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BrainTeasers: Migration Thoughts

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Image from : http://www.clker.com/cliparts/4/7/3/e/1516734204948259804migration-clipart.med.png

The grass is not always greener on the other side until you experienced it yourself.

—— Dickson Idlier


For those planning to migrate to a foreign country to retire, this post may be useful for your research. 

I initially wanted to migrate to Thailand but changed my mind. Here’s why:

  • Money. Need lots of money if you intend to retire overseas for things like rental, transport, expenses, utilities, taxes, insurance, etc. May require setting aside a huge sum of money to show you can sustain yourself when applying for a visa. Difference in currency exchange rates helps. Major consideration. 
  • Medical Coverage. No medical coverage overseas and as medical expenses are pretty high overseas, regardless of which country. Buying insurance is an option but it eats into your expenses and you would likely pay a higher premium due to your age.
  • Citizenship. Unless being a citizen or permanent resident of a foreign country, there is little or limited privilege compared to your own country. Weigh the pros and cons wisely.
  • Visa. Especially retirement in the foreign country may or may not have retirement visa or similar visa. With such a visa, there are likely due to some restrictions, such as cannot engage in employment, etc.
  • Language. Communication is more difficult but simple sign language might help. However, what you don't understand may harm you more than you can imagine. 
  • Relatives or Friends. If any are already staying there, it might or might not be easier to blend in. Human relationships are fragile so think wisely if this is the reason you want to retire overseas. What works for others may not work for you.
There may be other considerations but these few already put me off. I found that changing your mindset and lifestyle (visit my @Lifestyle posts) and you can retire comfortably anywhere with what you have. 



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