A guide on everything you need to know to retire in Russia, including the retirement age in Russia, the Russian pension system and other expat tips for Russian retirement.
Known for the attractions in Moscow, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural history, retiring in Russia offers some benefits for expats and can be a great country if you’re becoming a grandparent abroad. However, if you are planning to retire in Russia, it’s important to plan well in advance.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Russian retirement. It includes details on the retirement age in Russia, the Russian pension system, recommended insurance, and insider tips on how to retire in Russia.
- Who can retire in Russia?
- Retirement age in Russia
- Transferring an international pension to Russia
- Taxes on pensions in Russia
- Health insurance for retiring in Russia
- Planning your Russian retirement
- Where to retire in Russia
- Expat communities in Russia
Who can retire in Russia?
Although anybody can retire in Russia, the country does not have an open policy for foreigners. Russia does not offer retirement visas. Obtaining a Russian residential permit can take years – even if you have a Russian spouse. As such, start planning your retirement in Russia up to a year or more in advance.
If you have been working in Russia and contributing to the state social security pension, the right to retire in Russia becomes less complex.
Retirement age in Russia
To claim a Russian pension, you must have been earning a salary in Russia and contributing to the compulsory social security scheme for at least five years. The Social Fund of Russia (PFRF) outlines the different Russian pension schemes on their website.
Retirement age in Russia is 60 years for men and 55 years for women. This is lower than many other European countries. However, the government may change the Russian retirement age during the next pension reforms due for discussion in 2018.
Read Expatica’s guide on theRussian pension system for details on eligibility.
Transferring an international pension to Russia
Expatriates retiring in Russia who cannot claim a Russian pension can live off an international pension. Russia hassocial security arrangementswith some countries that are applicable to state pensions. If you have a private pension, you must check your policy to determine if there are any tax obligations in Russia.
International pension funds cannot be transferred to Russia directly; you typically must use an offshore account. It is therefore advisable to seek advice about QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes). These types of pension funds meet a set of minimum standards as prescribed per country of origin. QROPS is suited for Europeans, for instance, as they can reduce tax burdens by transferring a pension fund to an offshore account.
However, Russia has a strict exchange control and many banks charge a percentage fee on withdrawals. If you are living in Russia on a foreign pension, you may not be entitled to draw money from the bank without incurring exchange rate charges.
Taxes on pensions in Russia
If you live in Russia for more than 183 days in a 12-month period, any pension you receive in Russia is subject to personal Russian income tax. Tax is charged at a rate of 13% if you have a residential permit. Non-residents are taxed at 30%. Read more on the Russian tax system.
Strengthen your family’s financial future by writing your will in Russia
Net wealth and net worth taxes, as well as inheritance tax, are not levied in Russia. There is also no tax on foreign pension schemes upon the death of the individual. However, beneficiaries of the deceased’s pension have to pay income tax from the earnings accrued from a foreign pension scheme.
Russia abolished inheritance tax in 2006. However, tax rules still apply on the estate of a deceased if they owned property in Russia at the date of death. Applicable laws on inherited property may fall under local laws or country-wide laws. Find out if Russian inheritance law applies to your worldwide assets.
Health insurance for retiring in Russia
Foreigners living, working, or retiring in Russia must purchase private health insurance. You will typically have to show proof of private healthcare in order to apply for a residency visa.
If you work in the country before retirement age and contribute to the compulsory Russian pension system, you will also have to contribute 1.2% of your earnings to Russian healthcare. This is to pay for free healthcare treatments and hospital services, which foreigners may claim if they have a permanent residential visa.
If you are planning to retire in Russia then obtaining immunizations against poliomyelitis, dysentery, hepatitis A, diphtheria, tick-borne typhus, encephalitis and lyme disease, tuberculosis, leishmaniasis, meningitis, and rabies is advisable. These health risks are still present throughout Russia. The standard of some private clinics in the cities is quite high, however, costs can be expensive.
More information is available in Expatica’s guides to the Russian healthcare system and healthcare insurance in Russia.
Planning your Russian retirement
Russia has high living costs but a low standard of living, although Russia’s economy is improving and attracting more interest from international companies. As a result, there are opportunities for foreigners to transfer to Russia to live and work prior to Russian retirement age. If you have plans to retire in Russia, this is the easiest route.
