Portugal is in many way an excellent choice – especially the Algarve-area – but can be way too hot in the summer.

 

However, Thailand is also an excellent choice, which many unfortunately finds quite difficult with the massive paperwork. The financial qualification for retirees with 800k baht wealth or 65k baht monthly income is not the huse problem, but the ongoing paperwork by annual extension of stay – most it is the same as last year, but now again – and the for many irritating 90-days reporting, can make you think twice about living an otium in Thailand. Some retirees have been here 10, 15 or 20 years and even longer. Living same place – they own a condo or house – having the same bank deposit etc. It should be possible to make live a little more easy for long term retiree residents, which might result in Thailand moving up the list and actually get (a lot) more foreign income – and retirees also pay v.a.t. and other local taxes, even when a double taxation agreement makes their retirement pension taxfree income in Thailand.

21 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

File photo for reference only

 

The Global Retirement Report 2025 has named Portugal as the top destination for retirees, while Thailand ranks 34th among 44 countries. This report evaluates countries based on factors like retirement visa programs and quality of life, influencing retirees considering relocation. Many countries in Europe and the Americas, known for their high quality of life, dominate the top rankings.

 

More people are exploring retirement abroad for better living conditions and lower costs. While the U.S. lacks official retirement visa programs, various countries offer options to attract foreign retirees. The report utilizes 20 indicators across categories including economy, taxation, and safety to rank destinations.

 

Dr. Laura Madrid Sartoretto of Global Citizen Solutions (GCS) highlights that political stability, safety, and healthcare are priorities for retirees, especially in Europe. The top 15 countries include Portugal, Mauritius, and Spain, with Portugal scoring 92.61 due to its favorable visa program and quality of life.

 

Thailand's 34th rank reflects its comprehensive retirement visa offerings. Various options like the Non-O-A visa allow extended stays with financial proof and insurance requirements. These visas cater to retirees by offering renewable long-term residency without frequent renewals.

 

Portugal's top rank is credited to its D7 Visa, which has attracted retirees thanks to a straightforward application process and a focus on quality of life. The country's investment in attracting retirees and maintaining safety standards enhances its appeal. Portugal's taxation involves worldwide income, though with perks like no property tax for immediate family.

 

Looking forward, Portugal remains a preferred choice, especially for those seeking permanent residency or citizenship. Interested retirees must showcase a steady passive income for visa eligibility. The country's Golden Visa program also contributes to its attractiveness by enabling residency without property purchase, further boosting its draw for international retirees.

 

Best Countries to Retire in 2025: Top 15 Destinations

Country - Score

1. Portugal – 92.61
2. Mauritius – 89.24
3. Spain – 88.52
4. Uruguay – 88.05
5. Austria – 87.92
6. Italy – 87.42
7. Slovenia – 87.30
8. Malta – 87.00
9. Latvia – 86.97
10. Chile – 86.44
11. Costa Rica – 86.16
12. Greece – 86.08
13. Paraguay – 85.77
14. Cyprus – 85.73
15. Seychelles – 85.70

 

Key Takeaways

• Portugal leads as the top retirement destination due to its visa program and safety.
• Thailand offers extensive retirement visa options, providing long-term residency benefits.
• The report highlights the importance of healthcare, safety, and financial stability for retirees.

 

Related Stories

Thailand Falls in Global Innovation Index 2025

Thailand Boosts Tourism by Training Staff for Muslim Visitors

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-09-19

 

 

Portugal is my number two place to go if the Thais are getting to complicated. It is also only 2-3 hours by plane from my homwcountry. As I have good friends in Thailand I will, however, be here and hope its not getting to bad!

13 hours ago, Banana7 said:

What city did your friend find the $8 hotel room?

Hostel?

21 hours ago, falangUK said:

Lisbon? 🤣

Not a country

 "Favorable visa program" is the key here. I don't know what Portugal's laws are, but I cannot imagine anything much worse than Thailand's antiquated and over the top paperwork visa requirements! Security IS a main factor in choosing a retirement location, but being stressed over the ability to stay, with ever changing requirements here, takes away a resident's security! Imagine allowing every immigration officer to interpret the immigration laws as they want!? Immigration visits are so incredibly stressful! Been here for 10 years, while always following the law and contributing to this country, and headaches are all the thanks we get.

