Expat Countdown Blog

Guides and tips for Americans retiring abroad

34 articles

Retire in Philippines Cost: Your Guide to Affordable Paradise Living

Discover the true retire in Philippines cost: from $800/month budgets to visa fees and daily expenses. Plan your affordable expat retirement in this tropical haven with practical tips.

2026-04-02 6 min read

Portugal D7 visa vs Golden Visa for retirees

Considering retiring in Portugal? Compare the D7 and Golden Visa options for retirees and find out which is best for you.

2026-04-02 9 min read

Should you sell your house before retiring abroad

Considering retiring abroad? Decide if selling your house is the right move with insights on finances and planning for expats.

2026-04-01 8 min read

How to get a driver's license abroad as an American

Navigate getting an international driving license when you move abroad. Tips for Americans in Spain, Mexico, and more.

2026-03-31 12 min read

Best cities in Mexico for American retirees 2026

Discover the best cities in Mexico for American retirees in 2026. Enjoy vibrant culture and affordable living as an expat.

2026-03-30 10 min read

Tax implications of retiring abroad for Americans

Understand the tax implications and benefits like FEIE for Americans retiring abroad, covering countries like Mexico, Portugal, and more.

2026-03-29 12 min read

How to ship your belongings when retiring abroad

Discover how to ship your belongings overseas when you move abroad. Essential tips for a smooth international transition.

2026-03-28 9 min read

Best international health insurance for expats 2026

Discover the best international health insurance for expats in 2026. Coverage options for the Philippines, Mexico, Spain, and more.

2026-03-27 12 min read

How to keep your US bank account when moving abroad

Learn how to keep your US bank account while moving abroad. Tips on managing finances in popular expat destinations.

2026-03-26 9 min read

Digital Nomad Visa Countries 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Working Remotely Abroad

Discover the top digital nomad visa countries for 2025, from Portugal to Thailand. Get visa requirements, costs, and tips to start your remote work adventure seamlessly. Plan your move today!

2026-03-26 6 min read

Malaysia MM2H visa for American retirees

Discover how the Malaysia MM2H visa can be your gateway to a dream retirement in one of the world's most welcoming destinations.

2026-03-25 8 min read

Ecuador retirement visa: the easiest path to South America

Discover the easiest path to retire in Ecuador with the Ecuador retirement visa. Learn about requirements, costs, and benefits.

2026-03-24 7 min read

Colombia retirement visa and cost of living guide

Discover Colombia's retirement visa process and cost of living for expats. Plan your dream retirement with detailed insights and tips.

2026-03-23 10 min read

Medicare abroad: what retirees need to know

Discover how Medicare abroad affects American retirees, explore healthcare options and learn key insights for retiring in popular expat countries.

2026-03-22 8 min read

Spain non-lucrative visa for retirees guide

Discover the step-by-step guide to retiring in Spain with the non-lucrative visa. Perfect for retirees seeking a sunny escape.

2026-03-21 8 min read

American Expat Tax FEIE Explained: Your Guide to Saving Big on Overseas Taxes

Confused about the American expat tax FEIE? This guide explains the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion in detail, helping U.S. expats save on taxes while living abroad. Learn eligibility, benefits, and how to claim it.

2026-03-21 6 min read

Is Thailand safe for American retirees

Discover if Thailand is a safe haven for American retirees considering overseas retirement. Learn about lifestyle, healthcare, and safety.

2026-03-20 10 min read

FIRE Retire Abroad Calculator: Plan Your Dream Retirement Overseas

Discover the FIRE retire abroad calculator to estimate costs, savings, and timelines for retiring overseas. Get personalized tips and tools to achieve financial independence abroad with Expat Countdown.

2026-03-20 7 min read

Retire abroad checklist: 18 months to move day

Plan your move abroad with this 18-month retire abroad checklist. Get tips for expats and step-by-step guidance to ease your transition.

2026-03-19 9 min read

Cost of Living in Medellín, Colombia: A Realistic Guide for Expats

Discover the true cost of living in Medellín, Colombia, from housing to food and utilities. Get practical tips for budgeting as an expat and plan your move affordably with our guide.

2026-03-19 5 min read

How to move money abroad: Wise vs bank wire

Discover how to move money abroad efficiently. Compare Wise transfer with bank wire for better rates and convenience in expat life.

2026-03-18 8 min read

Cost of living comparison: Florida vs Philippines

Compare cost of living in Florida vs. Philippines. Discover which is more budget-friendly for American retirees dreaming of moving abroad.

2026-03-17 10 min read

American Expat Portugal Cost of Living: A Realistic Breakdown for Your Move

Discover the American expat Portugal cost of living: from Lisbon rents to Porto groceries. Get practical tips and budget insights to plan your affordable European adventure.

2026-03-17 6 min read

Best places to retire in Costa Rica for expats

Discover the best places to retire in Costa Rica for expats, with cost details and lifestyle insights to plan your dream retirement.

2026-03-16 10 min read

FBAR requirements for Americans living overseas

Discover FBAR requirements for Americans abroad and ensure you're on track with taxes. Vital info for expats in popular retirement spots.

2026-03-15 8 min read

How to receive Social Security abroad

Learn how to receive Social Security abroad seamlessly with tips for retiring overseas in the Philippines, Mexico, Portugal, and more.

2026-03-14 8 min read

Cost of Living in Cebu Philippines 2025: Your Budget Guide to Island Paradise

Discover the cost of living in Cebu, Philippines for 2025. From affordable housing to daily expenses, get a detailed budget breakdown for expats planning their move to this vibrant island destination.

2026-03-14 5 min read

Healthcare in Panama for American retirees

Discover Panama healthcare for American retirees. Affordable, quality services perfect for your retirement. Learn more in our comprehensive guide.

2026-03-13 10 min read

American Expat Philippines Healthcare: Your Essential Guide to Thriving Abroad

Discover American expat Philippines healthcare options, from quality hospitals to insurance tips. Navigate costs, PhilHealth, and expat experiences for a smooth move. Plan wisely today!

2026-03-13 5 min read

Mexico retirement visa income requirements 2026

Discover the 2026 income requirements for a Mexico retirement visa. Retire comfortably in Mexico with our detailed guide.

2026-03-12 12 min read

Best countries to retire on $2000 a month

Discover the best countries to retire abroad on $2000 a month, like the Philippines, Mexico, Portugal, and more. Calculate your expat costs today!

2026-03-11 10 min read

Retire in Portugal on Social Security income

Discover how to retire in Portugal on Social Security income with practical insights, real numbers, and tips for a seamless transition.

2026-03-10 8 min read

Philippines SRRV visa requirements step by step

Discover step-by-step SRRV visa requirements for retiring in the Philippines. Secure your retirement dream with our comprehensive guide.

2026-03-09 10 min read

How much does it cost to retire in the Philippines 2026

Discover the cost of living in the Philippines for retirees and plan your affordable retirement in paradise by 2026.

2026-03-08 10 min read