Information & advice

People think about retiring abroad for a range of reasons‚ such as a change of lifestyle‚ or to be near relatives. Research and good planning will help you find out the benefits and possible disadvantages before making the move.

 

This information sheet provides a checklist of questions to think about.

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of moving abroad:

• Why do you want to move to another country - is it to be permanent or just to spend part of the year abroad?
• If you move abroad‚ will you want to return to the UK frequently to visit friends‚ relatives or for medical appointments?
• Can you afford to retire abroad? What would happen to any benefits you currently receive in the UK? What will your future income be?
• What would be the cost of living‚ the cost of property? Would changes in the exchange rate of the pound reduce the amount you have to spend?
• If you are moving with a spouse or partner‚ is it a joint decision? How would either of you cope financially or emotionally with the death or a serious illness of the other?
• How will you cope living further away from family and friends?
• How will you cope with different situations you will face‚ for example water shortages‚ or different cultural attitudes?
  

Choosing the country – what is day to day life like there?

You may have already decided where you want to move‚ for example to be nearer friends and family‚ or to be in a warmer climate‚ or because you may be better off financially.

Visit the country of your choice‚ if you have never been there‚ and at different times during the year to see how you would cope if the climate is different to the UK or the local climate is different at different times throughout the year. Your needs as a resident will be different from your needs as a holiday visitor.

Find out the advantages and potential pitfalls. Living in another country on a trial basis may help you to gain a better understanding of the lifestyle without giving up your home in the UK. If you have been to the country as a tourist you may need to see it out of season as well‚ and if the climate is a reason for moving‚ find out what to expect in all seasons‚ for example heavy snowfall in winter.

If you know someone who has already moved there‚ get in touch with them and ask them about the things you’re interested in.

Further information

Please download our factsheet at the top right of this screen for more information on retiring abroad.

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