5 Best English Speaking Countries to Retire, Live, or Visit

This article takes a look at the 5 best English speaking countries to retire, live, or visit. If you wish to read our detailed analysis on retirement living outside the States, you may go to 20 Best English Speaking Countries to Retire, Live, or Visit.

5. Sweden

Insider Monkey Score: 48

Starting our top five for best English speaking countries to retire, live, or visit is Sweden. While there is no retirement visa available, interested retirees can plan to move to Sweden at least four years before their retirement. Once they work in the country for four years, they are eligible for permanent residence. With its beautiful landscapes, extensive history, and unique food, it truly is one of the best English speaking countries to retire, live, or visit in Europe

4. Malaysia

Insider Monkey Score: 48

Those wanting to retire in Malaysia can apply for the Malaysia My Second Home program. The Malaysian government introduced the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, allowing non-Malaysians to retire and reside in Malaysia for an extended duration. Popular for its white beaches, street food, temples, and lush jungles, retirees love Malaysia as a second home. The weather is great too, giving senior citizens another positive for a truly relaxing Malaysian retirement. 

3. Jamaica

Insider Monkey Score: 48

An island nation, Jamaica is our top three pick. Retirees can easily apply for a permanent residence visa while showing proof of sufficient funds to support themselves. A nature hub, Jamaica offers snorkeling sites, rainforests, and mountains, making it an ideal retirement spot. Budgeting is also easier with Jamaica’s relatively low cost of living of an estimated $840 per month, leaving retirees with more leeway to bring some entertainment to retirement. 

2. Netherlands

Insider Monkey Score: 56

With no specific retirement visa in place, US retirees can still choose the Netherlands for retirement. Retirees can enter the country through 90-day visa-free entry. After that, they can apply for a residence permit which asks them to show a sustainable pension income. An ideal European country, the Netherlands provides retirees with stress-free living as they immerse themselves in its tulip fields, museums, and many cycling routes. The best part is the people, their welcoming nature will make retirement in The Netherlands a blessing. 

1. Ireland

Insider Monkey Score: 58

The top overseas retirement spot on our list of best English speaking countries to retire, live, or visit is the island country of Ireland. Known for its friendly and welcoming people, Americans will find the country to be a pleasant retirement escape. Immerse in Irish culture, indulge in the scenery and enjoy the delicious food. Interested senior citizens can apply for the  long stay category D Visa. Demonstrating sufficient financial resources to sustain yourself is a prerequisite for relocating to this country. Upon arrival, you must proceed to apply for Stamp 0 immigration permission.

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