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The Global Insight

Can I have an IRA if I live overseas?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on March 13, 2026

Yes, a U.S. citizen living abroad can have both a traditional and/or Roth IRA. The restrictions only come with making contributions—so, if you had an existing IRA before you moved abroad, you don’t have to get rid of it or transfer assets, but you may not be able to add to it while you’re overseas.

Can a non US resident open an IRA?

IRA Rules and Restrictions Qualifying non-US citizens can open an IRA if they live and work in the country. This can be either a Roth IRA or a traditional IRA. In fact, either of these accounts can be complemented by a 401(k) if you decide this is the best option for you.

Can you open a Roth IRA as an expat?

Most Americans overseas qualify for traditional or ROTH IRAs only. The main difference between these two is when you pay income taxes on the money you put in the plans. Younger US expats who are at the start of their career may benefit from choosing ROTH IRA. Choosing Foreign Tax Credit can be more beneficial.

How can I invest while living abroad?

5 Ways to Effectively Invest Your Money When Living Abroad

  1. Consider Repatriation. Think very carefully about your long-term living plans before choosing an investment strategy.
  2. Seek an Expat-Friendly Broker.
  3. Research Taxes.
  4. Construct a Globally-Diversified Portfolio.
  5. Invest in Property.

Do I have to pay taxes if I retire overseas?

Retirement income and Social Security are exempt from state tax if you live abroad. If you do not have rental properties in your former state then then for most states you will be completely exempt from state filing obligations.

What happens to my 401k if I move overseas?

If you’re a nonresident with a 401(k) and are planning to return to your home country, you can cash out the account, roll it over into an IRA, or leave the funds where they are until you turn 59½ and can start taking penalty-free withdrawals.

Can green card holders open IRA?

A: Generally, yes. In fact, even an unmarried green card holder is permitted to contribute to a Roth IRA, provided all the standard legal criteria are satisfied. For IRA purposes, compensation includes wages, salaries, tips, professional fees, bonuses and other payments for personal services.

Can you open an IRA without a Social Security number?

IRS rules dictate that an IRA custodian must request a “taxpayer identification number” when opening an account, which in the case of individuals means a Social Security number. Anyone not eligible for a Social Security number must request an individual taxpayer identification number.

Can a US citizen have an IRA in a foreign country?

Moving to a foreign country only adds complications to contribution rules. There are volumes of articles on investing abroad and retirement vehicles, but when it comes to the tax rules on IRAs for U.S. citizens living abroad, here are the basics of what you need to know. Can a U.S. citizen living abroad have an IRA?

How to roll over an IRA account to a foreign bank?

Open a retirement fund at your home country’s bank. In Canada, these are called RRSP accounts. In Australia, they are referred to as superannuitization funds. Contact the bank in your country to open the right type of account that can accept the rollover. Liquidate the IRA assets by filling out transfer paperwork with your IRA custodian.

Can you contribute to an IRA while working abroad?

Because foreign housing and foreign income exclusions allow Americans working abroad to reduce their earned income to avoid taxation by the U.S., they also often make it difficult to invest using IRAs. To qualify to contribute to an IRA, one must have earned income in the U.S. or income on which U.S. taxes are paid.

Where does my retirement income come from abroad?

Retirement income from foreign sources can come from different kinds of accounts: A pension or annuity directly from a foreign employer. A trust established for you by a foreign employer. A payment from a foreign government or one of its agencies (this could include a foreign social security pension)