Additionally, the online platforms that are supposed to "help" with the massive amount of paperwork, is terrible. Not helpful. They need to bring in experienced and talented developers. Whoever built these platforms were trying to force a paper solution into a digital framework. Shameful.

Rant over. Carry on

Thailand should consider enhancements to its LTR visa, ie., land ownership.

28 minutes ago, khunPer said:

retirees also pay v.a.t. and other local taxes,

Thing is so do 70 million Thais every time they buy something from 7-ELEVEN or Big-C.

 

So foreignes are nothing special.

 

I don't think the government cares about how much it gets from foreigners paying VAT. They want more money from richer foreigners, they just haven't figured out how to do it yet. What's becoming clear though in the recent year or two, is they don't want the country to be a 'retirement' haven for low income foreigners. My guess is the pressure will continue to build to get rid of them, and put up barriers to prevent more of the same arriving. Thailand has no real plan for retirees other than the LTR for WPs and the almost extinct but various Thailand Elite card iterations. Look at Malaysia (My second home program). That's a carefully thought out plan to attract retirees. Wouldn't be my first choice as a country, but it is an effective draw.

6 minutes ago, Srikcir said:

Thailand should consider enhancements to its LTR visa, ie., land ownership.

Thailand should stop f@#£ing us around over retirement and family visa extensions.

A simple presentation of you last extension should be enough.

No paperwork, no queues, no bribes through agents.

Just now, Srikcir said:

Thailand should consider enhancements to its LTR visa, ie., land ownership.

Yes. With that, they almost got it right, but I think the cost is too high to attract retirees and people who do mobile work. Most retirees that I know don't get 80,000 USD per year! For example, Americans' Social Security is quite a bit lower. As long as they have health insurance, I can't see why they would need to earn over 80k.

40 minutes ago, khunPer said:

Portugal is in many way an excellent choice – especially the Algarve-area – but can be way too hot in the summer.

 

However, Thailand is also an excellent choice, which many unfortunately finds quite difficult with the massive paperwork. The financial qualification for retirees with 800k baht wealth or 65k baht monthly income is not the huse problem, but the ongoing paperwork by annual extension of stay – most it is the same as last year, but now again – and the for many irritating 90-days reporting, can make you think twice about living an otium in Thailand. Some retirees have been here 10, 15 or 20 years and even longer. Living same place – they own a condo or house – having the same bank deposit etc. It should be possible to make live a little more easy for long term retiree residents, which might result in Thailand moving up the list and actually get (a lot) more foreign income – and retirees also pay v.a.t. and other local taxes, even when a double taxation agreement makes their retirement pension taxfree income in Thailand.

The 65k per month would be fine, but immigration requires it to be exactly the same amount every month on exactly the same day every month. We got turned down for that option because one payment was late coming in, and another payment was a different amount.

Portugal getting great reviews.  Crazy cheap. For sure cheaper than Thai and one big thing is free healthcare . One bad thing is property costs. 500k min eur for anything with the golden ticket "location location location" ..... but you can buy place for sure for 100k EUR too....... Thai has changed in recent years.  Speak to any expat these days and listen to what they saying ????? 

Thailand is ambivalent about retirees coming here.  If they haven't taken any actions this year to encourage retirees, then you know the odds are very slim. They will ever wake up to what a lucrative market this could be for them.  I don't know if the data is reliable or not, but there have been stories indicating that the low season this year is the worst it has been in 20 years.  Whether that is true or not doesn't really matter. What does matter is that it is a very low season this year.  There is massive economic uncertainty around the world.  The Thai economy is at best slowing and the growth rate of the population is dropping.  One easy way to counteract these trends would be to encourage retirees to come to Thailand.  

Retiree's offer a consistent source of income providing jobs for thousands of Thai people.  We tend to spend consistently more then even middle class Thai people.  I won't use my own spending as an example because according to Gemini my income is enough to make me upper class.  But everyone I know spends more than the average comfortable Thai person.  

 

So if Thailand wanted to encourage retirees, they could make the retirement Visa process by simply charging a flat fee of say $25,000 baht per year.  The entire process could be done online.  The government would make a lot of money and Thailand can become one of the easiest places to get a retirement visa.

