GUIDE TO RETIRING IN THE USA 

GUIDE TO RETIRING IN THE USA 

Does retiring in the USA appeal to you? You may be looking for concrete information, but many questions remain.

This is perfectly normal, especially since retiring in the United States isn't that simple. This guide will cover visas, administrative procedures, and the benefits of withdrawing money in the United States. However, keep in mind that support will be essential.

It all depends on the project, but it's clear that having an expert to help you with your efforts is a plus!

guide to retiring in the USA

Procedures and visas for retiring in the USA

Retiring in the United States requires preparation and support. There are important points to consider, particularly the administrative procedures related to visas.

Also, if you want to live overseas, you need to be properly insured. You don't want to end up tens of thousands of dollars in hospital bills.

Is there a specific retirement visa?

There is no specific visa for retiring in the United States. Instead, you must apply for a visa the "traditional" way. That is, use a nonimmigrant or immigrant visa.

If you are interested in retiring to the United States, then you need to understand the different options available to you.

What are your visa options?

The B2 nonimmigrant visa may be an option.

The B2 visa (definition by clicking here ) is a non-immigrant visa that is not intended to make you a permanent resident. It is an ideal solution if you only want to reside in the United States for a few months of the year. In fact, it allows you to remain on American soil for a maximum period of 6 months. ( more information here )

One disadvantage is that you can't obtain a US Social Security number. This can sometimes complicate certain procedures, such as opening a bank account, applying for medical insurance, or even obtaining a US driver's license. Keep in mind, however, that these different processes can be handled through a variety of solutions.

Another option is the Family-Based Immigrant Visa . You will need to be sponsored by an immediate family member who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. This can be a spouse, parent, son/daughter, or brother/sister, depending on whether the sponsor is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

The EB-5 visa, the preferred solution.

This requires an investment in a qualifying business venture of at least $900,000 (about £645,000) in a rural or high-unemployment area, or $1,800,000 otherwise.

There are many conditions to meet with this program, starting of course with having this amount of money available to invest.

You can't borrow to make this investment, so you must have the capital in cash. To be eligible, your investment must also create 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens within two years.

You will need to complete an application form with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This can be done electronically or by mail. It is also possible to submit your application form from outside the United States, through an intermediary such as the U.S. Embassy in Paris.

You will also need to provide supporting documents and pay the application fee?

Once USCIS approves your application, it will be processed at the National Visa Center. You will likely be required to attend an interview and undergo a medical examination before your application can be processed.

What documents do I need?

The documents you need depend on each situation but generally:

Valid passport, recent photos of yourself, birth certificate, marriage certificates, ambassador appointment letter and email confirmation page, proof that you have the required investment amount.

How long does it take to get an immigrant visa for the United States?

US visa processing times vary from case to case. If your application is simple and you provide all the required documents and information, it can take as little as six weeks. However, some cases take months or even years.

This is why it is essential to get SUPPORT.

Discover a 100% PASSIVE investment solution to obtain your EB-5 visa

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Health Insurance for Retirement in the USA

Ensuring your healthcare is covered is a priority, especially in the United States. It's no myth: healthcare costs in the United States are among the highest in the world. Every day, Americans go into lifelong debt due to uncovered hospitalizations.

Whether you plan to live there year-round or just for a few months, be sure to be insured from the moment you set foot on American soil. The cost of insurance will depend on your age, your medical history, and where you live.

Do your research and contact the people best placed to help you. These include brokers, whose job it is to find the best solutions for you.

After age 50, health insurance costs are higher. For people between the ages of 55 and 64 living in the United States, the average monthly cost of insurance was $790. (For 2018, source: ehealthinsurance.com)

Your tax situation in the USA

Regarding your retirement pension, let's distinguish between two different situations.

If your main residence remains in France, then there are no special steps to take.

On the other hand, if you reside in the USA permanently, you must notify the pension funds about your move and change of primary residence. This will allow you to continue receiving your pension. You must also submit a certificate of existence each year, otherwise your payments will be interrupted.

For more specific situations, especially if you have worked in both countries, there is a bi-national agreement that regulates this issue.

Regarding tax settlement, you pay in the United States based on your annual income.

If you do not have your primary residence in the USA, then you are taxed in France and not in the USA.

IMPORTANT POINT: If you reside at least 183 days per year in France, your main residence is in France according to the General Tax Code.

A Franco-American convention also exists regarding specific issues. However, we strongly recommend seeking the assistance of a tax advisor.

A French-speaking expert will advise you. Book a free, no-obligation consultation.

Top 5 reasons to retire in the USA

Unparalleled living comfort: Some states in the US are among the favorite destinations for retirees from around the world. A state like Florida, in particular, is particularly popular for welcoming large numbers of retirees due to its quality of life.

Some areas of the United States have a much lower cost of living than you might expect.

The weather! If you're someone who cares about the weather, then welcome to the US! Some places get 365 days of sunshine a year.

A new experience, for some, retirement is the perfect time to fulfill their dreams. If living abroad is one of them, then the United States can help you make it a reality.

A part-time American retirement: As we've seen, one option is the B2 visa, which allows you to stay in the country for a limited time. Why not buy a second home and come for three or four months of the year? You'll keep your benefits and a routine while treating yourself to a getaway for a few months.