Cheapest countries to retire (for $1000/mo or less)

We just saw another list recommending cheap places to retire abroad, but it may not be possible to actually LIVE in several of them, even if they have a low cost of living.
So in this video, we’re going to unpack this list and give you a few options that might work BETTER if you’re on a tight budget.
Links Mentioned in the Video:
US News & World Report Article - money.usnews.com/money/retire...
Mexican Special Regularization Program - www.mexperience.com/mexico-of...
Vietnam Visas - www.vietnam-visa.com/vietnam-...
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[@user-jl8pm6yc6x]

I've lived in Thailand for 11 months now. Entered on a 30-day tourist visa and immediately hired a Visa Agent for a retirement "O" visa. Yes, you can live here on $1000/mo as a single person. * I avoid commenting, but you two are so helpful and you requested help.❤

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

Welcome to Thailand, I've been here 8 years, and it's great.

[@oceanproalaska2203]

You Can not Live in Thailand on $1000.00 per month. You can only exist

[@user-xd7rc6eo8n]

The flights look so expensive these days to test out some areas. Any tips?

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

@@user-xd7rc6eo8n sounds like u need to work some more and save. 😞

[@lb9007]

I live in Mexico and it has become very expensive down here with the super pesos constantly raising in value and higher inflation. And the visas requirements are now unachievable for most.

[@mactravel112]

that's true, the strength of peso relative to many currencies, is very strong. And the annual rise in financial requirements is quite extreme.

[@jordana99]

You need about 20000p to buy the regularization visas! I have lived here in Mx for 13 years. And am now priced out.

[@PatJones-jz9rs]

Frankly, with Mexico's standard of living having increased within the past 3-4years, it has narrowed the buying power gap between USD & MEXD. Not to mention there are probably as many Mexicans living in the southeast United States as there are in all of Mexico. Therefore, I see little advantage to relocating to Mexico. After all, there are a whole lot of beaches and forests along the coastlines of NC, SC, GA, AL, and MS. Moreover, why would I want to leave one English speaking country to go to another country that has COSTCO, Sam's Club, Wal-Mart, etc, when they are already here in the southeast United States. And, I don't buy "gringo" prices...😊

[@jordana99]

@@PatJones-jz9rs I have thought about going to the South although I am from the West.

[@yashasvikapila8839]

What about the crime rate in mexico ?

[@corinto1977]

I recently traveled to my home country, Nicaragua, after 8 years. With $1,000 you will be merely surviving. It used to be that 1K would go a long way, not anymore. You won't find a nice apartment or house in a good neighborhood for less than $300. Add utilities, food, and cell service. In addition, you will need a car because public transportation sucks unless you live in a city like Granada and walk most places. Not to mention a gallon of regular gasoline is almost $5. It is cheaper than most large US cities and with 2K a month is doable. Living in a poor country like mine with $1,000 or less doesn't seem attainable.

[@myfriendgoo2816]

Health care quality is a big problem with Cambodia. I would also point out that in all the countries in that region (Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Philippines...been to all of them) that while your risk of violent crime is low, you have a much higher risk than in developed western countries of stupid, ordinary accidents. Getting hit by a reckless motorcycle driver, slips & falls, car accidents, fires in places that aren't nearly up to western fire-safety standards, and so on.

[@martypoll]

I’m not disagreeing but a lot of those examples result from a lightly regulated society. Living here in Thailand feels remarkably free compared to life in the US. Of course personal responsibility is important. It’s a question of values and trade offs.

[@jackeisman8029]

I used to follow your channel when I had friends living in Cuenca and was considering retirement there. I too was a Coloradan and after 40+ years in the mountains I felt I wanted some tropical beach time. I have fairly low income not much more than the numbers you are talking about. I’ve spent lots of time in Mexico and love it there, but crime is a constant under lying issue there in some areas. And as you mentioned, costs are skyrocketing in Mexico for visas. I then spent 6 months in the Philippines. In the Philippines you can get a tourist visa and renew every few months. After 3 years on extensions you must exit the country for 24 hours. Shampoo, rinse, repeat, good for another 3 years…. Not a lover of the foods there, there is also a fair amount of crime in and out of the cities. And if you need health care there good luck unless you’re minutes away from a major hospital in Manila or Iloilo City. I am currently in Thailand and enjoying myself on a relatively low budget. The food is wonderful, cost of housing is extremely reasonable, the only real criminal element comes from foreigners. Due to the Buddhist culture and the belief of Karma ,theft and violent crime is super low. The medical care here is 2nd to none, just top shelf…!!! Visa costs are a little on the high side, but if you balance the pros and cons…. not a bad overall choice.

[@KP99]

@@jackeisman8029 How important is it to speak the language? Can you live a decent life if you only speak English?

[@jackeisman8029]

@@KP99 Many here in Thailand only speak their native tongue And can get along. I Will start taking Thai languages lessons soon to enhance my rxperience here …..

[@BureaucracyWorld]

If Cambodia health care is low. You can always go to Thailand for better health care.

[@kyaghleah]

P.S. Big cities in Asia tend to be very polluted in my experience. Thanks again!!

[@lindadorman2869]

One issue with Malaysia is they've changed the terms of their visa program several times since suspending MM2H in 2022 and the approval process has been transferred back and forth from immigration and tourism departments. I know people who waited for a year to get approved, only to have their application denied or terms changed. Also, why would anyone deposit $100K into a Malaysian bank and forego interest rate growth from high yield savings accounts, stock market or real estate investments in the US?

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

Yes Malaysia is off most people's list now a days.

