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Retiring abroad: where to go? A comparison of the top 10 countries for German retirees
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Retiring abroad: where to go? A comparison of the top 10 countries for German retirees

Retiring abroad: where to go? A comparison of the top 10 countries for German retirees
  • 13 Apr 2025 · 08:25 PM
  • 24 min read
  • Category: Retirement Planning , Travel Inspiration , Emigrating

Retiring abroad: where to go? A comparison of the top 10 countries for German retirees

Introduction: Seize the new freedom in retirement

For many people, retirement marks the beginning of a new phase in life full of possibilities. Quite a few German pensioners toy with the idea of spending this phase of their lives abroad. The question “Where can a pensioner emigrate?” is becoming more and more important. According to statistics from the German Pension Insurance, more than 230,000 German pensioners already live permanently abroad – and the trend is rising.

The reasons for wanting to emigrate as a German retiree are many and varied: a more pleasant climate with more sunny days, lower living costs that stretch an often meager pension, a more relaxed way of life or simply the desire to finally realize the dream of living in a distant land. But no matter how adventurous you are, the question “Where should I emigrate as a retiree?” is a decision that needs to be carefully considered.

This comprehensive guide highlights the most attractive destination countries for German retirees, compares the pros and cons, and provides practical tips for planning and implementing such a project. We look at both the classic destinations such as Spain and Portugal, as well as emerging insider tips such as Northern Cyprus. We address crucial factors such as cost of living, climate, health care, legal framework and integration opportunities.

By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive overview of the best places for Germans to emigrate and enjoy their retirement, and you will know what specific steps are necessary to make this lifelong dream a reality.

Decisive factors when choosing a destination for emigration

What makes a country an ideal retirement home?

When deciding where to retire, various factors play a role, which can be weighted differently for each individual:

Climatic conditions:

  • Average temperatures in summer and winter
  • Number of sunny days per year
  • Humidity and amount of precipitation
  • Special climatic challenges (heat waves, rainy seasons)
  • Impact of climate on any health restrictions

Cost of living:

  • rent and real estate prices
  • costs of food and everyday goods
  • expenses for energy, water and communication
  • costs of medical care
  • taxes and duties for foreigners

Medical care:

  • quality and accessibility of the health system
  • availability of specialists and modern treatment methods
  • recognition of German health insurance
  • costs of supplementary insurance
  • availability of German-speaking doctors

Legal and administrative aspects:

  • residency and settlement requirements
  • tax regulations for foreign pensioners
  • requirements for health insurance
  • property acquisition and inheritance regulations
  • bilateral agreements with Germany

Social integration:

  • presence of a German or international community
  • linguistic challenges and learning opportunities
  • cultural proximity or differences to Germany
  • openness of the local population towards foreign pensioners
  • Leisure and cultural opportunities

Infrastructure and accessibility:

  • Quality of local transport infrastructure
  • Connections to Germany (flight connections, distance)
  • Digital infrastructure (internet, mobile communications)
  • Supply of everyday goods
  • Public services and authorities

Financial considerations before emigration

When considering the question “Where can pensioners emigrate to?”, financial considerations play a central role:

Pension calculation and payment:

  • How high is the expected monthly pension?
  • What deductions arise when residing abroad?
  • How does the transfer of the pension abroad work?
  • What effects do exchange rate fluctuations have (for non-euro countries)?
  • Can additional private pension products also be used abroad?

Tax situation:

  • Is there a double taxation agreement with the destination country?
  • Where do pension incomes have to be taxed?
  • Are there any special tax benefits for foreign pensioners?
  • What effects does emigration have on capital gains?
  • Is real estate income from Germany taxable abroad?

Cross-border asset management:

  • How can banking transactions be handled internationally?
  • What are the costs of international transfers?
  • Does it make sense to open a local bank account?
  • What about the security of investments in the destination country?
  • What currency risks may there be?

Insurance cover:

  • What happens to German health insurance?
  • What additional insurance policies are needed?
  • How much does private health insurance cost abroad?
  • What types of insurance are useful for long-term care?
  • Are existing insurance policies (liability, home contents, etc.) also valid abroad?

