Retire in Belarus
Last updated on Mar 07, 2024
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Belarus for its low cost of living, its rich cultural heritage, and its vibrant cities. Belarus also offers retirees a peaceful and safe environment, with a strong healthcare system. The weather in Belarus is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the summer, and from the mid-teens to the mid-30s Fahrenheit in the winter.
What is it like to retire in Belarus?
"Retirees in Belarus and its surroundings enjoy a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from other countries living in the region. Cultural attractions abound, with many museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and fishing. For those looking for a bit of nightlife, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to explore. All in all, retirees in Belarus and its surroundings can enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle," said a retiree who moved to Belarus.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Belarus?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Belarus is the lack of a comprehensive pension system. Retirement benefits are limited and the amount of money received is often insufficient to cover basic living expenses. Additionally, the cost of living in Belarus is relatively high, making it difficult for retirees to make ends meet. Furthermore, the healthcare system in Belarus is not as advanced as in other countries, making it difficult for retirees to access quality medical care. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for retirees who do not speak the local language," said a retiree who moved to Belarus.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Belarus?
"Retiring in Belarus offers a number of rewarding aspects. One of the most attractive benefits is the low cost of living, which allows retirees to stretch their retirement savings further. Additionally, Belarus offers a wide range of cultural attractions, from its vibrant cities to its picturesque countryside. The country also boasts a high quality of healthcare, with a wide range of medical services available at affordable prices. Finally, the friendly and welcoming people of Belarus make it a great place to settle down and enjoy a peaceful retirement," commented one retiree living in Belarus.
What are healthcare services like in Belarus?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Belarus. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Belarus are generally of a high quality and are provided free of charge to all citizens. The country has a well-developed network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, which are equipped with modern medical equipment and staffed by highly qualified medical professionals. Belarus also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the National Center for Cardiology and the National Center for Oncology, which provide specialized care for patients with specific medical conditions. In addition, Belarus has a number of private medical facilities, which offer a range of services at a fee," said a retiree who moved to Belarus.
How do I meet people in Belarus?
When we asked people living in Belarus about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Belarus often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting cafes and bars, or joining online forums and social media groups. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join local expat groups, which often organize events and activities for members to meet and socialize," commented one retiree living in Belarus.
What is life like in Belarus?
When we asked people living in Belarus what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Belarus is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the country is full of interesting sights and activities to explore. The infrastructure is modern and reliable, making it easy to get around and stay connected. The country also offers a variety of cultural experiences, from traditional Belarusian cuisine to vibrant nightlife. All in all, Belarus is an excellent destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an affordable and enjoyable place to live," said a person in Belarus.
What do I need to know before retiring in Belarus?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Belarus, they said:
"Expats considering retiring in Belarus should be aware that the country is a largely cash-based economy, so it is important to have access to enough cash to cover expenses. Additionally, expats should be aware that the official language is Belarusian, so it is important to learn the language or at least some basic phrases. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Belarus is relatively low, so it is possible to live comfortably on a modest budget. Finally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Belarus is generally of a good standard, but it is important to have adequate health insurance coverage," said one retiree in living in Belarus.
What type of recreational activities are there in Belarus?
"In Belarus, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, sports complexes, and swimming pools. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering a variety of activities such as walking, biking, and picnicking. Sports complexes provide a variety of activities, such as basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, as well as fitness centers. Swimming pools are also popular, offering a variety of activities such as swimming, diving, and water aerobics. Other recreational facilities include movie theaters, bowling alleys, and amusement parks," wrote one person in Belarus.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Belarus?
"People living in Belarus typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are many small, independent stores and boutiques throughout the country where people can purchase items," wrote one person in Belarus.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Belarus?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Belarus?
- Will I be able to find a job in Belarus?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Belarus appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Belarus?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Belarus accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Belarus like?
- How are healthcare services in Belarus?
- What are medical services in Belarus like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Belarus?
- What are emergency services like in Belarus?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Belarus?
- How are local medical facilities in Belarus?
- As a foreigner living in Belarus, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?