[@vanhalen45]

I am not sure what is in the mind of the legislators in Malaysia with regard to retirement immigration. I assume that such immigration is a boom to the economy but perhaps there are other considerations. Malaysia seems like a great country to retire in or spend a lot of time in.

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

@vanhalen45 I've talked to expat lawyers. Several have remarked that the economic power of immigrants is not as important to a country as most immigrants estimate. To put it another way ,they really don't want us or care about us.

[@michaelc5769]

Absolutely correct: they've moved the goal posts in an attempt to attract wealthy foreigners and instead just hurt themselves. They also have a high income requirement along with expensive required health insurance. Some of the steeper requirements came after COVID requirements were relaxed and it's as though they're trying to make up for lost income during that time period. Pity: Penang would be at the top of my list if there were reasonable requirements.

[@destinationsunknowntheroadsles]

Sadly they made it very difficult as I would have seriously considered moving there. So much better than Thailand in many ways.

[@philipdauzat3377]

The Phillipines doesnthave a 3yr visa, but you can stay there for 3yrs by extending your tourist visa, then you have to leave for 24hrs.

[@emwa3600]

I have been visiting Philippines for decades so I'm hardly objective. To me, there are 3 'parts' - the northern peninsula has Bagiuo City, with snowy mountains, beautiful terrain, friendly locals, a great variety of northern P.I cuisine. Then there's Manila. Ugh. A massive, sprawling big city. Ugh. But it has all the advantages, too - far superior healthcare for retirees, large ethnic areas and ex-pat groups. And it's the center of all travel - everyone gets to know a bit of Manila. Then there's the middle of the country - Cebu, etc. - with great island hopping adventures. AND piracy-at-sea. I no longer go there to sail because of that threat. But Cebu is a big city with most resources.

[@JoseReyes-ov2tu]

snowy mountains? @@emwa3600

[@zitaabenoja7280]

Philippines retirement visa you're given a permanent resident visa and can stay until you surrender your visa.

[@quinnrivera5075]

Vietnam gives you 90 days, Thailand , gives you 90 days, Malaysia gives you 90 days , then go to Cambodia or Indonesia. Or both for 90 more. Lather , rinse , repeat. All short flights. All very affordable. Just pack light. You’re gonna be wearing shorts and tshirts and flip flops. One suitcase. One backpack. That’s all you need. Rent. Don’t buy. SE Asia has real value. It’s safe. Good medical care that’s affordable either in the country you’re in or a short flight to Thailand , Malaysia or Singapore. Call it slow travel or whatever. You just have to keep moving if you don’t want to deal with all the rules to get the retirement visa. For me that’s good anyway. Thailand is great. Fun. Beautiful women. Party vibe. And all that. But Malaysia is very cool as well. Completely different and it’s right near door. English speaking. Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit. Different kind of nightlife. But still fun. Very conservative compared to Thailand. I’m in Thailand now. My time is running out here. Gonna pack up the condo and check out Vietnam next. Da Nang and Na Trang areas first. I’ve heard you can keep renewing the 90 day e visa. Also have heard you can just keep renewing the 30 day visa on arrival or whatever. You just gotta keep moving. Since Covid and with the rise of remote work/digital nomad these countries frankly do not want Americans scraping by on social security. They want wealthy people who did well with 401ks and all that. So if youre blue collar like me you got to keep moving. Which I don’t mind doing.

[@vanhalen45]

I like the way you think. Honest and to the point. 401k wealth means that an American stuck to a job and contributed like hell. Of course, many retirees get by on just SS payments... maybe enough to have a better life in a place like Phils or Vietnem or Cambodia. Part of me really wants to wish that all Americans and others had enough resources in retirement. Keep on moving.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Very true! Amelia is already talking about doing slow travel for the next 3 years. When we started, she only agreed to 3 months! 😂

[@garthkelly1668]

You are in the "Paradise Stage" .

[@judymckee5992]

@@vanhalen45 , I have been doing it since 2016, it is a great life. I love it , different places every month.

[@emwa3600]

Thailand's geriatric medical care is way overrated. Long wait times, poor medical education and very limited awareness of pharmaceuticals. Thai's medical system consistently is GIVEN high marks but I don't know why. PATIENTS don't claim it to be 'high' either.

[@janajoujan7658]

I think you two provide the most useful retiring/living abroad information out there.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@johnyoungieyoung123]

Love your channel. I live in Philippines comfortably on less than $1000/month but I do own my own home. I live a good life, eat well (away from any tourist areas and expat hotspots) Visas are fairly easy to get and there is good healthcare available in Manila. I think you can qualify for the SRRV for $10,000 now. English isn't widely spoken in the province though, I speak enough Tagalog. I have residency it requires a "check-in" once a year and a small fee like $20 but you have to pay to leave!!! They are always changing the tourist visa requirements, you used to have to renew it every 2 months and leave every year. I think you can get 6 months now and leave every two years as a tourist. I know people who have been here 20 years on tourist visas. The SRRV Visa is actually better than the 13A spousal visa as I don't think you have to pay to leave. I like your channel as you guys dared to "look behind the curtain" and see the USA for what it is and you had the balls to leave. A lot don't even see it. The wage slaves living in the rat-race and healthcare hostages. Good job.

[@vanhalen45]

Great comment

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for sharing! I prefer to call it a hamster wheel because rat race implies you have a chance of winning. It felt more like we were running around in circles and not going anywhere. If we had stayed, I would have needed to go back to corporate to get health insurance and been another healthcare hostage. We’re so glad we chose a more unconventional life! 🥳

[@johnyoungieyoung123]

@@AmeliaAndJP I hear you loud and clear. Healthcare was the #1 reason I left the USA, closely followed by extortionate property taxes and the general cost of living. Ironically the lack of freedom in "Land of the Free" was also high on my list. You need a license to go to the bathroom there and insurance in case someone smells it. The least free country I have ever visited actually.

