There’s a difference between the world’s most affordable place to live and the cheapest places to qualify for residency. When clients ask about the cheapest countries to move to, I always ask for clarification about what they are actually asking.
For in-country cost of living, the twenty-three cheapest countries on Earth have more difficult entry requirements than any of the countries listed here. On this list, you will find countries that have the lowest income requirements for entry as a foreigner looking to become a resident. All of the countries here will grant you residency with an income of $1,500 per month.
International living is commonly viewed as very bougie and only an option available to the rich. As the United States continues spiraling into a dystopian nightmare, I wanted to ensure my fellow Americans knew that they have options even on a tight budget.
Spoiler alert to save you some time…. If you are looking for the cheapest country on this list in terms of in-country costs once you move, it’s Costa Rica.
Understanding Affordable Visa Qualifications
Moving to a new country does involve paperwork. Most Americans don’t ever think about visa qualifications because they arrive in a new country and are automatically granted a tourist visa on arrival.
Americans who have traveled to places like China or Russia may know that before you ever get on a plane, you need to visit an embassy to apply for and be granted a tourist visa.
Moving to another country requires special visas requesting that the country accept you as a resident.
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Common Visa Types:
- Heritage Visas: Folks with family ancestry in ‘right of blood’ countries may qualify for some kind of residency option.
- Student Visas: If you’re planning to pursue higher education outside of the country, this is a good option.
- Work Visas: Highly skilled professionals or in demand job sectors may be allowed to sponsor visas for immigration.
- Retirement Visas: Some countries are looking to attract retirees earning a fixed income.
- Passive Income Visas: There is a special designation for people who earn income without actively working, such as rental income or living off investments.
- Digital Nomad Visas: More and more countries have added a remote work option allowing younger people, including families to relocate.
Visa fees and requirements can vary widely. In this article we will only be focusing on retirement visas, passive income visas, and digital nomad visas. Nothing in this series will suggest enrolling in a school or attempting to find employment.
Some countries may have a low cost of living but the income requirements to be granted residency are out of reach. Other countries may have lower barriers to entry but aren’t somewhere you want to live.
This comprehensive guide includes nineteen countries with monthly income requirements under $1,500 USD per month. Each country will have different application processes requiring legal documents or financial proof of your eligibility. This can include showing you have enough savings or a steady income.
Quick Tips:
- Start your visa application early
- Keep all required documents handy
- Learn the difference between an apostille and getting something notarized
- Get everything translated into the local language (Check if they require you to use a certain translator)
- Make sure your passport is up to date
By knowing what to expect, you’ll be better prepared for the process and closer to your dream move.
What Kind of Income Do You Have?
The most important element of any visa application is proving you fit their qualifications. All nineteen of the countries featured in this article have income requirements under $1,500. But, the type of income matters.
A lot of people focus their search on the weather or perceived livability of a particular city. None of that matters if you don’t have a legal path to gain residency in that country.
Remote workers earning active income through freelancing, a sole proprietor business, or working remotely for a company will only be eligible for five of the countries on this list. Folks earning passive income through real estate, investments, royalties, or other non-active sources have ten options from this list. Whereas, retirees using social security, pensions, or retirement fund disbursements are able to relocate to seventeen of these countries.
I’ve categorized these various income types with quick links below. Choose the type of income you are earning and see which countries you are eligible to move to with less than $1,500 per month.
Who I Am & How I Can Help You Move Abroad
I’m Veronica, an American expat who left the grind behind and built a life of global freedom. If you’re ready to move abroad but feel stuck on where to go, how to qualify for a visa, or what to do next, I can help.
My Exit Plan Coaching Call is designed to give you a clear, step-by-step plan to make your move happen—whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or relocating with family. We’ll map out the best visa options, discuss affordable living, and create a strategy tailored to your financial situation and goals.
Don’t let uncertainty hold you back—book your Exit Plan Call today and start your journey abroad with confidence. [Schedule your call here →]
These Country Guides Are LONG—And Why That’s a Good Thing
Moving abroad is a life-changing decision, and the last thing you want is to waste months of your time on a visa application for a country that isn’t the right fit. That’s why each of my country guides are a 15-20 minute read—VERY long by internet standards, but short compared to the hours, weeks, or even months you’ll spend gathering paperwork, submitting applications, and waiting for approval.
