Why UK retirees are looking abroad

Retirement relocation has always been a dream for many, but recent years have seen a shift in motivations.

Main reasons people retire abroad from the UK include:

• Climate – The British weather isn’t known for sunshine. Countries like Spain and Portugal offer over 300 days of sun a year, which has huge appeal for retirees wanting an outdoor lifestyle.

• Cost of living – Many destinations offer lower day-to-day costs for housing, food, and utilities compared to the UK.

• Healthcare – High-quality but affordable healthcare in countries like Spain and France is a key factor.

• Lifestyle – A slower pace of life, active outdoor opportunities, and strong expat communities make integration easier.

• Brexit impact – Residency rules have changed. Retirees now need visas in the EU, but many countries have introduced clear retirement pathways.

Typical profile of UK retirees abroad: most are 55+, retired or semi-retired, often with a UK pension or passive income. Some choose to live near family already overseas, while others are drawn to large British expat hubs in Europe, Australia, and beyond.

The easiest countries to retire to from the UK

Not every country offers the same residency options, which is why some destinations stand out for British retirees.

1. Ireland – the neighbourly choice

• Why retirees choose it: No visa is required for British citizens, thanks to the Common Travel Area. Culturally familiar, English-speaking, and just a short flight or ferry from the UK.

• Living costs: Similar to the UK in cities, but lower in rural areas. A couple can expect monthly costs of around €2,000–€2,500 (£1,710–£2,140).

• Healthcare: Reciprocal arrangements mean retirees can access healthcare services more easily than in other EU nations.

• Moving tip: Planning a move across the Irish Sea? Our dedicated removals to Ireland service makes the process simple.

2. Portugal – sunshine and affordability

• Visa options: The D7 Visa for passive income is popular with retirees. Applicants need to show a regular income of around €820 (£700) per month.

• Living costs: A couple typically needs €1,200–€1,500 (£1,025–£1,280) per month. Cheaper than the UK, especially outside Lisbon and Porto.

• Healthcare: Portugal’s healthcare system is ranked highly in Europe, though private insurance may be needed initially.

• Popular regions: Algarve, Lisbon Coast, Silver Coast.

• Moving tip: We handle European removals including Portugal, with door-to-door support.

3. Spain – the classic retiree destination

• Visa options: Non-Lucrative Visa (requires proof of about €2,400 / £2,050 per month).

• Living costs: Around €1,200–€1,500 (£1,025–£1,280) per couple. Southern coastal areas often cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona.

• Healthcare: Spain’s healthcare system is excellent. Retirees can access it via contributions or private insurance.

• Popular regions: Costa del Sol, Valencia, Canary Islands.

• Consideration: While many Brits thrive here, some return due to bureaucracy and rising costs—see our blog on why expats leave Spain.

• Moving tip: We offer European removals to Spain, covering customs and delivery.

4. France – rural charm and quality healthcare

• Visa options: Long-stay visa (proof of income of at least €1,747 / £1,500 per month).

• Living costs: Similar to the UK in cities, lower in rural areas. A couple can expect around €2,000–€2,200 (£1,710–£1,880).

• Healthcare: France’s public healthcare is world-class, but private insurance is often needed at first.

• Popular regions: Provence, Dordogne, Brittany.

• Moving tip: Our European removals team frequently supports relocations to France.

5. Cyprus and Malta – small, sunny, English-friendly

• Why retirees choose them: Both countries offer straightforward residency for retirees, with low tax on pensions and thriving expat communities.

• Costs: €1,200–€1,800 (£1,025–£1,540) monthly for a couple.

• Healthcare: Good public and private systems, widely English-speaking.

Affordable and safe options for retirement

If the cost of living is the biggest driver, some countries offer significant savings compared to the UK. Thailand and Malaysia stand out for very low costs with strong expat hubs, while Portugal is often cited as the safest and most balanced choice in Europe.

Lifestyle and quality of life abroad

Lifestyle is often the deciding factor for retirees once costs and visas are sorted. Many ask whether day-to-day life abroad truly feels better than in the UK.

In destinations like Portugal, Spain, and France, the combination of climate, healthcare, and expat communities creates a lifestyle where outdoor activities and social connections are easier to maintain. Quality of life indexes consistently rank these countries above the UK, with Portugal often rated the best for retirees thanks to its balance of affordability and safety.

Meanwhile, countries like Australia and Thailand appeal to those who want an active, outdoor lifestyle year-round, though both require careful planning for visas and healthcare.

• Portugal: A mild climate, active expat hubs like Algarve, outdoor lifestyle, and low stress. Regions like the Silver Coast are famous for their relaxed pace and affordable living.

