Whether you’re moving abroad temporarily or permanently, you’ll still need to be old enough under UK pension rules to access your money (currently age 55).

The easiest and quickest way to access your money would be if it was to be paid into a UK account in your name if you have one still.

If not, it may be possible to make a payment to a non-UK/overseas bank account. If so, then the following items are always required:

• Bank evidence showing the IBAN number, and the SWIFT/BIC code (whichever your bank uses) – this should be present on the evidence and not handwritten
• Proof of identity
• Proof of address

A £25 overseas payment charge will be applied to the payment. You may also have to pay other charges, and should consider exchange rates as the funds will be sent in pounds sterling. Tax will be deducted from the payment as normal and you’ll need to contact HM Revenue & Customs if there is any under or overpayment.

Useful information about your pension and living abroad can be found on MoneyHelper’s website about moving, living and retiring abroad.

Useful information about your pension and living abroad can be found on Pension Wise’s webpage about what happens to your pension when you move abroad.