Top 7 places in the world for Brits to retire - and 1 has monthly expenses of £870

For many Britons, the dream of retirement involves more sunshine, slower mornings, and a view worth waking up to. Retiring abroad has become an increasingly attractive option, and, according to the Global Retirement Report by Global Citizen Solutions, several countries stand out. These destinations combine warm climates, quality healthcare, safety and straightforward visa options - everything you would need for a comfortable new chapter overseas.

According to recent data from the ONS, approximately 250,000 British citizens aged 65 and over reside in the EU alone. This figure is expected to increase significantly when considering UK pensioners living in other parts of the world.

7. St. Kitts and Nevis

A country that may surprise many, St. Kitts and Nevis has been named a hidden gem for British expats retiring abroad. Perfect for those craving exploration and nature in their later years, this country boasts lush national parks, dense tropical forests, and pristine beaches overlooking crystal-clear waters, all of which can be accessed just steps away from home. The country actually led the way by being the first to introduce a citizenship-by-investment program.

British citizens can qualify for St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investing $250,000 (£188,000) in the country's Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC). Investing in real estate to gain St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship and a second passport is also an option.

6. Costa Rica

Taking sixth place is a country in the heart of Central America, boasting a tropical climate, rainforests and everything else that makes for an adventurous post-retirement life. While many countries in Central and South America have grappled with political turmoil and unrest, Costa Rica has maintained a reputation for political and economic stability since its birth in the 19th century. This makes the country appealing to retirees seeking assurance and confidence in their decision to settle abroad. Plus, average monthly living costs are between £1,000 to £1,500.

The country also boasts an established retirement program offering perks and money-saving incentives for foreign retirees. The Costa Rica Pensionado Visa (Pension Visa) requires a pension income of just £750. It also provides discounts of up to 50% on essential services and goods, while holders are exempt from paying tax on their overseas state pension.

5. Thailand

Thailand has been named as one of the best countries to retire to on a budget, with an average monthly cost of living of between £800 and £1,200. This popular country in Southeast Asia boasts a tropical climate, stunning landscapes and some of the best beaches worldwide, perfect for those looking to enjoy a relaxed retirement. Thailand boasts one of the lowest living costs while maintaining world-class healthcare services and facilities, allowing retirees to stretch their funds and still enjoy a high quality of life.

The Thai Elite Visa program offers Brits a chance to live in the country long-term, accompanied by a range of exclusive privileges and a dedicated support system to make the transition to a country with a relatively difficult language barrier stress-free. For just THB 1 million (£22,400) for the Elite Superiority Extension membership, retirees gain a 20-year residence visa. Although a retirement visa is an option, it's valid for only one year and requires reporting to Thai immigration every 90 days.

4. Greece

One of Europe's most popular holiday destinations is also a great option for retirement abroad. With year-round sun and a healthy Mediterranean diet, Greece has one of the best life expectancies in the EU. Plus, with sea view properties like those on Santorini, a large expat community and average monthly living costs of between £1,000 and £1,500, it's not hard to see why it's so popular. Its ancient ruins and archaeological sites offer a rich blend of experiences for retirees interested in history, while the warm hospitality of the Greek people further sweetens the retirement experience. Though there can be a language barrier, Greeks create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for newcomers.

The Greek Golden Visa program is well-suited for Brits seeking retirement in Greece. This investor visa offers a straightforward pathway to legal residency through real estate investment. By purchasing a Greek property for €250,000 (£217,800) or more, retiring Brits will gain a permanent residence permit, renewable every five years, providing they maintain their investment.

3. Canada

Boasting one of the best standards of living in the world, Canada is one of the world's top countries that foreigners choose to migrate to. Unlike other countries, this North American nation has a very lenient immigration policy, with a variety of options on offer to gain residency. For those curious about pre-retirement planning and are happy to commit to a few more years of work, the Canada Startup Visa and several Provincial Nominee Programs allow talented foreign nationals to create businesses in the country.

However, Canada lacks a retirement or income visa. As a result, retirees contemplating moving abroad to Canada may face difficulties if they do not have a family member currently living there or other ties to the country.

2. Portugal

Taking second place is the southern European country of Portugal. With the added bonus of being just a short flight away from loved ones, Portugal offers a mix of warm weather, a lively culture and a lower cost of living than the UK. Monthly expenses average around £870 to £1,130, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option. With favourable taxes for retirees, British pensioners can enjoy the country's beautiful landscapes, beaches and delicious cuisine for an extremely low cost compared to neighbouring countries in Europe.

The Portugal Golden Visa program allows British citizens to make a qualifying investment in the economy, starting from €250,000, in exchange for a renewable residence permit. A range of lucrative investment options is available to qualify for the program. Another reason Portugal is one of the most desirable countries for pensioners is the variety of visa options suitable for retirees. Many senior Brits contemplating retirement in Portugal will find that they qualify for the country's D7 Visa (retirement visa), whose eligibility criteria necessitate a foreign-earned income.

1. Spain

For 2025, Spain ranks as number one in the Global Intelligence Unit's Global Citizen Solutions Retirement Report. The southern European nation is also one of the most popular choices for Brits moving abroad to retire, with areas like the Costa del Sol, Marbella and the Canary Islands being well-loved by Brits looking for sunny destinations to enjoy their golden years. Here, you can get by with a monthly budget of about £1,040 to £1,300, with rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in cities like Valencia or Malaga ranging from £520 to £700.

Retirees can apply for the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa to obtain legal residency. This visa is ideal for UK retirees who want to live in Spain without working. To qualify, you must show proof of a monthly income of €2,400 (£2,000) or an annual income of €28,800 (£25,000).

Spain - Average Monthly cost of living: £1,200-1,800; Residency options: Golden Visa, D7 Visa (Retirement Visa)

Portugal - £1,200-1,800; Non-Lucrative Visa (Retirement Visa)

Canada - £1,500-2,500; Parent and Grandparent Super Visa, Provincial Nominee Programme

Greece - £1,000-1,500; Golden Visa, Digital Nomad Visa

Thailand - £800-1,200; Retirement Visa (O-A), Elite Visa

Costa Rica - £1,000-1,500 - Retirement Visa, Investor Visa

St. Kitts and Nevis - £1,600-2,400; Citizenship by Investment