[@chuckwavra8832]

@johnyoungieyoung123 I agree, the property taxes are criminal.

[@KP99]

@@johnyoungieyoung123 What other countries have you visited, that are also more free than the US? I genuinely am curious. Living in the US, we sometimes assume it's the land of the free, but maybe we're so used to all the regulations that are meant for the common good, that we actually don't realize that all those regulations make us much less free.

[@BC19572]

There is no 3yr tourist visa in the Philippines. Once you enter you can however continue to extend your tourist visa for up to 3yrs. The longest extension is 6 months but you don't always get that long. Common extensions are 2 months so you will be frequently extending your tourist visa. At the end of 3yrs just leave for 24 hrs and re-enter and start all over again. Some expats have stayed in the Philippines for up to 20 yrs by extending their tourist visa's.

[@deebee2603]

Lucky you heading to Cambodia! You will love Siem Reip with Angkor Wat (jaw dropping) and other nearby temples. The Cambodian people are so welcoming, and the food is terrific!

[@hanslueschen5190]

So timely and pertinent. Thank you!

[@tessjones5987]

Thank you. Great info. No long dead ends.

[@JR-eq6jz]

I've been to nearly all these countries. Albania I have not and it's the most interesting to me now. As they keep on expanding the BS Schengen zone, this is a good place to see as they will probably close the gap there at some point between Croatia and Greece.

[@confessionsnotexcuses]

Albania is wonderful! I spent 5 months in Saranda last year.

[@susannbasta2972]

@@User12345fan I was considering Albania, but heard there are many homeless dogs, I am concerned that would be a deal breaker for me

[@moa3810]

@@susannbasta2972 Yes, many homeless dogs all over Albania - you hear them every night; are always hungry. sad scene.

[@lolal2502]

​@moa3810 😢😢😢

[@NNI4262]

We have a couple people working here from Europe. They both say avoid Albania. Also, I hear the health care system there it not very good.

[@Kevin-et5zs]

Peru has changed their tourist visa, now if you're from North America you MIGHT get 180 days visa free, or not. It's up to the immigration officer. Also, if you DO stay for 180 days, you're considered a resident for tax purposes---and you have to leave for the next 180 days. But Miraflores and Barranco are very nice and you should hang out there, plus the food is great! You just can't border hop there no mo.

[@marcd1981]

It's really a shame, between Ecuador and Peru, the cartels and gangs causing so much trouble, and the Visas and tax issues are never cut and dry.

[@Jetmab04]

​@@marcd1981Yes. I sure hope some positive changes are in sight for these two countries - especially Ecuador which definitely is and, always was, my number one.... Hope is green 💚💚💚

[@marcd1981]

@@Jetmab04I would have loved to retire in Ecuador. I had plans originally from back in the 1990's that I was going to retire there. Unfortunately, life didn't go well and I figured Ecuador was off.

[@davidveraok]

marcd, I live in Peru and there is ZERO cartels causing troubles here. You are confusing Peru with Colombia . Peru has drug zones but so far from civilization, Very deep in the jungle. No cartels shooting each other in cities as in Mexico, Ecuador or Colombia.

[@maletu]

THANK YOU for reviewing from perspective of viable visa options, I am SO TIRED of lists that don't do that!!!!!

[@kennethkilpatrick3758]

Here's the secret to the Sarawak option. Get in using their version and you can use it to live on mainland Malaysia. You just have to come back to Sarawak a couple weeks a year.

[@WaypointofView]

Really great and informative video, thanks so much for sharing!!

[@destinationmax]

Hi Amelia and JP. Thank you for this wonderful informative video and I really am excited to see you guys visiting the Philippines. ❤ I bet the food is heavenly there, environment, and such a beautiful culture.

[@Bigd0gg]

Great post! Thanks 😊

[@hokiedevil]

Albania is not as cheap as it was two years ago. I spent last summer on the coast there and spent about the same as I do in Bucharest. Still less than $1600 a month for a couple! It is also pretty dirty and hot in the summer. I love the country, especially the nature and history, but it is somewhere that you need to visit first before deciding if it is for you

I spent a month there recently and I completely agree with your comment

[@whacked00]

Great video! Thanks!

[@ReallyHappened]

Excellent guys, just what I was looking for.

[@cycletravler]

Can't wait to hear your reports on these countries when you visit. I've got my eye on the Philippines! Thank you thank you thank you for your awesome videos.

[@JMoroccoMisterBoy]

Amelia & JP : Tks., much appreciative.

[@TessaHill22]

You guys did a GREAT job! Succinct and accurate info, well done! I live in Portugal and I think you were spot on. Obrigada!

[@enriquebelaskes3421]

I always scroll past any video regarding retiring for less than $1K. Thanks you for proving legit information. BTW, Thailand is amazing. I have been there multiple times and I never get tired of it. The north is my favorite area, but the south is where some of the most amazing beaches are.

[@budawang77]

The slow travel option expands the list of potential countries enormously. House sitting is one approach that can make otherwise expensive countries very affordable.

[@beehive5835]

Thanks guys! I do want to "slow travel" for a while, but eventually WE ALL have to have a place to "retire" and live long term. I don't want to have to do a visa run or continue to country hop after 70. Any chance you could do a review of affordable countries that have: 1) retirement/senior homes for people that need to be taken care of (dementia, etc.) AND 2) good affordable medical care (so affordable medical insurance since U.S. Medicare doesn't cover retirees in other countries)? So many Americans won't be able to afford to be in a quality home here in the U.S. (why do we "warehouse" older people here?).