Instead of diving in blindly, take the time to narrow your search to a few countries and dig into the details. A little extra reading now could save you endless frustration later, making your transition abroad smoother, faster, and stress-free.
19 Cheapest Countries To Move To
Visa Requirements Under $1,500/Month
Thinking about moving abroad? Here are some of the most affordable countries where you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. From vibrant Asian cities to picturesque European towns, these places offer low living costs and a rich cultural experience.
Best Places in North America for Expats
1. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the cheapest countries to move for expats. It offers beautiful beaches, a warm climate, and an easy visa process. As a result, Costa Rica ranks high among the cheapest countries to move. The low visa threshold and affordable lifestyle make it popular. A retirement visa requires just $1,000 per month. This popular destination offers a high quality of life and world-class health care. You can enjoy the laid-back vibes of the Central Valley or live near the surf-friendly coast. Either way, Costa Rica delivers a comfortable lifestyle with plenty of expat-friendly perks. [Read more about moving to Costa Rica →]
2. Dominican Republic
If you want a new country with low visa requirements and affordable living, consider the Dominican Republic. It’s one of the best places for North Americans. You can get residency with a retirement income of just $1,500 per month. The DR is known for its rich culture, modern conveniences, and beautiful islands. Choose the capital city of Santo Domingo or a small coastal town. The Dominican Republic offers a great mix of low living costs and Caribbean charm. [Read more about moving to the Dominican Republic →]
3. Guatemala
Guatemala is ideal for expats who want affordable living and cultural depth. With retirement or passive income of at least $1,250, you qualify for residency. It’s easy to live on a modest budget here. Wander through cities like Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the colonial charm and unique scenery. You’ll find a comfortable lifestyle in the highlands or adventure in the rainforests. Guatemala blends natural beauty with low costs. [Read more about moving to Guatemala →]
4. Honduras
Honduras is a great place for expats seeking affordable living. You’ll need at least $1,500 in monthly income to retire here. The country has beautiful beaches, charming small towns, and a general cost of living lower than other Latin American countries. Settle in the Bay Islands for diving or explore historic Tegucigalpa. Honduras offers a lower costof life without losing its rich cultural experience. [Read more about moving to Honduras →]
5. Nicaragua
Nicaragua is one of the most affordable countries for expats. It offers a comfortable lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of Western countries. Retirement visas require only $1,000 per month. Passive income visas need just $1,250 per month. It’s one of the easiest places in Central America to settle down. Expats love the vibrant culture, warm climate, and friendly locals. It’s a popular choice for retirees and financially independent folks alike. [Read more about moving to Nicaragua →]
6. Panama
Panama is a longtime favorite among expats. The country has an affordable cost of living and easy residency options. The retirement visa—famous in Latin America—requires just $1,000 per month. You can live well on a modest budgetand enjoy modern amenities. Choose the energy of Panama City or relax in a coastal retreat. There’s something for everyone in this expat-friendly country. [Read more about moving to Panama →]
Most Affordable Places in South America
7. Argentina
Argentina is a top pick for expats who want world-class culture and epic scenery on a modest budget. The retirement or passive income visa requires about $1,300 per month. That gets you access to cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, wine-filled weekends in Mendoza, or glacier views in Patagonia. Thanks to its low cost of living, vibrant food scene, and friendly locals, your life will feel rich—even if your spending stays lean. [Read more about moving to Argentina →]
8. Brazil
Brazil’s low cost of living and easy digital nomad visa make it one of the most affordable places for expats in South America. With $1,500 per month, you can gain residency and enjoy vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and bustling major cities. Whether you prefer the high energy of Rio de Janeiro or the laid-back vibe of Florianópolis, Brazil is an attractive destination for adventurous expats. [Read more about moving to Brazil →]
9. Chile
Chile offers affordable living with a high quality of life and Western conveniences. It has some of the lowest retirement and passive income visa requirements in the world. The country combines a strong economy with both modern conveniences and natural beauty. From lively Santiago to stunning Patagonia, Chile is one of the safest places to live in South America. [Read more about moving to Chile →]
10. Colombia
Colombia is one of the most affordable countries for expats, especially if you earn in US dollars. A retirement or digital nomad visa requires only $1,171.50 USD per month. It’s a popular choice thanks to its lower cost of living, top-notch private hospitals, and easy access to modern amenities. Choose between the buzz of Medellín or the charm of Cartagena—both offer a comfortable lifestyle for less than in Western Europe. [Read more about moving to Colombia →]
11. Ecuador
