Retire in Brunei
Featured city: Bandar Seri Begawan
US State Dept · Level 1 — Exercise Normal PrecautionsMid-range benchmark for a couple. Use the Matcher for FX- and inflation-adjusted comparisons.
Brunei is a tiny, wealthy sultanate on Borneo with no personal income tax, English as an official language, and a very safe, peaceful environment. Though small, it offers modern infrastructure and easy access to Malaysia.
No income tax, English-speaking, peaceful
- Tax Benefits
- English-Speaking
- Safety
- Healthcare quality can be uneven outside major urban centers — private international insurance is strongly recommended.
- Long-term residency requires meeting specific income, investment, or paperwork thresholds — engage a licensed immigration attorney.
- Infrastructure (roads, internet, utilities) may vary by region — visit before committing to a long lease.
Retirement visa
There is no dedicated retirement visa; foreigners typically need a work permit or an entry through the "Residence Permit by Investment" scheme.
Cost of living
In Bandar Seri Begawan, a luxury apartment costs around $1,100/month, and fuel/utilities are heavily subsidized.
Numbeo cost indexHealthcare
Public healthcare is high-quality for citizens; expats use private clinics which are efficient but expensive without insurance.
Healthcare indexSafety
Brunei is extremely safe with very low crime rates and strict laws; it is listed as Level 1.
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Other destinations in Asia
Educational content only — not immigration, tax, legal, or financial advice. Visa, golden-visa, and citizenship-by-investment rules change frequently. Verify with the official government source above and a licensed professional before making any relocation, investment, or citizenship decision.