Retiring Abroad as a US Citizen: Medicare, Social Security, Taxes and Legal Planning
In this guide
What should a US citizen plan for before retiring abroad? The State Department’s retirement guidance is blunt on the biggest surprise: “Medicare does not cover health care costs abroad.” It also says leaving the US does not end your US tax obligations. This guide pulls together the main points from that guidance so you can plan before you go.
Quick answer
- Medicare does not cover care abroad. The State Department recommends private health insurance that also covers medical evacuation to the US.
- Social Security benefits received abroad are handled through the SSA’s Office of International Operations.
- US tax obligations continue, and you must also follow the tax laws of your new country.
- Immigration rules differ by country, so check the destination’s official site for visas and retirement visas.
- Get legal advice: trusts, wills and powers of attorney may not be enforceable in another country.
Healthcare and Medicare
Medicare is the US plan for people 65 and older. Many countries have national health systems, so check eligibility and quality in your destination. The State Department recommends private health insurance that also covers medical evacuation to the US.
Social Security
Benefits received abroad are handled through the Social Security Administration’s Office of International Operations. Rules are stricter for non-citizens: read Social Security benefits outside the US and social security tax abroad and totalization.
Taxes
Leaving the US does not end US tax obligations. Retirees must also follow the tax laws of the new country. The State Department suggests consulting a tax advisor who specialises in foreign residency. Start with our guides to expat tax, the FBAR and foreign tax credit.
Residency and visas
Immigration rules vary by country. Check the destination’s official government or embassy website to see whether you need a visa to visit or live there, and whether retirement visas exist.
Legal planning and money
- Get professional legal advice. Trusts, wills and powers of attorney may not be enforceable in another country.
- The US embassy or consulate can provide a list of English-speaking lawyers.
- Plan for currency exchange rate changes and consider opening a local bank account.
- Consult a financial advisor familiar with the country where you will live.
Small steps that matter
- Keep your US passport valid.
- Leave emergency contacts with family.
- Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Be alert to romance, friendship and financial scams, which mostly come through the internet, email and phone. See visa and job offer scams.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Medicare travels with you. It does not cover care abroad.
- Assuming tax stops at the border.
- Relying on a US will or power of attorney that may not be enforceable abroad.
- Skipping evacuation cover.
FAQ
Do I need a retirement visa?
That depends on the country. Check the destination’s official site.
Can I vote from abroad?
Yes, with an annual FPCA. See voting from abroad as a US citizen.
What about travel safety?
Check travel advisory levels.
Key takeaways
- Plan private health insurance with evacuation cover.
- US taxes continue after you retire abroad.
- Take legal advice on wills, trusts and powers of attorney.
Related guides
- Moving abroad checklist
- Your first 90 days in a new country
- Social Security benefits outside the US
- Expat tax for US citizens abroad
- What is a power of attorney?
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or medical advice. Rules change, so check the State Department and a qualified adviser.
Sources
- US Department of State: Retirement abroad