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.

10.5.5.20 Totalising to Qualify for a Canadian Benefit

Totalising for a Canadian benefit

Article 9 covers totalisation in order to qualify for a Canadian benefit.

Canada will count periods of Australian working life residence as periods of residence in Canada for the purposes of qualifying for a benefit under the Canadian Old Age Security Program or a benefit under the Canada Pension Plan.

When counting periods of Australian working life residence in order to qualify for a benefit under the Canada Pension Plan, Canada will count a period of Australian working life residence of at least 6 calendar months as one year of contributions to the Canada Pension Plan.

The policy regarding totalisation for widows discussed in 10.5.5.10 also applies to people claiming Canadian survivor benefits.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 4 Canada

Policy reference: SS Guide 10.5.5.10 Totalising to qualify for an Australian benefit - Agreement with Canada

Last reviewed: 21 September 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.