[@susannbasta2972]

Excellent question.

[@goldvideo]

Because the US cares about little else than making money and senior citizens are not profitable in their eyes.

[@garthkelly1668]

These folks give an excellant, classy, informed introduction . Now , do your homework , and get moving . There's a whole different life out there , away from your home country . Gentrification is real , and when it comes to spending your own money, you best learn how slow travel is done. Put your passport on the table , in sight all the time . Then use it ! I think asking someone to provide all the details for you is a sign of being stuck in your own culture to long. Break that habit, and work out of that type life. You have the ability, to study on everything , and make it come true for yourself . The long term expats do not engage on these platforms . They are living totally different lives, than you imagine when you are stuck to your own countries, and the idiot beliefs of your countrymen. Break out !

[@beehive5835]

@@garthkelly1668 I would love to, but my mother has early onset Dementia and I am the only caregiver...so I need to gather as much information before I can spend time away from caring for her. I'm not financially in the position of hiring caregivers here in the U.S.

[@missmayflower]

Yes, so many of those lists are bogus. What a great video, educating people about things to consider.

[@TheRockInnRobin]

Great follow up to that article. I read it and thought the same thing. My picks are still Panama Ecuador or Peru for sure.

[@mactravel112]

Thailand, Thailand and Thailand would be my clear cut winner. But Mexico (cost rising fast), Malaysia, Philippines, Panama, Vietnam next

[@TheRockInnRobin]

@@mactravel112 I already have a baseline of Spanish and I don’t want to be on that side of the world. Besides I lived in Florida for a decade. Heat and humidity is not a good combo for my issues. I can deal with rain as long as it’s not oppressive heat. I’m more after elevation and a predictable weather pattern.

[@mactravel112]

@@TheRockInnRobin I'm similar with a very good baseline in Spanish, Mexican permanent residency and a home, but overall the more time I spend in SE Asia, the more I understand they have a higher quality of life. There is a lot to love about central and south america though.

[@lolal2502]

There is high crime level in Peru.

[@TheRockInnRobin]

@@lolal2502 good thing I don’t have anything to begin with.

[@johnshellenberg1383]

My wife and I spent most of this winter in Portugal and I can't see living there on ~1000 Euros/month, and not even close in Lisbon. Which is sad when you look at average incomes of people there - the cost of living is quickly becoming a real burden on locals. If you were a couple and had an income of 1000Euros each, then it might be doable, but you'd be scraping by.

[@onnasun8122]

Best Honest Video!

[@Mtnshell56]

Amelia I like the new hairdo! JP, your hairdo is looking good too! 🙂

[@photopro100]

Good information in the video. Finally glad to see other countries such as Philippines, Cambodia and Albania included. Looking forward to your visits in those countries. Countries change their visa requirements so often that the slow travel is starting to make sense. They should stabilize retirement visas. I watched the slow travel video. Hope to see more videos about slow travel.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

More to come!

[@jonreedau81]

@@AmeliaAndJP I'm excited to hear you have plans to travel to the Philippines in the future. A number of people have given you the correct information on a tourist visa being extendable for up to 3 years without leaving the country. My wife ( a former Filipino citizen) and I were given what is commonly called a Balikbayan visa which is good for 1 year when we visited last September and there are several variations as you mentioned on a retirement visa also worth considering. The real purpose of my comment, however, is to predict that you will be quite impressed with the friendliness and kindness of the Philippine people on your visit- I have never had a greater experience than I had spending time with them. I hope you have a great time on your visit.

[@kyaghleah]

Thanks. It would be great to hear your thoughts on safety as well.

[@marcd1981]

Thank you for the video, Amelia and JP. I have seen several places to retire lists that have Vietnam on them, but never checked into it. That is very strange it seems to be so highly recommended when there is no retirement Visa there.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It is confusing.

[@traceymarshall5886]

Albania was a suprising nice place to visit. And all of those coffee shops in Tirana

[@Lisa-oy9ts]

Thank you for clarifying these misleading lists! Great job ! Love the cute new hairstyle too Amelia!!!!

[@davidchilton4301]

Helpful video - with regard to the Philippines, I believe you can simply continue to extend your tourist visa up until you've been there three years. At that point you much leave but you can come back after as little as one day and reset the clock.

[@vanhalen45]

I do not usually comment on your wonderful videos, but I must recommend this one. Love the flow and specific facts you provide. I am looking at Manila, Philippines as a base of operations for retirement. From there the world of opportunities in Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam open up. Great work and best to you both.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@SamiNami]

You have missed one country and I almost dont want to tell you because I don't want it to be crowded. But I just visited Mauritius and loved it. Super safe! and good amneties. And it's a paradise Island.

[@pathkris2984]

I don't think it is cheap, is it? Thanks.

[@SamiNami]

@@pathkris2984 Most things are half the price of Europe, but you have to avoid the tourist spots.

[@dougs55]

In the Philippines there is no “three year” visa. You can renew a regular tourist visa periodically and you don’t have to leave until 3 years are up. I did that in 2019. After that I got a permanent resident by marriage visa (13-A). If you want to find that on the bureau of immigration site look for tourist visa renewal not visa type. There is no requirement to return to your home country. There is no time limit to remain outside the Philippines. I got a super budget round trip ticket to Taipei and got right back on the plane after 4 hours. You still need an additional ticket to exit the Philippines just like going there for the first time.