21 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Best Countries to Retire in 2025:

 

9. Latvia?? Great for aircraft spotters - Russian fighter jets!

On 9/19/2025 at 5:28 AM, snoop1130 said:

• Portugal – 92.61
• Mauritius – 89.24
• Spain – 88.52
• Uruguay – 88.05
• Austria – 87.92
• Italy – 87.42
• Slovenia – 87.30
• Malta – 87.00
• Latvia – 86.97
• Chile – 86.44
• Costa Rica – 86.16
• Greece – 86.08
• Paraguay – 85.77
• Cyprus – 85.73
• Seychelles – 85.70

 

Austria way too expensive to be a retirement destination for most.

Uruguay and Paraguay are landlocked - no beaches.

 

1 hour ago, GmailJen said:

Portugal has already priced itself out of the market .  I have boat there and keep in a boatyard near Lisbon for past 10 years . I've seen the local property market explode with anything in vicinity of Lisbon for 1 bed in a horrible high rise suburb for min 150,000 euro !  These are flats where immigrants live, hang washing out of there windows on lines (normal)  .  Every scrap of land is now being built on and locals priced out of the market for luxury developments aimed at rich foreigners .   It will all backfire soon .    Portugal receives the most in subsidies from the EU yet it is still backward . Chinese superstores and Indian local shops have pushed the once quality Portuguese shops out of business.   30 years ago I was in the process of buying a finca in the south but when I found out the neighbour had right of way over my land ( draconian law) I backed out smartly.   I wouldn't want to live there now as it's become overcrowded with immigrants from Angola and other ex Portuguese colonies .  It's destroyed the Portuguese culture, way of life and it's doing the same for the rest of Europe .  

Good comment! Prices in Portugal are really going through the roof – especially in the so‑called “Golden Triangle” in the Algarve. Beautiful area, no doubt about it, but property prices there are seriously steep. You’ll hardly find a house for under a million euros anymore. In the parts of Portugal that are genuinely cheap, most expats usually wouldn’t want to live. And with these rankings, it’s always the same: in the end, very subjective or just plain off.

21 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

File photo for reference only

 

The Global Retirement Report 2025 has named Portugal as the top destination for retirees, while Thailand ranks 34th among 44 countries. This report evaluates countries based on factors like retirement visa programs and quality of life, influencing retirees considering relocation. Many countries in Europe and the Americas, known for their high quality of life, dominate the top rankings.

 

More people are exploring retirement abroad for better living conditions and lower costs. While the U.S. lacks official retirement visa programs, various countries offer options to attract foreign retirees. The report utilizes 20 indicators across categories including economy, taxation, and safety to rank destinations.

 

Dr. Laura Madrid Sartoretto of Global Citizen Solutions (GCS) highlights that political stability, safety, and healthcare are priorities for retirees, especially in Europe. The top 15 countries include Portugal, Mauritius, and Spain, with Portugal scoring 92.61 due to its favorable visa program and quality of life.

 

Thailand's 34th rank reflects its comprehensive retirement visa offerings. Various options like the Non-O-A visa allow extended stays with financial proof and insurance requirements. These visas cater to retirees by offering renewable long-term residency without frequent renewals.

 

Portugal's top rank is credited to its D7 Visa, which has attracted retirees thanks to a straightforward application process and a focus on quality of life. The country's investment in attracting retirees and maintaining safety standards enhances its appeal. Portugal's taxation involves worldwide income, though with perks like no property tax for immediate family.

 

Looking forward, Portugal remains a preferred choice, especially for those seeking permanent residency or citizenship. Interested retirees must showcase a steady passive income for visa eligibility. The country's Golden Visa program also contributes to its attractiveness by enabling residency without property purchase, further boosting its draw for international retirees.

 

Best Countries to Retire in 2025: Top 15 Destinations

Country - Score

1. Portugal – 92.61
2. Mauritius – 89.24
3. Spain – 88.52
4. Uruguay – 88.05
5. Austria – 87.92
6. Italy – 87.42
7. Slovenia – 87.30
8. Malta – 87.00
9. Latvia – 86.97
10. Chile – 86.44
11. Costa Rica – 86.16
12. Greece – 86.08
13. Paraguay – 85.77
14. Cyprus – 85.73
15. Seychelles – 85.70

 

Key Takeaways

• Portugal leads as the top retirement destination due to its visa program and safety.
• Thailand offers extensive retirement visa options, providing long-term residency benefits.
• The report highlights the importance of healthcare, safety, and financial stability for retirees.

