Retiring in the USA

Can Foreigners Retire in the USA?

Yes. Foreigners can retire in the USA if they qualify for an immigration status that allows them to live there. However, the U.S. does not have a dedicated retirement visa, so you will need to qualify through another route.

Your options depend on factors such as your nationality, family connections, finances, investment plans, and whether you want to move permanently or spend only part of your retirement in the United States.

The main routes to consider are family-based immigration, the EB-5 immigrant investor program, the E-2 treaty investor visa for eligible nationals, and temporary visitor status.

Visas for Retiring in the USA

There is no single “best” visa for retirees. The right option depends on why you qualify to live in the United States and whether you are seeking permanent residence or a temporary stay.

Here is a quick comparison of the main options covered below:

Visa Option	Best For	Path to Permanent Residence	Key Consideration
Family-Based Immigrant Visa	Retirees with a qualifying relationship to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident	Yes	Requires a qualifying family relationship
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa	Retirees who make a qualifying investment in a U.S. business	Yes	$800k/$1.05m qualifying investment
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa	Eligible treaty-country nationals who invest in and actively run a U.S. business	No direct path	Must actively run a business
B-2 Tourist Visa	Retirees making temporary visits to the U.S.	No	Cannot be used to live permanently in the U.S.

Family-Based Immigration

A family-based immigrant visa may allow you to live permanently in the United States if you have a qualifying relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

American citizens can petition for certain relatives, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents can petition for spouses and certain unmarried children, sons, or daughters. The visa category and waiting time depend on your relationship to the person sponsoring you.

If you receive an immigrant visa and are admitted as a permanent resident, you can live permanently in the U.S. with a green card.

Whether your spouse or children can immigrate with you depends on your category, so check the requirements for your specific family-based route.

EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program may provide a route to permanent residence for people who make a qualifying investment in a U.S. commercial enterprise.

The minimum investment is currently $1,050,000, or $800,000 for qualifying investments in a targeted employment area or infrastructure project. These amounts are subject to adjustment, so check current USCIS requirements before applying.

The investment must meet the program’s other requirements, including generally creating at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying employees.

Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may also be eligible for immigration benefits through your EB-5 application.

EB-5 applications involve significant immigration, financial, tax, and investment considerations, so consider getting qualified professional advice.

E-2 Treaty Investor Visa

Citizens of qualifying treaty countries may be eligible for an E-2 Treaty Investor visa if they invest a substantial amount of capital in a U.S. business.

You must generally develop and direct the business and meet the E-2 investment and control requirements. Unlike the EB-5 visa, the E-2 is a temporary, nonimmigrant visa and does not provide a direct route to a green card.

For that reason, an E-2 may suit someone who wants an active retirement running a business, but it is not a passive retirement visa. You must continue to meet the E-2 requirements to maintain your status.

Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may be able to accompany or join you in the United States.

B-2 Tourist Visa for Temporary Visits

The B-2 tourist visa can be used for temporary visits to the United States, including spending time with family or taking an extended vacation. It cannot be used to live permanently in the United States.

A visa’s validity period is not the same as the amount of time you can remain in the United States on an individual visit. U.S. Customs and Border Protection determines your authorized period of stay when you enter the country.

Do not assume that holding a long-validity B-2 visa allows you to live in the United States continuously or stay for a fixed number of months on every visit.

Visa Processing Times

Visa processing times vary by type, location, demand, and your situation. Check current wait times with the U.S. Department of State or USCIS before making travel or relocation plans.

If you have already applied for one, you can monitor your application through the CEAC Visa Status Check website.

Important Visa Update: U.S. entry and immigration restrictions changed in 2026. The Department of State has paused immigrant visa issuance for nationals of 75 countries, subject to limited exceptions, while separate restrictions affect certain other nationalities and categories. Check the latest U.S. Department of State visa guidance for rules that may apply to you before applying.

How Much Does It Cost to Retire in the USA?

There is no single retirement budget for the USA because costs vary greatly by location, housing, healthcare needs, and lifestyle.

As a broad guide, 2026 Numbeo data puts living expenses for one person at around $1,180 per month, excluding rent. Housing, healthcare, transportation, taxes, and international travel can increase your retirement budget.

