The Dominican Republic was recently listed by Travel + Leisure, a prestigious travel magazine, as one of the top 10 retirement destinations due to its tropical climate, low housing costs, and proximity to Miami, USA.
Taken from Listín Diario
SANTO DOMINGO.- Upon reaching retirement, many people decide to venture around the world and choose a country outside their own to retire and spend their last days of rest enjoying new experiences .
Medical care, visa requirements, local culture , taxes, and low cost of living are some of the advantages they take into account before choosing a new destination.
Data from the U.S. Social Security Administration indicates that more than 700,000 Americans "receive their payments abroad." But Travel + Leisure advisors recommend spending at least several months in a potential retirement destination before moving.
The Dominican Republic recently listed by Travel + Leisure, a prestigious travel magazine, as one of the top 10 retirement destinations due to its tropical climate, low housing costs , and proximity to Miami, USA.
Retirees live in cities like Santo Domingo and Santiago, and in tourist towns like Punta Cana, Puerto Plata and Boca Chica.
They can enter the country on a tourist visa and then apply for a retirement visa, which takes several months. To obtain the retirement visa, the tourist must provide proof of at least $1,500 in monthly income, a background check, and a birth certificate.
Other destinations selected for the list were:
Panama
It has become a retirement destination due to its proximity to the United States , its climate, welcoming atmosphere, and because the cost of living suits most budgets .
Panama offers a Visa for pensioners that provides benefits such as discounts on various services and tax exemption on the import of household goods.
It also promises a "two-tier" health system that provides "excellent care and facilities at reasonable prices," covered by private insurance or self-payment.
Portugal
This country has become one of the most famous retirement destinations around the world due to its mild climate , beautiful landscapes, and welcoming citizens .
Retirees must apply at a local consulate for a residence permit valid for five years, and then apply for a permanent permit when it expires. Health insurance is required as a condition for receiving a residence permit, along with a passport and proof of income.
Spain
The warm climate, welcoming culture , and diverse landscapes make Spain a desirable place to retire. The cost of living varies between Spain's major cities , and settling outside the cities is generally more affordable.
The country has a "highly rated" health system and includes public medical care, although most expats opt for private health care covered by insurance.
Costa Rica
With its rainforests, cloud forests, and beaches, stretching from the Caribbean to the Pacific, Costa Rica is another popular destination for retirees. The cost of living is reasonable , and healthcare is readily available through both public and private systems.
Malta
Malta's attractions include its climate, location, beaches, and architectural beauty . English is widely spoken, and groceries and restaurant meals are reasonably priced . Private medical care is recommended, as expatriates do not have access to national health insurance.
Ecuador
Its low cost of living attracts retirees, especially those who enjoy adventure and appreciate nature. An advantage for Americans is that Ecuador uses the US dollar as its currency , and many people in major cities speak English.
Mexico
The low cost of living and its convenient location attract a large number of retirees from the United States and Canada. The country offers a wide range of locations, lifestyles, climates, and cost of living options, making it a top retirement destination for Americans choosing to leave the U.S.
Colombia
This country offers beaches, rainforests, mountains, and a variety of cities . Costs vary between cities and inland communities, and a range of housing options are available.
Colombia's health system has modern public and private hospitals, with affordable and high-quality care.
USA
Florida cities are a favorite retirement College towns , ski resorts, and small towns across the country are also desirable options for retirees.
