Can an Australian resident who has satisfied the Work Life rule apply for a pension and move to Thailand immediately without the 2-year portability rule?

Sep 16, 2023
a year ago
Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Can I, as an Australian resident living here now, who has satisfied the Work Life rule, and lived here most my life, apply for the pension and move to Thailand, immediately, without the 2 year portability rule applying to me?

I understand the 2 year rule applies only to former residents?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The question addresses whether an Australian resident living in Thailand, who has satisfied the Work Life rule, can apply for their pension and move back to Thailand immediately without being subject to the 2-year portability rule. The comments reflect diverse opinions and experiences, with one indicating that the 2-year rule applies only to former residents, while another states that if one has been a resident in Australia for the two years leading up to pension age, the pension may be portable immediately. It is advised to contact Centrelink for clarification, as the rules are complex.
Glenys *****
@Peter ********
Australian Aged Pension Portability requirements here…..

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Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
As I understand it yes, you can.

I phoned centrelink international yesterday and they confirmed full portability. My circumstances are similar to yours.
Phil ******
@Peter ********
suggest you ask Centrelink as its complex. Here's something that might assist you.

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In my case I apied for the pension on my return and had to stay in Australia before it became portable
Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Phil *****
thankyou.
Paula *********
I'm living abroad now so yes I have to return for 2 years. My father went back and they gave him the pension straight away but he has to reside in Australia for 2 years. Then he can come back to Thailand.
Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Paula ********
ok thanks Paula
Steve ********
If you've been resident in Australia for the two years leading up to pension age, your pension will be portable immediately. You don't have to return to serve another two years
Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Steve *******
Thanks Steve, I think this is the case..yes..
Paula *********
Nope, sorry government sucks, have to return to Australia and live for 2 years and then they will give you your pension while living in Thailand.
Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Paula ********
hi I'm living now in Australia, and have done for the past 12 years.

Social security international tell me there is no 2 year waiting period for someone in my position
Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
35 year rule.
Paula *********
@Peter ********
social security in Australia will say different,aybe get your accountant to check it out, I have worked 30 years in Australia, moved to Thailand now but still have to go back and live for 2 years to get my pension. It's sucks.
Steve ********
@Paula ********
You only need return if you left Australia before pension age.
Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Paula ********
I know not good in your case Paula.sorry.

I am here now in Australia for 12 years, and I'm told no 2 year waiting period.

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