An increasing number of people are choosing to retire in a different country of their own. A survey by the US News & World Report lists seven attributes that high net-worth individuals forty-five years and older look for in a country to retire in: It must first be affordable, have favorable tax environments, hospitable, livable, pleasant climate, property rights and a well-developed public health system.
Why is the Golden Visa interesting?
The Golden Visa, or residency by investment program, allows choosing the perfect country to live and obtain major benefits that include global mobility, a high standard of living and an excellent public health system. These are the countries with the best life-quality and Golden Visa programs:
Portugal
For a minimum investment of EUR280,000, the Portugal Golden Visa has benefits that include family reunification, visa-free travel to Schengen area and the right to live, work and study in Portugal. The Portugal Golden Visa is usually granted within six months of submitting the required documents and you can apply for citizenship after five years.
The Portuguese healthcare system called Servico Nacional de Saude (SNS) provides medical care at low or no cost and has a network of public hospitals and community health centers.
Spain
Spain has a high quality of life for a low cost of living compared to other European countries. The Spain Golden Visa requires a minimum investment of EUR500,000 in real estate. The Spanish healthcare system is both private and public and is easily accessible to all.
Malta
Living in Malta has many benefits that includes one of the best healthcare systems in the world and a stable political system. Depending on the amount of investment, one can get Maltese citizenship in either 12 or 36 months through the Malta Permanent Residence Program.
Greece
The Greece Golden Visa requires a minimum investment of 250,000€ in real estate, one of the lowest amounts in Europe. However, the minimum amount can rise to 500,000€ in some popular areas like Athens, Mykonos or Santorini. The public health care system is available to everyone living in Greece regardless of nationality.
Turkey
Turkey does not have a visa for retirees, but you can easily apply for a residence permit. The Turkey Golden Visa requires a minimum investment of US$250,000 in real estate or capital transfer will allow the holder to retire in the country. The public healthcare of Greece is not as good as the private healthcare. But thanks to their expertise in cosmetic surgery, dentistry and fertility treatments, Turkey has become an attractive place to retire.