peterpop

After 13 years I am returning to UK mostly financial reasons, frozen pension, exchange rates etc. Naturally I have many ties in Thailand and will want to return periodically. How often can I do this without loosing my full pension again.

christmasoompa

Are you referring to the state pension? If so, you don't lose it at all - it can be claimed even if you're living abroad permanently.

Are you looking to split your time between each country, or will you just be visiting Thailand for a short while each time?

peterpop

I have never heard of any other pension save the UK State Pension that is or has been frozen. So YES the state pension.
I would hope to split my time between UK and Thailand.

scot47

DWP freezes State Retirement Pension in some countries but not in others. There was a court case funded buy some pensioners in Australia and South Africa, It went all the way to the House of Lords as I recollect. Their Lordships found in favour of HMG. Pensions are still frozen if you receive when resident in certain countries. (including Canada, South Africa, Australia)

Solution for OP is to retain residence in UKpfGB&NI but spend some time in his other residence

christmasoompa

Thairetired2016

But you are supposed to notify DWP within 4 weeks of leaving. I don't know what is considered holiday and what is "living in another country".
We are having the same issue. DWP freezes our pension but pays rise as soon as we are back in Europe. You are not losing a pension, you just loose the 2,50£ or whatever for a few months.

christmasoompa

I guess it depends on how often the OP is planning on visiting Thailand and for how long - a 3 week trip every other month, or six months solid every year, or something in-between……..??