[@OllieCat7]

Your show is great as always. I'm very happy you brought up Panama. Logistically that has a lot of advantages for people from the US as well.

[@WanderingLeisure_World]

Thank you for sharing your info. If you come to Thailand and Cambodia, please don't forget to visit a tiny laid-back country "Laos" one of the most beautiful landscapes in Southeast Asia, much more affordable cost of living & less crowded.

[@chasca23]

....also a Military dictatiorship with No health Care system.

[@michelemoneywell8765]

I enjoyed your Albania video. New subscriber. Liked both videos. Thank you for them.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Awesome, thank you! Welcome!

[@007thematrix007]

agreed 👍 u.s. news n' world report got it all wrong! ... pretty happy w/ your updated list!

[@DavidMelons]

The Philippines also has a special visa for retired military as well. The SSRV. As retired military the cost of the Visa drops to $1500 dollars with an annual renewal of only about 100 pesos.

[@Carandiru1992]

Amelia and JP , have you done a video on the current situation in Ecuador and do you have any plans in going back?

[@northerncoloradotransparen1454]

Philippines has a 3 year tourist visa, through extensions. Maximum time is 3 years but must renew often.

[@tedjohnson4451]

Philippines: You can renew the Tourist Visa, multiple times for 60 Days, for a total stay of Three years. I'm headed over Cebu City [IT or Business Park Area] in October or November for a Six to Eight Month post-Retirement Vacation. The Retirement Visa with a $10k USD Deposit towards a Condo does appeal to me.

[@chrisgmelch1479]

Thanks guys

[@amywalker7515]

have you ever considered Argentina? We were there a little more than a year ago and loved it. The cost of living was extremely low and the people were really nice. they have a variety of visas, including the digital nomad and I believe a pensionado visa. The cost of living for them is really high right now due to the devaluation of their peso, but for us, it makes the cost of living less due to the strength of the dollar. More Americans coming down there, even for tourism, would help these people a lot.

[@monte1620]

I have two big problems with most of these countries. First are the temperatures (and humidity) in most of these countries. My second issue is how difficult it is to learn the languages that are commonly used in each country.. Spanish is relatively easy, but when you get to Thai (a tonal language) it's way above my abilities.

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

I've been living in Chiangmai Thailand for 8 years now and do not speak Thai. It's not a problem 👌. Also, Chiangmai is pretty low humidity most of the year and 6 or 7 months it's not hot. If you live in a tropical country, there's no heat bill. I'm from KCMO, and summers here aren't as bad as the Midwest summers. I LOVE ❤️ THAILAND 🇹🇭

[@craiggallup5706]

No need to speak Thai if you move to the expat havens. You will find English speakers everywhere in those places. Not high level speakers usually but good enough. Websites for everything you need will have English versions. Countries often have cooler weather areas. Philippines has Baguio. Malaysia has highlands. Mexico has the mild weather colonial interior.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

Boquete, Volcan, Cerra Punta in Panama are much cooler since they are in the Volcan Baru.

[@LawrenceStevens01]

​@DavidWilliams-qr5yj I've been going to Chiang Mai for 2-3 months during USA winter months for 20 years. The Major problem is the smoky season now extends for December through March with the aqi frequently in the unhealthy zone. I got rid of my stuff and won't go back. If you look at the NASA fire maps you'll see it's a regional problem unlikely to be solved in my lifetime.

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

@LawrenceStevens01 yea yea yea ,we travel during March and April. For 8 years we enjoy living there. My Thai inlaws are in their 80's and healthy. My Brother a non smoker is dieing of lung cancer living all his life inKCMO He is 71 years. Sorry you don't like Chiangmai but thousands of us do. And we understand your concerns. Also see lots of smokers and lots of Obesity complaining about smoky air. So to each his own. We own 4 condos and 2 houses for rent. As real estate investors and our properties are occupied all year long.

[@Mornblade]

The Philippines is great if you're not in a hurry to get anything done. Also, don't get injured or sick.

[@25Soupy]

I got my permanent resident visa in October 2023. I had to show an overall savings and investments of $310,000 CAD total. I believe it's up $100k from that for 2024. You can get a temp. res. visa that is much much cheaper and you have to renew after 1 year and you can renew for 4 years and get your perm. res. visa after that without the bigger number savings income requirements. I just got back from Mexico and it was 40-50% more expensive than it was just 4 years ago. I don't know if I can retire there until I start collecting CPP and OAS.

[@edwardflorence5460]

For the Philippines, you can extend your tourist visa for a total of 36 months at $80/month.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

Philippines isn't a 3 year visa, it is that you can do those extension for up to 36 months. First is 30 days, first extension can be 60 days after that I'm not sure how often you go. Either way this is an extra cost as well as your time for every extension application.

[@vgshwk]

The Philippines you can keep extending the tourist visa up to 3 years you can’t get 3 years all at once. After 3 years you have to leave and then you can come back and start it all over again.

[@stevenjb.9275]

My understanding is that Sarawak Malaysia in addition to the requirements for long term visa you listed also has a requirement for a Fixed Bank Deposit; 150,000 MYR for individuals or 300,000 MYR for couples.

[@musaquazi3495]

Very well made good video.

[@yannip2083]

Thailand has introduced a new tax law directed at foreigners, which is driving foreigners out, and I know many of them are moving to nearby Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Bali.

[@catemoon]

Absolutely right about the importance of easy and long visas. I lived for years abroad and the whole hassle of visas, the capriciousness of those deciding your future, it’s too stressful. Glad I had Irish grandparents, wink, wink. Makes Europe, even the UK the place to look.

