Caribbean archipelagos now favourites for European expats

The Caribbean islands have long been favourite destinations for expats from the USA, but European retirees are now discovering their laid-back lifestyles.

Whilst last year’s tragic advent of Hurricane Maria has affected a number of the Caribbean’s formerly pristine island havens, rescue missions, cleanups and rebuilding are ongoing, even in worst-hit Puerto Rica. Expatriates willing to take part in restoring the natural beauty of the region as well as helping those affected by becoming a positive part of local communities are more than welcome, and the islands’ lifestyles are mostly still laid-back and focused on the positives of the islands affected.

Puerto Rico’s encounter with the hurricane was devastating, but the old capital of San Juan has recovered quickly and is still a welcome destination for retirees due to its income tax exemptions on capital gains, interest payments and dividends. The official currency is the US dollar and the cost of living is affordable for those on pensions. Clean-up efforts mostly involved the removal of fallen trees, and he Old City’s bars, restaurants and shopping outlets are all functioning normally.

The Bahamas’ 30 inhabited islands out of a total of 700 have English as the official language, a plus-point for expat retirees whose language skills at school were less than perfect. The slow pace of life is a relief for pensioners and the lively expat scene means making friends won’t take long. Buying a property gives permanent residency as well as tax exemptions, and healthcare options are top-notch. Lively pubs and cricket clubs help Brit expats feel at home.

Little Anguilla is still a British Overseas Territory, offering no personal income tax as well as no capital gains taxation. Year-round warmth at around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and little rain are major attractions for refugees from the UK, and residency can be had on proof of a year’s living expenses in the bank. For picturesque surroundings, year-round sunshine, a thriving arts scene and stunning beaches, the Dutch island of Curacao is the perfect place, according to its diverse expat community. Its historic capital city boasts a non-touristy West Side district popular with incomers as well as a huge choice of eateries and high quality healthcare.

The small-town vibe of Nevis lies just across the sea channel from its larger twin St Kitts, offering a pretty island with financial lures such as zero tax on foreign income, capital gains or inheritances. Its second passport scheme is affordable, requiring a property investment of $150,000 or more. It’s the world’s oldest Citizen by Investment Programme and certainly the most affordable, with its bonus the enviable, laid-back and peaceful island lifestyle craved by retirees.