Can You Get Social Security While Living Abroad? Yes — Here’s How

Good news: Most U.S. citizens can keep receiving Social Security benefits even if they move to another country.

Check If You’re Eligible

If you’re getting retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, you can usually continue receiving them overseas.

To make sure, use the SSA Payments Abroad Screening Tool. It will tell you if your payments will:

• Continue normally

• Stop after six months

• Have special rules based on the country you live in

If you’re still in the U.S., contact your local Social Security office.

If you’re already abroad, the SSA has a list of international service contacts who can help.
 

Worked in Another Country? Your Credits May Count

If you don’t have enough U.S. work credits to qualify, you may be able to combine them with credits earned in another country.

This works only if the U.S. has a totalization agreement with that country.

Related: How To Appeal a Social Security Decision (Simple Guide for 2025–2026)

How to Apply and Receive Payments Abroad

You can apply for Social Security online, even from overseas.

Payments are sent electronically, either to:

• A U.S. bank account, or

• A foreign bank account in a country that allows international direct deposit

The SSA provides a full list of countries where direct deposit is available.

Once you start receiving benefits, the SSA may send you a short questionnaire every year or two.

Make sure to send it back—if you don’t, your payments could stop.
 

Need Help?

If you have questions or need support with your benefits, contact the Office of Earnings and International Operations (OEIO).

They handle Social Security cases for Americans living outside the U.S.

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