Emergency planning:

  • Financial reserves for unforeseen events
  • Costs of a possible return to Germany
  • Cover for illness or nursing care
  • Regulations in the event of death (international inheritance law)
  • Powers of attorney and dispositions for relatives in Germany

The top 10 countries for German pensioners abroad

1. Spain: the classic among emigration destinations

Spain remains one of the most popular countries for German pensioners who are considering where to retire:

Popular regions for pensioners:

  • Costa del Sol (Andalusia): mild climate, large German community
  • Costa Blanca (Valencia): particularly healthy microclimate, cheaper than Costa del Sol
  • Balearic Islands: Mallorca with a well-developed infrastructure for foreigners
  • Canary Islands: mild climate all year round, ideal winter destination

Advantages:

  • Mild, sunny climate with around 300 days of sunshine per year
  • As an EU country, uncomplicated settlement without a visa
  • Well-developed health system
  • Numerous German communities and services
  • Direct flights to Germany

Challenges:

  • Rising real estate prices in popular coastal regions
  • High density of tourists in the main season
  • Increasing water scarcity in southern regions
  • Language barrier, as English is not widely spoken everywhere
  • Potential heat stress in summer months

Costs & practicalities:

  • Cost of living: about 20-30% lower than in Germany
  • Rental costs: from €500 per month for a 2-room apartment (varies greatly from region to region)
  • Healthcare: Access to the Spanish health system via S1 form
  • Taxation: Double taxation agreement with Germany in place
  • Good infrastructure with German/English-speaking service providers

2. Portugal: Tax breaks and Atlantic climate

In recent years, Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for retirees wondering where to retire as a German retiree:

Popular regions for retirees:

  • Algarve: sunny coastal region with spectacular beaches
  • Silver Coast (north of Lisbon): more authentic and less touristy
  • Madeira: subtropical climate on the “flower island”
  • Alentejo: quiet, rural Portugal with affordable real estate prices

Advantages:

  • Tax advantages for foreign pensioners (NHR status with possible tax exemption for foreign pensions)
  • Friendly, hospitable population
  • Considered one of the safest countries in Europe
  • Cheaper than other Western European countries
  • Pleasant, not too hot climate due to Atlantic influence

Challenges:

  • Bureaucratic hurdles and slow administrative processes
  • Portuguese as a language barrier (less common than Spanish)
  • Damp, sometimes cool winters in some regions
  • Poorer insulation of homes for the winter months
  • Rising real estate prices in recent years

Costs & practicalities:

  • Cost of living: 25-35% cheaper than in Germany
  • Rental costs: from €450 per month for a two-room apartment (away from the tourist centers)
  • Healthcare: access to the national health service SNS
  • Taxation: attractive regulations through the NHR program (Non-Habitual Resident)
  • Good flight connections to Germany, especially from Faro, Lisbon and Porto

3. Greece: island life and Mediterranean flair

Greece is an increasingly attractive destination for German pensioners considering the best place to emigrate to as a German:

Popular regions for pensioners:

  • Crete: the largest Greek island with good infrastructure
  • Peloponnese: historic region with an authentic character
  • Ionian Islands (Corfu, Kefalonia): green landscapes and mild climate
  • Attica (the area surrounding Athens): urban life with cultural offerings

Advantages:

  • Lower cost of living than in Germany
  • Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers
  • Warm hospitality of the local population
  • Rich culture and history
  • Healthy Mediterranean cuisine

Challenges:

  • Complex bureaucracy and sometimes inefficient administration
  • Greek language as a challenging language barrier
  • Economic uncertainties following the financial crisis
  • Limited infrastructure on smaller islands, especially in winter
  • Unreliable public transport outside the big cities

Costs & practicalities:

  • Cost of living: 25-40% lower than in Germany
  • Rental costs: from €350 per month for a 2-room apartment (outside tourist centers)
  • Health care: access to the Greek health system, sometimes with quality differences
  • Taxation: attractive flat-rate tax possible for foreign pensioners since 2020
  • Seasonal flight connections to Germany, sometimes limited in winter

4. Italy: Dolce Vita in retirement

With its culture and way of life, Italy is an attractive option for German pensioners wondering where to emigrate as a pensioner:

Popular regions for pensioners:

  • Tuscany: rolling hills and cultural heritage
  • Puglia: authentic southern Italy with affordable real estate prices
  • Sardinia: dreamlike beaches and high life expectancy
  • Calabria and Sicily: unspoilt Italy at low prices

Advantages:

  • Rich cultural offerings and historical heritage
  • Excellent cuisine and wine culture
  • Accessible healthcare system with good quality
  • Relaxed lifestyle and appreciation of “dolce far niente”
  • Since 2019, tax advantages for pensioners moving to southern Italy (7% flat tax)

Challenges:

  • Pronounced bureaucracy and complex administrative processes
  • Language barrier, as Italian is indispensable in everyday life
  • Large economic differences between north and south
  • Political instability and economic challenges
  • Lack of efficiency in public services

Costs & practicalities:

  • Cost of living: Comparable to Germany in the north, 20-30% lower in the south
  • Rental costs: from €400 in the south, significantly higher in the north and in tourist areas
  • Healthcare: access to the Italian health service SSN
  • Taxation: attractive tax regulations for pensioners in southern Italian municipalities
  • Good transport links to Germany through numerous airports

5. Thailand: Exotic dream destination with special requirements

Thailand has established itself as a non-European destination for retirees considering where to retire:

Popular regions for retirees:

  • Chiang Mai: cultural center in the north with a more pleasant climate
  • Hua Hin: royal seaside resort with good infrastructure
  • Phuket: tropical island with an international community
  • Pattaya: lively city with a large expat community

Advantages:

  • Significantly lower cost of living than in Germany
  • Tropical climate with warm temperatures all year round
  • Friendly population and relaxed way of life
  • Excellent private health care at affordable prices
  • A wide range of leisure activities from beaches to mountains

Challenges:

  • Complex visa requirements that are regularly adjusted
  • Major cultural differences and language barrier
  • Tropical climate with high humidity and rainy season
  • Restricted residency rights (no permanent residency)
  • Long distance to Germany and family

Costs & practicalities:

  • Cost of living: 50-70% lower than in Germany
  • Rental costs: from €300 per month for a modern apartment
  • Healthcare: private health insurance required
  • Visa: Special pensioner visa available (proof of regular income and health insurance required)
  • Flight time to Germany: approx. 11-13 hours

6. Malta: Island life in an English-speaking environment

As a small island state, Malta offers particular advantages for pensioners who are wondering where it is best to emigrate as a German:

Popular regions for pensioners:

  • Sliema and St. Julian's: urban areas with good infrastructure
  • Mellieha: quieter region in the north with beautiful beaches
  • Gozo: smaller neighboring island with a more rural character
  • Marsascala: coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere

Advantages:

  • English as an official language alongside Maltese
  • Mild Mediterranean climate with short, mild winters
  • EU membership with simple settlement rules
  • Good healthcare system
  • Historical and cultural heritage

Challenges:

  • High population density and increasing overbuilding
  • Traffic problems and environmental pollution
  • Rising cost of living and real estate
  • Water scarcity and dependence on seawater desalination
  • Strong tourism with seasonal fluctuations

Costs & practicalities:

  • Cost of living: About the same as in Germany, sometimes higher
  • Rental costs: From €700 for a two-room apartment
  • Healthcare: Public healthcare system accessible to EU citizens
  • Taxation: Possible tax advantages through special programs
  • Very good flight connections to Germany (about 3 hours flight time)

7. Bulgaria: An insider tip with low costs

Bulgaria is increasingly becoming an insider tip for price-conscious pensioners who are considering where to emigrate as a German pensioner:

Popular regions for pensioners:

  • Black Sea coast: Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Varna
  • Bansko: mountain region and winter sports resort
  • Sofia area: rural life near the capital
  • Veliko Tarnovo: historical center with picturesque surroundings

Advantages:

  • Very low cost of living and real estate
  • Mild climate on the Black Sea coast
  • EU membership with simple residency rules
  • Low taxes (10% flat income tax)
  • Unspoiled nature and diverse landscapes

Challenges:

  • Significant language barrier (Cyrillic script)
  • Less developed infrastructure in rural areas
  • Quality differences in medical care
  • Corruption and bureaucratic hurdles
  • Cultural differences and differences in mentality

Costs & practical matters:

  • Cost of living: 50-60% lower than in Germany
  • Rental costs: from €200 per month for a two-room apartment
  • Property prices: houses from €30,000, apartments from €15,000
  • Healthcare: Access to the Bulgarian system, private supplementary insurance recommended
  • Direct flights to Germany (mainly in the summer season)

8. Turkey: Oriental flair and Mediterranean climate

Turkey offers an interesting mix of East and West for German pensioners wondering where to emigrate as a pensioner:

Popular regions for pensioners:

  • Turkish Riviera: Alanya, Side, Antalya
  • Aegean coast: Bodrum, Çeşme, Izmir
  • Fethiye and surrounding area: picturesque coastal region
  • Didim: known for its large German community

Advantages:

  • Very affordable prices following the devaluation of the Turkish lira
  • Warm winters and long summer season
  • Warm hospitality
  • Good private health care at moderate prices
  • Rich culture and history

Challenges:

  • Complex residency requirements (not an EU country)
  • Political and economic instability
  • Language barrier, as Turkish is necessary in everyday life
  • Cultural and religious differences
  • Potential security concerns in some regions

Costs & practicalities:

  • Cost of living: 40-60% lower than in Germany
  • Rental costs: from €250 per month for a 2-room apartment
  • Healthcare: private health insurance is necessary
  • Residence permit: various categories available, regular renewal required
  • Good flight connections to Germany, even in the low season

9. Panama: American retirement paradise with tax advantages

Panama has established itself as a non-European destination for retirees considering where best to emigrate as a German:

Popular regions for retirees:

  • Panama City: cosmopolitan capital with all amenities
  • Boquete: mountain region with a fresh climate
  • Coronado: beach community with a large expat community
  • Pedasí: quiet coastal town with authentic character

Advantages:

  • Special retiree visa (Pensionado) with numerous benefits
  • No taxation of foreign income
  • Warm climate all year round (on the coast) to temperate mountain climate
  • Dollarized economy without currency risks
  • Good health care at affordable prices

Challenges:

  • Long distance to Germany
  • Spanish as the main language
  • Cultural differences and Latin American mentality
  • High humidity and rainy season
  • Limited public services outside the capital

Costs & practical information:

  • Cost of living: 30-40% lower than in Germany
  • Rental costs: from $500 per month for a two-room apartment (outside of Panama City)
  • Healthcare: Good private clinics, international health insurance recommended
  • Pensionado visa: Proof of a monthly income of at least $1,000
  • Flight time to Germany: approx. 12-14 hours with a change of plane

10. North Cyprus: The up-and-coming insider tip in the eastern Mediterranean

North Cyprus is increasingly establishing itself as an attractive destination for German pensioners who are weighing up where to emigrate to as a pensioner:

Popular regions for pensioners:

  • Kyrenia (Girne): picturesque harbor town with a historic old town
  • Famagusta (Gazimağusa): historic city with beautiful beaches
  • Iskele: up-and-coming region with modern residential complexes
  • Karpaz Peninsula: unspoiled nature and tranquil rural life

Benefits:

  • Exceptionally low cost of living and real estate
  • 340 days of sunshine a year and mild Mediterranean climate
  • Friendly, hospitable population
  • Growing international community
  • Rich history and cultural heritage

Particular cost advantages in Northern Cyprus:

  • Cost of living: 50-60% lower than in the UK
  • Eating out: a complete meal for €10-15 per person
  • Rental costs: from €300-400 per month for a two-room apartment
  • Real estate prices: apartments from €50,000, villas with a sea view from €150,000
  • No inheritance tax and low property tax

Climate and quality of life:

  • Mild winters with temperatures rarely below 15°C
  • Warm summers, but pleasant due to sea breezes
  • Crystal-clear sea with a long bathing season (April to November)
  • Relaxed, unhurried lifestyle
  • Low crime rate and high personal safety

Health and medical care:

  • Modern, well-equipped private clinics
  • Doctors mostly English-speaking, with an increasing number of German-speaking options
  • Medical treatment at about a third of the cost in Germany
  • Good availability of medication
  • Growing number of senior-friendly facilities

Legal aspects:

  • Uncomplicated entry with a 90-day tourist visa
  • Easy application for a long-term residence permit
  • Particularly pensioner-friendly residence regulations
  • Easy real estate purchase for foreigners
  • Low taxation and favorable regulations for foreign pensions

