Introduction: Why More and More Retirees Are Leaving Germany

The idea of emigrating as a retiree is gaining increasing popularity in Germany. After a fulfilled working life, the prospect of spending well-deserved retirement in a country with more pleasant climatic conditions, lower living costs, and perhaps a more relaxed lifestyle is appealing. According to current statistics, more than 230,000 German retirees already receive their pensions abroad – with an upward trend.

Beyond the classic desire for "sun, beach, and sea," economic considerations are playing an increasingly important role. The average statutory pension in Germany is currently about €1,620 for men and €1,220 for women. In many German cities, this amount is barely sufficient for a comfortable retirement. In many other countries, however, the same budget can achieve a significantly higher standard of living.

The thought of emigrating in old age brings not only advantages but also numerous challenges and important decisions: What about healthcare? What is the tax situation? What cultural adjustments are necessary? And not least: Which country best suits your own needs and expectations?

This comprehensive guide illuminates all important aspects that should be considered when deciding to live abroad as a retiree. We cover the most popular destination countries, legal and financial questions, as well as practical tips for preparing and implementing retirement emigration. We will also take a special look at Northern Cyprus – an emerging insider tip for retirees looking for the perfect mix of affordable living costs, pleasant climate, and good infrastructure.

Basic Considerations Before Emigration

Personal Factors: Are You Ready to Emigrate as a Retiree?

The decision to emigrate as a retiree should not be taken lightly. You should thoroughly reflect on the following personal factors:

Family Ties:

• How strong are your ties to family and friends in Germany?
• Are there grandchildren you want to see regularly?
• Is your partner equally ready for emigration?
• How will you handle the spatial separation from familiar people?

Health Aspects:

• What is your current health status?
• Do you need regular medical treatments?
• Can you tolerate the climate in the destination country?
• How good is the medical care on site?

Adaptability:

• How well can you adapt to new cultures and lifestyles?
• Do you have previous experience with longer stays abroad?
• Do you learn new languages easily?
• How do you handle unexpected challenges?

Lifestyle and Interests:

• Which activities and hobbies are important to you in retirement?
• Does the destination country offer corresponding possibilities?
• What social environment do you desire?
• How important are cultural offerings or nature to you?

The Ideal Destination: Criteria for Country Selection

When choosing the right destination country for your emigration as a retiree, various criteria should be considered:

Cost of Living:

• How high are the rents or real estate prices?
• What do groceries and everyday expenses cost?
• How expensive are services and leisure activities?
• How do exchange rate fluctuations affect you (in non-euro countries)?

Climate and Geographic Location:

• What climate do you prefer (temperature, precipitation, seasons)?
• How is the air quality and environmental situation?
• Is there an increased risk of natural disasters?
• How far is the travel distance to Germany?

Infrastructure and Supply:

• How good is the medical infrastructure?
• Is there reliable electricity and water supply?
• What about internet and mobile connectivity?
• How good are transport connections (local and international)?

Legal and Political Aspects:

• How easy is it to obtain a residence permit?
• How stable is the political situation?
• Are there security issues?
• Are there bilateral agreements with Germany (e.g., in health or tax areas)?

Social Integration:

• Is there a German or international community on site?
• How widespread is foreign language knowledge among the local population?
• How open is society toward foreign retirees?
• Are there cultural similarities or differences?

Financial Realities: What You Can Afford

A realistic look at the financial aspects is crucial if you want to live abroad as a retiree:

Pension Calculation and Transfer:

• How high is your monthly pension after deduction of taxes and fees?
• Can your pension be easily transferred abroad?
• Are there additional costs for the transfer?
• How do exchange rate fluctuations affect you?

Tax Situation:

• Is there a double taxation agreement with the destination country?
• Where are you tax liable?
• Are there special tax advantages for retirees in your desired country?
• Do you still have to pay taxes in Germany?

Additional Sources of Income:

• Do you have rental income, capital returns, or private pensions?
• How are these taxed in the destination country?
• Can you easily manage properties in Germany?
• Do you need additional income abroad?

