Pension and Migration Statuses - How to Receive Payments in the Presence of Residence Permit and Second Citizenship?

The issue of pension accruals is quite pressing. Naturally, everyone wants to receive a decent payment for their years of work while enjoying their well-earned retirement. If there is only one citizenship, receiving pension payments is straightforward, but what if a person holds dual citizenship or citizenship plus residency in another country?

In a new review, specialists from the licensed agency GARANT.in have examined how Russians with dual citizenship can receive pensions and benefits, prepare documents, and analyzed the experiences of foreign countries.

Pensions for Russians with Dual Citizenship

The issue of pension accruals depends on the country of residence of the pensioner and the existence of an international pension agreement between Russia and the country of the second citizenship. If a Russian citizen with dual citizenship is registered and resides permanently in Russia, they will receive a pension as usual, in accordance with the current legislation. There are no risks; everything is fair—the amount of pension received corresponds to the years worked (work experience).

However, if a Russian citizen resides abroad with both passports, it is necessary to refer to the international agreement between Russia and that country. Such agreements may be based on a territorial principle, as with Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, or Belarus. Under such an agreement, a Russian citizen with a second passport will have their pension calculated according to the legislation of the country of permanent residence. In this case, it would be advantageous for the future pensioner to live in the country where their work and earnings were concentrated.

There are also agreements based on the principle of proportionality, taking into account work history and other activities. Such agreements exist between Russia and Bulgaria, Spain, and Estonia. If an agreement is based on the principle of proportionality in considering work history and other activities, the authorities of each country may assign a pension according to their legislation. The defining factor will be the work experience accumulated in each country.

If there is no pension agreement between Russia and the second country—for example, Germany, Canada, Israel, etc.—and a Russian resides in that country, they have the right to apply for a pension in Russia. When applying, it is crucial to meet all the necessary conditions: sufficient insurance period, reaching retirement age, etc. The application for pension accrual must be submitted personally to the Social Fund of Russia.

Benefits Considerations

If a Russian citizen with a second passport resides in Russia and has permanent registration, they can claim various subsidies, benefits, and other social guarantees provided by law. Holding two passports does not affect the amount of subsidy or benefit received. What is important is that the applicant holds Russian citizenship. If a Russian citizen resides in another country with that country’s passport, they need to inquire locally about available benefits and their eligibility.

Document Preparation Tips

Regardless of where you plan to submit pension documents, follow these recommendations:

• Collect all documents and certificates confirming work experience and contributions made to the pension fund in any country where you have worked.

• Translate all documents into the language of the country where you will apply for the pension.

• Have translated documents notarized and, if necessary, apostilled.

• It is advisable to consult a lawyer for assistance in properly preparing all documents, avoiding mistakes, and saving time.

Pension Accruals in European Countries

Often, before reaching retirement age, many people obtain a residence permit or citizenship in Europe to receive a pension in one of the European countries. Applicants are attracted by substantial social payments, state aid, benefits, high living standards, and other advantages. Most highly developed countries have special programs ensuring a comfortable retirement for older residents.

To receive high pensions in another country, certain conditions must be met, and the requirements of current legislation must be followed. Pension levels vary depending on several factors:

• Declining birth rates;

• Rising unemployment levels;

• Reduced contributions to the social security fund;

• Overall work experience and salary levels.

Nearly all countries have specific requirements for pension eligibility: a certain number of years of legal work in the country, minimum work experience, reaching retirement age, and regular tax payments.

Examples of European Countries

Spain: To receive a minimum pension in Spain, one needs at least 15 years of work experience and registration in the social security system. Residents and citizens typically retire at 65-66. In 2024, the pension limit is set at €3,059.23 per month. The minimum pension is €750, with an average of about €1,300. Pensioners can count on additional state aid and benefits, such as housing assistance and discounts on groceries, medicine, healthcare, and leisure.

Portugal: Those who have lived with official status in Portugal for at least 15 years, reached 66 years, and paid social contributions can receive a minimum pension of €282. Foreign citizens who have lived there for at least 7 years can apply for a minimum social pension of €210. The average pension is €540, with the requirement of 30 years of official work to qualify. Although lower than in Spain, the cost of living in Portugal is also lower.

Italy: To claim a pension in Italy, one must show a minimum of 38 years of work experience. Early retirement is permitted at 42 years. From October 1, 2024, minimum pensions have been increased to €614.77 per month as part of annual indexation linked to inflation. On average, pensions and various social payments amount to about €1,200 per month. Some residents may be eligible for benefits regardless of their country of origin, such as U.S. citizens.

France: France differs slightly in pension accrual and application. The country offers two types of pensions: basic and supplemental. A minimum work experience of 41 years is required. Various programs can help increase pension amounts. Foreign residents must have sufficient work experience and be legally employed to qualify. In 2024, the minimum pension is €635.56 per month, with a maximum of €1,688.50. Given its high pension levels compared to other EU countries, France is a popular choice for residence permits.

Germany: Many factors influence pension eligibility in Germany. Those who have worked officially and contributed for more than 60 months can apply for a pension upon reaching retirement age. Various life periods, such as raising children, may also count. For example, raising two children during their first three years of life in Germany entitles one to a pension, even without formal employment, provided they lived in Germany for at least 60 months. Gender also impacts pension levels, with men receiving higher amounts. Social aid is available for those who did not accrue enough, amounting to €416, plus partial coverage of housing and essential expenses.

Thus, one applicant may have equal work experience in multiple countries, such as 15 years in Russia and 15 in a European country, allowing them to claim pensions in both. The choice depends on where it is most advantageous.

To calculate your pension eligibility in a European country, obtain a residence permit or citizenship, and prepare documents, seek assistance from qualified migration lawyers. Specialists from GARANT.in can assist with document preparation and submission for visas or resident status, helping with pensions, benefits, and other social guarantees across European countries. Secure your future with our assistance!