Discovering the Best International Retirement Destinations for Fidelity National Information Services Employees: Your Guide to a Fulfilling Life Abroad

Switzerland maintains its position at the top of U.S. News & World Report’s annual survey of the most comfortable countries for retirement , a detail Fidelity National Information Services employees considering international retirement should note. This Alpine nation is distinguished not only in this category but also as the top country globally. Despite its high cost of living, Switzerland’s exceptional security, strong economic stability, outstanding medical safety, and favorable retirement benefits make it a prime destination for retirees. It also ranks highly in terms of quality of life (third) and business practice (second).

The survey assesses 89 countries based on various criteria such as feasibility, tax regimes, healthcare quality, social friendliness, and climatic conditions. Following in terms of retirement desirability are New Zealand, Portugal, and Australia, favored for their living costs and retirement and social security systems. In contrast, the United States does not make the top 20, an interesting observation for Fidelity National Information Services staff considering where to retire.

Top 10 Countries for a Comfortable Retirement:

1. Luxembourg finds itself in the tenth spot for retirement but does not fare as well in the global ranking, within the top 30. The country performs well in terms of quality of life and social vocation, ranking 17th and 16th respectively. Eligibility for retirement requires contributions to the national old-age pension fund for at least ten years.

2. Sweden, known for its high quality of life and commitment to social causes, ranks second in these areas but 20th for adventure, reflecting its friendly populace and pleasant climate. Retiring in Sweden involves more than a tourist stay; obtaining a residence permit from a Swedish consulate or embassy is necessary for stays exceeding 90 days.

3. Netherlands, despite not being in the top 10 globally, secures a spot among the best for retirement. The country is also a popular destination for solo travelers, ranked at number nine. Future retirees from outside the EU will need to navigate visas and residency permits to settle here.

4. Denmark leads the survey in terms of quality of life and sociability among the participating countries but ranks seventh for retirement. Notably, Switzerland does not offer a specific retirement visa, making long-term visas essential for American citizens planning extended stays.

5. Canada is a favored destination for some U.S. citizens, ranked sixth for retirement and fourth overall. The country tops the charts in terms of sociability, quality of life, and agility. Canada does not offer a special visa for retirement; however, a super visa may allow extended family visits, valid for five years.

6. Spain holds the fifth spot, with lower rents and property taxes than the United States. An estimated modest monthly income of $1,913 is sufficient for a comfortable existence, supported by affordable social security. Despite the end of the Golden Visa program, Spain offers a Non-Lucrative Visa allowing a three-year stay for retirees.

7. Australia, previously ranked third, now takes the fourth spot. It offers an Investor Retirement visa for financially independent retirees without dependents, valid for four years. Despite rising housing prices, urban rents remain lower than those in major U.S. cities. Australia also provides a choice between universal and private healthcare.

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8. Portugal moves up from second place to third. The Portugal D7 Retirement Visa simplifies residency for non-European citizens with stable incomes, while its golden visa program offers permanent residency opportunities through significant investments in real estate or scientific research. The cost of living is significantly lower than in the United States, allowing for a comfortable life on $1,500 to $2,000 per month.

9. New Zealand, ranked second, appeals to the elderly with its temporary retiree visitor visa, requiring certain investments within the country. It also offers a residency visa for elderly parents to wealthy individuals. Thanks to reduced living costs and free healthcare, New Zealand provides a viable alternative for retirees.

10. Switzerland remains the epitome of retirement destinations due to its leading healthcare system, low taxes, and even high living expenses. Prospective retirees will need a type D visa, ensuring their health insurance and sufficient financial resources. Residents likely need at least 3,500 euros per month to live comfortably in an urban setting, and the country’s tax policies favor the affluent. It has a three-pillar pension system that starts at 65 for men and 64 for women, reinforcing its status as a refuge for retirees seeking stability and high living standards.

11. This ranking highlights the importance of meticulous planning and considering various factors such as healthcare, cost of living, and social amenities when choosing a retirement location. Each country presents its own benefits and challenges, making it essential to consider personal preferences and financial circumstances in selecting the right place for retirement.

For Fidelity National Information Services retirees who might consider settling in top-ranked Switzerland, it's advantageous to know that Switzerland offers tax benefits for foreign retirees as part of its lump-sum taxation system, also called 'taxation according to expenditure.' This method allows retirees to negotiate their taxes based on their living expenses rather than income, significantly reducing their tax burden, making it an attractive option for those with substantial retirement incomes. This policy is especially beneficial to Fidelity National Information Services corporate sector retirees who may have significant pensions or investments (Swiss Federal Tax Administration, 2022).

