AOW Voluntary Insurance Abroad - The Hague
The **AOW voluntary insurance abroad** offers Dutch citizens abroad the opportunity to claim under the **General Old Age Pensions Act (AOW)**. For residents of The Hague or those with ties to the region, help is nearby via local institutions such as the District Court of The Hague at Prins Clauslaan 60.
This option is crucial for pensioners who remain abroad after reaching AOW age, or expats who wish to secure their Dutch pension. In The Hague, you can obtain free information at the Juridisch Loket (Lutherse Burgwal 10).
What is AOW voluntary insurance abroad?
This scheme, laid down in the **AOW** and implementing regulations, allows you to pay contributions to maintain AOW rights despite residence abroad. Without this, your accrual often lapses. For The Hague residents with international ties: start with local advisors.
Ideal for:
- Expats post-retirement abroad.
- Temporary emigrants from The Hague region.
- No alternative pension accrual abroad.
For whom? Focus The Hague
For Dutch nationals aged >65/67 abroad, without standard AOW entitlement. The Hague-specific: District Court of The Hague (Prins Clauslaan 60) handles related cases; Juridisch Loket (Lutherse Burgwal 10) offers intake.
Exclusions: Equivalent foreign pension bars participation.
| Condition | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Dutch nationality | Essential for application. |
| Residence abroad | Non-Netherlands, no automatic AOW. |
| No equivalent benefit | No double claims permitted. |
| Age | Pension age reached. |
Legal basis
Based on **General Old Age Pensions Act articles 16-19** and Decree on voluntary AOW insurance. District Court of The Hague rules in disputes (Prins Clauslaan 60).
Practical examples
Example 1: The Hague couple moves to Spain post-67; voluntarily insured, now receives AOW.
Example 2: Expat from The Hague in US; pays contributions via SVB, retains rights.
Rights and obligations
Rights: AOW accrual/pension.
Obligations: Annual contribution (~€1,500+), report changes. In case of default: withdrawal via District Court of The Hague.
How to apply? The Hague steps
1. Check SVB.nl.
2. Submit application to SVB.
3. In case of objection: Juridisch Loket The Hague (Lutherse Burgwal 10).
4. Lawsuit: District Court of The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60.
Costs
Contribution based on minimum wage (~20%): approx. €1,600/year (2024). No reimbursement.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stop? Yes, but rights partially lapse.
Calculation? Via SVB tool.
The Hague help? Call Juridisch Loket: 0900-8020.
Tips and local assistance The Hague
- Visit Juridisch Loket The Hague, Lutherse Burgwal 10 (Mon-Wed 9-17).
- District Court of The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60 for hearings.
- Document everything; consult SVB in good time.
- Consider financial advisor for expat pension.