Best Places to Retire in Europe: Easiest and Most Affordable Options
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Retiring in Europe means something different for everyone. For some, it’s the warm weather and slow mornings by the sea. For others, it’s the comfort of good healthcare, clean streets, and feeling safe while walking around. A lot of European countries also make it surprisingly simple for retirees to settle in, which is why so many people look this way when planning their next chapter.
If you’re trying to find the best places to retire in Europe, it helps to know which countries are actually easy to move to and which ones offer a comfortable life without high expenses.
Why Retire in Europe?
Europe attracts thousands of retirees every year. The reasons are simple.
- Clean cities
- Quality healthcare
- Reliable public transport
- Safe communities
- Rich culture and nature
- Easy residency routes for non-EU citizens
Many countries offer calm towns with low living costs. These become ideal for retirees living on fixed pensions. Europe also offers some of the Cheapest countries in Europe for retirees, making it possible to enjoy a good lifestyle without overspending.
How to Decide the Best Country for Retirees
Before choosing your retirement destination, consider the factors that matter most to your lifestyle.
1. English-Speaking Density
This matters when daily communication becomes important, especially for those exploring English-speaking retirement destinations in Europe. Many regions in Europe use English widely. Portugal and Spain’s coastal areas have strong expat communities where English is common. This makes life smoother for retirees.
2. Affordable Cost of Living
The Best retirement destinations in Europe are usually places where housing, food, utilities, and transport cost less than in Western countries. Portugal, Spain, Latvia, Greece, and Italy offer welcoming cities where you can live comfortably on a moderate pension.
3. High-Quality Healthcare
Medical care is a top priority during retirement. Most European countries offer excellent healthcare systems. Healthcare in Europe for retirees is one of the biggest advantages.
4. Stable Economy
A stable economy brings peace of mind. Your savings stay safe, and the value of your money remains strong. Countries like Portugal, Spain, and Greece provide this stability along with warm climates and friendly communities.
Easiest and Most Affordable Options in Europe
Here are some of the Easiest European countries to retire in and the Cheapest countries in Europe for retirees. These destinations offer simple visas, budget-friendly living, and strong expat communities.
These nations offer low-cost-of-living European cities, great Mediterranean weather, and some of the best small towns to retire in Europe.
1. Retiring in Portugal
Portugal remains one of the best places to retire in Europe. It offers warm weather, safe cities, and affordable living. Dining is cheap, transport is efficient, and basic utilities are affordable.
Healthcare is another major advantage. Public hospitals offer high-quality care at low cost. Private hospitals are also modern and widely available. Portugal’s nature and climate appeal to retirees who enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, or sailing.
Retirement Visa in Portugal: D7
Portugal’s D7 Visa is one of the Easiest European countries to retire through a passive income route. It is perfect for retirees with steady pension income or stable savings.
Portugal D7 Visa Requirements: Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Portugal D7 Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a non-EU national
- Have sufficient funds to support themselves while living in Portugal.
- Maintain a clean criminal record.
- Provide proof of a residence address in Portugal.
- Spend at least 16 months in Portugal during the first two years.
- Show stable passive income from one or more sources such as pensions, rental properties, dividends, royalties, or investments.
This makes the D7 route one of the Easiest and Most Affordable Options for retirees planning long-term living in Portugal.
Financial Requirements
The required passive income is linked to Portugal’s minimum wage, which is €870 per month in 2025.
Here is the minimum annual income needed:
- Single Applicant: €10,440/year
- Spouse: Additional 50% (€5,220 /year)
- Each Dependent Child: Additional 30% (€3,132 /year)
These requirements ensure retirees can support their lifestyle comfortably without relying on local employment.
2. Retiring in Spain
Spain is one of the most appealing retirement destinations in Europe. Warm weather, coastal towns, rich culture, and excellent healthcare attract thousands of retirees each year. Costs are moderate compared to Western Europe. This makes Spain a strong choice for people looking for comfort and an easy lifestyle.
Retirement Visa in Spain: Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
The Non-Lucrative Visa is Spain’s main retirement pathway. It allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain as long as they have enough passive income or savings. It is ideal for retirees with pensions, rental income, or investment returns.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a non-EU/EEA national.
- Must not engage in paid work or any professional activity in Spain.
- Must have a clean criminal record.
- Must hold comprehensive private health insurance that covers all services in Spain.
- Must show proof of sufficient financial means through passive income or savings to support themselves and any dependents.
- Must have proof of accommodation.
- Must spend at least 183 days per year in Spain after receiving the residence permit. This is important for maintaining residency and understanding tax obligations.
These rules make the NLV a solid choice for retirees who want long-term living without employment.
Spain Non-Lucrative Visa – Financial Requirements
Spain requires applicants to prove a stable income. The amount is tied to the IPREM, which is Spain’s official income index.
Here are the current figures:
- Main Applicant: Must show around €28,800 per year (about €2,400 per month).
- Each Additional Family Member: Must show €7,200 per year (about €600 per month).
- These numbers reflect 400% of the IPREM for the main applicant and 100% of the IPREM for each dependent.
Retirees can use pensions, rental income, dividends, savings, or investment returns to meet the requirement.
Retiring in Greece
Greece offers warm Mediterranean weather, charming villages, and great food. Healthcare is high-quality and reasonably priced. This makes Greece one of the Best Mediterranean countries for retirement.
Greece does not offer a specific “retirement visa.” Instead, non-EU citizens use the Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa. The Greece Financially Independent Visa allows retirees to stay without working. You must show a steady income from pensions or savings. This visa is one of the European countries with easy residency for retirees.
The FIP Visa allows retirees to live in Greece as long as they can show stable financial means and meet the basic residency conditions. It is one of the Easiest European countries to retire in for those with an independent income.
