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What should you consider? -

There are a number of factors to consider when planning your big move. Things like safety, quality of life, and culture should be on your list.

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Retirement options -

In this gallery, we share several countries with retirement visa options, providing some information for your consideration. Is one of your dream destinations on the list?

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Retiring in Portugal -

Portugal offers the passive income visa (also known as the D7 visa), a popular option for many retirees seeking to make the move abroad.

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Income requirements -

Portuguese authorities require that you have a steady income of €860 (approximately US$930) per month, which is the nation’s minimum wage as of 2025.

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How is the minimum income calculated? -

This minimum income can be calculated not just based on your pension, but any other type of passive income that you have, including rentals and investments.

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Path to citizenship -

What’s quite attractive about Portugal is that after five years of residency, you also qualify to apply for citizenship.

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Retiring in Spain -

Portugal’s only neighbor, Spain, is another popular European destination for retirees through its Non-Lucrative Visa.

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Income requirements -

Although the quality of life is quite similar between the Iberian nations, one great variance is the minimum income to qualify for the visa, which is €2,150 (about US$2,330) per month.

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Citizenship challenges -

If part of the appeal to move abroad is to acquire another citizenship, you’ll have to live in Spain for 10 years before applying and might have to give up your national passport.

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Retiring in Indonesia -

Not looking for a long-term relocation plan? How about enjoying some years on one of Indonesia’s extraordinary beaches?

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Visa duration -

The Republic of Indonesia offers senior citizen visas that have a duration of one year and are renewable for a total of six years. But don’t fret, if you want to stay after a few years, you can apply for permanent residency.

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Income requirements -

To apply for Indonesia’s retirement visa scheme, you’ll need to demonstrate an income of US$1,500 per month. You’ll also need a series of insurances.

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Retiring in Thailand -

Thinking of another warm location? How about Thailand? The Kingdom of Thailand offers a Non-Immigrant “O-A” (Long Stay) Visa for retirees.

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Visa renewal -

Similar to Indonesia’s program, visas are renewable on an annual basis for one-year periods, as long as they continue to fulfill the requirements.

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Retiring in Ecuador -

Have you ever considered spending retirement exploring South America? Do the Andes mountains, the Amazon jungle, and the Galápagos Islands seem appealing to you?

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Much to explore -

Consider Ecuador as an option for a retirement adventure.  Incredible nature, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine await your discovery.

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Income requirements -

In addition to an FBI background check, you’ll need to have an income of US$1,475 per month to qualify for Ecuador’s retirement visa.

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Path to permanent residency -

If you choose to say, you can apply for permanent residency after just 21 months, as long as you don’t leave the country for more than 90 days within that period.

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Retiring in Argentina -

Another South American choice is Argentina. Is Patagonia on your bucket list? This is the perfect time to explore one of nature’s wonderlands.

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Exploring Buenos Aires -

Buenos Aires is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, attracting expats from around the globe due to its diversity and options.

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Argentina's rich culture -

The influence of European architecture continues to captivate visitors, so even if nature isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to explore. Why not consider a few tango lessons to really get into the spirit of the country’s rich culture?

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Income requirements -

To qualify for a retirement visa, you’ll need an income of US$1,390 per month. The cost of living in Argentina is significantly lower than the US and most European nations, making it an attractive option.

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Retiring in Costa Rica -

If you’re thinking of exploring Central America, why not start with Costa Rica? Live the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle in Central America’s safest country.

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Great healthcare system -

Costa Rica also has an incredible universal healthcare system, if that’s an important quality for you to consider. All legal residents have access to public hospitals and clinics.

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Extraordinary nature -

Rainforests and dreamy beaches await your visit. The country’s beauty and safety has attracted a significant group of expats, so you’ll definitely have foreign company if you choose Costa Rica as your retirement destination.

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Income requirements -

Costa Rica's retirement visa requires that you have a minimum income of US$1,000 per month, another reason it’s so attractive to retirees. With a lower cost of living than the US and most European nations, you can have a high quality of life in the country.

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Retiring in Panama -

Another Central American option is Panama. Although the cost of living isn’t as low as Costa Rica, it’s still lower than most of the US and most European nations, meaning you can have a good quality of life.

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Income requirements -

Panama’s retirement visa requires that you have a minimum income of US$1,000 per month to qualify, making it an attractive option for retirees.

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Many benefits to Panama -

Panama is one of the world’s top expat destinations. With affordable housing, modern infrastructure, and a pleasant climate, it’s worth your consideration.

Sources: (Visa Guide) (Digital Emigre) (Investopedia) (Market Watch) (AXA Travel Insurance)

See also: The best places to retire in 2025

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