Typical Retirement Costs

Housing is one of the biggest expenses to consider when planning your retirement in America, and costs vary greatly depending on where you live. For example, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center in several popular U.S. retirement destinations is approximately:

Location	Typical Monthly Rent
Scottsdale, Arizona	$2,430
Charleston, South Carolina	$2,325
Sarasota, Florida	$2,175
Madison, Wisconsin	$1,770
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania	$1,570

When planning your retirement budget, also consider:

• Food: Costs vary by location and shopping habits. For example, an inexpensive restaurant meal typically costs $12–$40, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs around $50–$150.
• Transport: Consider whether you can use public transport or will need a car. A one-way public transport ticket typically costs $1.50–$4, while a monthly pass ranges from around $35–$140. If you drive, also budget for fuel, insurance, maintenance, and parking.
• Healthcare: Healthcare costs in the U.S. can be high, particularly if you are not eligible for Medicare. You may need to budget for private health insurance in the U.S. and out-of-pocket medical expenses.
• Taxes: Federal, state, and local taxes vary depending on where you live and your circumstances. There is no national VAT or GST, but 45 states levy a statewide sales tax, and local sales taxes may also apply.

For more detailed figures, see our guide to the Average Cost of Living in the U.S.

How Does U.S. Healthcare Work for Foreign Retirees?

Foreign retirees need to plan how they will pay for healthcare in the United States. The country does not have universal healthcare, and most medical care is paid for through private insurance, public programs, and out-of-pocket payments.

One of the main public programs is Medicare, the federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older. However, foreign retirees are not automatically eligible for Medicare when they turn 65 or move to the United States.

Your healthcare and insurance options depend on factors such as your immigration status, length of stay, and eligibility for public programs. Read more about how the U.S. healthcare system works and what coverage is available to foreigners.

Can Foreign Retirees Get Medicare?

Medicare eligibility for foreign retirees depends on factors including immigration status, age, residency, and work history.

Check whether you’re eligible for Medicare before relying on it as part of your retirement healthcare plan.

Health Insurance for Foreign Retirees

If you are not eligible for Medicare or another public program, you may need private health insurance to help cover medical expenses in the United States.

For temporary stays of less than one year, travel medical insurance may help cover eligible unexpected medical expenses, subject to the policy’s terms and exclusions.

If you are moving to the United States or staying for one year or longer, consider long-term health insurance in the U.S. to help cover medical expenses while living there.

For more information on coverage in retirement, see our guide to health insurance for retirees abroad.

Where to Retire in the U.S.

Where you retire can have a major effect on your cost of living, healthcare access, transport needs, climate, and lifestyle.

The United States offers a wide range of climates and retirement destinations, but there is more to consider than the weather. Compare housing costs, state and local taxes, access to U.S. hospitals and specialist care, whether you will need a car, and how easily you can travel abroad or visit family.

For specific destinations and comparisons, see our guide to the Best Places to Retire in the U.S. If you’re still deciding which country is right for you, compare other popular retirement destinations around the world.

Can Foreign Retirees Rent or Buy Property in the USA?

Yes. Foreign nationals can generally rent or purchase property in the United States, but buying a home does not give you a visa, green card, or right to live in the country. Your immigration status is separate.

Retirees can choose from short-term rentals and standard apartments or houses to independent living and assisted-living communities. A short-term rental can give you time to explore neighborhoods before settling permanently.

Rental requirements vary, and retirees without a U.S. credit history may need extra documents. Check whether utilities, parking, maintenance fees, and other charges are included.

Should You Rent or Buy When You Retire in the USA?

Renting offers flexibility, while buying may make more sense if you intend to settle in one place for the long term.

Foreign buyers may also qualify for a U.S. mortgage, but down payments, required documents, and interest rates vary by lender and your situation.

Buyers should budget for closing costs. The U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau says these typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price, excluding the down payment. Actual costs depend on the property, location, lender, and type of loan.

American property taxes vary widely by state and locality. Tax Foundation’s latest figures, based on 2024 data, put the effective property tax rate on owner-occupied housing at 1.88% in New Jersey and Illinois, compared with 0.29% in Hawaii. Actual property taxes vary by locality and property value.

You will also need to budget for homeowners insurance, maintenance, repairs, and any homeowners association fees.

Retirement Communities and Assisted Living

Independent living is generally designed for older adults who can live independently but want access to amenities, activities, and services within a community.

Assisted living provides a higher level of support and may include meals, housekeeping, help with daily activities, and access to or coordination of certain health services, depending on the facility.

Taxes for Foreign Retirees

Foreign retirees may have to pay tax in the USA depending on their tax residency, income, and assets.

Foreign nationals are generally treated as U.S. tax residents if they meet either the green card test or the IRS substantial presence test.

The substantial presence test is not simply a “183 days in one year” rule. Generally, you must be present for at least 31 days in the current year and reach 183 days when calculated using the current year and the previous two years. Exceptions can apply.

U.S. tax residents are generally subject to U.S. income tax on their worldwide income. Foreign pensions, investments, and financial accounts may also create extra reporting requirements, while tax treaties can affect how some income is treated.

The IRS provides more information for international taxpayers. Because the rules depend on your tax residency, income, assets, and home country, consider seeking advice from a tax firm experienced in international tax before moving.

