Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners living abroad

ByThiago SF

The Winter Fuel Payment is a long-standing benefit that helps pensioners in the United Kingdom cover heating costs during the coldest months of the year.

But what happens if you’ve moved abroad — can you still receive it?

The answer depends on your age, your country of residence, and your personal connection to the UK.

This guide explains who can claim the Winter Fuel Payment while living overseas, how to apply, and what limitations apply.

1️⃣ Can You Receive the Winter Fuel Payment Abroad?

Yes — in certain circumstances, pensioners living abroad can still receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

However, it’s not automatic for everyone.

You must meet specific conditions regarding age, location, and your link to the United Kingdom.

The UK Government allows the payment for some pensioners who live in European Economic Area (EEA) countries or Switzerland, and who can demonstrate a “genuine and sufficient link” to the UK — for example, by having worked, lived, or paid National Insurance there for a substantial period.

If you moved abroad before 31 December 2020, you may also remain eligible under post-Brexit transitional rules.

2️⃣ Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the 2025/26 Winter Fuel Payment while living abroad, you must:

  • Have been born before 22 September 1959,
  • Have a genuine link to the United Kingdom, such as prior residence or employment,
  • Receive or be entitled to a UK State Pension, and
  • Live in a country where the Winter Fuel Payment is available.

You are not eligible if you live in a country where the average winter temperature is higher than the UK’s — for example, Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, or France (south regions).

This temperature rule was introduced in 2015 to focus resources on colder countries within Europe.

3️⃣ Eligible Countries and Regions

You can still receive the Winter Fuel Payment if you live in most EEA countries or Switzerland, excluding those with warmer climates.

Eligible regions include:

  • Ireland
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Germany
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Switzerland
  • Denmark
  • Sweden
  • Finland
  • Luxembourg

You may also qualify if you live in certain overseas territories that maintain a direct pension agreement with the UK.

Always verify your country’s status each year on the official GOV.UK page, as eligibility rules can change.

4️⃣ How to Apply if You Live Abroad

If you live abroad and believe you qualify, you will not receive the payment automatically.
You must apply manually each year using the Winter Fuel Payment (EEA) claim form.

📄 How to Apply:

  1. Download the form WFP1 EEA from the official GOV.UK website:
    🔗 www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/how-to-claim
  2. Fill in your personal details, including:
    • Full name and date of birth
    • National Insurance number
    • UK State Pension information
    • Address abroad and country of residence
    • Bank or building society details (UK or international)
  3. Send the completed form to:

Winter Fuel Payment Centre
Mail Handling Site A
Wolverhampton
WV98 1LR
United Kingdom

  1. Your application must reach the DWP before 31 March 2026 to be considered for the 2025/26 payment year.

Once approved, your payment will be transferred directly to your nominated account — either in the UK or abroad.

5️⃣ Payment Amounts and Schedule

The amount you receive abroad is the same as within the UK, depending on your age and household situation:

  • £200 if under 80,
  • £300 if aged 80 or above.

Payments are made once per year, generally between November and December.
If you live abroad, allow additional time for international processing.

You’ll see the payment as “DWP WFP INT” or “DWP WFP” on your statement.

6️⃣ Common Issues and Limitations

While many pensioners abroad successfully receive the payment, some face delays or rejection due to:

  • Missing proof of UK residence history
  • Incorrect or incomplete bank details
  • Living in an ineligible (warm-climate) country
  • Not submitting the form on time

If your claim is refused, you can request a mandatory reconsideration through the DWP.
If you still disagree with the outcome, you have the right to appeal to an independent tribunal.

7️⃣ What About Scotland?

If you moved abroad from Scotland, note that the Winter Fuel Payment has been replaced locally by the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, administered by Social Security Scotland.

However, once you move abroad, the UK Government (DWP) regains responsibility for your claim, not the Scottish authorities.

8️⃣ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ Can I get the Winter Fuel Payment if I live in Spain or Portugal?
No — countries with average winter temperatures higher than the UK are excluded.

2️⃣ How do I prove a “genuine link” to the UK?
By showing records such as your National Insurance history, State Pension number, or prior UK employment.

3️⃣ Do I need a UK bank account?
Not necessarily — you can receive payment into an overseas account that accepts international transfers.

4️⃣ What if I moved abroad recently?
If you moved after the qualifying week in September, your payment will be processed as if you still lived in the UK for that winter.

5️⃣ Is the payment taxable abroad?
No — it remains tax-free. However, your country’s tax laws may affect reporting obligations.

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