A new international ranking says the best country for retirees in 2026 is not Spain or France, but the Philippines. The Retirement Abroad Index, published by Expatriate Group, evaluated 20 countries on five factors, healthcare quality, visa access, medical insurance requirements, cost of living, and how easy it is to join a local expat community.
The Philippines finished first thanks to low living costs, a large international community, and a dedicated retiree visa. It offers the SRRV, or Special Resident Retiree's Visa, which requires a deposit of about 44,000 shekels for pensioners. The report also highlights tropical beaches, warm weather year-round, and a relaxed lifestyle. The article notes that by the end of the year, a direct flight from Israel to the Philippines is expected to open.
Thailand placed second, driven by its advanced private healthcare system and internationally rated hospitals in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. Colombia came third, with an especially easy visa path and low expenses. The report says a retired couple can live comfortably in Medellin on 3,960 to 5,950 shekels a month.
Portugal was the highest-ranked European country at number four, cited for pleasant weather, low crime, quality healthcare, and a visa for people with passive income. Dubai and the United Arab Emirates also remain attractive because of modern infrastructure, advanced healthcare, and sunshine most of the year, though the report says the ongoing war in the Middle East has slightly reduced their appeal. The top 10 list is rounded out by Sri Lanka and South Africa, Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Spain and Indonesia, Panama, and Qatar.