Choose a nation from the top ten list as if selecting the ideal wine from a prestigious estate. Just as a wine enthusiast assesses wine based on its region, age, and grape type to match their taste and occasion, a retiree evaluates each country based on its healthcare quality, cost of living, and social infrastructure to find the best fit for their retired life. Switzerland, like a fine Swiss watch, demonstrates precision in healthcare and stability, making it the preferred choice for those seeking a top-tier retirement haven.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Fidelity National Information Services?

The 401(k) plan at Fidelity National Information Services is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis, helping them build a nest egg for retirement.

How can employees of Fidelity National Information Services enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan by accessing the benefits portal provided by Fidelity National Information Services and completing the enrollment process online.

What are the contribution limits for the 401(k) plan at Fidelity National Information Services?

The contribution limits for the 401(k) plan at Fidelity National Information Services are set annually by the IRS, and employees should refer to the current IRS guidelines for the latest limits.

Does Fidelity National Information Services offer matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Fidelity National Information Services offers matching contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What investment options are available in the Fidelity National Information Services 401(k) plan?

The 401(k) plan at Fidelity National Information Services includes a variety of investment options, such as mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

Can employees of Fidelity National Information Services take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, employees of Fidelity National Information Services may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave Fidelity National Information Services?

If you leave Fidelity National Information Services, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) account to another qualified retirement plan, cash it out, or leave it in the Fidelity National Information Services plan if allowed.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan at Fidelity National Information Services?

Employees at Fidelity National Information Services can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's specific rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for employer contributions in the Fidelity National Information Services 401(k) plan?

Yes, Fidelity National Information Services has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, which determines how much of the employer's contributions an employee is entitled to based on their length of service.

How can I access my 401(k) account information at Fidelity National Information Services?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the benefits portal provided by Fidelity National Information Services or by contacting the plan administrator.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Fidelity National Information Services (FIS) offers its employees the Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan through Vanguard, covering approximately 27,995 employees. The 401(k) plan includes both employee and employer contributions, with limits set by the IRS. In 2023, the maximum employee contribution to the 401(k) was $22,500, and this limit rose to $23,000 in 2024. Employees aged 50 and older are eligible for an additional catch-up contribution of $7,500, raising their total possible contribution to $30,000 in 2023 and $30,500 in 2024. Fidelity National Information Services employees can benefit from both traditional and Roth 401(k) options under this plan, which is managed through Vanguard (Capitalize) (FidelityWorkplace). The company's 401(k) plan includes employer contributions, allowing employees to benefit from profit-sharing when the company performs well. Combined employee and employer contributions were capped at $66,000 in 2023 and increased to $69,000 in 2024

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, FIS announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at optimizing its operations and reducing costs. This involved a reduction in workforce by approximately 6% to streamline its operations and enhance profitability. The company cited the need to adapt to the evolving market demands and competitive landscape as key reasons for these changes. Importance: Given the current economic uncertainty and the shifting landscape of the financial services industry, it is crucial to monitor these developments. The restructuring efforts reflect broader trends in the sector, impacted by economic conditions, investment strategies, and regulatory changes. Understanding these adjustments can provide insights into how companies are navigating the economic environment and managing their resources.

Fidelity National Information Services (FIS): In 2022, FIS provided stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation package. The stock options are typically granted to key employees and executives, while RSUs are offered more broadly across various levels of the company. This practice aligns with FIS's goal to attract and retain top talent. Fidelity National Information Services (FIS): For 2023, FIS continued offering stock options and RSUs. Stock options generally come with a vesting schedule, rewarding long-term commitment, while RSUs are often granted with performance-based vesting criteria. These incentives are designed to align employees' interests with the company's long-term goals. Fidelity National Information Services (FIS): In 2024, FIS has updated its stock options and RSU policies, focusing on increasing their competitive edge in the market. RSUs are commonly granted to senior employees and high performers, with stock options being allocated to executives and strategic hires. This approach helps FIS to maintain a motivated and engaged workforce.

Fidelity National Information Services' Financial and Industry Publications: Sources like Bloomberg, Reuters, or industry-specific publications often cover employee benefits in detail. Employee Reviews and Forums: Websites like Glassdoor or Indeed may have reviews and posts from current or former employees discussing their experiences with health benefits. Government and Legal Sources: Resources like the Department of Labor or legal databases might provide information on any recent changes or compliance issues related to employee benefits.