Life expectancy in Israel and around the world has been rising significantly in recent decades, with people today living on average 20 years longer than in the mid-20th century. With increasing life expectancy, the number of people choosing to spend the final decades of their lives abroad is also growing.
However, the process is quite complex: Selling a house, leaving friends and family, and relocating life to a foreign country is a significant step that requires thorough research before undertaking it.
The magazine International Living recently published their annual Global Retirement Index. The index examines the leading global destinations for retirees according to categories such as cost of living, healthcare, housing options, visa requirements, weather, and ease of integration. The index, updated annually, is compiled with the help of over 200 experts working with the magazine and data from numerous people who have already moved to the countries in question.
The new number one spot for 2026 is our beloved neighbor Greece. The sun-drenched country is famous for its thousands of picturesque islands, making it a popular destination for photogenic vacations. According to the index, it also has everything needed to be the perfect destination for permanent residence.
“The rise of Greece to the top spot signals a shift in Europe,” says Jennifer Stevens, editor-in-chief of International Living. “For years Portugal and Spain led the list, but recent changes in visa policies and rising costs have prompted retirees to look for alternatives. Greece now offers what many are seeking – a beautiful, welcoming European country, with reasonable prices, accessible housing options, and a lifestyle that makes you feel rich in every sense.”
So let’s discover the 10 top countries in the 2026 Retirement Destinations Index and the advantages of each:
1. Greece – Best for retirees
How did Greece climb from seventh place to first this year? For several reasons: Over 300 days of sunshine per year, the locals’ “siga siga” (“slowly slowly”) approach to life, low cost of living, affordable housing options, a vibrant community, daily connection to nature and especially the sea. These factors contribute to a more relaxed and peaceful life.
Another significant advantage is Greece’s Golden Visa program, which grants residency to immigrants making a minimum real estate investment of 250,000 euros (approximately $290,000), making it one of the most accessible in Europe. Additionally, Greece scored well in the healthcare index, both in terms of accessibility and cost.
2. Panama
Panama leads all countries in the index in the category of visas and retiree benefits. Its pensioner program offers impressive perks: 50% off entertainment, 30% off transportation, 25% off flights, 15% off medical expenses, and discounts on everything – from electronics to dining out.
How do you qualify? Your pension must be at least $1,000 per month (or $1,250 jointly for you and a spouse). Even if you don’t have a pension, there are many convenient options for residence visas.
Another advantage of retiring in Panama is its healthcare system – “Panama’s healthcare system competes with that of the United States in quality, but without the price tag,” the international index report states. “A hospital stay that could cost $30,000 in Miami can cost $3,200 here, including CT scans and medications.”
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica ranked first in the climate category – a criterion examining the diversity of climates in a country. Costa Rica features tropical weather and breathtaking nature. The locals’ “Pura Vida” (“pure life”) approach emphasizes joy, optimism, and connection to nature, also reflected in their friendliness and warm welcome to foreigners.
Another reason to move to Costa Rica is its advantage in life expectancy. The Nicoya Peninsula is one of only five “Blue Zones” worldwide – areas known for the longevity of their residents.
To obtain a retiree visa, your pension must be at least $1,000 per month. However, even without a pension, there are other visa options.
4. Portugal
Portugal ranks second only to France in the healthcare category, and it also scores high in climate and governance – a criterion examining public infrastructure, government stability, and banking efficiency.
A significant advantage noted in the index is the warm welcome you receive from locals. Regarding cost of living, prices in Portugal have risen in recent years, but it is still cheaper than the United States or England.
Portugal has undergone several visa changes in recent years. Currently, the ideal visa for retirees is the D7 – “Passive Income Visa.” The visa requires proof of a minimum stable income of $1,000 per month.
5. Mexico
Mexico scored high in visas and retiree benefits as well as in governance and infrastructure. Roads are excellent, internet is fast, infrastructure is modern, cost of living is exceptionally low, and healthcare is top-notch.
To obtain a retiree visa, your pension must be at least $1,000 per month (or $1,250 jointly for you and a spouse).
Residency in Mexico offers discounts for temporary and permanent residents: Movie tickets for $4, free museum entry, and 50–100% off transportation and services with a special retiree card. These perks are not guaranteed, so check with locals or expat groups.
6. Italy
Italy received the highest score in the sense of belonging category – a criterion assessing how easily immigrants can form social connections and feel integrated. Italy also scored relatively high in healthcare.
Additionally, the cost of living in Italy is not high outside major cities and allows for a high standard of living even on a modest budget.
Another reason Italy climbed the list this year is improvements in its visa process. To obtain a long-term visa, many immigrants choose the Elective Residency Visa (ERV), which requires proof of passive income ($31,000 for an individual or $38,000 for a couple per year), a rental contract or property ownership, health insurance, and several other documents. The ERV is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. Additionally, you need to pay approximately $2,300 per year to access Italy’s healthcare system. After registration, medical treatment is free.
7. France
France received the highest score in the healthcare category. However, this reputation is beginning to attract criticism within the country – French parliament members are considering proposals to end free healthcare for foreign retirees and require them to pay a minimum fee.
Even aside from healthcare and parliament decisions, France is expected to remain a very attractive destination for retirees, combining top-tier culture and cuisine.
France has a clear residency pathway. A long-stay visa requires proof of a monthly income of 1,400 euros (NIS 1,623), three months of housing, and annual health insurance covering the Schengen Area. Applicants must declare their intention to retire and not work in France, though remote work for entities outside France is permitted.
8. Spain
Spain is characterized by rich culture, excellent infrastructure, and a healthcare system also considered among the best in the world, scoring excellently in the index. However, the cost of living in Spain has risen in recent years, though it is still possible to live comfortably on a modest budget (as long as it is outside Barcelona or Madrid).
Spain has a large and established foreign community, especially in coastal towns and major cities. There are many groups for English speakers, but knowing Spanish truly opens doors. While many Spaniards speak basic English, speaking Spanish deepens connection and understanding.
Spain’s “Non-Lucrative” visa is the leading option for retirees with passive income or savings. Current requirements are 28,800 euros per year (approximately $34,000), health insurance, and additional documents. For each additional family member seeking a visa, there is an extra cost of 7,200 euros per year (approximately $8,500).
9. Thailand
Thailand was one of the highest-scoring countries in the cost of living category, with only Vietnam and Sri Lanka scoring higher, allowing retirees to live a lifestyle that would likely only be a dream at home. Thailand also excelled in climate, governance, and hospital standards.
Thailand welcomes immigrants with flexible visa options, including the standard retiree visa, the 10-year LTR (Long-Term Resident) visa for retirees or high-income investors, and the Digital Nomad visa for remote workers. Immigration laws change constantly but generally favor long-term settlers.
10. Malaysia
Malaysia is characterized by a low cost of living, reliable and accessible healthcare, and modern infrastructure.
For visas, the program offered is MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) – a long-term visa renewable annually. The visa requires a passive income of approximately $2,200–$3,300 per month and submission of several documents. Exact requirements vary between Malaysian states.