If you’re receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or other UK government benefits, going abroad without notifying the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could result in your payments being stopped or reduced.
It’s especially risky if you’re away for more than four consecutive weeks.
DWP Requires Travel Information in Advance
According to official PIP guidance, recipients must provide details about their trip, including:
- The departure date
- Duration of stay abroad
- The destination country
- The purpose of the visit
You must report this information before traveling, even if you’re only planning a short summer holiday.
To update your travel status, call the PIP enquiry line at 0800 121 4433, available Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Consequences of Not Reporting Travel
Failing to inform the DWP may be seen as intentional non-disclosure, which can trigger a fraud investigation. This may lead to:
- Suspension or reduction of payments
- A full review of your benefit status
- Potential civil penalties if found in violation
How Long Can You Stay Abroad While Still Claiming PIP?
Under specific conditions, you can continue receiving PIP:
| Reason for Travel | Maximum Duration Abroad |
|---|---|
| Standard visit/holiday | Up to 13 weeks |
| Medical treatment abroad | Up to 26 weeks |
These durations only apply if the DWP has been informed in advance.
Notify DWP of Any Change in Circumstances
While abroad, if there are any changes in your health, diagnosis, or care needs, you must report them to the DWP just as you would if you were in the UK.
Failure to do so may impact your eligibility and future payments.
Different Benefits Have Different Abroad Rules
Not all benefits follow the same abroad policy. Here are some examples:
- New-style Jobseeker’s Allowance: Must register at least 4 weeks before departure and actively seek work until leaving.
- Universal Credit: Can be claimed during the first month abroad only, unless you’re receiving medical treatment, in which case it can extend up to 6 months.
Some trips may need to be cut short if you want to keep receiving benefits continuously.
If a Claimant Passes Away Abroad
If someone dies while overseas and they were receiving UK benefits or pensions, the DWP must be informed immediately.
It is illegal to continue receiving payments for a deceased individual. Any overpayments made will need to be repaid, often through deductions from future benefits.
Countries with UK Social Security Agreements
If you’re moving abroad or staying for an extended time, you may still qualify for UK benefits in countries with reciprocal agreements:
Eligible Countries Include:
- EEA countries
- USA
- Canada
- Switzerland
- Jamaica
- Turkey
- Israel
- New Zealand
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Channel Islands
- Gibraltar
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Kosovo
- Mauritius
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Serbia
- The Philippines
Check your eligibility based on the destination country and benefit type.
Traveling while on UK benefits like PIP isn’t prohibited, but it comes with strict requirements. Notifying the DWP in advance, reporting changes during your trip, and understanding the rules for your specific benefit are all essential to avoid penalties or payment suspension.
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended trip, compliance with DWP guidelines ensures uninterrupted financial support.
FAQs
Can I still claim PIP while temporarily living abroad?
Yes, you can receive PIP for up to 13 weeks abroad, or 26 weeks if you’re undergoing medical treatment, provided you’ve informed the DWP.
What happens if I forget to notify the DWP before going abroad?
Failure to report travel plans may lead to a fraud investigation, and your benefits may be paused or revoked.
Which benefits are most affected by going abroad?
PIP, Universal Credit, and Jobseeker’s Allowance have specific rules. Always verify how your specific benefit is impacted before leaving the UK.