These are the best European countries for expats to retire in
Explore the top European countries for expats to retire in, covering tax rates, healthcare, residence permits and cost of living. This guide by LeX-Wealth highlights Portugal, Spain, Greece, Malta, Croatia, and Cyprus to help you maximise pension income and enjoy a rewarding lifestyle in Europe.
Simplified healthcare and tax navigation
EU/EEA pensioners and UK nationals retiring abroad can register for local public healthcare using the S1 form, which allows access to healthcare services under their receiving country’s system, billed to their original state. This facilitates affordable long-term healthcare access without duplication of costs.
Additionally, double taxation agreements protect retirees from paying tax on the same pension income in both their home country and the country of retirement. The details vary by treaty and pension type, so professional advice is crucial to optimise financial planning.
Which are the best European countries for expats to retire in?
While Germany is ideal for building a family and pursuing a career, many expats plan retirement elsewhere for tax efficiency, a better climate, and a more desirable lifestyle. These top destinations offer mild weather in autumn and winter, vibrant culture, good healthcare, and English-speaking communities in the main cities for easier integration.
Portugal
Portugal offers a mild climate in winter and an affordable cost of living, with retirees typically spending 1.500 to 2.500 euros monthly outside major cities. Public healthcare is reliable and often supplemented by private insurance for faster access. Pension tax rates in Portugal vary between 14.5% and 48% depending on income, following recent changes to the NHR regime. The D7 visa offers a clear path to residence for retirees.
Spain
Spain blends sunny coastlines and urban vibrancy with moderate living costs (1.500 to 3.200 euros per month based on lifestyle). Its public healthcare system ranks among the best globally. Spanish residents pay progressive pension tax rates between 19% and 47%, but double taxation treaties can ease the burden. Non-lucrative visas facilitate retirement residence for expats.
Greece
With a lower cost of living, approximately 2.000 euros monthly for a retired couple, Greece attracts retirees seeking relaxation and tax clarity. It offers a flat 7% tax on foreign pension income for qualifying residents for up to 15 years. Public healthcare is basic but supplemented by affordable private insurance to reduce wait times. Residence visas are available for financially independent individuals.
Malta
Malta costs more, at 2.800 to 3.200 euros monthly for couples, but offers a 15% flat tax on foreign pension income through its Retirement Programme. Healthcare quality is high, combining modern public facilities with widely used private insurance. Malta’s residence programmes offer favourable pathways for retirees, with property investment options popular for securing permanent residence.
Croatia
The Adriatic coast of Croatia offers affordable living (2.000 euros monthly for couples) and attractive tax reductions, with pension income taxed progressively at 20% up to 60.000 euros and 30% above, including a 50% tax base reduction for qualifying foreign pensions. Healthcare is public, with supplementary private options for faster services. EU citizens have easy residence; others may need professional guidance.
Cyprus
Cyprus provides an enviable Mediterranean lifestyle with about 1.800 to 3.200 euros monthly expenses depending on location. A flat 5% tax applies to foreign pension income exceeding 3.420 euros annually, with an option for progressive tax up to 35%. The General Healthcare System covers legal residents, supplemented by popular private insurance. Residence options are straightforward for EU retirees and investors.
Other standout choices
Beyond these destinations, Italy, Bulgaria, and France also rank highly among retirees seeking culture, reliable healthcare, and attractive tax schemes; from Italy’s 7% flat tax to Bulgaria’s 10% income rate. Each offers its own mix of cost, climate, and lifestyle. Explore the full overview, including detailed pension tax comparisons, in the complete LeX-Wealth guide.
Plan your retirement with LeX-Wealth
Start your tailored retirement plan with confidence and book a free consultation call with LeX-Wealth today. Their experienced advisors help expats build and manage their wealth tax efficiently in Germany, enabling them to plan ahead for a secure and fulfilling retirement wherever they choose to settle in the future.