Finding Faith and Freedom in the Best Countries for Catholic Retirement
For many Catholic families, the dream of retirement is not just about leaving the workforce, it’s about finding a place where they can live their faith in peace, build community, and steward their resources well. More Americans are exploring retirement abroad, motivated by lifestyle, affordability, and the hope for a slower pace of life.
Global Citizen Solutions recently released its Global Retirement Report 2025, which ranked 44 passive income and retirement visa programs. The study considered 20 key indicators, including “procedure, citizenship and mobility, economics, tax optimization, quality of life, and safety and integration,” according to CNBC.
Dr. Laura Madrid Sartoretto, Research Lead at GCS’ Global Intelligence Unit, said the findings reflect a trend among retirees who are seeking more than just a lower cost of living. “One of the motivations people have when they decide to relocate abroad is looking for a place where they will have a better quality of life” (CNBC). For Catholics, that might also mean easier access to Mass, strong parish communities, and a culture that values faith and family life.
Portugal: A Top Choice for Catholic Retirees
Portugal took the top spot with an overall score of 92.61. The country is well-known for its Marian shrines like Fatima and a deeply rooted Catholic culture that continues to shape its national identity. Portugal offers non-EU citizens the D7 visa, which allows retirees with passive income to settle there.
“Portugal is the safest country in Europe if you look at the World Peace Index,” Dr. Madrid Sartoretto told CNBC, noting that the country has “been a flagship one for the last 10 years” in attracting retirees. After five years of living in Portugal, applicants may apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
For Catholics, the appeal is clear: Mass attendance is still part of daily life for many Portuguese, feast days are national celebrations, and sacred sites like the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima are within reach for pilgrimage.
Other Top-Ranked Countries
Mauritius came in second, with a strong score of 89.24. Known for its fast and transparent residency process, it offers a 10-year residence permit for retirees over 50 who can meet the income requirement. The country also has no worldwide tax system, which makes it appealing for those who want to maximize their retirement savings (CNBC).
Spain, Uruguay, Austria, and Italy, all countries with deep Catholic roots, also ranked among the top 10. These destinations offer retirees access to centuries-old churches, Catholic festivals, and a culture where faith is still visible in public life.
Retiring abroad is a practical and spiritual decision. The Church reminds us that where we live should help us grow in holiness, live in community, and care for the poor and vulnerable. For Catholics considering this move, factors like safety, affordability, and access to the sacraments are paramount.
As Dr. Madrid Sartoretto put it, retirees are looking for a place where they can truly flourish, “politically stable and safe… where they will have a better quality of life” (CNBC). For many faithful, that means finding a country where retirement can become a season of deeper prayer, family life, and service.
Top 10 Countries for Catholic Retirement in 2025
Portugal
Known for Fatima, one of the most visited Marian shrines in the world. Catholic feast days are national celebrations, and Mass is widely available even in small towns.
Mauritius
A small but vibrant Catholic community makes up about 28% of the population, with colorful feast day processions such as the annual pilgrimage to Père Laval Shrine, drawing thousands.
Spain
Rich in Catholic history with sites like Santiago de Compostela and Avila. Daily Mass is common, and Catholic festivals like Semana Santa are major cultural events.
Uruguay
Home to a strong Catholic presence with beautiful colonial churches and the national Shrine of Our Lady of the Thirty-Three, the country’s patroness.
Austria
Famed for its Baroque churches and monasteries like Melk Abbey. Catholic traditions still shape the national calendar, with many public holidays based on feast days.
Italy
The heart of the Catholic Church with the Vatican and hundreds of basilicas, shrines, and pilgrimage routes — ideal for those who want to be near Rome.
Slovenia
Deep Catholic roots with stunning Alpine churches and Marian shrines. Parish life is active and close-knit in most towns and villages.
Malta
Over 90% Catholic with a parish church in nearly every village. Celebrated for lively festa processions, devotion to Our Lady, and strong community life.
Latvia
A growing Catholic community with historic pilgrimage sites like Aglona Basilica, one of Northern Europe’s most important Marian shrines.
Chile
Strong Catholic heritage with major shrines like the Sanctuary of Maipú and devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the country’s patroness.
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