AOW Voluntary Insurance Abroad - Amsterdam
The **AOW voluntary insurance abroad** is an important scheme for Dutch citizens from Amsterdam and surrounding areas who live abroad and wish to claim the Dutch General Old Age Pensions Act (AOW). Normally, you build up AOW entitlements by residing in the Netherlands, but with this voluntary option you can retain them. For questions, you can go to the Amsterdam District Court at Parnassusweg 220 or the Amsterdam Legal Aid Office at Vijzelstraat 77.
Particularly relevant for retirees from Amsterdam who emigrate, such as to Spain or Thailand, but want to secure their Dutch pension. Expats with roots in Amsterdam can also benefit from this.
What does AOW voluntary insurance abroad entail?
This scheme, laid down in the General Old Age Pensions Act (AOW), allows you to pay contributions while living outside the Netherlands. This prevents your accrued AOW entitlements from lapsing. Ideal for Amsterdammers who move after retirement.
Without this insurance, the accrual stops upon emigration. With voluntary contributions, you remain insured. Contact Amsterdam District Court, Parnassusweg 220 for legal advice.
Suitable for:
- Amsterdammers who permanently emigrate after age 67.
- Temporary expats from Amsterdam districts.
- Persons registered in the civil registry without foreign pension.
For whom from Amsterdam?
For Dutch citizens from Amsterdam who:
- Are of pensionable age (often 67+) and live abroad.
- Do not have automatic AOW due to absence.
- Wish to voluntarily top up.
Note: Not possible with equivalent foreign pension or in countries with their own systems. Check with Amsterdam Legal Aid Office, Vijzelstraat 77.
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Dutch nationality | Required, e.g. via Amsterdam civil registry. |
| Place of residence abroad | Non-Netherlands, no AOW entitlement. |
| No foreign equivalent | No equivalent benefit elsewhere. |
| Age | Pension age reached. |
Legal basis
Based on AOW Articles 16-20 and EU regulations. For disputes: Amsterdam District Court, Parnassusweg 220.
Practical examples from Amsterdam
- Amsterdammer (67) moves to Portugal: Voluntarily insured, receives full AOW.
- Expats from De Pijp temporarily in Asia: Entitlements retained via contributions.
Rights and obligations
Rights: Full AOW accrual. Obligations: Pay annual contribution. Upon non-payment: Entitlements lapse.
How does it work in Amsterdam?
- Application via SVB (online or mail).
- Documents: Passport, proof of address.
- Approval within 8 weeks.
- Start contribution payment.
Advice: Start at Amsterdam Legal Aid Office, Vijzelstraat 77.
Costs AOW voluntary abroad
Contribution approx. €1,400/year (2024, income-dependent). No discount for Amsterdammers, but check subsidies.
Assistance in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam District Court: Parnassusweg 220, 1071 SG Amsterdam. Tel: 088-361 00 00.
- Amsterdam Legal Aid Office: Vijzelstraat 77, 1017 HG Amsterdam. Free advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stop? Yes, but accrued entitlements remain.
Return to Netherlands? Automatic restoration.
Tips for Amsterdammers
- Report emigration to Amsterdam municipality.
- Plan contribution budget.
- Consult SVB and Legal Aid Office before moving.