Ecuador is one of the best places for expats looking for affordable living and simple visa options. Digital nomads, retirees, and people of means can qualify with just $1,410 USD per month. The country has beautiful beaches, a rich cultural experience, and strong expat communities in Cuenca and Quito. With its low living costs and stunning scenery, Ecuador is a great place to start your next chapter. [Read more about moving to Ecuador →]
12. Peru
Peru is perfect if you’re seeking a new culture and a low cost of living. You can qualify for residency with $1,000 in retirement or passive income each month. That makes Peru one of the world’s most affordable places to live. Explore iconic spots like Machu Picchu or soak up the urban energy of Lima. Peru delivers both modern conveniences and cultural depth. [Read more about moving to Peru →]
13. Uruguay
Uruguay is a safe, stable pick for expats who want a high quality of life in South America. There’s no set income number—you just need to prove you can support yourself. It’s a rare visa system that flexes to your lifestyle. Retirees, passive income earners, and digital nomads are all welcome. Live in Montevideo’s capital city or relax in a cozy coastal town. Either way, Uruguay is a great place to call home. [Read more about moving to Uruguay →]
Asian Countries for American Expats
14. Philippines
The Philippines has a very limited visa process for retirees who meet specific criteria. If you qualify, you’ll enjoy affordable living in a country filled with beautiful islands and friendly locals. English is widely spoken, and you’ll find modern conveniences in all the major cities. Expats say it’s easy to settle in. You can pick the energy of Manila or the calm vibe of Cebu. Either way, the Philippines is a great place to start fresh on a budget. [Read more about moving to the Philippines →]
Cheapest European Countries to Move Abroad
15. Cyprus
Cyprus is one of the few European countries that offers both affordable living and easy access for expats. A monthly income of just $922 qualifies you for residency. Retirees and passive income earners can both enjoy life on this sunny Mediterranean island. It’s a popular choice for North Americans who want a high quality of life without the sky-high price tag. [Read more about moving to Cyprus →]
16. France
Surprisingly, France is one of the cheapest countries to move for those qualifying through passive income streams. France isn’t just a vacation spot. It’s one of the best places to build a life abroad. You’ll get a high quality of life, world-class health care, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Choose from a bustling city like Paris, a small town in Provence, or a relaxed retreat on the Riviera. Visa options work well for retirees and passive income earners. France is an attractive destination with all the modern conveniences you’re used to—plus a little extra charm. [Read more about moving to France →]
17. Latvia
Latvia is one of Europe’s hidden gems for expats seeking an affordable cost of living. It also offers a straightforward visa process. Even with a modest budget, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in cities known for their rich cultural experience. Places like Riga have low costs, yet feel modern and connected. With just $1,272 USD per month, retireescan live in one of the safest countries on this list. [Read more about moving to Latvia →]
18. Portugal
Portugal is one of the most affordable places in Western Europe. It’s loved for its expat-friendly visa options. Passive income earners and retirees need just $1,005 per month to qualify. However, there is an extra cost—Portugal asks for a bank deposit equal to one year of minimum salary, around $10,440 for a single person. That said, it’s worth it. You’ll enjoy beautiful beaches, a vibrant culture, and an affordable cost of living. Portugal blends comfort and adventure in all the right ways. [Read more about moving to Portugal →]
Your Expat Option in Africa
19. Mauritius
Lastly, Mauritius stands out as one of the cheapest countries to move, offering island life and an easy visa process. Mauritius is an attractive destination for expats looking for affordable living on a beautiful island. Both digital nomads and retired people with $1,500 USD per month can qualify to move to Mauritius. With a comfortable lifestyle, easy residency options, and a welcoming community, this is one of the safest places to live in Africa. [Read more about moving to Mauritius →]
Where to Move with Retirement Income
Argentina
With no age requirement, Argentina is ideal for anyone collecting Social Security or other retirement distributions. [Find out all the details about Argentina →]
Chile
Chile doesn’t require a huge pension to qualify, making it great for early retirees or those on modest incomes. [Find out all the details about Chile→]
Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s pensionado visa has one of the lowest income thresholds in the world for retirement residency. [Find out all the details about Costa Rica →]
Cyprus
Cyprus offers long-term security for retirees who want to stay in one place without the hassle of constant renewals. [Find out all the details about Cyprus →]
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic fast-tracks retirement visas, so you can get to island life sooner without a long wait. [Find out all the details about Dominican Republic →]
Ecuador
Ecuador’s retiree visa treats early retirees and traditional pensioners the same, with flexible documentation options. [Find out all the details about Ecuador →]
France
France lets retirees live in some of the world’s most beautiful cities on an income that meets its legal minimum. [Find out all the details about France →]
Cheapest Countries to Move with Retirement Income
If you’re living on a fixed income, you should absolutely explore the cheapest countries to move that welcome retirees.
