Medicare, the U.S. government health plan for people aged 65 and over, does NOT cover health care overseas.
We highly recommend that you get health insurance to cover private medical and dental treatment and for medical evacuation to the United States just in case.
Many countries have national health systems, but it is important to investigate eligibility, availability and quality beforehand.
Note that environmental conditions at your overseas destination may contribute to specific health concerns, particularly if you are sensitive to altitude, air pollution, humidity, or other conditions.
For more tips related to health issues, visit our website.
Leaving the United States does not exempt U.S. citizens from their U.S. tax obligations.
You must file annually with the IRS.
Even if you move all of your assets to a foreign country.
Retirees abroad also must fulfill any tax obligations of their foreign country of residence.
The United States has tax treaties with a number of countries that address double taxation, but these treaties generally do not exempt residents from the obligation to file a return.
Leave emergency contact information and a copy of your passport biographic data page with family and trusted friends.
Carry emergency contact information for your family in the United States with you when you travel (Be sure to also pencil it in the emergency contact information section of your passport).
Know the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and provide that information to your family and friends.
If there is an emergency where you are staying, such as civil unrest, disrupted transportation, or a natural disaster, prevent undue worry or concern by contacting your family and friends as soon as possible
Enroll in our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive important information from the Department of State, including the location of the nearest embassy and consulate and safety conditions in your destination country.
By enrolling, the Department of State can also contact you, your family, or your friends in an emergency, according to your wishes.
Last Updated: November 22, 2022
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