 

Related Stories

Thailand Falls in Global Innovation Index 2025

Thailand Boosts Tourism by Training Staff for Muslim Visitors

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-09-19

 

 

what about the 90 days reporting ?

11 hours ago, ronnie50 said:

What's becoming clear though in the recent year or two, is they don't want the country to be a 'retirement' haven for low income foreigners. My guess is the pressure will continue to build to get rid of them, and put up barriers to prevent more of the same arriving. T

 

What other things have you predicted that have come to pass? The apocalypse? The 2nd coming? Trump getting elected? 

 

The way I see it, all these foreign retirees sitting in bars in low season are preventing half these bars from going out of business. They want retirees here, despite all the bureaucracy. 

 

14 hours ago, BayArea said:

Portugal will soon if not already priced itself out for their own citizens who are struggling to make ends meet if they continue this path regarding retirees in their country. 

furthermore, Portugal is a small nation with limited resources. I think a few years from now, they will no longer be an attractive destination for retirement. 

Thailand will soon if not already priced itself out for their own citizens who are struggling to make ends meet if they continue this path regarding retirees in their country. 

 

Furthermore, Thailand is a small nation with limited resources and a Govt run by jesters. I think a few years from now, they will no longer be an attractive destination for retirement.

Having moved from Thailand (after 16 years) to Portugal, in 2019, i can say that i much prefer life here. They make things VERY easy for expats, and you are made to feel welcome in every way. Yes, property is very expensive, but that is pretty much the only negative to living here. 

I do still love the buzz of Asia though and we visit twice per year. 

This  must be false news according to the Thai Tourist board Bangkok is the number one  city for tourists to come

plus those retiring expats in Phuket Pattaya and Hua Hin will tell you 

It's the place to be 

Thailand is number one And will always be number one 

 

Thailand doesn't offer any security for a retiree.  Their so called retirement visa is nothing but a 1 year tourist visa.  No health insurance provided, no immigrant status after a certain period of time.  Forms to fill out till you are blue in the face forever.  Rules and restrictions left and right with no end in sight.  

Yes, I agree.

You can use your EU health insurance. =Advantage 

No 800.000 Baht for a visa. = Advantage.

But .....

To have an comparable life you need at least !!! 4000 Euro as a couple. (No hotels, but apt rent)

(My personal experience 3 years ago around Lagos)

 

Rubbish. Thailand should be much higher.

Spain should be much lower. I have spent 4 months in Spain in the last 2 years, and plan 2 months in 2026.Spain is nice to visit or live part-time but the global taxation, slow bureaucracy, and boring food make it hard to stay long-term. 

https://www.globalcitizensolutions.com/intelligence-unit/reports/global-retirement-report/global-retirement-report-full-report/

1 hour ago, ronnie50 said:

There's Portugal - and the there's the Algarve (where many would want to be - and it's lovely there). But the prices are being pushed up, not just by Brits retiring, but by others from EU countries like Germany, with the freedom of movement as an EU member. The Portugese have been complaining in the last 2 years about foreigners pricing them out of the housing market almost anywhere in the country. Portugal used to offer tax free for retirees but finally caved under OECD pressure. I think the outcome was a flat rate of 10 or 15 % on global income. Lisbon would be fine too.

Yes, my own experience too.

Nomads get 2 years tax free 

And to find a 1bed Appt in Lisbon is almost impossible. But if so you'll pay 1000 Euro as minimum, most around 1.300.

Just now, Srikcir said:

Not a country

You might feel differently after visiting the place! it’s very much like Africa.

2 hours ago, flaming dragon said:

 

I've got a feeling that there are different factions in the Thai government with conflicting interests and masters whom they serve.  Look at the news headlines that contradict each other. One article states that Thailand has had record numbers of tourists, whilst the next article is doom and gloom, and how the TAT has a new scheme to boost tourist numbers. 

 

Perhaps Indian tourists out spend retirees on airfares and one faction of government is in the pocket of the airlines.  My recent flight from HK was rammed full of Indians. 

 

One thing is certain: retirees who marry local women do lift them and their families out of poverty and a foreign pension provides a reliable source of income on which an intergenerational foundation can be built.  That is rarely, if ever, mentioned in headlines. 