Guatemala
Guatemala’s pensionado visa grants permanent residency immediately—no annual renewal stress for retirees. [Find out all the details about Guatemala →]
Honduras
Retirees who want tropical beaches without big-city prices often choose Honduras for its ease of entry. [Find out all the details about Honduras →]
Latvia
Latvia’s retirement visa is rare in Europe for accepting mid-range income levels and offering a safe, peaceful lifestyle. [Find out all the details about Latvia →]
Mauritius
Mauritius gives retirees a 10-year visa, reducing how often you have to deal with immigration paperwork. [Find out all the details about Mauritius →]
Nicaragua
With low financial requirements and generous terms, Nicaragua is a top choice for retirees looking to stretch their dollar. [Find out all the details about Nicaragua →]
Panama
Panama’s pensionado visa comes with built-in discounts on healthcare, travel, and dining—ideal for budget-conscious retirees. [Find out all the details about Panama →]
Peru
Peru makes it easy to qualify for retirement residency without needing to liquidate assets or transfer large sums. [Find out all the details about Peru →]
Philippines
The Philippines lets retirees under 50 qualify by using a deposit system instead of monthly income proof. [Find out all the details about Philippines →]
Portugal
Portugal’s D7 visa is especially attractive for retirees who want access to Western Europe without the high cost. [Find out all the details about Portugal →]
Uruguay
Uruguay gives retirees the freedom to shape their own lifestyle without imposing a fixed income requirement. [Find out all the details about Uruguay →]
Where to Move as a Digital Nomad
Meanwhile, digital nomads can stretch their dollars further in the cheapest countries to move that offer remote work-friendly visas.
Brazil
Brazil’s digital nomad visa is one of the few that allows you to apply without being tied to a specific employer or industry. [Learn all about moving to Brazil →]
Colombia
Colombia’s remote worker visa is cheap, fast, and one of the easiest ways to live in South America on freelance income. [Learn all about moving to Colombia →]
Ecuador
Digital nomads can qualify in Ecuador without jumping through extra hoops—active income is treated just like any other. [Learn all about moving to Ecuador →]
Mauritius
Mauritius welcomes remote workers and their families with a straightforward application and no need for a local job. [Learn all about moving to Mauritius →]
Uruguay
If you’re a digital nomad earning online, Uruguay lets you prove your income in a way that aligns with your actual lifestyle. [Learn all about moving to Uruguay →]
Where to Move if You Have Passive Income Sources
In addition, passive income earners will find several appealing options among the cheapest countries to move, especially in Latin America.
Argentina
Argentina allows passive income earners to gain residency without the need to invest or buy property. [Discover how to move to Argentina →]
Chile
Chile’s visa system accepts investment-style income, giving you flexibility if you’re not actively working. [Discover how to move to Chile →]
Cyprus
You can lock in permanent residency in Cyprus with passive income and never worry about renewing your visa annually. [Discover how to move to Cyprus →]
Ecuador
Ecuador is one of the few countries that treats passive income, retirement income, and remote work as equal paths to residency. [Discover how to move to Ecuador →]
France
France lets you use income from things like rental properties or dividends to qualify for residency, making it one of the few Western European options for passive earners. [Discover how to move to France →]
Guatemala
With a simple path to permanent residency, Guatemala is great for those living off stable, non-active income. [Discover how to move to Guatemala →]
Nicaragua
Nicaragua’s rentista visa doesn’t require you to be retired, just financially independent with predictable income. [Discover how to move to Nicaragua →]
Peru
Peru welcomes passive income applicants who can prove consistent monthly income—no need to be of retirement age. [Discover how to move to Peru →]
Portugal
Portugal’s D7 visa is specifically designed for people living off steady, recurring income like rentals or investments. [Discover how to move to Portugal →]
Uruguay
Uruguay doesn’t ask how you earn your money, just that it’s enough to support the lifestyle you say you want to live. [Discover how to move to Uruguay →]
Intro To Immigration Paperwork Globally
Starting a new life in another country is both easier than people imagine and harder than people expect. The checklists you find online make the path to international life seem feasible. But, in truth, there are documents that expire, steps that need to be done in very specific sequence, and little nuances along the way that often cause stress.
