The 9 Safest Countries to Retire Abroad in 2025

What really matters when choosing the perfect place to retire?

Is it low living costs, access to world-class healthcare, or year-round sunshine near your favourite golf course?

Whatever your ideal retirement looks like, one factor should top the list – safety.

And on that front, the United States doesn’t make the cut.

Rising crime rates, increasing social unrest, and deepening political divisions have made many Americans feel less secure in their own communities.

In fairness that’s not a problem that affects only the US – it’s an issue for many Western states right now.

In major cities and small towns alike, concerns about public safety, personal freedoms, and government overreach are growing – not just among locals but also among retirees who expect stability in their later years.

 For those thinking ahead, that raises a serious question: Why stay put when other countries offer a safer, more peaceful lifestyle – often with better healthcare, a lower cost of living, and far less red tape?

At Nomad Capitalist, we advise clients to go where they’re treated best – a principle that becomes even more important when planning for a secure, comfortable retirement abroad.

But with dozens of countries offering second residency, tax incentives, and lifestyle perks, making the right choice isn’t simple.

Safety is just one piece of a much larger puzzle – you also need to consider legal requirements, healthcare access, the cost of living, and long-term viability.

So, the Nomad Capitalist team has put together this in-depth guide to help you navigate the complexity and identify countries that don’t just look good on paper but actually deliver.

We’ve focused on nations that consistently rank high on the Global Peace Index while also offering clear, practical routes to residency and even second citizenship – giving you both peace of mind and long-term freedom.

Why Look for the Best Places to Retire Abroad?

Before we dive into the safest countries to retire abroad, you might be wondering why you would venture outside your home country after retirement.

Retiring abroad offers an opportunity to optimise your retirement income, investments and savings while immersing yourself in a new culture, enjoying a better climate and benefiting from a higher standard of living.

The best places to retire boast lower living expenses, tax benefits, superior healthcare systems and retirement visa options.

By carefully selecting your retirement location, you can make the most of your pension funds.

Whether you desire sun-soaked beaches, lively urban environments or a tranquil pace of life, retiring abroad can transform your golden years.

The 9 Safest Places to Retire Abroad

Here are the safest countries to obtain a retirement visa, second residence or even citizenship.

9. Greece

Located in Southern Europe, between Albania and Turkey, Greece is a picturesque country boasting a stunning peninsula alongside a rich archipelago of around 2,000 islands.

Like its Mediterranean neighbours, Greece has a rich culture of hospitality and inclusion. Athens is recognised as the oldest capital city in Europe. Violent crime is rare here, and there is a comforting police presence.

There’s also an enticing 7% flat income tax rate for foreign pensioners, applicable solely to non-Greek income, for a period of up to 15 years. 

To qualify, you must demonstrate that your pension income is sourced from abroad. 

While Greece’s high season attracts many tourists eager to bask on its beaches, the country offers a wealth of activities and culture year-round.

Greece also has the Passive Residence Visa, which is available for two years with a renewable option once you can verify a minimum monthly income of €2,000.

Whether you enrol in the Golden Visa program, hold a Passive Residence Visa or are a flat-tax resident, Greece has a lot to offer retirees.

8. Italy

For retirees seeking la dolce vita — the sweet life — Italy remains the ultimate destination. Renowned for its relaxed pace, warm community spirit, and stunning landscapes, Italy offers an unmatched lifestyle.

 At the heart of it all is the country’s world-renowned cuisine, where every meal is a celebration of local tradition, fresh ingredients, and regional pride.

From handmade pasta in Tuscany to fresh seafood on the Amalfi Coast, food isn’t just nourishment in Italy – it’s a way of life and international living at its finest. Combine that with world-class wine, vibrant culture, and access to top-tier healthcare, and it’s easy to see why so many retirees choose to call Italy home.

To secure the Italian Elective Residency Visa (ERV), you must begin the application process at an Italian consulate, submitting the necessary documents, including proof of passive income exceeding €31,000 annually per person or €38,000 for married couples, plus an additional 5% for each dependent minor.

Most retirement-friendly visas come with a minimum income requirement and the need for adequate healthcare insurance coverage.

Italy is well-connected, with numerous airports offering flights to major global destinations, making it easy for friends and family to visit.

Italy is renowned for having one of the world’s highest life expectancies and is home to one of just five blue zones.

This is no doubt thanks to the lifestyle and its exceptional healthcare system, which is consistently ranked among the best globally.

7. Malaysia

Some might find the idea of retiring abroad to Southeast Asia daunting, and it may not be the first place you would think of as a safe retirement location.

However, diverse Southeast Asia, and in particular Malaysia, offers an attractive opportunity for retirees looking to enjoy a unique blend of safety, culture, and natural beauty. 

Malaysia ranks 10th on the Global Peace Index, above Canada and the United Kingdom and leaves the US in the rankings dust.

Areas like Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang, popular tourist spots, offer retirees a peaceful and beautiful environment with plenty to explore.

Malaysians are known for being welcoming, respectful, and gentle, which makes settling in and connecting with others easier.

Retirees who want to make the most of their time will enjoy the easy reach of other fascinating areas like Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia.

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a long-term visa designed to facilitate a comfortable retirement in the region.

6. Portugal

Portugal could be the ideal retirement destination for those looking for a well-established expat community and an array of amenities.

Expats who have settled in Portugal comment on the sense of security they find in this unique nation in Western Europe.

Whether it’s the vibrant atmosphere of Lisbon or the serene beaches of the Algarve, the appeal of retiring here is readily apparent.

