Freedom Abroad: free travel and relocation tools

Can I use this if I am not a veteran?

Yes. The calculator, country comparison and Freedom Score are free for Americans researching travel or life abroad. Veterans also get guidance on benefits and overseas healthcare.

How can I compare living costs abroad?

Use the free calculator to compare your budget across 36 countries. Monthly figures are planning estimates, not quotes or a cheapest-country ranking. Costs vary by city, housing, exchange rates, healthcare needs and lifestyle.

How do I research residency requirements?

Country guides introduce possible visa paths. Confirm current requirements with the official immigration authority or consulate. Meeting an income threshold does not itself grant residency or permission to work.

Can I keep my VA disability benefits if I move overseas?

VA disability compensation generally continues abroad, subject to applicable payment restrictions and your eligibility. Check VA's overseas guidance, keep your contact and banking information current, and respond to required reviews. Benefits do not grant immigration permission or comprehensive overseas medical coverage.

Does SSDI continue if I live abroad?

For U.S. citizens, SSDI can generally continue in countries where SSA can send payments, subject to eligibility and reporting requirements. Check SSA's overseas payment guidance for your circumstances. SSI is a different program with different rules.

What is a Freedom Score?

An editorial 0 to 100 comparison of cost, healthcare, safety, residency ease, English, internet, expat community and lifestyle. The calculator adjusts category weights to your preferences. It is not an official rating or a guarantee.

Can younger veterans explore living abroad before retirement?

Yes. Start with a trip or scouting visit, research healthcare and local costs, and check visa rules for your intended stay. A VA rating or benefit income does not confer residency or work authorization. Retirement-specific programs may have age or pension requirements.

Is this a paid service?

The calculator, country guides, Freedom Score, public travel guides and core healthcare guidance are free. The optional separate VCC Travel subscription costs $7 USD/month for the personalized planner and downloadable plan with its companion guide. It is separate from VA plans.

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  • Puerto Rico
  • Mexico
  • Panama
  • Costa Rica
  • Belize
  • Dominican Republic
  • Colombia
  • Ecuador
  • Uruguay
  • Paraguay
  • Argentina
  • Portugal
  • Spain
  • Greece
  • Malta
  • Cyprus
  • Albania
  • Bulgaria
  • Philippines
  • Thailand
  • Malaysia
  • Vietnam
  • Cambodia
  • Indonesia (Bali)
  • Georgia
  • Nicaragua
  • Peru
  • Chile
  • Italy
  • Czech Republic
  • Morocco
  • Mauritius
  • South Africa
  • Lithuania
  • Latvia
  • Estonia
  • VA Foreign Medical Program: healthcare abroad for veterans
  • Veteran healthcare abroad: a practical pre-travel checklist
  • Moving abroad as a younger veteran: plan before retirement
  • Space-A flights: who can fly and how to prepare
  • MWR access, VHICs, and getting through the gate
  • Hale Koa, Shades of Green, and overseas resorts
  • Coast Guard cottages, lighthouses, and campgrounds
  • Military RV parks and campgrounds
  • National parks passes for veterans
  • Theme park offers and online travel programs
  • From a short trip to living abroad