As anyone researching a retirement home for themselves or their loved ones has found, finding such accommodation in the UK can be very expensive. Added to that, properties can often be rather uninspiring despite the cost, and the gloomy, cold autumn and winter months don’t particularly help lift the spirits either.
However, just as many younger Britons are looking to bring up families, work and live abroad in cheaper, sunnier climes as the cost of living continues to relentlessly rise in the UK, there’s a growing trend for retirees to do the same – especially as social care and the NHS are more challenged than ever.
Medical advances and a greater emphasis on keeping healthy mean that today’s retirees are in a much better position to consider a move abroad than those in the past.
We’ve researched some of the best retirement home options in a diverse range of locations around the world, which are often cheaper, sunnier and warmer than their UK counterparts.
We’ve outlined some of the basic visa or permit requirements for each country, but further requirements are typically needed (which could include proof of medical insurance, a criminal record check, restrictions on working in the country, extra costs for other family members etc) and further research into the minimum requirements is needed. Taxation for foreigners in each country can vary greatly, too.
Cambodia
With its low cost of living, friendly locals and spellbinding scenery, Cambodia is an exciting place for retirees to settle down.
The country enjoys a warm tropical climate all year, without harsh winters or extreme heat, and there are modern hospitals and clinics providing a high standard of affordable care, with many doctors speaking English.
Siem Reap, in northwest Cambodia, has long been a popular retirement destination and has a fast-growing expatriate community. As well as fascinating culture and historical attractions, it offers a safe and slower-paced lifestyle, as well as plenty to do. Retirees can visit markets and museums, enjoy world-class golf courses, attractive hiking trails, boat trips, and even visit nearby 12th-century Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a bucket-list attraction for many.
Retirees in Siem Reap, Cambodia, can visit markets and museums, enjoy world-class golf courses and visit 12th-century Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world
The red tape
To qualify for an annual retirement visa (cost £215) you must be at least 55 years old – although there have been a few exceptions. You need proof you are retired in your home country (for example a pension or social security documentation, proof of medical insurance coverage), as well as adequate funds to support yourself, via a bank statement, for example. The retirement visa does not permit working in Cambodia.
Accommodation
Sullivan Retirement Residence, built in 2024, is located a five-minute drive from the centre of the resort town of Siem Reap. It has snazzy, contemporary one- and two-bedroom apartments for up to two adults from £1792 per month. Utility bills, internet, cleaning, 24-hour security, weekday lunch and dinner, onsite drivers, a communal pool, bar, yoga studio, group activities and an on-call doctor are all included. Retirement visa documentation can be completed annually by their legal consultants.
Sullivan Retirement Residence has snazzy, contemporary apartments, a communal pool, bar and yoga studio
Spain
Spain is seen by many as one of the best places to retire abroad, boasting outstanding natural beauty, a low cost of living, a healthy lifestyle, great climate, fabulous cuisine and good infrastructure.
The red tape
Retirees can opt for Spain’s non-lucrative residence visa (NLV), which currently requires applicants to have savings of at least €28,800 (£25,222). Applicants also need to show that they have the means to live in the country without working, and that they have comprehensive healthcare cover.
The visa can be extended for four years, and after five years it is possible to request a permanent residency permit. Valid for 10 years, this grants access to the Spanish state healthcare system and other benefits available to citizens and permanent residents. Spouses, unmarried partners and dependent children or relatives are also eligible to obtain accompanying visas.
Accommodation
Rental prices start at €1,000 (£878) per month for a one-bedroom unfurnished unit at Colina Club, Alicante. Located in the tranquil hills above Calpe, it boasts wonderful sea views, has a swimming pool, wellness club, minibus service and a regular calendar of social activities. The property is also a 10-minute drive from the Penyal d’Ifac Natural Park.
Located in the tranquil hills above Calpe, the Colina Club in Alicante has a regular calendar of social activities
Thailand
Thailand offers an intoxicating mix of affordability, a welcoming culture, a warm and sunny climate, excellent healthcare, good infrastructure, and natural beauty – from bustling cities to peaceful villages, picturesque mountains to pristine beaches. It has established expat communities, with the most popular locations for expats to retire including Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Pattaya and Hua Hin.
The red tape
Retirement visas are available for those aged 50 or older, able to deposit THB 800,000 (£18,335) into a Thai bank for at least two months, show a monthly income of at least THB 65,000 (£1,489), or have a combined security deposit or annual income totalling THB 800,000 (£18,651.07). Retirees are also required to show proof of health insurance. The visa must be renewed annually, but this can be done an unlimited number of times.
