Golden Visa and retirement: The most sought-after destinations for Americans
More and more Americans are seeking Golden Visa and retirement options that allow them to live comfortably abroad after retirement. This trend reveals a growing interest in destinations that combine high living standards with favorable immigration policies.
We're going to examine some of these options in this blog.
Portugal
Portugal ranks highly as a Golden Visa and retirement destination. Although it eliminated the possibility of obtaining residency through property purchase in 2023, it maintains investment options starting at €500,000 in approved funds. A Constitutional Court ruling strengthened benefits such as family reunification, making the country even more attractive to US investors. Furthermore, it has become common for those planning to emigrate to use US pension funds, such as 401(k)s, to finance these investments.
Greece
Greece is another key player on the list of Golden Visa and retirement destinations. Following the closure of the Spanish program, demand for Greek visas accelerated significantly; applications from Americans grew from 302 to 383 per month. Its fast processing rate contrasts with other destinations. Although the minimum investment in high-demand areas like Athens or Santorini rose to €800,000 in 2023, many still consider it a viable option.
Costa Rica and Panama
Besides Europe, Latin America offers increasingly popular destinations for those seeking a Golden Visa and retirement. Forbes notes that Costa Rica and Panama are among the top five countries for both retirement and investment residency programs. Chile also ranks among the “best countries to retire,” though based on non-lucrative or passive income visas.
Valencia: withdrawal without investment visa
Valencia, Spain, stands out as an ideal retirement destination, even without the Golden Visa program. It ranks among the top five places to retire in 2025, boasting a monthly cost of living of USD 2,363 for two, excellent healthcare, a vibrant cultural scene, and reliable transportation, according to El País. Retirees can apply for the non-lucrative visa, provided they demonstrate sufficient passive income.
The additional benefits of retiring abroad
Beyond the benefits of migration, recent studies highlight that travel itself is a key factor in a healthy retirement. A 2024 study conducted by Edith Cowan University in Australia and published in Science Daily concluded that positive travel experiences promote both physical and mental health. The study underscores that exposure to new environments and active social interaction have positive impacts on the overall well-being of retirees.
According to The Washington Post , the research analyzed how travel helps slow the gradual deterioration of the human body by maintaining low levels of entropy. In this sense, opting for programs that combine a Golden Visa and retirement offers not only legal security and international mobility, but also the possibility of accessing lifestyles that promote longevity and well-being.
AIM Global, your path to global mobility
Whether you want to be prepared with a reliable backup plan in case of emergency, or you're looking to live your retirement in a different and welcoming environment, the decision to start a new life in another latitude should be an informed one.
At AIM Global, we are not only experts in Golden Visas; we also have experience advising our clients on passive income visas , and in general, helping them find investment options compatible with their profile.
If you're interested in exploring these topics further, schedule an information session with us and start building your future today.