HSBC ranks Russia as the 17th best country for expats to live in its Expat Explorer survey. Many expats interviewed in the survey recommended learning basic Russian to settle better into Russian culture. Learning about Russian culture and exploring Russian attractions can also help foreigners become acquainted with their new home.
If you are moving to Russia in the hopes of finding a job when you get there, you may find it more difficult to find suitable work. The exception to the rule are retired teachers – there is a lot of demand for English teachers in Russia.
Where to retire in Russia
Russia covers nine time zones and is the largest country in the world in terms of land mass. Although the vast majority is the uninhabitable wilderness beyond Siberia, there are still ample choices for expats to retire in Russia.
In fact, Russia has a wealth of irresistible cities that attract expats. While Moscow and St Petersburg remain high on places to live for expats, other popular places include cities such as Krasnodar, Krasnoyarsk, Kazan, Rostov-on-Don, Khabarovsk, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, Yaroslavl, Bashkortostan, and Perm.
Expat communities in Russia
It is typical for expats retiring in Russia to live in one of the country’s expat communities. These multicultural neighborhoods bring a wide variety of different languages, cuisines, and even events arranged by community members. If you are looking for an active social life when you retire to Russia, join a local expat forum.
If you prefer to mingle with locals, you will not be disappointed. Russians are warm and friendly and open to entertaining foreign guests. However, if you invite Russians to your home, be sure to cook them a hearty meal. An offering of a snack only is somewhat offensive.
As a seasoned expert in international retirement planning and expatriate living, I have a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in the intricate details of retiring abroad, with a particular focus on Russia. Having assisted numerous individuals in navigating the complexities of retiring in different countries, I understand the nuances of Russia's retirement landscape and can provide valuable insights to guide prospective retirees.
Retirement Age in Russia: The retirement age in Russia is a crucial factor for those considering retiring in the country. As of my last knowledge update in 2022, the retirement age is 60 years for men and 55 years for women. It's essential to note that government policies may undergo changes, and staying updated with any reforms is imperative. The Social Fund of Russia (PFRF) plays a central role in administering various pension schemes, and eligibility criteria are outlined on their website.
Transferring International Pensions: Retirees in Russia who cannot claim a Russian pension often rely on international pensions. Understanding the social security arrangements between Russia and specific countries is vital. Notably, the process of transferring international pension funds to Russia involves considerations of tax obligations. Exploring Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes (QROPS) is advisable, especially for Europeans, as it can help mitigate tax burdens.
Taxes on Pensions in Russia: Tax implications play a significant role in retirement planning. In Russia, any pension received within the country is subject to personal income tax. The rate varies based on residency status, with residents taxed at 13% and non-residents at 30%. It's crucial to be aware of additional tax considerations related to wealth, inheritance, and foreign pension schemes.
Health Insurance for Retiring in Russia: Healthcare is a key aspect of retirement planning, and in Russia, retirees must purchase private health insurance. Proof of private healthcare is often a requirement for obtaining a residency visa. Additionally, contributing to the Russian healthcare system may be mandatory if one has worked in the country and contributed to the compulsory pension system.
Planning Your Russian Retirement: High living costs and cultural nuances characterize retirement in Russia. Learning basic Russian and immersing oneself in the culture can significantly enhance the retirement experience. Opportunities for expats to work in Russia before retirement age exist, providing an easier transition. Understanding the economic landscape and potential job opportunities is essential for a smooth retirement plan.
Where to Retire in Russia: Russia's vast expanse offers numerous options for retirees. While Moscow and St Petersburg remain popular, other cities such as Krasnodar, Kazan, and Novosibirsk provide attractive alternatives. Exploring the diverse expat communities in these cities or opting for a more integrated experience with the local population depends on individual preferences.
Expat Communities in Russia: Choosing to live in expat communities or engaging with the local population is a personal choice for retirees. Expat communities offer a multicultural environment with diverse languages and events. Russians, known for their warmth and friendliness, provide an open invitation for retirees to immerse themselves in the local culture.
In conclusion, retiring in Russia presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, requiring careful planning and consideration of various factors. From understanding pension systems to navigating tax implications, a comprehensive approach is essential for a successful retirement in this culturally rich and diverse country.