[@bartstewart8644]

Planning to retire to Monaco on Social Security. Going to lease a suite at Hotel Monte Carlo. They have the biggest casino. You can get most of your meals thru room service. So, that's the plan.

[@stevem437]

I live in the Philippines as a 35 year old who works remotely in cybersecurity. I think the issue with all these “can you retire on $1,000 a month” videos is that many people don’t actually break it all down. $1,000 a month in most places isn’t really “living”… it’s “surviving”. Oftentimes you’re living in a small space with a much lower quality of life than in the west. People are here living in the province, in a house that isn’t even sealed, eating low quality food… basically doing nothing all day… Then they say “you can live in the Philippines for less than $1,000 a month”… Or you’ll have expats say they’re “living like kings”… But don’t mention that they’re in a 30 sqm condo. Kings aren’t living in places like that. Also, healthcare here is pretty bad. There are a handful of private hospitals, mostly in the metro Manila area, that are pretty good. Not cheap though. My wife gave birth at the Medical City Ortigas and we paid $6,700 out of pocket. Not terrible, but a bit more than I would have paid in the US with my insurance. As for the 3 year tourist visa… Yes, this is common. You get a 30 day tourist visa. You do an initial extension for 30 days. You’re then allowed to extend another 60 days. From there, you can extend for 6 months at a time… Up to a maximum of 3 years without leaving the country. You leave, you start this process over. Really, this is just a way to get money from expats, but hey, just like everything in the Philippines, money can get you anything… even up to a 3 year continuous stay

[@corinto1977]

I totally agree with you. Now if you are an expat working remotely, earning a US salary with no debt at home, and living in a country like mine, Nicaragua, you would live like a king. With a $1,000, I'd be scrapping by.

[@joewiseman4631]

Thanks for the informative video. I was surprised to see Albania on your “consider” list. Having visited Albania and over forty other countries, I would consider Albania to be a developing country with a challenging language and a wildly varying culture. We found truly wonderful, warm, and helpful people during our stay but often strong distrust and even distaste for foreigners. We were nakedly charged 10x local prices, had rocks thrown at our vehicle twice while driving through a town (German plates), which caused $1,000 in damage, and were occasionally completely ignored in service interactions. If you have a sense of adventure and put in the effort, I’m sure you can make it work but I would take Ecuador or Peru well before considering Albania.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We’ve been in Albania for over 2 months. Mostly in Tirana. It feels very similar to Ecuador in our opinion. The service isn’t great whether you’re a foreigner or not. It’s the downside of a non-tipping culture. And gringo pricing can happen. Outside Tirana it’s much more like you described.

[@joewiseman4631]

So glad to hear you are enjoying Tirana! I hadn’t realized that’s where you were lately (sorry if I missed that 😊). Your information on Albania is much more up to date than mine and I trust your judgement so I’ll have to give it another go. We spent most of our time in Berat and Gjirokaster a few years ago but not Tirana so happy things seem much better there. BTW - loved your video on Andalucia as we just came through Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada, and Ronda in the last 10 days. Thanks for all the great content and perspectives!

[@orionvassi]

Vietnam is awesome but also one of the most difficult countries to deal with in SEA. Even getting into China is less of a hassle. Marrying a local is the only way I know of to get a multi reentry visa. Cambodia is the spot to stay because you can visit Thailand and Vietnam easily.

[@justinesimone5343]

I watched yours and others youtube's. I planned to move to Morelia, but found out I can't afford to get in! The numbers just went up.

[@earlgreco8636]

Thailand now has an income tax on outside income that starts at 20% if you're there over six months.

[@WarriorMindset339]

In Vietnam there are companies who will do your border run for you and it only cost $100.00 a month. If you live in Da Nang it's a three hour drive one way. And it takes about 45 minutes to cross the border and come back in.

[@johnnytx45]

I am in the Philippines. The rule for Americans, western countries, and some other countries. Visa upon Arrival for 30 days, then 29 days. After that, you can extend from 1, 2, or 6 months (6 months not guaranteed) up to a total of 3 years. The reason you don't see it on the government website is on a tourist visa, the LIMIT is 3 years. You must do a visa run at the end of the 3 years. I have been here almost 2 years, thus far.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for explaining that! 👍

[@johnnytx45]

@@AmeliaAndJP You're very welcome!

[@QuinnPrice]

Thanks guys. With Ecuador now taxing US Social Security, I'm looking at Peru. I lived there many years ago, and it's doable if you know where to go in Lima, Arequipa, or Cuzco. Sad what's happening in Ecuador. Taxing the gringos will dry up investment and harm their economy.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

This is not true. It was misinformation. Don't believe everything you see online.

[@morenarogel7990]

Buenas tardes, qué quieres decir con que los gringos gravan en Ecuador? Te refieres a que si cobran pensión pagan impuestos en Ecuador? Por favor aclárame esto porque hemos pensado en Ecuador para vivir

[@Be_True_To_Yourself-I_Am]

Ecuador does not taxed US Social Security.

[@suetrublu]

Ecuador is NOT taxing folks Social Security.

[@VenicePsychic]

2:05 I thought it depends on which consulate you go to. At the New Orleans consulate, the monthly minimum income requirement was $3,737 as of January 2024.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

Panama gets my vote. I went there on a tour and loved it.

