Top Three Latin American Countries for Retirement

Once you’re on the path of retirement, the world is your oyster and it’s time to enjoy yourself.  This can also mean finding a place to live that you adore, can afford, and are close to loved ones.  For many, the thrill and potential savings of living abroad is too much to pass up.  If this is you, you’ll be glad to know that there are some amazing Latin American country options available right now in terms of cost, climate, culture, accessibility, and healthcare.

Ecuador

Looking for an incredibly stable haven with mild and consistent temperatures?  Then Ecuador could be your new home.  You can expect temps between the interior and the coast to range from 75F to 90F year around, with minimal humidity compared to its Central American counterparts.  Although only the size of Colorado, you can look forward to a range of natural features from the Andes mountains to the Amazon River basin.  All of this on a monthly budget of about $1,900 per month.

The private healthcare system is top notch and affordable, particularly in the larger cities.  Another retiree perk is a refund of up to $250 per month on any VAT (value-added tax) purchases.

Plus, there is just so much to do in Ecuador.  Hidden gems like, Swing At The End of The World, Middle of The World, or Isla de la Plata.  There is so much to see and do, and make sure you spend time in the capital, Quito.

Quito, in full Villa de San Francisco de Quito, city and capital of Ecuador. It is situated on the lower slopes of the volcano Pichincha, which last erupted in 1666, in a narrow Andean valley at an elevation of 9,350 feet (2,850 metres), just south of the Equator. The oldest of all South American capitals, Quito is notable for its well-preserved old town, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978.

Panama

If you want options, then Panama is the place to be.  It’s the only Central American country with a First World city –Panama City – with the added bonus that it’s only about a three hour direct flight to Miami.  Here, along with most parts of the country, you’ll have access to all of your favorite activities from golf to beach lounging to a thriving nightlife.  Plus, if you’re coming from North America, the currency is the American Dollar so it’s as convenient as it gets.

For retirees, their Pensionado plan is unbeatable.  Despite your age, if you have a corporate or government pension of at least $1,000 a month, then you’re applicable for residency.  If you don’t have a pension, then a new visa program called “Friends of Panama” can offer you residency if you have a local bank account with $5,000 in it and if you open a business, get a job, or buy property.  It doesn’t get much simpler than that.

Panama is a very diverse country, with mountains, jungles and even a small desert.  Panama sides both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean.  You will never be tired of seeing the sights in this amazing country.

Temperatures also vary from hot and humid in Panama City, to nice and mountain like in David and Coronado.

Spanish is the language of choice, but about 15% of the population speak English which is really helpful.  If you are thinking of making a spanish speaking country your new home, make sure to look at the language class we enrolled in when we moved to Panama.  It’s called:  I will Teach You A Language

Costa Rica

For over thirty years Costa Rica has been a retirement dream with a warm reliable climate, beautiful beaches and rain forests, and accessibility to expats.

Besides all this, the healthcare system is one of the biggest draws for retirees.  Similar to Panama, Costa Rica’s Pensionado program only requires an income of $1,000 per month from either disability, Social Security, or a pension to qualify for residency (this covers the spouse as well).  Once you’re a resident, for only about a $100 a month you get full coverage through the Caja healthcare system, including surgeries.  If healthcare is your prime concern, then Costa Rica is a top choice.

Costa Rica is top notched when it comes to things to do, here is a great article called: 17 Things You Might Not Know About Costa Rica.

The Cost of Living is well under what you might expect, especially if you are coming from the USA.

Need more help deciding if you’re ready to live overseas? Contact our office HERE

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And if you’re really serious about moving offshore, whether it’s you or your business, then you must read The Ultimate Guide to Going Offshore.  This guide will answer all of your questions.

Is Nicaragua your favourite place on earth, the read Nicaraguan Passport – One Of The Best Spots for Financial Foreign Investments