Challenges:

  • Special political situation (recognized only by Turkey)
  • Limited international flight connections (mostly via Turkey)
  • Language barrier (Turkish, although English is widely spoken)
  • Less developed infrastructure than in EU countries
  • Potential legal complexity when buying real estate

The path to a new life abroad

Practical steps to prepare for emigration

If you have decided where to emigrate as a German pensioner, the following practical steps are important:

Research and planning:

  • Thoroughly gather information about the destination country
  • Trial stays at different times of the year
  • Contacting Germans who have already emigrated
  • Visiting emigration fairs and information events
  • Create a detailed schedule and budget

Administrative matters in Germany:

  • Deregister at the residents' registration office
  • Inform the pension insurance company of your foreign residence
  • Clarify your health insurance situation
  • Seek tax advice on deregistering with the tax office
  • Review powers of attorney and decrees

Financial preparation:

  • Set up international bank accounts
  • Plan the payment of pensions abroad
  • Taking out the necessary insurance for the foreign country
  • Calculating the cost of the move
  • Creating an emergency budget

Living situation:

  • Deciding whether to sell, rent or keep the German property
  • Looking for accommodation in the destination country (renting is recommended at first)
  • Organizing the move (international moving company)
  • Choosing the right neighborhood based on personal preferences
  • Clarifying all legal aspects of buying property abroad

Health and medical care:

  • Compiling important medical documents
  • Creating a medication plan and ensuring a supply for the initial period
  • Taking out international health insurance if necessary
  • Researching doctors and hospitals at the new place of residence
  • Check-ups before departure

Social aspects:

  • Planning regular contact with family and friends
  • Setting up digital communication options
  • Creation of a “visit plan” for family in both directions
  • Networking with expat groups at the destination
  • Preparation for cultural differences and integration challenges

The ideal preparation: test living before deciding

Before you finally decide where to retire, an extended test stay is indispensable:

Why a test stay is so important:

  • Holiday impressions differ fundamentally from everyday life
  • Experiencing different seasons and weather conditions
  • Realistic assessment of everyday infrastructure
  • Testing social integration options
  • Practical experience with local authorities and services

The ideal duration of a trial stay:

  • At least 4-6 weeks for a first impression
  • Ideally several stays at different times of the year
  • If you are seriously interested in emigrating: 2-3 months at a time
  • to explore different regions and neighborhoods
  • Leave enough time for unexpected discoveries and challenges

What to test during the trial stay:

  • Shopping and provision of everyday goods
  • Public transport and mobility without your own vehicle
  • Leisure and cultural opportunities
  • Healthcare and access to necessary medications
  • Social contact opportunities and integration

Tips for a productive trial stay:

  • Accommodation in residential areas instead of tourist resorts
  • Contacting Germans already living there
  • Attending expat meetings and local events
  • Keeping a “daily diary” of impressions and challenges
  • Talking to locals about local life

North Cyprus: A detailed look at the Mediterranean paradise

Why North Cyprus is particularly attractive for German pensioners

In recent years, North Cyprus has established itself as a real alternative for pensioners considering where to retire as a German pensioner:

Special cost advantages over other Mediterranean countries:

  • Property prices about 30-50% lower than in comparable Mediterranean regions
  • Local taxes and utility costs are significantly lower than in Spain or Italy
  • Restaurants and services are a fraction of the price in Germany
  • No wealth tax and minimal property tax
  • Food and local products are very affordable

Climatic advantages:

  • One of the sunniest regions in the Mediterranean with 340 days of sunshine
  • Mild winters without frost (15-20°C during the day)
  • Pleasantly warm spring and fall months (20-25°C)
  • Long swimming season from April to November
  • Relatively low humidity in summer

Quality of life in everyday life:

  • Relaxed, stress-free lifestyle with a Mediterranean rhythm
  • Fresh, healthy local cuisine with lots of fruits, vegetables and seafood
  • Friendly, helpful locals with a high level of hospitality
  • Low crime rate and a high sense of security
  • Growing international community with a wide range of activities

Health aspects:

  • Mild climate beneficial for many age-related ailments
  • Positive influence of sea air on respiratory problems
  • Modern private health facilities with good equipment
  • Inexpensive treatments and medications
  • Increase in German-speaking medical services

The most beautiful regions of North Cyprus for retirees

Depending on personal preferences, different regions of North Cyprus are suitable for retirees who are considering emigrating as retirees and wondering where to go:

Kyrenia (Girne) and surrounding area:

  • Picturesque harbor town with a historic old town and impressive castle
  • Spectacular coastal landscape with the Five Finger Mountains as a backdrop
  • Largest selection of restaurants, cafes and shopping opportunities
  • Best medical care and international services
  • Wide range of housing options from apartments to villas

Best neighborhoods in Kyrenia for retirees:

  • Karaoğlanoğlu: Popular expat neighborhood with good infrastructure
  • Alsancak: Quiet area west of the center with beautiful beaches
  • Bellapais: Mountain village with breathtaking views and historic abbey
  • Ozanköy: Authentic village with traditional charm and good connections

Famagusta (Gazimağusa) region:

  • Historic city with impressive medieval walls
  • Some of the best beaches in North Cyprus
  • Generally lower property prices than in Kyrenia
  • University town with an international feel
  • More authentic, less touristy environment

Iskele region:

  • Up-and-coming area undergoing rapid development
  • Modern residential complexes with community facilities
  • Long sandy beaches and shallow sea
  • Cheaper new-build properties
  • Growing expat community

Karpaz Peninsula:

  • Unspoilt natural landscapes and secluded beaches
  • Traditional Cypriot country life
  • Particularly low cost of living
  • Peaceful, relaxed atmosphere
  • Perfect for nature lovers and people who appreciate seclusion

Practicalities of living in North Cyprus: What pensioners should know

For pensioners considering where best to emigrate, Northern Cyprus offers some practical advantages:

Right of residence and formalities:

  • Easy entry with a 90-day tourist visa on arrival
  • Uncomplicated application for a residence permit for pensioners
  • Annually renewable residency permits without strict requirements
  • No minimum length of stay per year to maintain status
  • Significantly less bureaucracy than in many EU countries

Property purchase and living:

  • Foreigners can purchase property without restriction
  • Relatively simple purchase process with the assistance of a lawyer
  • Modern new buildings with international standards
  • Option of Title Deed Insurance as additional security
  • Favorable running costs for property management and maintenance

Banking and finance:

  • Opening a local bank account with a German pension certificate
  • Easy transfer of a German pension
  • Widespread use of the euro, although the Turkish lira is the official currency
  • Low fees for banking services
  • Several international banks represented locally

Everyday supplies:

  • Well-stocked supermarkets with many well-known products
  • Local markets with fresh fruit and vegetables at affordable prices
  • Growing number of international restaurants and cafes
  • English-speaking service providers increasingly available
  • Good internet connections and mobile communication

Mobility and transport:

  • Drive on the left (British legacy)
  • Own vehicle recommended for full independence
  • Driving with German or international driver's license possible
  • Cheap taxis for shorter distances
  • Limited but growing public transport

Get to know North Cyprus: The perfect trial stay

An extended stay is the ideal way to explore North Cyprus as a potential new home if you are considering where to retire:

Advantages of an organized long-term stay:

  • Structured exploration of different regions and neighborhoods
  • Competent guidance from local experts with insider knowledge
  • Contact with German pensioners already living in the area
  • Insight into the various aspects of daily life
  • Support with practical matters and visits to the authorities

LongStay Cyprus: The optimal solution for potential emigrants:

  • Tailor-made stays of 30 to 80 days
  • Accommodation in high-quality hotels or apartments
  • Extensive excursion and activity program
  • Personal support from English-speaking guides
  • Ideal balance between holiday feeling and everyday reality

The exclusive LongStay Cyprus program:

  • 20 guided excursions to all important regions of North Cyprus
  • Visits to local producers and artisans for cultural exchange
  • Information events on legal and practical issues
  • Viewings of different neighborhoods and property types
  • An international excursion, for example to the pyramids in Cairo

Special advantages for potential emigrants:

  • Deep immersion in the local culture beyond the tourist trail
  • Opportunity to compare different regions and find the right one
  • Practical experience with local conditions and challenges
  • Networking with like-minded people and expats already living in the area
  • Get to know each other without obligation and without immediate pressure to decide