[@lb9007]

It's extremely hot, unbearable

[@marcd1981]

Touring is one thing, living there is quite another. My wife and I had plans to retire in Panama, and had a week long tour planned last year. However, after the latest changes in Panama, we have changed our minds. The biggest issue we see is the drought conditions there. The canal has been running at about 1/3 capacity as the fresh water lake used ti fill the locks is drying up. This means drinking water for the country is drying up as well. There is also a lot of political turmoil right now, and we were getting worried about the cartels moving their drugs through Central America right now. Costa Rica has had problems with this already, and Ecuador (our #2 choice to retire) has been devastated by the cartels infiltrating government positions, and the coastal cities have become deadly at the ports.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

@@lb9007There are areas in the mountains that are very cool. Cerra Punta average temp is 65 in the daytime.

[@LiMuBai]

​​​​@@marcd1981 Things in Ecuador are improving very quickly, it was more dangerous a few years ago when the previous government didn't do anything, the new government has imprisoned over 7,000 gang members and is taking corrupt officials either directly to jail, court or finding them with the Interpol. If the country was not on fire and people were able to lead normal lives back then, it is much better today. News in English about Ecuador are either old, are using outdated information, are very sensationalized or plain wrong. I am more worried about living in the US where kids can get shot in schools anywhere in the country, which would be extremely unusual in Ecuador, US news makes it seem like everywhere is dangerous when many cities here are worse than anywhere else in the world (San Francisco tent cities😢) doesn't even compare.

[@marcd1981]

@@LiMuBaiThank you for your reply. I understand there have been changes made with the new president, but I think it will take more time to know how new policies are working. And no one knows if Noboa will be president in a year and a half, as that is when the next election will be.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

From what I heard about Vietnam I don't think you can rely on coming and going to reset tourist visa. And they do provide working visa like if you are an English teacher hired by school

[@tomdee6819]

Thailand is definitely yes on 1000 a month Vietnam will be extending to 90 days that is the rumor but still you have to get a visa to go to Vietnam. The food in both is excellent Cambodia imports a good amount of produce from both countries Malaysia also imports a lot of its food from Thailand .Food is a lot more affordable and better quality everywhere in Southeast Asia. Like you said about Malaysia Sabah and Sarawak is easier and cheaper then mainland Malaysia to get the visa they give you a special visa to go there last time I went before covid.

[@Falconlibrary]

Lot people have "retired" to the Philippines on a tourist visa, renewing it every 60 days until they reach a 3-year limit, then they do a visa run and restart the process. Avoids the financial and background check requirements, which I suspect many of them cannot pass.

[@nomoresnowchannellive7314]

It is true the Philippines will allow you to extend your tourists visa for up to 3 years .In Thailand an agent in will handle That 800,000 Baht deposit and you will be in a much more developed country for less money.

[@ralphfinklea7855]

You can live a lot of places for $1000 a month BUT you will be living spartanly. Can you deal with that? You have to account for inflation also, can your money keep up? How long will you last?

[@larrypicard8802]

The amount you need for a visa in Mexico varies from consulate to consulate. In Raleigh, NC for 2024 it’s $2,200. Other consulates go up to $4,500. Odd but true.

[@VenicePsychic]

I believe Raleigh is up to $3100 now. 😮

[@alexzolik1133]

Thank you for another great video. But why Ecuador is no longer on your list? You made quite a few videos showing the cost of living there in the past, and 2 people can live well in Ecuador on 2K per month.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

The retirement visa income requirement is currently $1380/mo and expected to increase again next year. We only included countries that required $1K or less for the retiree visa because that was the premise of the original article.

[@yuriyzenda5857]

Thousands of expats live in the Philippines on the tourist visa that you can keep extending legally up to 3 years. I'm on a Facebook group for PH expats and I hear daily stories of people doing that. They don't call it 3 year tourist visa, but effectively it is since you do not need to leave the country for up to 3 years by doing these 30 to 60 day extensions (for a fee).

[@HemiChrysler]

The phantom 3 year Philippines tourist visa is the confusion that the initial visa waiver can be extended into a tourist visa, again and again as extensions of 1, 2, or 6 months, to a maximum of 3 years without the necessity to leave the Philippines. There's no 3 year tourist visa itself.

[@oceanproalaska2203]

Philippines does not have a 3 year Visa. You can extend your Tourist Visa every 2 months ( some immigration offices will go 6 mo at a time) then after you have been in the country 3 yrs , you must leave for 24 hrs. Then you come back you will start all over again. The SSRV Visa requires a $10,000.00 Deposit in a Philippine Bank Account, However, If you are a Military Veteran the requirement is only $2,500.00 . I hope this helps. I really enjoy your Vlog, Keep up the great work.

[@johnpalmer9839]

There are several channels that are gung-ho about Paraguay. Any thoughts on that country?

[@newrytown1]

south africa cape town area is spectacular.dollar is strong versus the rand making it a bargain destination.

[@confessionsnotexcuses]

I’m headed to Montenegro next week, and I’m applying for the corporate visa. 🤗

[@pythagorion3645]

I LOVE Montenegro :-) Croatia as well. That region is beautiful!

[@Booboonancy]

Can you apply from within the country ?

[@confessionsnotexcuses]

@@Booboonancy I don’t know. You have to get a notarized, apostilled background check - either from your home state or the FBI, so that would have to be taken into consideration. But when I was looking into the professional visa for Cuenca, there were people who said they had it all done outside the US.

[@Booboonancy]

@@confessionsnotexcuses Ok, thanks. Good luck, that is a beautiful part of the world. You might want to look into wait times on both FBI and State background checks because I know that FBI can take quite a while.