Estate and Inheritance Planning

Foreign retirees with U.S. assets may also need to consider federal and state estate and inheritance rules.

For American citizens and residents, the IRS sets the federal estate tax basic exclusion amount at $15 million in 2026. Different rules can apply to non-U.S. citizens and nonresidents, so foreign retirees should not assume the $15 million threshold applies to them.

Some states impose their own estate or inheritance taxes. For example, Oregon has a $1 million estate-tax threshold, while Connecticut’s estate-tax exemption is $15 million in 2026. Several states also impose inheritance taxes.

If you have assets or heirs in more than one country, consider having a formal will and getting professional estate-planning advice.

Cross-border estates can involve U.S. federal and state rules as well as the inheritance laws of your home country, so specialist guidance can help you understand how these different rules may apply.

Pros and Cons of Retiring in the USA

The United States offers foreign retirees a wide choice of places, climates, and lifestyles. In the 2025 Natixis Global Retirement Index, the country ranked 21st out of 44 countries, with a retirement-security score of 70%.

However, immigration, healthcare costs, taxes, and your budget can affect whether America is right for you.

Benefits of Retiring in the USA

• Choice of climates and lifestyles: Retirees can choose from cities, small towns, coastal and mountain communities, and warmer destinations.
• Specialist and senior healthcare: The U.S. offers specialist, geriatric, and advanced medical care, although access, quality, and costs vary. The Commonwealth Fund’s 2025 Scorecard can help you compare healthcare performance between states.
• Active retirement communities: Retirees can find opportunities for volunteering, education, exercise, recreation, and social activities. There are around 11,000 senior centers across the United States, serving more than 1 million older adults.
• Wide housing choices: Options range from apartments and houses to independent living, retirement communities, and assisted living. Renting offers flexibility if you want to try different locations first.

Drawbacks of Retiring in the USA

• No dedicated retirement visa: Foreign retirees who want to live in the USA permanently must qualify through another immigration route.
• Expensive healthcare: Foreign retirees may not qualify for Medicare and may need private health insurance.
• High living costs: Housing, healthcare, insurance, transport, and taxes can make some destinations expensive.
• You may need a car: Public transport can be limited outside major cities, which may be a concern if you do not drive or expect to stop driving later in retirement.
• Complex taxes: Foreign income and assets can create U.S. and cross-border tax and reporting requirements.
• Safety varies: Crime varies by location, so compare local safety when choosing where to retire. Firearm-related injuries and deaths are also a U.S. public health concern.

How to Retire in the USA

Once you know retiring in the United States is realistic for you, follow these steps to plan your move.

The U.S. Department of State advises immigrant visa applicants not to sell property, resign from employment, or make non-refundable travel arrangements before receiving their visa.

Step 1: Identify the Right Immigration Route

Decide whether you want permanent residence or temporary visits and identify which immigration category you qualify for. See the visa options above for more detail.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application and Documents

Gather the documents required for your visa, which may include your passport, financial information, civil documents, medical examinations, and evidence specific to your immigration category. Check the U.S. Department of State visa requirements and USCIS guidance for the immigration route you are applying for.

Follow the current instructions carefully and consider consulting a qualified U.S. immigration attorney for complex applications.

Step 3: Plan Your Retirement Budget

Budget for housing, healthcare, insurance, transport, taxes, utilities, food, and travel. See the retirement cost section above for typical expenses. Consider cross-border tax advice if you have income or assets abroad.

Step 4: Arrange Your Finances

Consider opening a local bank account to manage everyday expenses. If you need a U.S. taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for a Social Security number, you may be eligible for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Step 5: Complete the Visa Process

An interview may be required as part of your application. If you are applying for an immigrant visa, follow the interview instructions and prepare the required documents.

A consular officer will determine whether you are eligible and may provide additional instructions.

Step 6: Arrange Health Insurance

Arrange health insurance before moving to the United States. See the healthcare and health insurance section above for more information on Medicare eligibility and coverage options for foreign retirees.

Step 7: Plan Your Relocation

Once your immigration arrangements are confirmed, finalize housing, transport, and other practical arrangements for your move. For more help preparing, see our 9 Tips for Moving to the United States.

Ready to Retire in the USA?

Retiring in the United States can offer a wide choice of places to live, climates, communities, and lifestyles. However, retiring there as a foreigner requires careful planning.

Before making a permanent move, confirm which immigration route you qualify for and make sure you understand your likely living costs, healthcare and insurance needs, tax obligations, and housing options. If possible, visit the places you are considering before deciding where to settle.

With the right preparation, you can focus less on the logistics and more on enjoying your retirement in the USA.

Retiring in the USA FAQs