As around one-quarter of Portugal’s population are senior citizens, the country is well-suited to retirees from every walk of life.

Retirees can easily apply for a D7 Visa, which enables permanent residency in Portugal. To qualify, applicants must provide proof of passive income amounting to at least €9,840 annually for a single individual, €4,920 for a spouse, and €2,952 for each child.

Acceptable income sources include property income, intellectual property rights or investment returns. However, earnings from remote work or from a business located outside of Portugal are not allowed.

After residing in Portugal for just five years, individuals have the opportunity to apply for Portuguese citizenship once they meet the requirements.

5. Spain

Spain has long been a mecca for retirees, particularly those from the United Kingdom and northern Europe.

Spain also attracts many North Americans, primarily with its Non-Lucrative Visa (also referred to as the Passive Income Visa), which is explicitly designed for high-net-worth individuals who don’t intend to work.

To initiate the application process for this one-year renewable visa, applicants must provide documentation that verifies sufficient financial resources to support their stay in Spain for the first year.

This requirement includes a minimum monthly income of €3,000 per applicant, with an additional €579 per month for each family member. It is crucial that the total funds are readily accessible at the time of submission.

One unique aspect of this visa is that US retirees must not have existing loans or mortgages in the United States when seeking residency in Spain.

Many find Spain’s lifestyle appealing. They enjoy high-quality dining and entertainment options at reasonable prices. This politically stable country also boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, both on the mainland and its islands.

4. Ireland

For retirees looking for a cooler climate that doesn’t feel too dissimilar to home, the Emerald Isle offers a safe environment with a strong community spirit.

An English-speaking country with one of the strongest economies in Europe, Ireland ranks 2nd on the Global Peace Index, making it ideal for safety-conscious retirees.

Ireland may be a more accessible option for Americans with Irish heritage, who should first explore their family tree to see if they’re eligible for citizenship by descent. 

Otherwise, if you wish to retire to Ireland, you must be able to prove that you’re financially independent. An individual income of €50,000 per year will suffice to do so. 

You must also be able to access a sum of money equivalent to the price of an Irish residential dwelling to cover any sudden major expenses. 

Ireland is one of the most beautiful European countries, with rugged nature to be explored and iconic pubs to soak up the atmosphere.

North American expats have a long-standing affinity for the Emerald Isle – a chance for them to reconnect with their roots.

3. Cyprus

Cyprus, a small island in the eastern Mediterranean, has become a favoured destination thanks to its pleasant climate and relaxed lifestyle.

Retired individuals may qualify for an immigration permit in Cyprus by meeting the criteria outlined in Regulation 5 of the Aliens and Immigration Regulations.

Commonly referred to as the retirement visa, it is valid for ten years and is renewable. It appeals primarily to those who have a pension-based income.

To qualify, you must demonstrate a minimum annual income of €9,568 and €4,613 for each dependent originating from foreign sources, such as pensions, rental income or dividends.

Additional requirements for this permit include either property ownership or a rental agreement in Cyprus, maintaining a clean criminal record, biometric registration and having private health insurance.

2. Costa Rica

Costa Rica, nestled between Nicaragua and Panama in Central America, boasts coastlines along both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean. 

Many expats with families have settled in Costa Rica, a testament to how safe this Central American country is. Although not the safest country on the Global Peace Index, ranking 58th, it is the safest country in the region and surpasses the United States.

The natural playground of Costa Rica is not just for the young – it’s also an ideal place to make the most of your golden years.

It’s ideal for those who want a safe, outdoor lifestyle where they can feel connected to nature and the environment.

Applicants need to demonstrate a monthly income of at least US$1,000 to be eligible for the Pensionado (retirement) Visa in Costa Rica.

An additional appeal for retirees is the affordable cost of Costa Rica’s healthcare system, recognised as the finest in Latin America.

For retirees looking to maintain an active lifestyle, this Central American gem is ideal, with roughly a quarter of the country dedicated to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

1. Malta

Known for centuries as a place of shelter and refuge, Malta has become increasingly popular with foreign retirees thanks to its safe Mediterranean setting.

The Island offers retirees looking to settle the Malta Global Residence Program and the Permanent Residence Program (MPR), which are designed for both EU and non-EU citizens.

To qualify for these programs, you must either rent or purchase a property and prove sufficient financial means to support yourself and any dependents.

Malta stands out for its forward-thinking policies, ranking first in the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Index for its LGBTQ+ rights.

Expat residents can access Malta’s excellent healthcare services in both public and private sectors, which are recognised globally for their high quality by the World Health Organisation.

Safest Countries to Retire: FAQs

Retire Where Safety Meets Strategy

If you’re a high-net-worth individual looking for a secure and rewarding place to retire, you need more than just warm weather and nice views – you need a plan.

Choosing the right retirement destination is a personal decision, but it also requires global insight, detailed analysis, and a strategic approach.

That’s why we focus on countries that consistently rank high on the Global Peace Index, while offering straightforward residency and second citizenship options that support long-term freedom and flexibility.

At Nomad Capitalist, we don’t believe in following the herd. Our clients go where they’re treated best — with greater safety, stronger legal protections, and smarter financial outcomes.

Our team works exclusively with seven- and eight-figure entrepreneurs and investors, crafting bespoke global strategies in three clear steps – so you can protect your wealth, expand your opportunities, and live life on your terms.

 Ready to retire with peace of mind? Apply to become a client today.