Retirement is a stage of life when many people decide it's time for a change. This often means looking for a new country to live in, somewhere with a good climate, low cost of living, good property, opportunities, entertainment and good healthcare. All of these factors are taken into account in the "2022 Annual Global Retirement Index" developed by International Living. In the ranking, Portugal has been named the 4th best country in the world to retire to. We have the details.
Panama, a Central American country, has the best score of all and is therefore, the best country in the world to retire to. Pensioners rate this destination as the ease of living in the country stands out, with 100 points awarded for residence visas and 96 points for benefits for retirees. Note that of all the indicators analysed the country earned 80 points or more.
In second place is Costa Rica, another Central American country, which stands out for its health system that has even the highest score of all countries analysed, 97. Obtaining residence visas also has a good rating (91 points). Along with these, entertainment also came out on top.
Mexico is even considered the third best country in the world for pensioners. According to this index, the country's greatest strength is integration and entertainment. This was followed by the cost of living and the health system.
Travelling to the other side of the Atlantic we find the fourth best country for retirees to live in, Portugal. And there are several reasons that make Portugal a destination of choice for pensioners. Cities in Portugal are "vibrant and full of charm" and the country stands out for its historical component, as well as beaches, green hills, the low cost of living, security and one of the "best health systems in the world".
According to the publication, the best thing about living in Portugal is the people. "The Portuguese people are warm, friendly and greet everyone with two kisses," reads the document. Also the fact that English is taught in schools from an early age means that the entire population can speak at least a little English, which makes communication easier for pensioners. Check out our guide to the best places to retire in Portugal.
This is the list of the 25 best countries in the world to live after retirement:
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