Conclusion: The best decision for your retirement

Individual factors in choosing the perfect destination for emigration

The question “Emigrating as a retiree: where to go?” cannot be answered in a generalized way, but depends on individual preferences and circumstances:

Weigh personal priorities:

  • Climatic preferences (warmth, dryness, seasons)
  • Significance of financial aspects and cost of living
  • Desired distance or proximity to Germany and family
  • Health requirements and needs
  • Linguistic abilities and willingness to learn

Open self-reflection:

  • Honest assessment of one's own adaptability
  • Realistic assessment of challenges and compromises
  • Consideration of long-term developments (also with increasing age)
  • Weighing up advantages and disadvantages without idealization
  • Involving the partner in the event of joint emigration

Consider alternative models:

  • Seasonal stays instead of complete emigration
  • Test phase with rental property before buying real estate
  • Combined residences in Germany and abroad
  • Gradual emigration with extended stays
  • Openness to adjustments and changes in plans

North Cyprus: A convincing overall package for German pensioners

When considering where to emigrate as a German pensioner, North Cyprus stands out due to its combination of various advantages:

Convincing cost advantage:

  • One of the most affordable Mediterranean countries for pensioners
  • Significantly lower cost of living than in Germany
  • Affordable real estate prices with good opportunities for appreciation
  • Low running costs for maintenance and utilities
  • Pension is enough for a comfortable lifestyle with additional amenities

Health and well-being:

  • Ideal climate for many age-related health problems
  • Relaxed lifestyle with reduced stress
  • Fresh Mediterranean diet with local products
  • Active outdoor life possible all year round
  • Good quality medical care at affordable prices

Practical benefits:

  • Uncomplicated residency and settlement rules
  • Less bureaucracy than in many EU countries
  • English as a widely spoken second language
  • Growing international and German community
  • Good connections to Germany with regular flight connections (via Turkey)

Quality of life:

  • Friendly, helpful local population
  • Rich culture and history to discover
  • Diverse landscapes from beaches to mountains
  • Relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle
  • Safe environment with low crime rate

The first step: get to know North Cyprus

The ideal way to see if North Cyprus is the answer to your question “Where to retire?” is to take an extended exploratory trip:

Why a trial stay is indispensable:

  • The reality of everyday life differs from holiday impressions
  • Experience different regions to make an informed decision
  • Practical testing of infrastructure and services
  • Getting to know the local community and expat groups
  • Understanding cultural differences and the pace of life

LongStay Cyprus: The ideal introduction:

  • Tailored stays between 30 and 80 days
  • Comprehensive program to get to know all aspects of the country
  • Personal support from experienced local experts
  • Flexibility between organized activities and personal time
  • Balance between vacation character and insights into everyday life

The perfect preparation for a well-considered decision:

  • No hasty decisions without thorough knowledge
  • Careful consideration of all pros and cons
  • Realistic assessment of the daily quality of life
  • Establishing contact with local networks
  • Exchange of experiences with Germans who have already emigrated

Your way to North Cyprus starts here

The decision of where to retire as a German pensioner should be based on well-founded information and personal experiences. North Cyprus offers a unique combination of Mediterranean climate, low cost of living, friendly population and a growing international community, making it an extremely attractive option for German pensioners.

The ideal way to get to know North Cyprus as a potential new home is to take an extended stay with LongStay Cyprus. These customized packages allow you to explore different regions of the island, experience the day-to-day lifestyle and make valuable contacts – all without any immediate obligations and with professional support.

A fact-finding visit like this provides the perfect basis for you to decide whether Northern Cyprus is the right place for your retirement. You can experience the benefits of living on the Mediterranean island first hand, realistically assess potential challenges and make important connections – all in a relaxed setting that gives you time to make informed decisions.

Request a non-binding offer

Take the first step on your way to North Cyprus: request a non-binding offer for a long-stay visit. Our experienced consultants are at your disposal to create a customized package that perfectly matches your preferences and interests.

Discover Northern Cyprus as a potential new home and see for yourself why more and more German pensioners are choosing this Mediterranean island for their retirement.

Click here & request a non-binding offer now!