As of January 1, 2021, the United Kingdom and France have established a reciprocal agreement regarding social security benefits. This agreement is beneficial for individuals who have worked in both countries and would like to claim benefits such as pensions, disability, or healthcare.
Under the agreement, individuals who have paid social security contributions in both countries can claim benefits in either country. This also applies to their dependents and survivors. The agreement ensures that people are not paying into both countries` social security systems but only receiving benefits from one.
The reciprocal agreement covers a range of social security benefits, including:
1. Old-age pension: Individuals who have worked in the UK and France can combine their social security contributions to receive a pension from both countries.
2. Disability benefits: Those who become disabled while working in either country can claim benefits in both countries.
3. Healthcare: Individuals who are covered by the social security system of one country can receive healthcare in the other country.
4. Survivors` benefits: The agreement allows eligible survivors to receive benefits from the social security system of both countries.
To claim benefits under this agreement, individuals must provide proof of their contributions to the social security system in both countries. This includes payslips, tax statements, and social security certificates.
Overall, the UK-France reciprocal agreement is a welcome development for anyone who has worked in both countries. It eliminates the need for individuals to pay into both systems and allows them to receive benefits from either country. This agreement provides peace of mind for those who have contributed to the social security system in both countries and helps to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve.