According to Euronews data, the statutory retirement age across the European Union is projected to increase significantly by the late 2060s, shifting from 64.7 to 66.7 years for men and from 64 to 66.6 years for women. This upward trajectory is driven by demographic pressures and financial sustainability goals within national pension systems.
Why European Countries Are Raising Retirement Ages
Pension system reforms are sweeping across the continent as governments scramble to manage aging populations. According to a study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), approximately two-thirds of European countries plan to raise the retirement age for men, while three-quarters will do the same for women.
Researchers note that lifting the retirement age remains a primary strategy to secure financial sustainability without slashing pension benefits. The alternative choices for governments involve either hiking pension contributions or cutting payouts altogether, according to the OECD findings. This comparison tracks individuals who entered the workforce in 2024 at age 22 with uninterrupted careers.
Current Versus Future Retirement Thresholds Across EU Economies
Significant disparities currently exist among member states. According to OECD data for 2024, the highest retirement age for men sits at 67 years in Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and the Netherlands. Conversely, Turkey permits men to retire at 52, while Greece, Slovenia, and Luxembourg maintain a threshold of 62 years.
Among Europe’s five largest economies, Germany currently leads with a male retirement age of 66.2 years, whereas France maintains the lowest at 64.3 years. Looking ahead to the late 2060s, Denmark’s retirement age is projected to peak at 74 years.
Did you know? Turkey is slated to see the most dramatic shift in the region. Male retirement ages there are projected to surge by 13 years—from 52 to 65—while female retirement ages will jump by 14 years, moving from 49 to 63.
How Women’s Retirement Ages Compare Across Member States
Female workers face a similar upward trend, with the current average retirement age of 64 across the EU projected to reach 66.6 years by the late 2060s. Denmark, the Netherlands, Island, and Norway currently share the highest existing threshold for women at 67 years.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Poland maintains a distinct position among EU nations. According to data cited by Euronews, Poland will retain the lowest female retirement age in the bloc at 60 years by the end of the 2060s. Among major economies, Italy will require women to work until age 70, followed by the United Kingdom at 68, Germany at 67, and France and Spain at 65.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are European nations increasing the retirement age?
According to OECD research, raising the retirement age is a key strategy to ensure the financial sustainability of national pension systems without cutting benefits or raising contribution rates.
Which European country will have the highest retirement age?
Denmark is projected to have the highest retirement age in Europe, reaching 74 years for workers who began their careers in 2024.
What is the lowest retirement age expected in the EU by the 2060s?
Poland will maintain the lowest retirement age for women in the European Union at 60 years, while Slovenia and Luxembourg will retain the lowest male retirement age at 62 years.
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