Retirement abroad is a dream for many French people. Portugal’s sunshine, Thailand’s attractive cost of living or Mexico’s exoticism: each destination has its own assets. But successfully retiring abroad is not something you can improvise. Taxation, administrative procedures and health coverage for retirement abroad are the pillars of your peace of mind.
How can I keep my Social Security entitlements? Which country to choose for your budget? Here’s everything you need to know before packing your bags.
Why move abroad when you retire?
Expatriating for retirement offers many advantages: a pleasant climate, a more affordable cost of living and, in some cases, tax advantages. Among the top destinations, Portugal is particularly attractive to French retirees. The advantages/disadvantages of retirement in Portugal are worth knowing: a mild climate, reliable medical facilities and a lower cost of living than in France, but a local language to master and administrative formalities to comply with.
Other popular countries include Thailand, Vietnam or Mexico, where daily living can be much cheaper than in France, offering a comfortable retirement even on an average pension.
Retirement abroad: what health coverage should you choose?
This is the No. 1 point of vigilance. Contrary to popular belief, your Carte Vitale does not follow you everywhere. When you retire abroad, health coverage depends on your area of residence.
1. French Social Security from abroad
- In Europe (EU/EEA/Switzerland): With form S1, you can register with the local health insurance scheme in your host country. Your treatment will be paid for at local rates, and you will continue to be covered when you return to France.
- Outside Europe: Social security no longer covers your day-to-day care. The Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE) is the only way to maintain a link with the French system, but it is not always enough to cover the real costs, which are often very high (USA, Asia, etc.).
2. Senior expatriate insurance: a necessity
To make up for the shortcomings of local plans, senior expatriate insurance is essential. You have two options:
- 1st euro” insurance: This covers the first healthcare expense without the need for a third-party organization.
- CFE top-up: This supplements the basic CFE reimbursements for 100% peace of mind.
Santexpat’s advice: opt for contracts that include repatriation assistance and direct payment in the event of hospitalization, to avoid massive out-of-pocket expenses.
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Focus on Portugal: advantages and disadvantages
Retirement in Portugal: advantages/disadvantages, what about in 2026?
| Benefits | Disadvantages |
| Proximity: Only 2h30 flight from Paris. | Taxation: The end of full RNH status for new arrivals (often subject to a 10% tax or the progressive scale). |
| Safety: One of the safest countries in the world. | Health: A saturated public system in some regions (Algarve) makes private insurance essential. |
| Cost of living: Restaurants and services 15 to 20% cheaper than in France. | Language barrier: Essential for complex administrative procedures. |
Expatriate retirement visa: essential steps
To live your dream, you’ll often need to obtain an expatriate retirement visa. While in Europe a simple declaration of residence is sufficient, outside the EU, the criteria are stricter:
- Proof of income: Countries like Thailand require a bank deposit (approx. $22,000) or a minimum monthly pension.
- Mandatory health insurance: Many countries now require proof of international health insurance with specific coverage limits (often $100,000) before issuing a visa.
- Criminal record and medical certificate: Often required for long-stay visas (Type O-A in Thailand, for example).
Which countries are the cheapest to retire in?
If your priority is to optimize your budget, here are the top destinations in 2026:
- Vietnam: For its unbeatable cost of living and booming healthcare infrastructure in the big cities.
- Mexico: Excellent value for money, especially for real estate.
- Tunisia and Morocco: Ideal for their geographical proximity and lack of language barriers.
Ready to take the plunge and retire abroad?
Expatriation is a wonderful human adventure, provided you’re well protected. Don’t let a health problem spoil your new life. Would you like a free comparison of the best health insurance for retirees abroad? Discover our offers dedicated to senior expatriate health insurance.