Immigration rules are very specific and complex. Here are a few tips on how to handle it.
Checklist:
- Passport
- Visa application
- Vital Documents (apostilled and translated)
- Criminal Background Check
- Proof of income
- Health insurance
When you apply for immigration, you often need to show proof that you can support yourself. This is where documents showing your disposable income come in handy.
Exchange rates matter too. In some places, the US dollar can go further, giving you more disposable household income. This helps when considering daily expenses and modern conveniences.
Gathering the right documents can take time. It helps to be organized and research the specific requirements for the country you’re interested in.
Hiring an expert can significantly reduce your time spent on paperwork. I always like to say, “Everything is simple, it is just VERY specific.” There are times when you can’t open an envelope or it will invalidate it or first, you need to have it apostilled and then notarized, not the other way around, or something must be done within 60 days or the document will expire.
During my immigration journeys, I’ve found translators to translate Hungarian to Romanian, tracked down marriage certificates by figuring out which Catholic church spoke German in 1923, and jumped through hoops to prove the person who owned the company was entitled to the money being used to qualify for a visa.
Building Your Expat Mindset
Living abroad is an adventure that requires a shift in your thinking. Moving to a new culture can be exciting but also challenging. To thrive, you need to embrace change and stay open-minded.
When settling in a cheaper country, it’s important to adapt to local customs instead of expecting the country to adapt to you.
Make an effort to learn the local language and connect with people. This will enrich your experience. Travel around your city visiting local markets and coffee shops so people can get to know you.
Meeting other expats can help you build a support network. I suggest finding geographic-specific facebook groups for your city and joining your local Democrats Abroad chapter to find like-minded friends. Real-life friends allow you to swap stories and tips.
Transitioning takes time, and you might find yourself missing familiar comforts. Many North Americans who fail to integrate end up regretting their decision to leave their comfort zone. Keep a curious attitude and you may discover unexpected joys.
How To Choose The Right Country For You
When thinking about moving to a new country, consider your financial situation. It’s important to know how far your money will go in your new home. Some countries offer a high quality of life on a modest budget, making them great choices for a single person or family.
However, the cheapest countries to move each have distinct cultures, so it’s not only about affordability. Create a list of different factors that matter most to you. These might include climate, job opportunities, healthcare, and safety. Use these priorities to rank potential destinations.
It’s helpful to consult a personal finance index, which rates countries based on cost of living, healthcare, and other factors.
In major cities, especially in the city center, the cost of living can be high. Make sure you budget for housing costs in the capital city. Having enough income ensures you can access modern amenities.
Think about cultural differences and lifestyles. Some people prefer a lifestyle similar to their home country, while others seek new experiences.
Evaluate any language barriers that may exist. Learning the local language can enhance your experience and help you integrate better into the community.
Ultimately, the right move is about finding a balance between what you can afford and what makes you happy. Each choice is personal, reflecting what you value most in your everyday life. Therefore, selecting from the cheapest countries to move requires more than price—it demands alignment with your lifestyle and goals.
Taking The Next Steps To Move Abroad
When you’re ready to move abroad, planning is key. Begin by researching real estate options in your desired location. Make a list of priorities, and set a realistic budget to ensure you’re prepared.
Think about your lifestyle needs. Are you a fitness enthusiast? Check the cost of a gym membership in your new home. This helps you decide where you might want to live in relation to amenities.
Explore your options for permanent residency. Each country has different requirements, and some have made it easier in recent years. Research the visa process and make sure you have the necessary documents.
Consider health care availability. It’s important to know how accessible medical facilities are and what health insurance options you have. In many cases, the cheapest countries to move also offer excellent public or private healthcare options.
To make the process smoother, you can hire an expert like me who has moved personally to three different countries and helped others do the same. I help my clients save a lot of time and stress.
Finally, remember to enjoy the journey! Moving abroad is a big adventure and gives you the chance to explore and learn new things.
