Retirement Planning: Top Budget-Friendly Countries to Consider
Dec 02, 2023 By Susan Kelly

People who are saving money for the day when they won't have to go to work have come up with various plans for that day. Some seniors decide to do something they've always wanted to do now that they have more time, while others take the chance to switch jobs. Many seniors think moving to a different country is the best way to spend their golden years. This could be because they want to try something new, change pace, or spend less money on day-to-day costs.In the United States, putting in a lot of work and saving money for retirement might make you feel down if the pension fund you've built isn't enough to cover your living costs after you stop working. There are, on the other hand, other things to think about. You may save a lot of money by going abroad, and your choices may be better and more convenient than you think. People still working but are getting close to retirement may want to talk to a financial advisor who can help them figure out how to save money and invest for their golden years.

What Are the Cheapest Countries to Retire in?These are the top 6 cheapest countries to retire in:Malaysia:Malaysia is on our list of countries trying to improve the lives of their foreign citizens and residents. Participants in the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) scheme can apply for a 10-year visa.This country is a great place to go on vacation for people who care about the environment because it has so many forest areas and beautiful beaches. But senior citizens in Malaysia can relax at any of the country's many urban sites. This lets them keep their love of city life well into their golden years.

Since English is recognized as the country's de facto official language, it is considered the "unofficial first language" in Malaysia. Also, the Global Peace Index ranks it as the world's eighteenth most peaceful country. Because of this, the country has a much lower crime rate than the other countries in Southeast Asia.Portugal:Portugal is sixth on the Global Peace Index, which means it is one of the safest countries. This means that Portugal is one of the safest places in the world. Seniors who want a quiet holiday might be attracted to the area by its beautiful beaches and pleasant weather.To retire in Portugal, you must show proof that you have health insurance at the local port along with your residency application. On the other hand, some of the best-known health insurance companies in the U.S. also have offices and offer their services in Portugal. Because of this, the next thing you do might become a lot easier.Not only that, but the government recently changed its tax rules to make things easier for people living outside the country. For example, if you are eligible for Non-Habitual Residence (NHR) status, you won't have to pay federal income tax for the ten years after the date you apply. You don't have to do this as long as your NHR license is valid. This rule would still be in effect even if the money from the investment or pension came from a country other than Portugal.

The Czech Republic:The Czech Republic could be the most attractive place to live in all of Eastern Europe because it is safe and cheap. It is number seven on the list of countries with the least deadly strife in the world. The website for foreign travel, Expat Focus, says that the prices of homes in this area are much lower than in most of Western Europe.But you will only be bored briefly if you are away from home and have a strong interest in history. Many people think the Czech Republic has the most castles per square kilometer of any country worldwide. You can find the roots of the Prague Castle in the Middle Ages. Also, there are twenty cultural and world heritage places that UNESCO recognized.After the first 90 days, you will have to fill out an application for a visa. You won't even be able to fill out an application if you can't show that you already have health insurance.

Slovenia:Slovenia is an excellent choice for people who have always wanted to spend their golden years in the beauty of the Alps but need more money in France or Switzerland. The Triglav National Park in Slovenia is great for climbers to start their journey up the country's many mountains.A recent study by International Living found that Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, is one of the top best country in the world to retire. Live and Invest Overseas, a company whose goal is to help businesses that want to do business overseas, says that a couple can rent a good house in Ljubljana for about $720 per month. In 2007, Live and Invest Overseas was started.Austria:Austria is one of the top ten countries with the best quality of life, even though it has a higher cost of living than the other countries on our list. Austria is one of the top ten countries where people can live the best lives.

This city has many well-known museums, art galleries, and structures from all over the world. Numbeo says the average rent for a one-bedroom flat in Vienna is about $960 monthly. You will must need to apply for a residence pass after you have lived in the country for six months. You must show proof of your income to be eligible for one.Croatia:Croatia has a rich past and culture, and its food and drinks are just as tasty as everything else it offers. The cost of living is low, and the standard is good. Seniors can get free or cheap health care from the government. The amount of money a foreigner needs to live each month is between $1,200 and $1,500. Also, life here is 39% cheaper than in the U.S. Croatia is getting a lot of new visitors because it is close to other European countries, has beautiful natural scenery, and has a temperature similar to the Mediterranean all year round.Conclusion:Choosing the cheapest place to retire probably won't be your top priority, but rest assured that no matter how much money you save, you'll be able to have a nice retirement no matter what. So, to help you find the right note, we made this list. Different parts of a country can have very different costs and levels of quality when it comes to protection. Before you decide where you will spend your retirement years, you should do your own study to make sure you will be happy there and can live easily within your budget.