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.

10.27.1.30 Social security system in the Republic of North Macedonia

The Republic of North Macedonia's social security system

Migrants who came to Australia in the 1950s and 1960s from the Socialist Republic of Yugoslavia are covered by the Macedonian system. The Pension and Disability Insurance Fund (PDIF) liaises with the republics of the former Yugoslavia in relation to coverage that can be taken into account for the purposes of meeting minimum pension requirements.

The Macedonian social security system is a contribution based social insurance system covering old age, disability, survivors, and minimum pension benefits. These payments are not income tested. Under Macedonian law, their pensions can be exported to any country in the world, once granted. However claims for benefits can only be lodged in countries with which a bilateral social security agreement is in force.

The retirement age is 64 for men and 62 for women with minimum 15 years of pension service. Pension withdrawal before retirement age is not allowed, except in case of disability or death. Lump sum payments or refunds are not permitted under any circumstances.

Macedonian pensions are paid in arrears in the first week of each month, and indexed twice yearly in January and July.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 26 Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

Last reviewed: