Millions of Americans retire overseas each year, relying on Social Security benefits to maintain their lifestyle. The Social Security Administration maintains Country List 1 to clarify where non-U.S. citizens can receive payments indefinitely, regardless of residence duration. This guide breaks down eligibility, processes, and key restrictions for smooth benefit access.
What Defines Country List 1?
Country List 1 identifies nations whose citizens qualify for uninterrupted U.S. Social Security payments while living abroad. Unlike general rules limiting non-citizens to six months outside the U.S., List 1 citizens face no such cap if eligible based on their own earnings record. Residency anywhere, even in restricted spots, does not halt benefits for these individuals.
This list supports international retirees from allied or treaty nations, promoting cross-border security. Updates occur rarely but reflect diplomatic ties and payment capabilities.
Eligible Countries on the List
Citizens of about 30 countries appear on SSA Country List 1, enabling seamless benefit receipt. Examples include major European partners and select others with strong U.S. relations. Always verify status via the SSA website, as lists evolve with policy shifts.
SSA Country List 1 Highlights
| Region | Key Countries Included |
|---|---|
| Europe | Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom |
| Americas | Brazil, Canada, Chile, Uruguay |
| Asia-Pacific | Israel, Japan, Korea (South) |
| Others | (Full list at ssa.gov/international/countrylist1.htm) |
Rules for U.S. Citizens Abroad
U.S. citizens enjoy broad access to benefits worldwide, except in embargoed nations like Cuba and North Korea. Payments pause there but resume upon return to eligible areas, with back amounts preserved. Former Soviet states such as Belarus or Kazakhstan impose hurdles, often requiring special approvals.
Direct deposit to foreign banks works in most places via international direct deposit agreements. U.S. bank transfers remain a reliable fallback.
Setup Process for Overseas Payments
Contact SSA before moving by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting a local office. Provide Form SSA-21 for foreign direct deposit, including bank details in IBAN format for Europe. Updates take 30-60 days, so plan ahead to avoid gaps.
The Payments Abroad Screening Tool on ssa.gov instantly checks your situation by citizenship and residence. Medicare enrollment may end after 30 months abroad unless supplemented privately.
Restricted Countries and Workarounds
Payments halt automatically in Cuba, North Korea, and certain sanctioned areas like Azerbaijan or Turkmenistan. List 1 citizenship overrides some limits, allowing indirect receipt via U.S. accounts. Expats often use international wire services or Direct Express cards for access.
Taxes apply: Benefits remain taxable in the U.S., with possible foreign credits via treaties. Report changes promptly to prevent overpayments needing repayment.
Practical Tips for Expats
Choose destinations with totalization agreements, like Germany or Canada, to combine work credits across borders. Monitor currency fluctuations impacting benefit value. Community groups for American retirees abroad share real-time advice on local banking.
Health coverage gaps loom large; pair Social Security with expat insurance. Annual SSA statements confirm ongoing eligibility.
Why Country List 1 Matters Now
With 450,000 beneficiaries abroad as of 2025, understanding List 1 prevents disruptions amid rising global mobility. Recent Treasury updates under the Trump administration eased some sanctions, expanding options slightly.
FAQs
Q1: Am I eligible if on Country List 1?
Yes, if a citizen of listed nations with your own earnings record.
Q2: Can U.S. citizens get paid anywhere?
Mostly yes, except Cuba, North Korea.
Q3: How do I update my bank abroad?
File Form SSA-21 online or by phone.
Disclaimer
The content is intended for informational purposes only. Check official sources; our aim is to provide accurate information to all users.