Asset Management:

• How do you manage your assets across national borders?
• What banking and financial services do you need?
• What about creating an international will?
• What costs arise in international asset transfer?

The Most Popular Destination Countries for German Retirees

Classic Destinations: Spain, Portugal, and Italy

The Mediterranean countries are among the most popular destinations for Germans who want to emigrate as retirees:

Spain:

• Particularly popular regions: Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands
• Advantages: Mild climate, well-developed infrastructure, large German communities
• Challenges: Rising real estate prices in popular regions, water scarcity in the south
• Particularities: Simple residence regulations as an EU citizen, good public healthcare system

Portugal:

• Popular regions: Algarve, Lisbon surroundings, Madeira
• Advantages: Cheaper than Spain, special tax benefits for foreign retirees (NHR status)
• Challenges: Damp, cool winters in some regions, bureaucracy
• Particularities: Considered one of the safest countries in Europe, friendly population

Italy:

• Popular regions: Tuscany, Liguria, Apulia, Sicily
• Advantages: Excellent cuisine, cultural heritage, authentic feeling of life
• Challenges: Complicated bureaucracy, regional price differences (north significantly more expensive)
• Particularities: Tax incentives for retirees in southern Italy (7% flat tax under certain conditions)

Emerging Alternatives: Eastern Europe and the Balkans

More and more retirees are discovering the advantages of Eastern European countries and the Balkan region:

Bulgaria:

• Popular regions: Black Sea coast (Varna, Burgas), Sofia surroundings
• Advantages: Very low cost of living, affordable real estate, mild climate on the coast
• Challenges: Language barrier, less developed infrastructure in rural areas
• Particularities: Flat income tax of 10%, low property taxes

Croatia:

• Popular regions: Istria, Dalmatian coast, Zagreb
• Advantages: Breathtaking coastline, safe environment, EU membership
• Challenges: Seasonal tourism, complicated tax system
• Particularities: Mediterranean lifestyle with Slavic influence, good healthcare

Hungary:

• Popular regions: Budapest surroundings, Lake Balaton, Pécs
• Advantages: Low cost of living, good medical care, central location in Europe
• Challenges: Language, cold winters, political situation
• Particularities: World-famous thermal baths, rich culture, excellent gastronomy

More Distant Destinations: Thailand, Philippines, and Mexico

For adventurous retirees who are ready to move further away from Germany:

Thailand:

• Popular regions: Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Phuket, Pattaya
• Advantages: Very low cost of living, tropical climate, friendly population
• Challenges: Cultural differences, complicated visa regulations, large distance to Germany
• Particularities: Special retirement visa available, affordable private healthcare

Philippines:

• Popular regions: Cebu, Bohol, Davao
• Advantages: English as a second official language, very low costs, hospitality
• Challenges: Tropical climate (typhoons), infrastructure outside cities, security situation in some regions
• Particularities: Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) available from age 35, island paradise

Mexico:

• Popular regions: Lake Chapala, San Miguel de Allende, Yucatán
• Advantages: Low costs, good climate, large expat communities
• Challenges: Language barrier, security concerns in some regions, time difference
• Particularities: Temporary retiree visa easily obtainable, colorful culture, diverse landscapes

Northern Cyprus: The Insider Tip for Retirees

The Special Situation of Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus has become an increasingly popular destination for retirees who want to emigrate in old age:

Political and Historical Context:

• Island divided since 1974 with the Republic of Cyprus in the south and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey) in the north
• Special international legal status, which also brings advantages
• Negotiations on reunification continue
• Factually stable and safe situation for foreigners

Geographic Location and Climate:

• Eastern Mediterranean with strategic position between Europe, Asia, and Africa
• 340 days of sunshine per year
• Mild winters with average temperatures of 15-20°C
• Warm but pleasant summers thanks to sea breeze
• Diverse landscape with beautiful beaches, mountain regions, and historical sites

Economic Situation:

• Use of the Turkish Lira, whose devaluation brings advantages for retirees with euro income
• Significantly lower cost of living than in southern Cyprus
• Affordable real estate prices due to less international demand
• Tax advantages for foreign residents
• Growing investments in infrastructure and tourism

Advantages of Northern Cyprus for Retirees

Northern Cyprus offers numerous advantages that make it an ideal destination for people who want to emigrate as retirees:

Cost of Living:

• 40-60% lower total costs compared to Germany
• Restaurant visit for €10-15 per person (menu)
• Food costs for two people: approx. €200-300 monthly
• Utilities significantly cheaper than in Germany
• Affordable services (household help, gardener, etc.)

