When to Move?
If you’re looking for a new place to call home – and have already considered all the usual suspects such as the United States or Canada – why not think about New Zealand? After all, it is one of the most prosperous countries in the world, with a low cost of living and bountiful natural beauty. But can you move to New Zealand if you are retired? The answer is yes – but with some caveats.
The New Zealand Government is looking for immigrants that can bring different skills to the economy and start a business. As such, retirees are not always given the same priority as professionals. In addition, certain restrictions may also apply, such as a minimum income level, a specific age range, and other factors that may impact whether or not you’re an attractive candidate for emigration.
However, depending on the particular circumstances of your retirement, you may want to consider New Zealand as a destination for a new life. The country has an excellent healthcare system and a stable political climate. The cost of living is also very reasonable – the cost of food, rent and utilities are all lower than in many developed countries, so retirees will find it easy to get by on a fixed income.
Visas & Immigration
Visas and immigration rules and requirements in New Zealand can be complicated, but there are options available for those who want to retire in the country. If you’re thinking of retiring in New Zealand, the most important thing is to make sure you secure the right visa. The type of visa you’ll need to apply for will depend on your country of origin, and the amount of time you wish to stay in the country.
One option is to request a Retirement visa, which can be granted to those over the age of 65 and meet certain criteria. Another option is to apply for a resident visa, which can be granted to those who plan to stay in the country long-term, or to those who have immediate family living in New Zealand.
The New Zealand Government also offers a Parent Retirement Visa which is a great option for those with adult children living in the country. This visa is designed to help bring families together.
Cost of Living
New Zealand has one of the most affordable cost of living in the developed world. In general, the cost of food, housing, transport, and healthcare is far lower than what you would expect to pay in the US or UK, so retirees should find it easy to stretch their savings further.
Rent prices tend to vary significantly, depending on location. In smaller towns, retirees may be able to rent a two-bedroom apartment for around $100 a week. In bigger cities like Auckland, on the other hand, that same apartment may cost up to $350 a week.
When it comes to healthcare, New Zealand has a universal public healthcare system that is free for all residents. Retirees will benefit from free hospital visits, free prescription medication, and discounted doctor visits.
Taxes & Property Laws
The New Zealand tax system is quite straight forward and has fewer loopholes and deductions than other countries. Retirees are taxed at the same rate as all other residents (around 33% of your total income). The government also offers a tax-free threshold which is available to those who are earning under a certain amount of money annually (around $14,000 USD).
When it comes to property laws, the New Zealand government has strict regulations in place to protect foreign investors. All property purchases must be approved by the Overseas Investment Office (OIO). Those who are looking to buy property in the country must also meet certain criteria and provide proof of funds to the OIO.
Leisure & Retirement Lifestyle
For those who are looking for an active retirement lifestyle, New Zealand is the perfect place to call home. The country is filled with stunning natural landscapes such as mountains, lakes, and beaches, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities.
If you love the outdoors, then New Zealand has something for you. From hiking in the mountains to kayaking on the rivers and lakes, you’ll never run out of exciting activities. For those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to explore.
No matter what your retirement lifestyle looks like, New Zealand has something for everyone. Whether you want to stay active and explore all the country has to offer, or just relax and enjoy the beauty of the scenery, New Zealand is an excellent place for retirees to call home.
Working in Retirement
One of the benefits of retiring in New Zealand is that it’s possible to earn an income while still enjoying your retirement. While there are rules and regulations around this, the government encourages retirees to get involved in activities such as volunteering, teaching, mentoring, and other activities that can contribute to the community. This is especially beneficial for those who want to remain active and don’t want to rely solely on their savings.
In addition, retirees who are able to find employment in New Zealand can enjoy all the same benefits as younger workers, such as public holidays, a minimum wage, and paid leave.
Finding the Right Place
When it comes to finding the right place to settle down, New Zealand is a great option for retirees. With its stunning natural beauty, low cost of living, and excellent healthcare system, the country has something for everyone.
There are some restrictions to be aware of, including the visa requirements, tax laws, and property regulations. But with some preparation and research, retirees can find the perfect place to call home.
New Zealand is filled with opportunities for retirement, so why not think about it as an option for your new life?
Settling & Retirement Services
Once you’ve decided to move to New Zealand, there are several retirement services and resources available. These can help make the transition easier, and they can also assist with finding the right place to settle down, as well as providing advice and support on other issues such as taxes and healthcare.
Most local councils in New Zealand offer a range of services specifically designed for retirees, such as ‘welcome to retirement’ programs and ‘settling and retiring’ advice. It’s worth researching the local area to see what services are available and how they can help.
Raising Funds & Investment Opportunities
Retirees who are looking to move to New Zealand may need to raise some funds to cover the cost of relocation. This could include selling assets, such as a house or car, and investing the money in a secure retirement fund.
New Zealand also offers numerous investment opportunities for retirees, such as government bonds and shares in major companies. These can be a great way to make the most of retirement savings and ensure a secure and comfortable income for the foreseeable future.
Conclusion
Emigrating to New Zealand can be a great option for retirees who are looking for a new place to call home. With its beautiful natural landscapes, affordable cost of living, excellent health care system, and numerous investment opportunities, the country is a great choice for those seeking a life of leisure and relaxation.
