Start with your question.
Direct answers to the questions women ask most about retiring abroad — with links to the full research behind each one. Pick the category that matches what you need to figure out right now.
SSDI, Social Security, visas & budgeting
Can I collect SSDI abroad? Which countries use the dollar? How much income does a retirement visa require? What do expats consistently underestimate?
Medicare, expat insurance & pre-existing conditions
Can I use Medicare overseas? Does expat insurance cover pre-existing conditions? Which countries have English-speaking doctors? What does coverage actually cost?
Walkability, accessible housing & terrain
Which cities are flat and walkable? What to look for in accessible housing? Which destinations are best for progressive illness? What's the difference between walkable and accessible?
Solo female safety & daily independence
Is it safe to retire abroad alone? Which countries are safest for solo women? How do you research neighborhood-level safety before you move?
Import rules, quarantine & pet-friendly destinations
What are the pet import rules by country? Which destinations are most pet-friendly? Is it safe to fly an older pet? How early do you need to start?
Find a destination by what matters most to you
Closest to the US. Best for fixed income. Best climate for joint pain. Most accessible housing. Dollar economies with low visa thresholds.
Panama, Costa Rica, Portugal, Ecuador & more
Is Panama safe for solo women? Is Costa Rica too expensive? Is Portugal cold in winter? Panama vs Costa Rica. Portugal vs Spain. Country-specific answers.
Where to start, documents, timelines & checklists
Where do I start researching? What documents do I need? How long does residency take? What do I do before I leave and after I land?