• Spain: Rich culture, sunshine, healthcare, and established expat communities. Areas like Valencia and Málaga attract Brits for their lively social scenes.

• France: Slow-paced rural life, gourmet food, strong healthcare. Provence and Dordogne are especially loved for their charm and beauty.

• Australia: High living standards, English-speaking, lots of sunshine, but higher costs. Popular with retirees who want familiar culture and outdoor living. See our guide to moving to Australia for more insights.

• Thailand & Malaysia: Tropical climate, active expat communities, low cost of living, excellent private healthcare. Regions like Chiang Mai (Thailand) and Penang (Malaysia) have strong retiree networks.

• Norway: Less common but growing for retirees seeking stability, safety, and stunning landscapes. See our guide to moving to Norway.

Many retirees value regions offering a slower pace – Provence (France), Andalucía (Spain), or Portugal’s Silver Coast. Others prefer more active hubs like Sydney, Bangkok, or Valencia.

Practical considerations when retiring abroad

Relocating for retirement is more than choosing a sunny destination. It means navigating new residency rules after Brexit, securing private or public healthcare, and planning for pension transfers and taxation in your new country.

Many retirees underestimate the paperwork involved, from proving regular income for visas to arranging health insurance and opening local bank accounts. On top of this, the logistics of moving household goods overseas – shipping, customs clearance, and insurance – can add both cost and complexity.

Preparing early and working with specialists makes the difference between a stressful move and a smooth start to retirement abroad.

Key considerations:

• Visas & residency – Each country has specific requirements (e.g., Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa, Portugal’s D7). Proof of income and health insurance are standard.

• Healthcare – Most countries don’t offer free-at-point-of-use systems like the NHS. Private insurance is often mandatory.

• Pensions & tax – UK pensions can be paid abroad, but annual increases (“uprating”) depend on agreements. Double tax treaties may apply.

• Moving logistics – Overseas removals involve shipping, customs, and insurance. Professional support helps avoid hidden costs and delays.

• Cultural adaptation – Language barriers, bureaucracy, and distance from family can be underestimated. For guidance, see our essential questions before relocating.

Why retirees choose managed removals support

Retiring abroad often means moving cherished possessions collected over a lifetime. This can be stressful without the right support.

What retirees value in removals services:

• Export packing for furniture, antiques, and fragile items.

• Customs paperwork handled professionally.

• Insurance and storage options for flexibility.

• Door-to-door collection and delivery.

• Personalised planning and regular updates from a dedicated move manager.

At TMS, we specialise in fully managed international removals, offering peace of mind so retirees can focus on enjoying their new life abroad.

Popular retirement destinations at a glance

FAQ  –  retiring abroad from the UK

Can I get my UK state pension if I retire abroad?

Yes. Your pension can be paid overseas. Annual increases (“uprating”) apply in EU and some other countries but not everywhere.

Which is the cheapest country to retire to from the UK?

Bulgaria, Poland, and Portugal are among the cheapest in Europe. Outside Europe, Thailand offers very low living costs.

Is healthcare free abroad for UK retirees?

Generally no. Many countries require private health insurance or contributions to access public care.

Do I need a visa to retire in Spain or Portugal?

Yes. Spain offers a Non-Lucrative Visa, while Portugal offers the D7 Visa for retirees with passive income.

Is 60 too old to move abroad for retirement?

Not at all. Many retirees relocate successfully in their 60s or even 70s. Planning for healthcare and financial stability is key.

From plan to reality: Making your move

Choosing your ideal retirement country is a significant milestone. You’ve compared the costs, checked the visa requirements, and pictured the lifestyle. The next crucial step is planning the logistics to get you there smoothly and securely.

A successful international move is built on experience and meticulous planning. Drawing on years of experience in helping UK retirees relocate, we understand that it’s the details that matter – protecting fragile antiques, ensuring customs forms are correct post-Brexit, and providing clear communication every step of the way.

Here’s how TMS provides that peace of mind:

• Expert packing: Our crews are trained to protect everything from furniture to fine art.
• Customs clearance: We handle the complex paperwork so you don’t have to.
• Fully-managed service: You’ll have a dedicated move manager overseeing your relocation from start to finish.
• Move Assured accredited: We’re independently vetted by Move Assured, so you know you’re in trusted hands.

Turn your retirement plan into a reality!

The journey to your new home starts with a single step. Contact us today for a free, tailored quote for your international removal, and let our team build the perfect plan for your move. Start your next chapter on the right foot.