Real Estate Market:

• Apartments from €50,000-70,000
• Villas with sea view from €150,000
• Low property tax and affordable utilities
• No inheritance tax for real estate
• Good appreciation potential in emerging regions

Healthcare:

• Modern equipped private clinics
• Doctors mostly English-speaking, increasingly also German-speaking offerings
• Medical treatments at about one-third of German costs
• German health insurance usable under certain conditions
• Private international health insurance available at favorable conditions

Quality of Life:

• Relaxed, decelerated lifestyle
• Low crime rate and high personal safety
• Friendly, hospitable population
• Growing international community of residents
• Diverse leisure opportunities (golf, hiking, water sports, culture)

The Most Beautiful Regions of Northern Cyprus for Retirees

Depending on personal preferences, various regions of Northern Cyprus are particularly suitable for retirees who want to live abroad:

Kyrenia (Girne) and Surroundings:

• Picturesque harbor town with historic old town
• Largest international community in Northern Cyprus
• Best infrastructure with international restaurants, shops, and services
• Beautiful beaches and impressive mountain scenery
• Good medical care and active social life

Famagusta (Gazimağusa):

• Historic old town with medieval walls
• University city with international flair
• Some of the most beautiful beaches in Northern Cyprus
• Lower real estate prices than in Kyrenia
• More authentic, less touristy environment

Iskele Region:

• Emerging region with modern residential complexes
• Long sandy beaches with crystal-clear water
• Well-developed new infrastructure
• Particularly affordable real estate prices
• Quieter atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers

Karpaz Peninsula:

• Untouched nature and remote beaches
• Traditional Cypriot village life
• National park with wild donkeys and rich bird life
• Very low cost of living
• Perfect for retirees who appreciate seclusion and nature experiences

Legal and Practical Aspects of Emigrating to Northern Cyprus

If you want to emigrate to Northern Cyprus as a retiree, you should consider the following legal and practical aspects:

Residence Rights:

• Easy entry with 90-day tourist visa
• Uncomplicated application for a long-term residence permit
• Various categories: Retiree Residency, Property Owner Residency
• Annually renewable with minimal requirements
• No minimum stay duration for maintaining residency status

Real Estate Acquisition:

• Foreigners can easily acquire real estate
• Transfer of title deed at the local land registry office
• Recommendation of a specialized lawyer for the transaction
• Possibility of Title Deed Insurance as additional security
• Significantly simplified purchase process compared to many EU countries

Taxes and Finances:

• Possibility of tax residency in Northern Cyprus
• Often advantageous taxation of foreign pension income
• Trouble-free account management and money transfers
• Turkish Lira as official currency, Euro and British Pound widely accepted
• Low cost of living enables financial relief

Everyday Aspects:

• Driving with German or international driver's license
• Good internet connections and mobile communication
• Reliable water and electricity supply
• International TV programs via satellite or internet
• Growing number of services specifically for foreign residents

The Path to Successful Emigration

What You Should Take from Germany

Preparation for your new life as a retiree abroad encompasses various practical aspects:

Important Documents:

• Passport and ID card with sufficient validity
• International birth certificate, marriage certificate (international if necessary)
• Pension notice and pension insurance number
• Driver's license and international driver's license
• Certificates and professional qualifications (for potentially necessary certifications)

Health and Insurance:

• Health insurance proofs and international insurance card
• Vaccination record and health certificate
• Long-term prescriptions and medication plan
• Translations of important medical documents
• Proof of existing insurance (life, liability, etc.)

