UK voluntary contributions in Canada

If you are abroad and do not have to pay UK Class 1 or Class 2 contributions, nor had to pay them during your first 52 weeks in Canada, you may wish to think about paying UK voluntary contributions. The leaflet, Social security abroad (NI38), tells you about this.

However, you may have to pay Canadian contributions too. If you are trying to decide if it is worthwhile paying UK voluntary contributions as well, see State Pension (which explains how residence in Canada can help you with your claim to a UK basic pension) and also Jobseeker's Allowance, before you decide. You may wish to consider paying UK Class 2 contributions if:

• immediately before you last left the UK, you were ordinarily living and working in the UK
• you are now gainfully employed in Canada; and
• you do not have to pay contributions to the UK; and
• you intend to return to the UK and you wish to be covered for UK Incapacity Benefit or Maternity Allowance on your return.
• You may wish to consider paying UK Class 3 contributions if:
• you intend to stay in Canada or some other country outside the UK;
• but you wish to qualify for a basic UK State Pension when you reach pension age; and
• you wish to safeguard your spouse’s entitlement to the basic UK bereavement benefits.
• The HMRC Residency will tell you what these arrangements mean for your own social security position.