Have you topped up a UK pension to cover gaps?

[Rebus]

I gather that you might be able catch-up to have >10 NI years and still not be eligible for a uk pension when reaching 66+ if you don't meet other requirements, like I think there's minimum number of years having resided in uk?

In the recent UK budget it was announced that ex-pats would no longer be eligible to pay NI contributions at the cheaper Class 2 rates. Instead ex-pats will pay at Class 3 rates. Additionally, in order to qualify to pay Class 3 NI in the first place it will be necessary to have lived in the UK for 10 years.

 

[Brissy1]

In the recent UK budget it was announced that ex-pats would no longer be eligible to pay NI contributions at the cheaper Class 2 rates. Instead ex-pats will pay at Class 3 rates. Additionally, in order to qualify to pay Class 3 NI in the first place it will be necessary to have lived in the UK for 10 years.

"This change comes into effect on 6 April 2026" We've had the phone call and submitted the form, waiting for a reply as to what years, and class, we can top-up. Probably arrive 7 April.

 

[MEL_Traveller]

"This change comes into effect on 6 April 2026" We've had the phone call and submitted the form, waiting for a reply as to what years, and class, we can top-up. Probably arrive 7 April.

As long as you’ve taken action by the required date/before the new rules come into effect it won’t matter when they finally deal with your case.