Financial:

• International credit card and enough cash for the initial period
• Proof of regular income (for residence permit)
• Tax documents from recent years
• Powers of attorney for remaining accounts or assets
• Documents for foreign banks (for account opening)

Personal:

• Contact details of family, friends, and important service providers
• Digital copies of all important documents
• Personal items needed temporarily
• Possibly important medications for the initial period
• Emotional "anchors" such as photos or special mementos

Preparation and Planning of Emigration

Careful planning is crucial if you want to emigrate in old age:

Time Frame:

• Plan at least 12-18 months preparation time
• Gradual approach with checklists and milestones
• Observe important deadlines for cancellations, contract terminations, etc.
• Consider seasonal aspects when choosing the moving date
• Plan buffer times for unforeseen events

Housing Situation in Germany:

• Rental apartment: Timely notice considering deadlines
• Owned apartment/house: Clarify sale, rental, or management
• Research and commission moving company for international move
• Decluttering and reduction of household goods
• Organize intermediate storage for items not immediately needed

Official Matters:

• Deregistration at the residents' registration office
• Information to pension insurance provider about residence abroad
• Clarification of health insurance situation
• Tax consultation for deregistration at the tax office
• If necessary, application for residence permit in destination country

Practical Preparations:

• Refresh or newly acquire language skills
• Establish contacts with retirees who have already emigrated
• Trial stay before the final emigration
• Research on local customs and cultures
• Establish regular communication channels with family and friends

Getting to Know Cyprus: Trial Living Before the Decision

One of the most important recommendations for all who want to emigrate as retirees is an extensive trial stay before the final decision:

Why a Trial Stay is Essential:

• Holiday impressions differ fundamentally from everyday life
• Experience the different seasons at the destination
• Realistic assessment of infrastructure in everyday life
• Test social integration possibilities
• Master initial challenges in a still non-binding situation

The Ideal Duration of a Trial Stay:

• At least 4-6 weeks for a first impression
• Ideally 2-3 months to explore different regions
• If possible, both in the summer and winter season
• Plan time to go beyond tourist zones
• Sufficient space for unexpected discoveries and experiences

Aspects to Test During the Trial Stay:

• Everyday errands (shopping, transport, communication)
• Healthcare and access to needed medications
• Social contact possibilities and integration
• Linguistic challenges in daily life
• Practical aspects such as banking, official procedures, etc.

LongStay Cyprus: The Perfect Introduction for Potential Emigrants

For all those who are considering emigrating to Northern Cyprus as retirees, LongStay Cyprus offers tailor-made long-term stays as an ideal introduction:

The Concept of LongStay Cyprus:

• Flexible length of stay from 30 to 80 days
• Accommodation in high-quality hotels or apartments
• Extensive program with guided excursions
• Personal support from experienced expats and locals
• Insights into daily life beyond tourist paths

Special Advantages for Potential Emigrants:

• Getting to know different regions of Northern Cyprus
• Contact with Germans who have already emigrated
• Information events on legal and tax aspects
• Viewing different residential areas and property types
• Practical support with official visits and administrative questions

The Excursion and Activity Program:

• 20 guided excursions throughout Cyprus (North and South)
• Visits to local craftsmen and producers
• Cultural events and participation in traditional festivals
• Nature experiences from mountain regions to lonely beaches
• An international excursion, e.g., to Cairo to see the pyramids

The Perfect Balance:

• Guided activities and sufficient personal time
• Community experiences and individual explorations
• Tourist program and authentic everyday insights
• Holiday pleasures and practical information
• Non-binding familiarization without purchase pressure

Life After Emigration

The Arrival Phase: The First Months in Your New Home

The first months after you have emigrated as a retiree are an important transition phase:

Administrative Steps After Arrival:

• Registration with local authorities
• Application for residence permit
• Opening a local bank account
• Organization of health insurance
• Updating important documents and services

Setting Up Your New Home:

• Home furnishing and necessary purchases
• Registration of electricity, water, and internet connection
• Orientation in the new neighborhood
• Finding important service providers (doctors, craftsmen, etc.)
• Getting to know local shops and markets

