For many people considering a move overseas, one of the biggest barriers they face is the language barrier. The fear of not being able to communicate in a new country can be off-putting for many. However, there are plenty of destinations around the world where English is widely spoken, making fluency in a new language not a requirement for a new adventure overseas.
Belize, a former British colony, is one such destination where English is the official language. Around 83% of the population speaks English as their first language, making it a popular choice for American and Canadian expats. The country offers Caribbean living at a lower cost than other regions, with good residency programs and a welcoming attitude from the locals.
Malta, another former British colony, also has English as an official language along with Maltese. Residency options in Malta include Citizenship by Investment, a Permanent Residence Scheme, and an Ordinary Residence Scheme. Malta offers excellent healthcare, a beautiful natural landscape, a fantastic climate, rich history, large expat communities, and friendly locals.
The Philippines, a breathtakingly beautiful archipelago, was a U.S. colony from 1898 to 1946, making English one of the official languages. The Philippine Retirement Authority offers several options for retirees looking to move to the country, including the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa. With top-notch healthcare, world-class beaches, a tropical climate, and a low cost of living, the Philippines is a popular choice for an overseas retirement.
Other options for English-speaking expats include countries in Europe such as Greece, Cyprus, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Germany, Norway, Slovenia, and France where a large number of English-speaking locals can be found. In Mexico, areas like Lake Chapala, Puerto Vallarta, and Cancun cater to English-speaking expats, as do expat havens in Panama like Boquete and Coronado.
While picking up the local language is always a good idea to broaden your social circle and show respect to the locals, it is not essential to be fluent before making the move to a new country. With plenty of destinations around the world where English is widely spoken and expat communities are welcoming, the language barrier should not be a deterrent for those looking to start a new adventure overseas.