[@confessionsnotexcuses]

@@Booboonancy For Montenegro, I was able to choose between a state background check or FBI. I chose my state, and no fingerprints were required. I ordered it online ($24), picked it up the next day in person and drove 10 minutes to the secretary of states office, where they drew up the apostille document ($10) while I waited. ☺️

[@tivsma]

Thanks guys! I would Love to see info on living in Peru, Panama, and the Philippines. Info also like - What are the flights like to get to these places and back to Canada or the US?What about Ecuador? Last time I checked (pre-pandemic) the visa residency requirement was only $400 a month, but, they make you jump through Lots of hoops and you cannot leave the country for a Single Day for TWO years or you will lose the visa. So I'd like to know - in addition to the monthly income requirement, what else is required for the visas and what is the timeline to get one? Do you have to live in the country full time? And what is a *realistic cost of living...not living on the down low. Medical costs, housing upkeep and taxes, pet care, buying decent furniture, local transportation...all the things that come with Actually moving somewhere. We live in Guanajuato. I think you would be Very hard pressed to live in Mexico, anywhere, for $1000 a month. I've been to and stayed in over a dozen cities here. You would be living pretty poorly for $1000. Our grocery bill alone is genuinely almost that much per month, now with the peso at 16.5 and inflation. We own our home and have no mortgage and our monthly budget for all our local bills, this is going out to eat - every 2nd week only. And this does not include Any of our taxes, medical costs or travel costs, cost of living frugally here, is $2500 USD - for 2 people, a child to young for school, and a dog. We're not high rollers, that could easily be much more, and would be far more if we had to pay rent. We do not have a car either. That also does not include expenses like replacing a phone/computers every few years, buying clothes, runners etc, makeup, or adding to our savings account. With Everything including that, we are at about $7000 USD/mo to live here in Mexico (including the taxes we pay). Honesty, it's far more expensive than I ever imagined it would be.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Mexico has gotten really expensive! Thanks for sharing 👍

[@mariogutierrezc]

I live in Lima, the capital of Peru. Guanajuato is like Cajamarca in Peru but cost of living is about $500 per person. The cost you are describing above sounds pretty expensive. Mexico is becoming expensive because of so much tourism and expats from USA and Canada. Cost of living in Peru is pretty cheap because of the abundance of food, transportation and places to rent. With $7,000 per month in Peru you might live in Miraflores, Magdalena del Mar and Barranco and safe about $4k or $5k per month . . . .

[@philliploco5037]

I am PROUD to be Peruvian and will be returning to my country to retire. I miss the beaches food culture and my relatives/ I should never have left my country.

[@awesomeblessings9659]

You can stay in the Philippines for 3 years. There isn't a single visa, you are allowed to renew your visa for a total of 3 years. After several renewals, you can get a 6 month visas until you reach the 3 year max. Leave for 24 hours return and start over again. However, safety is becoming an issue as NPA aka New People's Army is causing issues in many parts. Healthcare is horrible and food selection at supermarkets is inconsistent, at times spoiled and terrible unhealthy selections.

[@claudiest-laurent1405]

You should consider Colombia ......and Taiwan........great place to live Very for 1000$

[@photopro100]

Do you still have the Lingopie discount code? Is it only for the lifetime subscription or can it be used for the annual subscription too? They already have discounts so would it be a discount on the discount?

[@LawrenceStevens01]

Before I left Thailand in January there was talk about Thailand taxing money transferred into the country. Don't know the current status. It seems to me that fewer countries desire low income foreigners moving into their country for extended periods.

[@martypoll]

The topic here is living on $1,000/mo which generally means (for US citizens) living off of Social Security. There is a dual tax treaty between Thailand and the US and Thailand won’t tax Social Security even with the new rules.

[@LawrenceStevens01]

@@martypoll When I left, your interpretation of the Thai law wasn’t clear. Many people are hoping you’re right. The Thai government is searching for new revenue sources due to the poor state of the economy. The expat community is a tempting target like in Portugal.

[@martypoll]

@@LawrenceStevens01 Or they are closing a loophole for Thai businesses avoiding taxes on overseas earnings. I don’t think this is specifically targeted towards expats though there may be collateral effects. There aren’t enough of us to contribute any significant funds to the economy through taxes. Foreign income contributing to the economy comes from tourism.

[@MENSA.lady2]

The UK, Cheaper than you expect but very hard to get the essential residence permit.

[@MENSA.lady2]

There is a lot more than London in the UK. In South-West Essex only 25 miles from central London you can rent a 1 bed flat for less than £55 a month.

[@rhh176]

@@MENSA.lady2 What are you talking about?? You are trolling seriously lol

[@catemoon]

@@MENSA.lady2 Maybe in 1950.

[@MENSA.lady2]

Apologies my pudgy fingers I meant £550 per month.

[@davidrice6724]

A question that I have is: in the event of a medical emergency are there concerns with communication if the people attending to you aren't fluent in English?

[@martypoll]

I live in rural Thailand. If you live in an popular expat area you can expect local medical staff to have learn enough English to ask about medical issues but you aren’t going to be having an extended conversation. Once in a hospital you will find someone who speaks English. I’m not so sure about the people working in an ambulance. In the end though a language barrier is a barrier.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It is a concern for emergencies, but not for regular healthcare. It’s shocking how many people speak English around the world.

[@l.d.d.2062]

WOW Amelia, the sun really changed your hair color, but the sunscreen you use is phenomenal.

[@brianleonard6885]

❤🎉 ty

[@robertjordan294]

I read an article in the Washington Post about the increase in the frequency of billion dollar climate events. The U.S. was second. The Philippines were first.

[@earthrooster1717]

Climate change is the biggest hoax. WAPO is cabal.

[@traceymarshall5886]

Ive heard in the countryside of Portugal it is affordable.