The Philippines is best country for retirees in 2026: Retirement Abroad Index

Besting 19 other countries, the Philippines ranked the top retirement destination in the world in the Retirement Abroad Index 2026. 

With a score of 78 out of 100, the Philippines emerged favorably for affordability and visa accessibility. The country's "strong private healthcare sector" was also an attractive aspect. 

Thailand ranked second, scoring 77, pushed by its joint-highest healthcare score in the index. Colombia was third at 73, favored for its low cost of living and "one of the most accessible retirement visa pathways."

Commissioned by the Expatriate Group, the annual report identifies the world's most retiree-friendly locations based on five factors that matter most to retirement-age individuals looking to relocate. Looking beyond just lifestyle points, the report focused on practical needs of retirees: healthcare access, visa accessibility, health insurance requirements, cost of living, and expat community and integration.  

Each of the five pillars was worth up to 20 points, adding up to a possible 100. 

Ranking the Philippines

The country's overall score of 78 was driven by, according to the report, "exceptional visa accessibility, low living costs, and one of the strongest expat integration scores in the index."

Per the Expatriate Group, the Philippines' Special Resident Retiree's Visa was among the most retiree-friendly retirement programs it found. 

According to the Philippine Retirement Authority, the special non-immigrant visa is specifically designed to "attract foreign nationals and former Filipino citizens to live and retire long-term in the Philippines."

A retiree who holds an SRRV can enjoy several perks, including permanent residency in the Philippines, multiple entries and indefinite stays, a special rate for PhilHealth insurance, and exemption from tax on pensions and annuities. 

Affordable cost of living, per Expatriate Group, continued to be one of the country's "biggest strengths." 

"A retired couple can typically live comfortably on around £750–£1,000 (about P60,000 – P80,000) per month," the report found, noting that costs would be higher in Manila compared to provincial cities and coastal communities. 

The country scored 12 out of 20 in healthcare, reflecting the gap between urban and rural health services. While the report found major cities, such as Manila and Cebu, to have "modern private hospitals, internationally accredited facilities, and English-speaking medical professionals," healthcare standards outside urban centers varied. 

"The key is to ensure your health insurance is robust enough to bridge the gap between excellent urban healthcare and more limited provision elsewhere," noted the report. 

DOT statement

According to the Department of Tourism, the Philippines' latest distinction follows its recognition as the Best Retirement Destination in Asia at the 2025 TripZilla Excellence Awards. 

Both citations further affirm "the country's appeal among retirees seeking a balance of comfort, affordability, and quality of life," wrote DOT in a statement. 

The department cited the efficacy of the special visa granted to foreign and formerly Filipino retirees, which is PRA's flagship initiative. It recognized "PRA's commitment to creating an environment where retirees can live, connect, and thrive. It also serves as a testament to the country's continued progress as a global retirement hub."

The Expatriate Group provides international health insurance to expatriates and retirees across over 180 countries.