Thailand has established expat communities, with the most popular locations for expats to retire including Phuket
Baan Lalisa in Phuket offers nursing care in a resort-style environment
Accommodation
Baan Lalisa at Rawai Beach, Phuket, offers nursing care in a resort-style environment with a physical therapy clinic, activity and dining rooms, a swimming pool, fitness centre and gardens. Stays cost from THB 20,000 (£458) a month for an ensuite room, with services offered including a range of social activities, personalised care plans and daily physical therapy.
Germany
Currently hosting over 20,000 British pensioners, Germany is becoming an increasingly popular choice of retirement destination. The country offers a high quality of life, historic cities and beautiful countryside, excellent healthcare system and infrastructure.
The red tape
While there is no specific retirement visa in Germany, non-EU citizens can apply for a long-term residence permit, of which there are different types. If you have a close family member who is a German citizen, you may be eligible for a family reunification visa, allowing you to live in Germany with them. If you move to Germany a few years before retirement, you can apply for a work visa so that you can work and live in the country long enough to be able to apply for a Settlement Permit, for permanent residence. Highly skilled workers can apply for an EU Blue Card and obtain permanent residence in four years or less. There are also self-employment visas, which require proof of adequate financial resources and a viable business plan.
One-bedroom modern, bright, comfortable apartments at The Flag in Attendorn, near Cologne, start from £382 per month
Accommodation
One-bedroom modern, bright, comfortable apartments with a kitchen and fitted shower at The Flag in Attendorn, near Cologne, start from €440 (£382) per month, plus ancillary charges. There’s a spacious common room and sizeable roof terrace and events like film viewings, games, singing and music groups, sports, excursions and assistance with administrative tasks and the use of digital media.
Cyprus
Cyprus is one of the most popular retirement destinations in the Mediterranean, and has an existing expat population of around 150,000. Indeed, Paphos in Cyprus is often called ‘the city of retirees’. As well as more than 300 days of sun each year, stunning scenery and a low cost of living, Cyprus has very good tax benefits, where pensions can be zero rated for tax at source and taxed in Cyprus at just five per cent. There is also no inheritance tax – an attractive prospect for those wishing to leave a legacy for their children.
Cyprus is one of the most popular retirement destinations in the Mediterranean, and has an existing expat population of around 150,000
The red tape
Cyprus’s Category F visa has an income requirement of €9,568 (£8,307) a year, which can come from your pension, investments, royalties, dividends or rental properties outside Cyprus. It also does not require residents to invest in Cyprus-based property, and can cover both spouses and dependent children. The visa is of unlimited validity, but must be renewed every ten years.
Accommodation
Apart from short-term care and nursing homes, retirement homes to rent long-term are rare in Cyprus. However, retirement villages are beginning to appear, such as Cypress Park Retirement Village in Paphos, which currently has studios and apartments available starting from €190,000 (£165,000). The gated community for over-60s will have round-the-clock security, a clubhouse, indoor and outdoor heated pools, a gym, restaurant/cafe, mini-market and on-site medical centre.
Cypress Park Retirement Village in Paphos will have round-the-clock security, a clubhouse and indoor and outdoor heated pools
Malaysia
Exotic Malaysia offers everything from tranquil beaches and dramatic mountain scenery to bustling, exciting cities. Malaysia offers a tropical climate (that is hot and humid in wet seasons), good infrastructure, a sizeable expat community and a low cost of living. Foreign income is tax-free. English is widely spoken and used on road signs, and the country drives on the left.
The red tape
Retirees can apply for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, a golden visa initiative that allows foreigners to reside in Malaysia on a long-term basis. For those over the age of 50, you must show proof of over RM 35,000 (£6,265) in liquid assets, and an offshore monthly income of at least RM 10,000 (£1,790). While the permit does not allow permanent residency, it does enable the holder to bring accompanying family.
Accommodation
Sunway Sanctuary, located 25 minutes from Kuala Lumpur centre in the state of Selangor, is unusual: the property is situated within its very own town with a theme park, university, hotels, spa resorts, private residences and 1,000 shops and restaurants. The community offers both independent living and assisted living options, and is attached to a private hospital, offering round-the-clock health support. The contemporary independent living units start at RM8,800 (£1,550) per month, and amenities include a saltwater infinity pool, private cinema, karaoke lounge, billiards room, gym, art studio and library.