Social Integration:

• Establishing contacts with German or international groups
• Participation in local events and activities
• Use of social media and expat platforms
• Joining hobby or interest groups
• Possibly attending language courses or intercultural workshops

Emotional Aspects:

• Learning to deal with possible homesickness
• Developing new routines and rituals
• Maintaining regular contact with family and friends in Germany
• Having patience with oneself in the adaptation process
• Consciously perceiving the positive aspects of the new life

Long-term Integration in the New Home Country

For a fulfilled life as a retiree abroad, long-term integration is crucial:

Linguistic Integration:

• Acquire basic knowledge of the local language
• Regular language use in everyday life
• Tandem partnerships for mutual language exchange
• Use of apps and online courses for deepening
• Patience and courage to speak despite initial mistakes

Cultural Adaptation:

• Openness to local customs and practices
• Respect for cultural differences
• Participation in traditional festivals and events
• Getting to know the local cuisine and eating habits
• Adaptation of one's own lifestyle to local conditions (e.g., siesta)

Building Social Networks:

• Balance between contacts with compatriots and locals
• Engagement in local associations or organizations
• Participation in community activities
• Cultivation of neighborly relationships
• Seeking intergenerational contacts

Active Retiree Life:

• Developing new hobbies and interests
• Volunteer work or mentoring
• Travel and exploration of the wider surroundings
• Lifelong learning through courses or workshops
• Participation in cultural and social events

Health and Well-being in Old Age Abroad

Healthcare is a central aspect when you emigrate in old age:

Understanding the Healthcare System:

• Learn about the functioning of the local healthcare system
• Weigh private versus public healthcare
• Know emergency numbers and procedures
• Find German-speaking or English-speaking doctors
• Know which services are covered by health insurance

Preventive Measures:

• Regular check-ups and preventive examinations
• Adaptation to climatic conditions (sun protection, heat precautions)
• Balanced diet adapted to local products
• Regular physical activity and mental fitness
• Stress reduction through relaxed lifestyle

In Case of Illness:

• Clear communication channels to doctors despite possible language barriers
• Emergency plan for more serious health problems
• Preparation for possible return trips for special treatments
• Support network for illness phases
• Ensure access to needed medications

Long-term Care Planning:

• Early considerations about care dependency
• Local care options versus return to Germany
• Regulate living will and healthcare proxy also abroad
• Financial provision for care needs
• Communication with relatives about wishes in case of care

The Reality of Emigrating as a Retiree: Opportunities and Challenges

What Emigrants Report from Practice

The experiences of retirees who have already taken the step to live abroad can offer valuable insights:

Positive Aspects:

• High quality of life at lower costs
• Health improvements due to pleasant climate
• New friendships and contacts
• Personal growth through intercultural experiences
• More relaxed lifestyle and less stress

Challenges:

• Initial homesickness and missing family and friends
• Linguistic barriers in everyday life
• Cultural differences and misunderstandings
• Bureaucratic hurdles and unfamiliar administrative processes
• Adaptation to different life rhythms and habits

Unexpected Insights:

• Deeper understanding of one's own cultural imprint
• Reevaluation of what is really important in life
• Recognition that some everyday problems are universal
• Appreciation for both the new and the old home
• Personal change and growth even at an older age

Practical Tips from Emigrants:

• Stay flexible and adaptable
• Don't make too many comparisons with Germany
• Learn the local language at least basically
• Plan regular visits to Germany
• Use technology to stay in touch with family and friends

Northern Cyprus: Long-term Perspectives for Retirees

Northern Cyprus offers some special long-term perspectives for retirees who want to emigrate in old age:

Economic Development:

• Steadily growing infrastructure and service offerings
• Increasing international recognition and opening
• Rising but still moderate real estate prices
• Growing direct investments from various countries
• Improvement of transport connections and public transport

Community Development:

• Growing international community with diverse activities
• Increasing number of German-speaking service providers
• Establishment of cultural and leisure offerings specifically for residents
• Clubs and groups for specific interests
• Integration between foreign residents and locals

Quality of Life in Old Age:

• More age-appropriate infrastructure in new development areas
• Growing range of medical specialty facilities
• Increase in care services for seniors
• Varied leisure activities throughout the year
• Balance between traditional feeling of life and modern amenities

Potential Future Developments:

• Possible political solutions for the Cyprus conflict
• Further integration into international economic and travel cycles
• Expansion of renewable energies and environmentally friendly infrastructure
• Potential EU approximation through negotiations
• Growing cultural exchange between North and South

Conclusion: Is Emigrating as a Retiree the Right Step?

