🌴 Retiring Abroad: Best Countries for Indian Expats

For many Indians, retirement is no longer just about settling in a peaceful town back home—it’s about exploring a new life in a new land. Whether it's better healthcare, a lower cost of living, or simply the desire for adventure, more and more Indian retirees are looking to retire abroad.

But where should you go? Here’s a list of the best countries for Indian expats to retire, based on affordability, healthcare, visa ease, lifestyle, and safety.

🇲🇾 1. Malaysia – Affordable Luxury

Why Malaysia?

Low cost of living, and English is widely spoken
Excellent private healthcare
Warm tropical climate
“Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)” retirement visa

Highlights:

Indian food and temples are easily available
A large Indian-origin population
Direct flights to India

Estimated Monthly Budget: ₹60,000 – ₹1,00,000

🇵🇹 2. Portugal – Europe on a Budget

Why Portugal?

One of Europe’s most affordable countries
High-quality healthcare and safety
Friendly visa programs for retirees
Mild climate and scenic coastlines

Highlights:

Special Golden Visa or D7 Passive Income Visa
Growing Indian community, especially in Lisbon and Porto

Estimated Monthly Budget: ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000

🇹🇭 3. Thailand – Exotic, Friendly, and Affordable

Why Thailand?

Retirement visa available for 50+ age
Great beaches, culture, and cuisine
Affordable healthcare and living

Highlights:

Warm hospitality and relaxed lifestyle
Popular among Indian retirees and travelers
Good medical infrastructure in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai

Estimated Monthly Budget: ₹50,000 – ₹90,000

🇦🇪 4. United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Close to Home

Why UAE?

Just 3-4 hours from India by flight
No income tax
High-quality hospitals and infrastructure
Special 5-year retirement visa for expats over 55

Highlights:

Huge Indian diaspora
Familiar food, culture, and language
Excellent connectivity to Indian cities

Estimated Monthly Budget: ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,00,000

🇲🇽 5. Mexico – Latin Charm with Global Appeal

Why Mexico?

Low cost of living and good weather
Vibrant culture and friendly locals
Easy long-term visa for retirees with a fixed income

Highlights:

Many expat-friendly towns (e.g., San Miguel de Allende)
World-class healthcare in major cities

Estimated Monthly Budget: ₹70,000 – ₹1,20,000

🇨🇦 6. Canada – For Family and Comfort

Why Canada?

If your children are settled there, it’s a top choice
Clean environment, world-class healthcare
Family sponsorship options available

Highlights:

Strong Indian community
Great public services, though the cost of living is higher

Estimated Monthly Budget: ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000

🌏 Key Things to Consider Before Retiring Abroad

✅ Healthcare Access

✅ Long-term Visa or Residency Options

✅ Proximity to India

✅ Indian Community Presence

✅ Cost of Living & Taxes

✅ Safety and Political Stability

✈️ Ready to Retire Abroad?

Retiring overseas can be a dream come true—but it requires research, planning, and the right mindset. Whether you want quiet beach days, mountain serenity, or global city vibes, the world has options for Indian retirees.

🌐 Explore More on AbroadSaathi.com

Looking to retire abroad? Get resources, country comparisons, visa guidance, and NRI community help on AbroadSaathi.com — your companion for smart global living.