The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

10.15.9.30 People Who Travel to a Third Country - Agreement with the USA

Third country portability

Article 5 - Export of Benefits - provides that benefits paid under the Agreement may be paid to people who travel to a third country if those benefits are payable in third countries under domestic legislation.

Article 5 also provides that if time limitations apply on benefits for people who leave Australia, then those same limitations apply to people who leave the USA for a third country. Generally, for payments other than Age Pension, this is the allowed portability period for the qualifying payment.

See 7.1 for information on portability of benefits paid to people under the Agreement who leave the USA or Australia, temporarily or permanently, and travel to a third country.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 13 USA

Policy reference: SS Guide 7.1 Conditions for payment outside Australia, 7.1.2.20 Application of portability rules (portability table)

Last reviewed: 2 January 2015

The Australian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community. We pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.