AOW gap for expats and remigrants in Amsterdam

Expats and remigrants in Amsterdam often face an AOW gap due to years abroad without Dutch premium payments. The AOW accrues through years of residence, not just work. Upon return to Amsterdam, you can voluntarily insure for periods prior to emigration, provided it is within the deadlines. With Amsterdam's international allure, where thousands of expats work at companies like Booking.com or the Johan Cruijff Arena, this is a common issue. EU rules (Regulation 883/2004) count years of residence in other EU countries, but not outside without a bilateral treaty. For non-EU countries, pro rata offsetting applies. The SVB checks via international treaties. Practical example: an expat from the US returning to Amsterdam-Zuid with 20 Dutch years of residence receives 40% AOW; voluntary insurance fills up to 100%. Costs are higher for older applicants due to premium build-up. Important: report emigration and remigration timely to the SVB to preserve rights, especially with Amsterdam's expat desk for support. Tax benefit via box 1 deduction. Advice: check your AOW accrual via mijn.svb.nl and fill gaps before AOW age, or visit an SVB advice point in Amsterdam. Alternative: Anw insurance for survivors' pension. This way you avoid financial surprises upon retirement in the vibrant capital. (218 words)