The challenge that we forget is that we as retirees only fit into what we spend.

 

Most of the issues are geared at tourists.  Yesmany Indian men come here but if they share a room Tat gets nothing.  Same with Chinese tours yes they are clicks at airport but probably bring very little considering everything is bought and paid for in China 

21 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

File photo for reference only

 

The Global Retirement Report 2025 has named Portugal as the top destination for retirees, while Thailand ranks 34th among 44 countries. This report evaluates countries based on factors like retirement visa programs and quality of life, influencing retirees considering relocation. Many countries in Europe and the Americas, known for their high quality of life, dominate the top rankings.

 

More people are exploring retirement abroad for better living conditions and lower costs. While the U.S. lacks official retirement visa programs, various countries offer options to attract foreign retirees. The report utilizes 20 indicators across categories including economy, taxation, and safety to rank destinations.

 

Dr. Laura Madrid Sartoretto of Global Citizen Solutions (GCS) highlights that political stability, safety, and healthcare are priorities for retirees, especially in Europe. The top 15 countries include Portugal, Mauritius, and Spain, with Portugal scoring 92.61 due to its favorable visa program and quality of life.

 

Thailand's 34th rank reflects its comprehensive retirement visa offerings. Various options like the Non-O-A visa allow extended stays with financial proof and insurance requirements. These visas cater to retirees by offering renewable long-term residency without frequent renewals.

 

Portugal's top rank is credited to its D7 Visa, which has attracted retirees thanks to a straightforward application process and a focus on quality of life. The country's investment in attracting retirees and maintaining safety standards enhances its appeal. Portugal's taxation involves worldwide income, though with perks like no property tax for immediate family.

 

Looking forward, Portugal remains a preferred choice, especially for those seeking permanent residency or citizenship. Interested retirees must showcase a steady passive income for visa eligibility. The country's Golden Visa program also contributes to its attractiveness by enabling residency without property purchase, further boosting its draw for international retirees.

 

Best Countries to Retire in 2025: Top 15 Destinations

Country - Score

1. Portugal – 92.61
2. Mauritius – 89.24
3. Spain – 88.52
4. Uruguay – 88.05
5. Austria – 87.92
6. Italy – 87.42
7. Slovenia – 87.30
8. Malta – 87.00
9. Latvia – 86.97
10. Chile – 86.44
11. Costa Rica – 86.16
12. Greece – 86.08
13. Paraguay – 85.77
14. Cyprus – 85.73
15. Seychelles – 85.70

 

Key Takeaways

• Portugal leads as the top retirement destination due to its visa program and safety.
• Thailand offers extensive retirement visa options, providing long-term residency benefits.
• The report highlights the importance of healthcare, safety, and financial stability for retirees.

 

Related Stories

Thailand Falls in Global Innovation Index 2025

Thailand Boosts Tourism by Training Staff for Muslim Visitors

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-09-19

 

 

Austria – 87.92 in spring and summer
Malta – 87.00 in autumn
Chiang Mai 89 for winter

16 hours ago, norsurin said:

Right.But still they brag about Thailand is the first choice for retirement.Overpriced..crime..scams..violence and so on.

Vietnam takes over everything because of cheaper..much more safe..more friendly etc etc.

The government have the head in the sand and they think they will be back to where they was 20 year ago.

Thats NOT gana happened.My friend was just in Vietnam and she will never go back to thailand.8 USD for a hotel with balcony and daily cleaning.Wery friedly staff and wery cheap compared to Thailand.Nice food.. cheap beer and drinks.No crime or street fighting like its normal in fex Phuket and Pattaya.

You forgot to mention...no Retirement Visa in Vietnam ! After max. 90 days you have to leave !

Portugal?
A strange observation, given that it is a member of the EU. Try entering the EU as a Thai national and I wish you the best of luck without suffering the heart attack I almost had when I tried to obtain a tourist visa for my Thai girlfriend.

1 hour ago, Tom100 said:

Spain is nice to visit or live part-time but the ... boring food make it hard to stay long-term. 

 

 

Boring food in Spain? 

Probably the most varied, tasty, and healthy food in the world. And one of the reasons why Spaniards have the longest life expectancy in the world, even higher than Japan.

 

I agree with you on the subject of taxes, which are skyrocketing in Spain. The average Spaniard already spends more than half of their salary on taxes and Social Security.