Why South-East Asia?
Retiring to South-East Asia allows you to stretch your retirement savings significantly further, while enjoying premium healthcare, dedicated retirement visas and a high-end lifestyle that might be unaffordable in the West. Many countries in East and South-East Asia actively welcome retirees by offering tropical climates, safe environments and vibrant communities.
Your money goes further
Your retirement income or pension goes a long way, thanks to the low cost of living across South-East Asia.
- Luxury housing
- Affordable real estate allows retirees to rent or own high-end property with pools, gyms and 24/7 security for a fraction of Western prices.
- Low daily costs
- Eating out at local restaurants, buying fresh tropical produce and using daily services such as laundry or housekeeping cost very little.
World-class healthcare for less
Medical care in leading South-East Asian destinations meets or exceeds Western standards at a far lower price point.
- Medical tourism hubs
- Many countries have high-quality hospitals with Western-trained, English-speaking doctors.
- Lower out-of-pocket costs
- Routine check-ups, prescriptions and major procedures typically cost substantially less than in the UK, Europe or the USA.
- Accessible health insurance
- Comprehensive health insurance is widely available and affordable for older applicants.
Visas designed for retirees
Several governments make it logistically straightforward for expats to move and stay long term.
- Philippines SRRV
- The Special Resident Retiree's Visa allows those aged 50 and over to stay indefinitely, in exchange for a deposit held with the Philippine Retirement Authority. It is a special resident visa rather than permanent residence, and it depends on maintaining that deposit. Deposit levels and conditions vary by category and have been tightened in recent years.
- Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)
- A long-term residency pass for financially independent applicants of any age. Tiered fixed-deposit, property purchase and minimum-stay requirements apply, and the scheme was significantly restructured in recent years. Sarawak operates its own separate version.
- Thailand retirement visas
- Options such as the Non-Immigrant O-A visa allow those aged 50 and over to stay long term. Requirements include proof of finances, qualifying Thai health insurance, a police clearance and a medical certificate, and the visa must be applied for from outside Thailand. Other routes, including the long-term resident visa, may suit some applicants better.
Visa rules change frequently and the summaries above are a starting point, not advice. We will confirm the current requirements that apply to you during your consultation.
Lifestyle and culture
Retirement in South-East Asia offers an exceptional social and cultural environment.
- Tropical leisure
- A gentle climate allows year-round outdoor hobbies — golf, swimming, walking and exploring the natural landscape.
- A culture of respect
- Cultures across the region hold a deep respect for older people, which makes for a welcoming and courteous environment.
Things to think about
It is important to plan properly.
Whether you are considering dual-living or permanent change, moving abroad is a big step.
These are some of the big questions our clients have — and we will talk them through honestly with you.
- Distance from family
- You are only a flight away, but think about how often you would realistically travel, and who might visit. Video communication means it is easy to stay in touch, even at long distance.
- Complex healthcare needs
- Routine care is excellent and relatively inexpensive. Of course, ongoing treatment for a more serious condition needs planning, but healthcare in the region is very good and, importantly, affordable.
- Currency
- Your income and savings are most likely to be in sterling and your costs in local currency. Exchange rates move.
- Ownership rules
- Ownership rules vary from country to country and can be discussed individually.
Ready to find out what's possible?
Complete our short personal fact-finding questionnaire and book a free one-to-one initial consultation with one of our friendly, helpful team. We are here to help you achieve a calmer, more relaxed lifestyle — now and into retirement.