Sunway Sanctuary, located 25 minutes from Kuala Lumpur, is unusual as the property is situated within its very own town
Portugal
Portugal is a particularly attractive option for retirees due to its warm climate, affordability, sizeable ex-pat community, good and accessible healthcare, good infrastructure and safe, stable environment. As of 2025, the country is known to be home to over 100,000 pensioners – many of whom are British.
The red tape
While Portugal doesn’t have a specific retirement visa, the D7 Visa is well-suited to UK retirees; it is income rather than employment-based, and doesn’t require any investment in property or a business. The minimum income required is around €870 (£757) per month (approximately 100 per cent of Portugal’s minimum wage). The visa grants temporary residency for an initial period of two years, and after five years you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship. D7 visa holders can access Portugal’s public healthcare system and other resident benefits, as well as freedom to travel in the Schengen area.
Monte da Palhagueira sits in the tranquil hills of Gorjoes, near Faro in the Algarve
Accommodation
Sitting in the tranquil hills of Gorjões, near Faro in the Algarve, Monte da Palhagueira retirement village and nursing home for the over-55s has villas, houses and apartments, with qualified medical assistance on hand should it ever be required. Its cobbled streets framed with bougainvillea and fragrant almond blossom are augmented by landscaped grounds, an ornamental lake, fine dining restaurant, swimming pool and clubhouse, and the region’s only consecrated Anglican church. Rates vary depending on the service required, however for a resident requiring care, a room with an ensuite bathroom starts at around €1,140 (£1,000) per week.
Mexico
Mexico is a popular retirement location due to the low cost of living, warm climate and established ex-pat communities. It also offers lower cost healthcare, diverse cuisine and vibrant culture, as well as natural beauty from beaches and lakes to mountains and jungle.
Mexico is a popular retirement location due to the low cost of living, warm climate and established expat communities
The red tape
While there’s no particular retirement visa, British citizens can enter the country with a Temporary Resident Visa, which can be converted to a Temporary Residence Card upon arrival. In order to obtain the permit, the retiree must show proof of funds equalling MXD 128,980, (£5,170), or a stable monthly income of at least MXD 76,935 (£3,084) during the six months prior to application.
Accommodation
Mi Casita Nursing Home and Assisted Living Centre is located in central Mexico, in the village of Ajijic on the shores of Lake Chapala, the largest lake in Mexico. There is an estimated expat community of around 20,000, mostly from the United States and Canada. Situated in the central highlands, it has a great climate and is surrounded by wonderful scenery. Renting an ensuite room costs from US$1900 (£1,415) per month, and there’s an enclosed patio for social gathering. The community is also within walking distance of restaurants, shops and Lake Chapala. The village has a mix of quaint, authentic Mexican homes and shops as well as more familiar American chains like Walmart and Domino’s Pizza.
Mi Casita Nursing Home and Assisted Living Centre has an enclosed patio for social gatherings
Italy
With its rich culture and history, beautiful landscapes, affordability, great climate, good health system and high quality of life, it’s no surprise that Italy is a longstanding, popular retirement choice.
The red tape
The visa for retirees is called the Elective Residency Visa, and requires a minimum annual income of €31,000 (£27,221), which needs to be stable, passive income and not from employment. Applicants are required to demonstrate a genuine intention to reside in Italy permanently and have a suitable place to live, for example by providing a rental agreement or owned property. The visa does not allow you to work in Italy.
Villa Canova is located in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Venice, full of art and architectural treasures
Accommodation
Villa Canova, in Florence, offers assisted living for those aged 65 and above. As well as healthcare, the property hosts numerous recreational activities, from painting and sculpture, to live events like theatre and music. And, of course, there is the bonus of being located in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, full of art and architectural treasures. Rates start at around €3,300 (£2,870) per month for private residents.
Switzerland
This central European country is certainly a destination for wealthy retirees – but what it lacks in affordability it makes up for with its variety, efficiency, financial and political stability and infrastructure. With four distinct linguistic regions (German, French, Italian and Romansh) and beautiful, dramatic landscapes, there’s a lot packed into a small area.
The red tape
For a retirement visa, non-EU citizens must be aged at least 55, show they have adequate funds to live without working, establish Switzerland as their main residence and agree not to obtain employment in the country. Applicants must also demonstrate a strong connection to the country, such as through family ties, frequent visits or previous residency.
Accommodation
As its name suggests, Residenza Du Lac is located near Lugano’s historic heart amongst spectacular views of Lake Lugano and mountains. This swish retirement home offers such things as art previews, shopping visits, cookery classes and a shuttle service into Lugano. There’s nursing staff on hand, wellness and fitness facilities, and – as well as a top notch restaurant – there is a luxurious lounge, bar and lakeside terrace. A two-bed apartment costs from CHF 6,000 (£5,636) per month.
