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The Ultimate Retirement Checklist for Moving Overseas

Moving overseas for retirement is exciting — but success comes down to planning. This ultimate checklist covers everything from visas and budgets to property, healthcare, and lifestyle prep so you can retire abroad with confidence.
  • International Property Alerts
  • August 14, 2025

Moving overseas for retirement isn’t just a big life change — it’s a project.

The kind of project that, if done right, sets you up for financial security and a lifestyle you’ll love for decades.

I’ve helped many clients turn their “one-day” dream into a real relocation plan — and the truth is, it all comes down to preparation. This checklist will guide you from daydreaming to boarding your flight with confidence.

 

1️⃣ Define Your Retirement Goals

🌴 What kind of climate do you want?

🏙 Do you prefer a busy city or a peaceful village?

🏥 How important is healthcare access?

💷 Are you looking to save money, maintain, or upgrade your lifestyle?

💬 Elly’s Tip: Write this down — it keeps you focused when you’re comparing countries.

 

2️⃣ Choose Your Destination

Research countries based on cost of living, safety, healthcare, and visas.

Narrow it down to 2–3 locations for in-person visits.

Check if they have retirement-specific visas or tax benefits.

📖 Resources:

Portugal Guide | Spain Guide | Thailand Guide | Philippines Guide

 

3️⃣ Understand the Visa & Residency Rules

Check age and income requirements for retirement visas.

See if property ownership helps with residency.

Plan for renewals — some visas must be renewed yearly.

💬 Elly’s Tip: Some countries require proof of income, others accept savings or investment as eligibility.

 

4️⃣ Budget for Your Move

Moving costs (shipping, flights, initial accommodation)

Visa and legal fees

Health insurance or healthcare contributions

Property purchase or rental deposit

📊 Rule of Thumb: Have 6–12 months of expenses saved before moving.

 

5️⃣ Visit Before You Commit

  • Stay in your chosen area for 1–3 months.
  • Test the climate in the season you like least.
  • Explore neighbourhoods, markets, and healthcare facilities.

 

6️⃣ Plan Your Property Strategy

  • Decide whether to buy, rent, or buy later.
  • Factor in property taxes and maintenance.
  • Consider if you’ll rent it out part-time for income.
💬 Elly’s Tip: Renting first for 6–12 months helps avoid costly mistakes.

 

7️⃣ Sort Healthcare

  • Learn how the local system works (public, private, or mixed).
  • Get health insurance quotes before you move.
  • Bring medical records and prescriptions with you.

8️⃣ Handle Finances & Banking

  • Open a local bank account (or a multi-currency one).
  • Understand tax obligations in both countries.
  • Set up a way to receive pensions or income without high transfer fees.

9️⃣ Practical Lifestyle Prep

  • Research grocery costs, utility prices, and transport options.
  • Learn basic phrases in the local language.
  • Find out where the nearest hospital, pharmacy, and expat community are.

 

🔟 Make a Moving Timeline

  • 6–12 months before: Research visas, shortlist countries, budget.
  • 3–6 months before: Apply for visa, visit property options, arrange finances.
  • 1–3 months before: Book movers, confirm accommodation, sort insurance.

Moving month: Close up UK affairs, say goodbyes, and fly!

💬 Final Thoughts from Elly

Retiring overseas is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make — but it’s also one of the biggest.

With a clear plan, the right contacts, and some patience, you can turn your vision into a reality you wake up to every morning.

 

✉️ Ready to Start Your Retirement Journey?

I work with trusted agents, visa specialists, and relocation experts to help retirees move smoothly and safely.

📩 Email: elly@internationalpropertyalerts.com

📱 WhatsApp: +447796174253

📸 Instagram: @elly_international_property

 

About International Property Alerts


International Property Alerts is a premier global platform connecting real estate investors with handpicked opportunities in emerging and lifestyle-driven markets. Through curated listings, expert guidance, and market insights, we help buyers make confident property decisions worldwide.

Media Contact:

rentals in the Philippines

Phone: +44 7961 212181

Email: office@internationalpropertyalerts.com

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