The Philippines Thailand

Europe
Greece France Italy Ireland Malta
Portugal Spain

Africa

Kenya, Mauritius, South Africa

America

Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Uruguay

Asia & Oceania

Australia, Cambodia, Fiji, Malaysia, New Zealand, The Philippines, Thailand

Europe

Greece, France, Italy, Ireland, Malta, Portugal, Spain

Retirement Visa programs Process

Due Diligence And Application

  • Complete our evaluation form (no charge).
  • Discuss your retirement goals and plans with one of our professionals and review feasible options.
  • Identify specific formalities that may be needed.
  • Complete the application forms and gather the required supporting documentation.

Approval And Investment

  • Submit your application to immigration authorities.
  • Processing time varies between countries.

Residency

  • Submit your application to immigration authorities.
  • Processing time varies between countries.

Contact us

With over 30 years of immigration experience, each of Harvey Law Group’s lawyers carefully studies each client’s needs, resources and determines the immigration solution that best aligns with our client’s vision and values.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most affordable country to retire in?

This will depend on the individual requirements of each client and their balance of spending on housing, healthcare, food and drinks as well as entertainment objectives.

how to get a retirement visa for thailand?

Thailand offers multiple long-term visas for retirees. The affordable LTR visa requires a minimum income or investment but allows work permits. The Elite visa, with a higher upfront fee, offers extended stays and perks but limits work options. Consider your budget and work needs to choose the best fit.

Is Asia a good place to retire to?

Yes, and places like Thailand, Malaysia and The Philippines all have a number of expat retirees living there already with their specialised retirement programs.

Which country is easiest to get permanent residency for retirees?

Various countries offer permanent residence options in return for a qualifying investment or some other benefit (e.g. bringing funds to the country or establishing a business).

What happens to my pension if I retire abroad?

Different countries have different rules for pension payments.

For example a UK State Pension will only increase each year if the recipient lives in the European Economic Area (EEA), Gibraltar, Switzerland or countries that have a social security agreement with the UK (note: you cannot get increases in Canada or New Zealand. There will be no yearly increases if the recipient lives outside these countries. https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-if-you-retire-abroad

In the USA, Social Security pension is still paid even when overseas. As a United States citizen, a recipient may receive their Social Security payments when living outside the United States as long as they are eligible for them. This applies to most overseas destinations. https://www.ssa.gov/international

Your work or personal pension scheme may have a different arrangement. Contact your pension provider for specific information about moving abroad.

What is an Expatriate retiree?

An expatriate or expat is a person who moves from their home country abroad – sometimes temporarily or often permanently. Retiring abroad has become an increasingly popular option. A growing number of people are choosing to live in another country after they retire. Some are looking for something new and exciting and some are looking to improve their standard of living or perhaps to enjoy a better climate, maybe even a healthier lifestyle or better healthcare or affordable nursing care.

Can I get a retirement visa myself?

Visa and residency requirements vary and for some people this whole process can be quite daunting as there are so many destinations available and so many factors to consider. Harvey Law Group is a professional immigration law firm and as such, has an obligation to advise a client on the destinations and programs most suited to their retirement goal. It is highly recommended that you work with a qualified attorney when making plans for retiring abroad.

What are the main requirements for a retirement visa?

For most countries, retirement visas are currently offered to those who are over the age of 55 with a specific monthly income which varies from country to country.

Is it a good idea to retire abroad?

For many people approaching their golden years, retiring abroad is rapidly becoming an achievable goal as more countries are offering a wide variety of visa options. An increasing number of people are starting to make a reality out of their dream of retiring overseas as there are opportunities for varying budgets and lifestyle choices. Retiring abroad has a number of benefits and depending on what is important, this could be to enjoy a new culture, perhaps travel to new places, enjoy a warmer climate, this list is endless.

Why consider retiring abroad?

Living overseas offers many perks, including a lower cost of living, new experiences, a better climate, and access to affordable healthcare. Meanwhile, remembering that retiring in a home country offers stability and convenience, and family and friends nearby all while staying in your comfort zone. Retiring abroad is an important decision.

Will I need to pay tax if I retire abroad?

Tax laws vary from country to country and clear, professional advice is needed from a tax consultant. Even though one may be living in another country, one may find that taxes back home are still due.

How much money do I need to retire abroad?

This depends on which destination is of interest. Many retirees like to think about accessible, affordable healthcare which can be found in many overseas destinations. Fortunately for most countries, income can come from a variety of sources, including a pension, social security or income from investments.

What happens to my will if I retire abroad?

A will made in a home country will not necessarily deal with assets in the same way because of local laws. Therefore, it is important to make a will in every country where assets are held.

What should I consider before retiring abroad?

Retiring abroad requires careful planning. Consider visa options, healthcare quality, cost of living, language barriers, climate, natural disasters, infrastructure, currency fluctuations, taxes, transportation, ease of travel, time zones, communication, food, political and economic stability, religion, pollution, housing options, desired lifestyle, volunteer opportunities, and the expat community size.

Will I have the same healthcare available to me while I’m abroad?

It is advisable to do some research to find out what healthcare options are available in the destination country. It may be different to what is allowable in a home country and it may be better and more affordable. In many countries, there will be some costs involved in healthcare and health insurance may be required at first, or you may be asked to pay some of the cost of treatment or even the full cost of any medical treatment.

What is the usual retirement age eligible?

Generally, retirement visas programs have a minimum age limit. This is to ensure you’re truly retired and won’t be competing in the local job market. Most countries set the bar somewhere between 50 and 55 years old.