Insurance determines AOW accrual
The SVB decides whether you remain insured. Living or working abroad can end coverage, but cross-border work or a posting may lead to a different result. Population-register registration or a Dutch employer alone is not conclusive evidence.
Each insured year in the 50 years before your AOW age builds 2% of a full AOW pension. Fifteen wholly uninsured years in that period therefore mean 30% less accrual. AOW already accrued does not disappear when you move.
Voluntary continuation
Contact the SVB before moving. Normally you must have been continuously insured for at least one year immediately beforehand and apply within one year after compulsory insurance ends. The SVB assesses conditions and exceptions. Coverage normally lasts up to ten years, with exceptions allowing a longer or shorter period.
For voluntary AOW insurance abroad, the SVB lists a 2026 annual premium between €569 and €5,693, depending on income and the calculation. Anw is separate insurance. Compare cost, expected accrual and circumstances; participation is not automatically beneficial for everyone.
Pensions and tax
Ask your provider about future contributions, existing rights, partner cover and payment in your new country. Emigration does not make pension savings freely withdrawable. Transfers and surrender have separate conditions and may have tax consequences.
The relevant tax treaty and the type of payment determine taxing rights. AOW, government-service pensions, workplace pensions and annuities may receive different treatment. A general country table or a stay of 183 days does not establish your tax position. You may need returns in both countries or an exemption application.
Emigration can lead to a protective assessment for pensions or annuities. This does not automatically require immediate payment: deferral and later remission may be available subject to conditions. Surrender or another prohibited action can end the deferral.
Practical preparation
Record your residence and employment history, pension contracts and current contact details. Check healthcare cover with the SVB, CAK or insurer before cancelling insurance. Ask an external adviser about expertise in both countries, the precise assignment and a written quotation. There is no universal compulsory advice package or standard market price.
What does BPH do?
Bureau Pensioen Hulp has no AFM licence. BPH provides general education and, on request, can introduce you to an external adviser using contact details only. BPH does not provide personal product recommendations, compare products for you or mediate in arranging them. Check an external adviser’s authorisation, services and fees yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Must I cash in my pension when I emigrate?
No. Ask the provider about continuation and payment. Surrender may be restricted and have tax consequences.
Does AOW insurance always end on departure?
No. The SVB assesses your residence and work situation, including applicable international rules.
Sources and reference date
Reference date: 28 October 2026. Check your own scheme and current conditions before deciding.