Greece FIP Visa – Key Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following:
- Must be a non-EU/EEA national.
- Must not engage in paid work or professional activity in Greece. Income must be passive.
- Must hold a clean criminal record.
- Must have private health insurance with full coverage in Greece.
- Must show sufficient passive income or savings to support themselves and dependents.
- Must provide proof of accommodation, such as a rental agreement or property documents.
- Must spend at least 183 days per year in Greece to maintain the residence permit.
These conditions ensure retirees can support themselves without relying on employment.
Greece FIP Visa – Financial Requirements
The income requirement is the most important part of the FIP visa.
- The main applicant must show a passive income of around €3,500 per month.
- A spouse requires an additional 20% (≈ €700/month extra).
- Each dependent child requires an additional 15%.
These amounts may vary slightly depending on the local immigration office, so it is always advised to confirm the latest figures before applying.
Retiring in Italy
Italy has a way of pulling people in. It’s not only the famous places you see in photos. But the quieter moments, the small cafés, the slow mornings, the old neighborhoods where everyone knows everyone. Italy is one of the richest countries in the world, and its medical care reflects that quality.
Most days can be simple. You might go for a walk, stop at a local market, or sit in a small square with a coffee. Italy offers beaches, mountains, lakes, and countryside. It depends on what you prefer. Many people who retire there end up spending more time outdoors without even planning it. Things like fresh food and healthcare are also strong points. The public system is solid, and private care isn’t hard to access if you prefer it.
Italy Retirement Visa: Elective Residence Visa (ERV)
Italy doesn’t officially have something called a “retirement visa,” but the Elective Residence Visa is basically the option retirees use. It’s meant for people who want to live in Italy without working, so your income has to come from pensions, rentals, or savings.
Italy ERV – Key Requirements
To apply for the Elective Residence Visa, you must meet the following:
- Be a non-EU national
- Show stable passive income such as pensions, rental income, dividends, or savings.
- Not to work or run a business in Italy.
- Provide a clean criminal record.
- Have private health insurance valid in Italy for at least one year
- Show proof of accommodation, such as a rental contract or property ownership.
- Prove that you can support yourself and dependents without employment.
Italy ERV – Financial Requirements
Italy does not publish a single fixed income number across all consulates, but many consulates follow these guidelines:
- Single applicant: Minimum €31,000 per year
- Couples: Minimum €38,000 per year
- Each dependent child: Income increases by 20% per child
Some consulates may accept slightly lower or higher income, depending on the applicant’s financial background. Savings, investments, and property income can help strengthen the application.
Retiring in Latvia
Latvia is a calm and affordable country in Northern Europe. It offers quiet towns, clean air, and easy access to nature. Riga is popular among expats, while smaller towns offer even lower living costs. Crime rates are low, and healthcare is affordable. Many retirees enjoy parks, forests, lakes, and long coastlines.
When it comes to living costs, Latvia is one of the most affordable EU countries. Healthcare is good and available in most towns. New retirees usually need private insurance at first, which is affordable. Property prices are low, making Latvia one of the cheapest places to buy property in Europe.
Retirement Visa in Latvia
Latvia does not have a dedicated retirement visa. However, non-EU citizens can live in Latvia by applying for a residence permit based on sufficient income. This route is ideal for retirees who have passive income, pensions, or savings and do not plan to work in Latvia.
Key Requirements
- Must be a non-EU national
- Must show stable passive income or savings
- Must not work in Latvia without a work permit
- Must show proof of accommodation
- Must have private health insurance
- Must submit a clean criminal record
Most applicants are expected to show at least €1,500 per month to cover daily living costs. Higher amounts may be needed for couples.
Optional Path: Latvia Golden Visa (Investment Route)
Some retirees prefer an investment-based option instead of the income route. Latvia offers a Golden Visa program that grants residency through investment.
This option is not required for retirement, but it provides faster processing and a 5-year residence permit.
Latvia Golden Visa Investment Options
1. Business Investment – €50,000
- Invest €50,000 into a Latvian company.
- The company must pay at least €40,000 per year in taxes.
- Pay a €10,000 state fee.
2. Real Estate Investment – €250,000
- Purchase property worth at least €250,000
- Pay a 5% state fee on the purchase price.
Both options allow you to include your spouse and children under 18. The residence permit is valid for 5 years.
Best Small Towns to Retire in Europe
Some retirees prefer quiet, charming places. Here are great picks:
- Lagos (Portugal)
- Tavira (Portugal)
- Valencia outskirts (Spain)
- Chania (Greece)
- Jurmala (Latvia)
- Lecce (Italy)
How UNO Capital Assists
Retiring abroad requires planning. UNO Capital helps retirees at every step. The team guides you through choosing the right country, understanding visa requirements, preparing documents, and relocating smoothly.
UNO Capital also supports you with:
- Residency and visa applications
- Property search and investment guidance
- Tax consultation
- Healthcare and insurance recommendations
- Long-term settlement planning
With expert support, your move to Europe becomes simple and stress-free. Talk to a citizenship advisor!
Conclusion
Retiring in Europe means something different for everyone. Some people go for the slower pace, others like that most places feel safe, and a lot of folks just enjoy having dependable healthcare close by. It’s not one single thing; it’s a mix, and it depends on what you’re looking for at this stage of life.
Portugal, Spain, Greece, Italy, and Latvia show up again and again when people talk about the best places to retire in Europe. They’re easy to settle into, and for many retirees, they turn out to be the Easiest and Most Affordable Options without adding too much stress or complexity.
With the right plan and expert guidance, your dream European retirement can become a reality. Contact us today!
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