Decision 3 · Week 3 · Wed Nov 18
How do I get health insurance if I retire abroad?
SHORT ANSWERMedicare generally does not pay for care outside the US, so retirees abroad use the local public system where residents can join, local private insurance, an international health plan, or a mix.
What is open to you depends on the country and your residency status. Some public systems accept legal residents; others are limited to citizens or workers.
Some retirement visas require proof of health insurance before they are approved. Check the consulate's document list early.
Price is only part of it. Ask how close the nearest good hospital is, whether your medications are available, and whether a plan covers care when you visit the US.
Week 3 compares health care access place by place, including where you live now.
Sources
- Travel outside the U.S. · Medicare.gov
Written and reviewed by Todd Allyn, Founding Director, Sovereo Intelligence
Facts checked Oct 6, 2026 · Next review by Apr 6, 2027
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