Welcome to the International Living mailbag, your repository of questions posed to our expert expats by your fellow subscribers.
We’ve spent over 40 years digging deep on the best places in the world to retire. In that time, our editors, correspondents, and longtime contributors have built up a wealth of expertise.
And it’s all at your fingertips, right here, as an International Living subscriber.
Take a look below at the questions we’ve been asked, and the expert responses.
And remember, if you’ve got a question you’d like answered, simply send it to mailbag@internationalliving.com and you could see it featured right here.
Patrick M. Says: What are the physical presence requirements to become a tax resident in Portugal or Greece? IL Chief Global Diversification Expert Ted Baumann Says: Hi Patrick, Every country has its own rules for residence for taxation purposes. If you spend a certain number of days in the country, you qualify as a Read more...: How Long Do I Need to Stay in Portugal or Greece for Tax Residency?
Scott S. Says: Good day to you Stephanie, What was your rent for the quintessential Irish cottage in the small village of Annestown? Also, I was glad to hear you say that Annestown has been welcoming to even an American. My spouse and I are very likely renting somewhere on the island of Ireland during Read more...: What is Annestown, Ireland Like?
Allen T. Says: Do I need to be a citizen to use Portugal’s public healthcare? IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says: Hi Allen, The National Health Service of Portugal (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) is available to citizens as well as both temporary and permanent residents. As an expat, you must arrange for a Portuguese Read more...: Do I Need to Be a Citizen to Use Portugal’s Public Healthcare?
Bernie P. Says: We are thinking of retiring to San Sebastián-Donostia, Spain. Any information would be helpful. Thanks. IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says: Hi Bernie, You have chosen a beautiful part of Spain. San Sebastián—Donostia in Basque—has been a resort since the mid-1800s. This stylish seaside city on Spain’s north Atlantic Coast has Read more...: What Can You Tell Me About San Sebastián-Donostia, Spain?
John S. Says: What’s involved for an American to gain residency in Vietnam? Own property? IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says: Hi John, Vietnam is one of the most spectacular countries on earth. It has more than a thousand miles of coastline, gorgeous mountains, forests, waterfalls, and amazing caves. The cuisine is famous for Read more...: How Can I Gain Residency in Vietnam?
Maria O. Says: What are retirement home options in Mexico? IL Latin America Correspondent Jason Holland Says: Hi Maria, There have long been Mexican retirement homes in expat havens like Lake Chapala or large cities like Mexico City. But now facilities are becoming increasingly sophisticated. To tap into the senior market—both in Mexico and Read more...: What Are the Retirement Home Options in Mexico?
Donna H. Says: I’m thinking about moving to Panama. I am 70 and draw SS benefits, so I’m sure I would qualify for a Pensionado visa. However, my daughter is 46 years old and disabled. She draws $1,200 a month in disability. She would be living with me. Could she get a visa? Thanks for Read more...: Can My Adult Disabled Daughter Get a Visa to Panama?
Jack N. Says: Hi Chip, I love Italy and am planning to visit Rome for three months this summer. Do you have any advice? IL Italy Correspondent Chip Stites Says: Hi Jack, Glad to hear that Italy has your heart and you’re planning a visit! It may seem basic, but I would suggest first Read more...: Do You Have Any Advice for Spending Three Months in Rome?
Carol S. Says: Could Jessica please let me know if there are any fishing villages of about 5,000 inhabitants that are on the pacific coast side of Panama? If so, does she have any information she could share for potential long-term rentals? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Carol, According to the last Read more...: Could you Recommend a Fishing Village in Panama?
Janet O. Says: I’m interested in Ecuador for the low cost of living. But I worry about access to healthcare in a developing country. Can I get quality treatment? And is it expensive? IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says: Hi Janet, Although Ecuador is a developing country, you will find first-rate medical care there, Read more...: Can I Get Quality Healthcare in Ecuador?