State Pensions for Foreigners

When you move to the UK, whether you are a looking to explore new horizons or you are seeking asylum, you must be aware that you may not be entitled to claim any state benefits, including a state pension. You may be able to build up entitlement to a UK pension whilst you are living and working in the UK. However, before leaving your home country you are advised to consider how your current pension will be affected. If you are are due to retire within a few years and will not have time to build up entitlement to a UK pension, you should ensure that you will be entitled to claim your current pension from your home country when in the UK, or that your pension will not be affected by your time spent in the UK.

Depending on your individual circumstances and your reasons for moving to the UK, you may be advised on your right to claim state benefits when you arrive. For more information on the benefits available see State Benefits. If you are unsure of your rights, need advice or financial help, contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau, the Benefits Enquiry Line on 0800 88 22 00, the Immigration Advisory Service on 020 7967 1200 or the Refugee Council Advice Line on 020 7346 6700. For more details of the State Pension system, see The Basic State Pension. Your nationality will have an effect on the options available to you: for more information see

• European Nationals
• European Nationals & Families
• Non-European Nationals
• Asylum Seekers and Refugees