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.

10.32.5.10 Totalising to Qualify for an Australian Benefit - Agreement with India

Totalising for an Australian age pension

Article 13 of the Agreement covers totalisation in order to qualify for an Australian benefit.

A period of insurance in the Employees' Pension Scheme 1995 accrued after the date of commencement of the Agreement (1 January 2016) can be added to periods as an Australian resident in order to meet the minimum residence requirements for Australian age pension under the SSAct. Non continuous creditable periods in India can be added together and regarded as continuous.

A person must have a minimum of 12 months Australian working life residence after 16 November 1995 and before age 58 (6 months of which must be continuous) before they can totalise to qualify for Australian age pension.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 31 Republic of India

Last reviewed: 4 January 2016

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