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.

10.19.3.20 Pensions Payable under the Agreement with Belgium

Pensions payable

Article 2 of the Agreement lists the Australian and Belgian pensions covered by the Agreement.

Australian pensions

The Australian pensions covered are:

  • age pension, and
  • DSP for the severely disabled.

Age can be granted (by totalising) under this Agreement if the person is in Belgium, Australia or a third (Agreement) country, with some exceptions - see 10.19.4.10.

DSP can only be claimed by people who are resident in Australia, provided they qualify autonomously (hence totalisation does not apply).

Note: Although claims for DSP cannot be lodged by people who are resident in Belgium, the Agreement does allow for recipients of DSP who are severely disabled and who are granted DSP in Australia, to be paid indefinitely in Belgium.

Belgian pensions

The Belgian pensions covered are:

  • old-age pension,
  • invalidity pension, and
  • survivors' pension.

Old-age pension and survivors' pension can be granted in Australia, Belgium or a number of other countries and/or to their citizens. See 'Belgian pensions - payability abroad' for more details.

Invalidity pension can generally only be claimed in Belgium.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 18 Belgium

Policy reference: SS Guide 10.19.1.30 Social Security System in Belgium, 10.19.4.10 Who Can Lodge Claims under the Agreement with Belgium

Last reviewed: