Do I lose my Irish state pension if I move abroad?

According to the official Irish government source, Citizens Information, you can be paid the Irish State Pension (Contributory) even if you live outside of Ireland. However, whether you lose your Irish state pension if you move abroad depends entirely on the type of pension you are receiving and the country you move to.

Quick Summary

Eligibility for an Irish state pension while living abroad depends on whether you receive a contributory or non-contributory pension. The contributory pension can be paid internationally, while the non-contributory version requires Irish residency. Entitlements can also be affected by social security agreements with your new country of residence.

Key Points

• Contributory vs. Non-Contributory: The Irish State Pension (Contributory) can be paid abroad, but the State Pension (Non-Contributory) cannot, as it is means-tested and requires Irish residency.

• PRSI Contributions Are Key: Your eligibility for the Contributory Pension abroad depends on having paid enough PRSI contributions while working in Ireland.

• International Agreements: Ireland's social security agreements with EU/EEA countries and others like the UK, USA, and Canada, allow for combining social insurance records to boost your entitlement.

• Claiming from Overseas: You can apply for the contributory pension while living outside of Ireland by contacting the Department of Social Protection.

• Taxation Rules: Your Irish pension is typically taxed in your country of residence, depending on any applicable double taxation agreements.

• Notification is Required: If moving abroad permanently, you must notify the Department of Social Protection to ensure correct payments and prevent issues.

• Combining Contributions: If you have worked in multiple agreement countries, your contributions can be combined, potentially resulting in pension payments from more than one country.

Key Differences Between Pension Types When Moving Abroad

Your ability to receive an Irish state pension overseas hinges on whether it is a contributory or non-contributory pension. This distinction determines the core residency requirements for continued payments.

State Pension (Contributory) Based on your PRSI contributions, this pension is not means-tested and can be paid globally if you qualify. Apply 3-6 months before pension age (currently 66).

State Pension (Non-Contributory) This means-tested pension is for those who don't qualify for the contributory version. It requires Irish residency and meeting the habitual residence condition. Moving abroad means payments will stop. You must inform the Department of Social Protection of any long-term absence.

Impact of Social Security Agreements

Social security agreements are key for those with work history in multiple countries.

EU and EEA Regulations Within the EU/EEA, contributions in one member state can count towards pension entitlements in another. Apply for your pension in your last country of residence; the claim covers contributions across these countries. Authorities share your insurance record.

Bilateral Social Security Agreements Ireland has agreements with non-EU countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. These allow combining social insurance contributions from both countries to help qualify for a contributory pension from either nation. Specific terms vary by agreement.

Comparison of Irish Pension Types for Those Moving Abroad

Feature	State Pension (Contributory)	State Pension (Non-Contributory)
Basis for Eligibility	PRSI contributions	Means-tested; doesn't qualify for contributory
Residency Requirement Abroad	None	Must live in Ireland
Portability	High	Very low
Taxation	Taxable income	Income, subject to means testing
Means-Tested	No	Yes
Claiming from Overseas	Yes	No

Notifying the Authorities and Banking

Inform the Department of Social Protection if you move abroad. This stops non-contributory payments and ensures continued contributory payments. Provide bank details for direct overseas payments, or keep an Irish account.

Your Insurance Record and Combined Contributions

If you have worked in an EU/EEA country or one with a bilateral agreement, contributions can be combined. The Department of Social Protection can assist in coordinating contributions from other countries to help determine eligibility for an Irish or dual-country pension {Link: Citizens Information https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/irish-social-welfare-system/claiming-a-social-welfare-payment/social-insurance-contributions-from-abroad/}.

Conclusion

Moving abroad doesn't automatically mean losing your Irish state pension. Eligibility depends on the pension type. The Contributory Pension continues if you qualify through PRSI contributions. The Non-Contributory Pension stops as it requires Irish residency. Social security agreements can protect and combine contributions from different countries. Remember to inform the Department of Social Protection of your move. For further advice, contact the Department or a financial advisor.

Where to Get More Information

For detailed information, visit the official Citizens Information website. It offers guidelines on social welfare payments, agreements, and requirements for leaving the state.

Note: Pension rules can change. Consult the Department of Social Protection or a financial advisor for current advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Irish State Pension (Contributory) be paid to me if I live overseas?

Yes, if you have paid enough Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) contributions to qualify, the Irish State Pension (Contributory) can be paid directly into your bank account in most countries around the world.

Will I lose my Irish State Pension (Non-Contributory) if I move abroad permanently?

Yes, you will lose your Irish State Pension (Non-Contributory) if you move abroad permanently. This is a means-tested payment and requires you to be living in Ireland to qualify.

How do social security agreements with other countries affect my Irish pension?

Social security agreements, including with EU/EEA countries and others like the UK and USA, allow for your Irish social insurance contributions to be combined with those from another country. This can help you qualify for a pension or increase your entitlements.

Can I combine my Irish PRSI contributions with my UK National Insurance contributions?

Yes, the Convention on Social Security between Ireland and the United Kingdom protects and combines pension entitlements. This allows Irish citizens to benefit from social insurance contributions made in the UK, and vice versa.

What happens if I have worked in several EU countries?

If you have worked in multiple EU/EEA countries, you only need to claim your pension in the last country where you lived or worked. Your claim will then cover your contributions across all these countries.

How do I notify the Department of Social Protection that I am moving abroad?

You must notify the Department of a permanent or temporary absence from the State. You should contact the specific section that pays your benefit and provide your new contact details and bank information for overseas payments.

Do I need to maintain an Irish bank account to receive my pension abroad?

No, you do not need to maintain an Irish bank account. The payment can be transferred directly into a bank account outside the country. However, some individuals find it easier to keep an Irish account for payments.