Retiring Abroad: Does English Get You Far Enough?
Sep 29, 2025
Why language skills shape integration, citizenship, and everyday life
Introduction: More Than Sunshine and Cost of Living
When people dream of retiring abroad from the UK or USA, their checklists often revolve around visas, healthcare, cost of living, and property prices. Language rarely makes the top three. Yet, the ability to communicate—whether through English or the local language—can be one of the most decisive factors in how happy, connected, and independent you feel after moving.
The EF English Proficiency Index (2024) highlights just how uneven English levels are across retirement hotspots. Some destinations (like Malta or Singapore) offer native-level convenience, while others (Italy, Spain, Thailand) require more local effort.
This article explores:
Why English matters when choosing a retirement destination
The level of English in key regions: Southern Europe, Latin America, and Asia
Immigration and citizenship implications
The benefits of learning the local language
Practical strategies for retirees to prepare before and after their move
Why English Proficiency Matters for Retirees
1. Daily Integration
Beyond official paperwork, everyday life depends on communication. Ordering medication, understanding a doctor’s advice, sorting out bills, or even chatting with neighbours all become easier in a shared language.
High English proficiency in the local population makes integration smoother—but relying solely on English can also keep you in an “expat bubble.”
2. Building Social Connections
For many retirees, the real joy of moving abroad lies in joining local communities—not just other expats. That requires at least some comfort in the local language. Where locals already speak high levels of English, you may have a bridge, but the effort you put into learning their language will still pay off in deeper relationships.
3. Immigration and Citizenship
While residency visas are often granted based on income, property investment, or pensions, citizenship applications nearly always include a language requirement. Even if you don’t plan on naturalising right away, it’s worth considering your long-term future. Do you want to eventually hold an Italian or Greek passport? Then language ability will matter.
Southern Europe: A Favourite, But Uneven
Malta: English as an Official Language
If you want the easiest option in Europe, Malta is unique. English is an official language alongside Maltese, making it possible to navigate daily life, healthcare, and bureaucracy without needing another language. That said, learning even some Maltese is a gesture of goodwill if you plan to integrate.
Portugal: Among the Best in Europe
Portugal ranks 6th worldwide in the EF EPI, classified as “very high” proficiency . English is widely spoken in Lisbon, Porto, and along the Algarve coast, making it an attractive option if you retire from the UK or USA. But, as with many countries, proficiency drops in rural areas, so learning Portuguese remains valuable.
Greece: Strong but Uneven
Greece comes in at 8th globally (“very high” proficiency). In practice, this means you’ll find excellent English in Athens, Thessaloniki, and on popular islands like Crete or Rhodes. But move inland or to smaller towns, and Greek quickly becomes essential. For retirees considering permanent settlement, Greek will be required for citizenship.
Spain: Moderate Proficiency
Spain ranks 36th with a “moderate” level. While younger generations and professionals in Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia often speak English well, retirees in smaller towns or Andalusian villages will need Spanish for daily life.
Italy: Lower Levels, Higher Need
Italy sits at 46th place with “moderate” proficiency. This reality surprises many retirees who assume English is widespread. In major cities like Milan or Rome, younger professionals may help in English, but in healthcare, public offices, and everyday interactions, Italian is a necessity. For retirees choosing Italy, learning the language is not optional—it’s part of thriving.
Latin America: A Mixed Picture
Latin America’s English levels are generally lower than Europe’s, but there are exceptions.
Argentina (28th): One of the strongest in the region, with many English speakers in Buenos Aires.
Uruguay (36th): Moderate proficiency, helpful in Montevideo and Punta del Este.
Costa Rica (41st): Moderate, especially in tourist hubs. Outside those, Spanish dominates.
Mexico (87th) and Brazil (81st): Low proficiency. Retirees who don’t learn Spanish or Portuguese often struggle outside of expat enclaves.
For retirees seeking affordability and vibrant cultures in Latin America, learning Spanish or Portuguese is critical. Even basic ability unlocks independence and better healthcare access.
Asia: Contrasts Between English-Friendly and Challenging
Malaysia and the Philippines: Strong Options
Malaysia (26th) and the Philippines (22nd) are “high proficiency” destinations. Both have strong English-speaking communities, with the Philippines in particular offering comfort for US retirees given its historical ties.
Thailand and Vietnam: Lower Levels
Thailand (106th) and Vietnam (63rd) score low. While English is used in tourism, retirees in local communities will need Thai or Vietnamese for local integration. It's not uncommon to hear foreigners living there for a decade and still being only engaged in the local expat bubble.
Should You Learn the Local Language Anyway?
The short answer: Yes.
Even in Malta, Portugal, or Greece where English is common, learning the local language has benefits:
Community integration: Deeper friendships and respect from locals.
Healthcare: Easier to explain symptoms or understand doctors.
Legal and administrative processes: Less dependence on translators.
Citizenship: Smoother path if you ever apply.
And beyond the practical? Learning a language keeps the mind active—a proven benefit for cognitive health.
How to Learn a New Language Effectively
Many retirees try free apps like Duolingo, which are useful for vocabulary but not enough for fluency. Here’s a better strategy:
Start Early: Begin lessons before moving—ideally a year in advance.
Mix Methods:
1-1 tutoring (online or in person) for structure
Group courses for conversation practice
Apps for daily practice (Duolingo, LingQ, Drops)
Use AI as a Supplement: Practise conversations, role-play scenarios like visiting the doctor, or get instant grammar feedback.
Be Consistent: Daily 20–30 minutes is more effective than sporadic long sessions.
Focus on Survival First: Prioritise the phrases you’ll need for shopping, introductions, or house hunting.
Conclusion: Language Shapes Your Retirement Abroad
Retiring abroad isn’t just about finances or scenery—it’s about belonging. The level of English in your chosen country can smooth the transition, but embracing the local language is what truly makes the difference.
Whether you’re planning to retire to Greece, Italy, Spain, or Costa Rica, don’t just ask about taxes and healthcare. Ask yourself: How will I communicate?
Start early, commit to learning, and you’ll not only survive—you’ll thrive.
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💡 Not sure which country is right for your retirement abroad? Join our upcoming Retire Abroad Group Course to explore your options step by step.
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