Residenza Du Lac is located near Lugano’s historic heart amongst spectacular views of Lake Lugano and mountains
Costa Rica
With a low cost of living, natural beauty, good affordable healthcare, friendly people and climate diversity ranging from warmth and sun throughout the year on the coast to more temperate weather in mountainous regions, it is not surprising that Costa Rica is a popular retirement destination. More than 70,000 expats live in the country – many of whom are British.
The red tape
In order to obtain a two-year temporary retirement visa, retirees are required to show a minimum monthly income of US $1,000 (£744) from either a pension or an alternative retirement fund. Income from other sources is possible, but a higher minimum amount is required. There is no minimum age to qualify. Pension visa holders may establish a business or work on their own, but not as employees.
Accommodation
Located in the Central Valley in Coyol de Alajuela, Villa Alegría is an assisted living facility specialising in Alzheimer’s and nursing home services, with just seven bedrooms. Residents are both short and long-term. Costs start at around US$2000 (£1,488) per month for a private room including meals, medical care, physical therapy and activities.
More than 70,000 expats live in Costa Rica – many of whom are British
Villa Alegría is an assisted living facility specialising in Alzheimer’s and nursing home services, with just seven bedrooms
Greece
There’s lots of reasons to consider retiring to Greece. As well as the affordability, the Mediterranean climate, diet and lifestyle are known to be very healthy. Many areas have a welcoming expat community, and there’s a decent healthcare system, rich history and culture, and a relaxed pace of life.
The red tape
‘Golden visas’ are available, but require significant property investment of €250,000 (£219,522) or more. However, you can retire in Greece without buying a property by opting for a Financially Independent Person visa, which is for non-EU citizens with a stable, passive income such as pensions or investments of at least €3,500 (£3,039) per month. Evidence of accommodation through a rental agreement rather than a property purchase is required.
Accommodation
Eternal Olive Retirement and Wellness Village in sunny Crete is ideally located, being next to the biggest and most equipped hospital in Crete, near Heraklion city centre and Heraklion Airport. Beaches are under four miles away. Activities like arts and crafts, and visits to archaeological sites and vineyards are organised. Accommodation is bright and contemporary, and there are inviting lounge, bar and restaurant areas, as well as two heated pools, two gyms, a medical centre and massage and physiotherapy facilities.
Eternal Olive Retirement and Wellness Village in sunny Crete is bright and contemporary with an inviting lounge, bar and restaurant areas, as well as two heated pools
Panama
International Living’s latest Global Retirement Index named Panama as the world’s best retirement destination in 2025. It’s hardly surprising: Panama has a low cost of living, a stable economy and political system, good healthcare and infrastructure, gorgeous landscapes including spellbinding mountains and beaches, and of course the lovely, sunny climate. There is no tax on foreign income.
The red tape
The minimum monthly income required for a retirement visa (which costs £297 to purchase), is US $1,000 (£744). You can add your spouse’s income to meet this amount. If you purchase property in the country valued at US$100,000 (£74,435) or more, the monthly requirement drops to US$750/£558. The visa provides a number of discounts and perks, including restaurants, public transport and healthcare.
Accommodation
There are very few private, assisted-living facilities in Panama, as it’s usual for families to care for older relatives. However, Insignia, located in Panama City, stands out. Offering assisted living, independent living and memory care (such as for Alzheimer’s and dementia), it costs from around $2,500/ £1,860 monthly. There are wellness and medical professionals, and social events and activities are organised. Meals are certified by nutritionists.
Panama has a low cost of living, a stable economy and political system, good healthcare and infrastructure, gorgeous landscapes and a sunny climate
Malta
With its attractive Mediterranean lifestyle, low cost of living, excellent weather all year round and a high standard of living, Malta is a great place for retirement. Its favourable tax conditions, good healthcare system, sizeable expat community with a strong English-speaking presence, safety and security and rich history add to its attraction.
The red tape
The Maltese Retirement Programme is a dedicated scheme where you are required to own a property in Malta worth from €220,000 (£191,000) or rent one from €8,750 (£7,597) a year, depending on location. Applicants must be over 50 years old, require health insurance issued in Malta, and must receive a pension that constitutes at least 75 per cent of their total income.
