Pensioners flee Switzerland

More and more pensioners are deciding to live outside Switzerland as this county is just too expensive – especially for healthcare.

Figures from the Federal Statistics Office show that around 195,000 people over the age of 65 live abroad. That number has increased by 20% in the last 5 years. 

The main destinations are Thailand, Portugal, Spain and South Africa. 

While immigration is high, very few people over the age of 55 move into the country – above that it’s clear, many leave. 

It’s all about the price. Pensioners say housing is cheaper, as is health insurance and if they need someone to help with day to day living – that’s also less. 

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