Big Decision: Which Asian country is best for foreign retirees?

[ASEAN NOW News]

After making the decision to retire overseas, the big decision as to which country to choose from comes into play.

 

Asia is one of the most beautiful and culturally diverse regions in the world. Each Asian country offers unique and desirable traits for expats wanting to retire abroad. 

 

So which country should you select?

 

 

Well according to International Living’s List, the top five countries in Asia to retire are Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam & Sri Lanka.

 

The criteria they used to analyze each country are classified under thirteen categories:

 

Buying and investing potential, renting abilities, benefits and seniors discounts, ability to obtain visas and residency, cost of living, assimilation, entertainment and amenities, healthcare, healthy lifestyle, level of country development, climate, opportunity & governance.

 

1. Malaysia

 

There’s no wonder why Malaysia was named as the top Asian country to retire as an expatriate.

 

Malaysia is located South of Thailand and is known for its vast and beautiful beaches, immaculate rainforests, and surroundings of its multitude wonderful islands.

 

Although the countries official language is Malay, English has become an unofficial second language in the country. It is widely spoken, which will surely facilitate retirees in their relocation.

 

Malaysia should also be a top priority for retirees looking for some adventure.

 

The country is large, with a wide variety of terrain and adventures to explore. Also, due to its location, you will have most of Asia at your fingertips. Travelling between countries is extremely easy, allowing you to explore the full potential of Asia.

 

2. Thailand

 

A close follow-up to Malaysia was Thailand. As Malaysia’s northern neighbour, there is no surprise that Thailand has landed in second as a desirable location for expatriates to retire.

 

Known as “The Land of Smiles,” Thailand has much to offer in terms of retiree’s desires.

 

 

The countries low-cost of living, warm-water coastlines, tropical climates, a tax-free system for income coming abroad for expats, a rich and untouched culture, and relatively standardized hospital care.

 

Thailand also offers easily accessible yearly visa renewals for expatriates who have chosen to retire in Thailand, which allows Thailand to be a long-term retiring destination.

 

3. Cambodia

 

Cambodia has long been on the rise for one of the most desired countries to retire.

 

As the country continues to expand, Cambodia offers the benefit of beautiful scenery and a warm climate as well as the ease and comfort of a large international connection.

 

One major benefit of retiring in Cambodia is the ability and ease to obtain long-term visas. Many Asian countries may require a stringent income requirement for a long-term visa to be approved, whereas Cambodia does not require these.

 

4. Vietnam

 

While on the hunt for new experiences, a change in scenery while staying within your retiree budget, Vietnam should be well at the top of your list.

 

 

Like its neighbouring countries, Vietnam is known for its exquisite scenery and warm climate, but also offers a variety of healthy and delicious foods.

 

One reason why Vietnam is lower on the list than its neighbouring Asian countries is that they do not have a government placed retirement visa scheme as yet.

 

This may complicate long-term stay in the country.

 

You can extend your visa while in the country, which facilitates the renewal process, however the longest visa in place now is a 3-month visa.

 

5. Sri Lanka 

 

Last on our list of top five countries in Asia to retire is Sri Lanka.

 

No different to several other Asian countries when it comes to the beautiful and steady climate, Sri Lanka offers a steady and homogenous temperature year-round. Sri Lanka is also known as a multicultural country which allows expats to explore and diverge in a variety of cultures.

 

Sri Lanka offers a “Dream Home Visa Programme” which allows retirees over the age of fifty-five who meet the countries financial minimum for expats, a 2-year visa with the potential to renew.

 

These are the findings from International Living’s List.

 

However, we are sure you may wish to add to this information with your own observations, and help others make that all important decision?

 

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[tonray]

The real question is:

 

'Which country is best for domestic insurance companies preying on foreign retirees ?"

[zzzzz]

Best value for $$, tops for activities, huge range of accommodations, great food>>
Miles ahead of malaysia
Thailand

easiest
Cambodia

[Thechook]

Thailand is no longer cheap, obtaining a visa is far more difficult, having to constantly report to authorities like a criminal and the dual pricing.  All these and more Tarnish Thailand's image.

Edited November 30, 2021 by Thechook

[cheapcanuck]

I don't know about for retirement, but I have been pleasantly surprised with Cambodia. The last 2 years, before covid, I did some side trip travelling in Cambodia and enjoyed myself immensely. One of the drawbacks is the lack of good beaches. Before I would decide on Cambodia, I would need 6 months or longer stay(s) to get a good feel for the country.

[Kaoboi Bebobp]

I've considered returning to live in Cambodia but I'd definitely want to test the waters. Last time I was there was pre-COVID in early 2019. Had great time. Watched a number of recent videos and I barely recognize anything. Saw lots of Chinese structures and signs on buildings. Will see in the new year how things look. Mostly, though, I'm more inclined to moving back to Viet Nam. However, the visa situation is not good.

[daveAustin]

On 11/30/2021 at 1:42 AM, ASEAN NOW News said:

The countries low-cost of living, warm-water coastlines, tropical climates, a tax-free system for income coming abroad for expats, a rich and untouched culture, and relatively standardized hospital care.

 

Thailand also offers easily accessible yearly visa renewals for expatriates who have chosen to retire in Thailand, which allows Thailand to be a long-term retiring destination.

Was this written in 2000?

[BritManToo]

On 12/1/2021 at 2:53 AM, Thechook said:

Thailand is no longer cheap, obtaining a visa is far more difficult, having to constantly report to authorities like a criminal and the dual pricing.  All these and more Tarnish Thailand's image.

Thailand is cheap as chips.

The only problem is the long stay VISA.

 

Cambodia is easiest of all,

You just need the $300 for the VISA.

 

Vietnam and Malaysia almost impossible for a long term VISA. 

 

Why did they miss out the Philippines?

You could just turn up and stay for 3 years.

Edited December 2, 2021 by BritManToo

[Jingthing]

Phillipines