Personal Decision-Making

The decision to emigrate as a retiree is highly individual and should be carefully considered:

Questions for Self-Reflection:

• What priorities do you set for your retirement?
• How important is proximity to family and long-time friends to you?
• What lifestyle do you aspire to and where can it best be realized?
• How do you handle changes and challenges?
• What health factors do you need to consider?

Weighing the Alternatives:

• Complete emigration versus seasonal stay
• Compare different potential destination countries
• Possibility of a gradual transition (initially rent instead of buy)
• Alternative models such as "temporary living" or longer trips
• Combination of stays in Germany and abroad

Realistic Assessment:

• Honest inventory of one's own adaptability
• Financial viability of emigration plans
• Consideration of long-term development (also with increasing age)
• Weighing advantages and disadvantages without idealization
• Consideration of unforeseen events (health, family situation)

Decision Process:

• Thorough research and information
• Trial stays in different seasons
• Conversations with retirees who have already emigrated
• Consultation with experts (tax advisors, pension insurance, etc.)
• Take sufficient time for decision-making

Getting to Know Northern Cyprus: The First Step to Possible Emigration

For many retirees who are considering emigration, a longer exploratory stay in Northern Cyprus is the ideal first step:

Why Get to Know Northern Cyprus First:

• The holiday perspective differs greatly from everyday life
• Different regions offer different quality of life
• Experience seasonal differences (especially important: winter months)
• Realistically assess living and cost of living
• Test practical aspects such as healthcare, shopping opportunities, and mobility

Advantages of an Organized Long-term Stay:

• Structured familiarization with expert guidance
• Contact with already resident emigrants
• Better orientation through local experts
• Balanced combination of "holiday feeling" and everyday reality
• Non-binding testing without immediate decision pressures

LongStay Cyprus as the Ideal Solution:

• Tailor-made stays from 30 to 80 days
• Comprehensive excursion program to all important regions
• Combination of entertainment, information, and orientation
• Personal support and advice on practical questions
• Opportunity to get to know and compare different residential areas

The Next Step:

• Non-binding information conversation about the LongStay offerings
• Individual advice on duration of stay and dates
• Tailor-made offer depending on personal interests
• Flexible planning without obligations
• Initial information on longer-term residence and real estate options

Your Path to Northern Cyprus Begins Here

The decision to emigrate as a retiree should be well-considered and based on solid information and personal experiences. Northern Cyprus offers an attractive option for German retirees who want to spend their retirement abroad with its combination of Mediterranean climate, affordable living costs, good infrastructure, and a growing international community.

The ideal entry point to get to know Northern Cyprus as a potential new home is an extended stay with LongStay Cyprus. The tailor-made packages allow you to comprehensively explore the island, get to know different regions, and gain a realistic impression of everyday life – without immediate obligations and with professional support.

Such an exploratory stay provides the perfect foundation for your decision whether Northern Cyprus is the right place for your retirement. You can experience the advantages of life on the Mediterranean island, assess potential challenges, and make valuable contacts – all in a relaxed setting that gives you time for well-considered decisions.

Request a Non-binding Offer

Take the first step on your possible path to Northern Cyprus: Request a non-binding offer for a LongStay stay. Our experienced advisors are available to create a package that optimally suits your wishes and interests.

Discover Northern Cyprus as a potential new home and experience for yourself why more and more German retirees are choosing this Mediterranean island for their sunset years.

Request your Non-binding Offer now (click here)!