With its attractive Mediterranean lifestyle, low cost of living, excellent weather all year round and a high standard of living, Malta is a great place for retirement
The Imperial, located at Sliema, offers various types of care, including independent living, assisted living for those needing daily support and specialised memory care
Accommodation
The Imperial, located at Sliema, offers various types of care, including independent living, assisted living for those needing daily support and specialised memory care for dementia patients. Its central location provides easy access to medical facilities, pharmacies, and emergency services, ensuring residents receive prompt care. Sliema has seaside promenades and cafés, encouraging social interaction and mental well-being, and the area’s accessibility to public transport and amenities enhances residents’ independence and quality of life. Amenities include an indoor pool, games room, hair salon and coffee shop. Accommodation starts at around €3,600 (£3,125) per month for a single room with an en-suite bathroom, a nurse-call system, TV and air-conditioning.
Chile
Chile is one of South America’s safest countries and a popular retirement destination, offering a low cost of living, good infrastructure in cities and a well-developed healthcare system. It has stunning natural beauty, from its mountain range running the length of the country, creating a central valley between it and the Andes, to its picturesque coastal beaches, fjords and islands.
The red tape
Chile’s Retirement/Rentista (Leasers) Visa is suited to those with regular passive income such as pensions or dividends. It allows participants to live and work in the country and although applicants are not required to show a particular income level, it is advisable to be able to demonstrate a minimum monthly income in the region of £750-1,000 per month. Permanent residency can be applied for after two years, with residents eligible for citizenship after five.
Accommodation
Casa del Reposo La Alcadesa in Providencia, an upmarket district in the capital, Santiago, has more than 30 years of experience in caring for older adults. They provide comprehensive care, and offer activities like singing, entertainment shows and games.
Chile is one of South America’s safest countries and a popular retirement destination, offering a low cost of living, good infrastructure in cities and a well-developed healthcare system
Monaco
For those with a very big budget, the Principality of Monaco is very popular due to there being no income tax for most residents, excellent healthcare, a pleasing Mediterranean climate, a high quality of life and security. There are lots of events and festivals, and it is surrounded by attractive scenery.
The red tape
A minimum €500,000 (£43,875) deposit into a Monaco bank account and proof of financial self-sufficiency are among the requirements for obtaining a residency permit.
Accommodation
There are very few retirement homes and admission may require having lived in Monaco for a number of years. The leading public medical care home for the elderly in Monaco is the Résidence A Qietüdine. Near the Place d’Armes, it admits those aged over 60.
Résidence A Qietüdine, near Monaco’s Place d’Armes, admits those aged over 60
Colombia
Colombia has one of the lowest monthly income requirements in the world for obtaining a visa. With its low cost of living, rich cultural offerings, welcoming population, high quality healthcare, modern infrastructure, warm climate and diverse landscape, it is understandably becoming more and more popular.
The red tape
The Colombian pension visa is valid for one to three years, and after holding it for five years, residents can apply for a permanent resident’s visa. You must prove that you have a passive monthly income that is at least three times the Colombian minimum wage. This would be around 4.27m Colombian pesos (£828).
Hábitat Adulto Mayor in Medellín, in the municipality of La Estrella, is a modern seven-storey retirement home catering for a range of care needs
Accommodation
Hábitat Adulto Mayor in Medellín in the municipality of La Estrella is a modern seven-storey retirement home catering for a range of care needs. There is a choice of one- and two-bedroom units and residents socialise in two large, bright atriums filled with greenery. Fees start at around 5m Colombian pesos/£970 per month.
France
A favourite holiday destination for Britons, it is no surprise that France is a favourite pick for retirees, too. Its beautiful, diverse landscapes, rich cultural experiences, superb cuisine, excellent healthcare, relaxed pace of life and robust infrastructure are all selling points.
Rooftops in the town of Parthenay in western France
Résidence Senior Le Château des Plans in Parthenay is nestled in the heart of greenery
The red tape
Most people wanting to retire in France apply for a long-stay visitor visa (VLS-TS Visiteur), which permits living in the country without working. After 12 months, the visa can be converted to a visitor residency permit, and after five years, application for permanent residency may be possible. You need to demonstrate that you have a stable passive income at least equivalent to the French minimum wage of €1,801 (£1,563). You need to provide proof of a place to live, such as a rental lease or a property purchase, and have adequate health insurance.
Accommodation
Domitys has more than 150 retirement homes all over France. Accommodation options vary from studios to three-bedroom pet-friendly apartments, from €1,079/£936 per month, and there is around-the-clock medical support. Résidence Senior Le Château des Plans in Parthenay is nestled in the heart of greenery and set back from traffic, yet still just steps from the shops. The impressive facilities include an indoor pool, sauna, hairdresser and gym.
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